Babylonstoren Farm Hotel

Lying within the vineyards and orchards of the Drakenstein Valley, between Franschhoek and Paarl, Babylonstoren is one of the best preserved werfs (farm yards) in the Cape Dutch tradition, with the manor house dating back to 1777.

Now a boutique hotel it hosts 14 cottages in converted Cape Dutch farm buildings. There are 8 en-suite one-bedroom guest cottages and 4 en-suite 2 bedroom guest cottages, which are ideal for families. The elegant interiors are designed by the former editor of the South African Elle Decoration, Karen Roos.

One of the highlights of a stay is the restaurant, Babel which is simply fantastic. Straight-from-the-garden ingredients are spun into colourful plates, meat is organic, and puddings are a treat.

The beautifully landscaped 8-hectare garden is a splash of colour with giant orange pumpkins, yellow citrus orchards, scented herb beds, a block of mulberries, and bright vegetables in every hue.

How to get to Babylonstoren Farm Hotel

Babylonstoren is a 10 minute drive from Paarl, some 60km from the city of Cape Town and an easy 45 min drive from Cape Town International Airport. Franschhoek and Stellenbosch are a 15-minute drive.

Activities at Babylonstoren Farm Hotel

Enjoy a walk in the remarkable fruit and vegetable garden or enjoy a meal in the superb restaurant. Partake in a massage in the spa or a bike ride through the orchards. Swim in the farm dam before sundowners at a picnic spot.