“A place to fall in love with the world again“. So true at Babylonstoren in Franschhoek. The garden at Babylonstoren is fast becoming legendary. Not only does it impressively span all of 8 acres – it can also claim that every one of its 300 plants is edible. It’s a growth-sanctuary of a place, featuring clusters of vegetable areas, berries, bees, indigenous plants, ducks and chickens and a prickly pear maze. This massive, living mosaic of delights is passionately tended and proudly shared with all who come to marvel at it. But first a quick word about the farm Babylonstoren and its supreme accommodation offering in the Franschhoek winelands, and then back to the garden.
The Farm Hotel at Babylonstoren
Babylonstoren is a one-of-its-kind farm, wine-making estate and top-notch getaway destination in the rolling winelands of Franschhoek. The farm has a centuries-long history, and today it retains a good deal of its old-world charm and dignity, whilst at the same time integrating slick, contemporary features and amenities. Guest accommodation is set in surroundings which are true to the farm life of yesteryear (gables, whitewashed exteriors and the characteristic style of old farm buildings) yet provides all the mod cons that ensure maximum comfort and five-star luxury.
Food at Babylonstoren
In the Babylonstoren universe where everything eaten has been lovingly tended, freshly harvested and skilfully whipped up into sheer magic, meals are a rare indulgence. People come from far and wide to have the experience of a meal at Babel. Special offer on accommodation at Babylonstoren.
The Garden at Babylonstoren
The garden is truly amazing and needs to be seen, whether you choose to stay at Babylonstoren or to see it as a day visitor. Its initial inspiration was the historic Company Garden in Cape Town (the garden which the early settlers laid out in the 17th century to cultivate fresh veggies for the ships from Holland circuiting the Cape on route to the spice-producing East), and many new inspirations have continued to manifest since then.
What are some of the sights and colour-splashes in this wonderful garden?
- Stand by for a deep orange burst of grandeur in Spring when somewhere near 7 000 clivias bloom! The Clivia Walk is a must, and do see The Pofadder – a prized collection of rare clivias laid out in the shape of a snake.
- There’s a senior mulberry tree more than 100 years old.
- There are nests in this awesome garden large enough for people to tuck up into.
- To visit is to have a wonderfully informative outing, and it’s also great for families because children can collect eggs, see the chickens and learn all sorts of things about how gardens grow strong and beautiful.
One wonders, and has even heard it whispered, that this could become the most famous garden in the world, so watch this green space …
Mail us to book a stay at Babylonstoren, or call +27 21 797 7122 (international) or 0860 102 907 (local).
