Drone view of Babylonstoren
1 / 10

Babylonstoren

4.5
·2k reviews·Simondium, South Africa

An elegant hotel and working farm renowned for its magnificent gardens, farm-to-table dining, and serene Cape Winelands setting.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Spring mornings

Gardens in full bloom

CrowdMedium
Loading map...
Drone view of Babylonstoren

Babylonstoren

Best Time

Spring mornings

Gardens in full bloom

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

An elegant hotel and working farm renowned for its magnificent gardens, farm-to-table dining, and serene Cape Winelands setting.

4.5
(2k reviews)

"Babylonstoren is truly one of the most beautiful and unique places I’ve ever visited."

Vertical photo
TIP

Allocate Ample Time ⏳

Set aside at least 4 hours to fully explore the gardens and estate. You won't want to rush!

Comfortable Footwear Essential :athletic_shoe:

You'll be doing a lot of walking through the expansive gardens, so comfortable shoes are a must.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Magnificent Gardens

The Magnificent Gardens

Throughout the estate

A breathtaking tapestry of themed gardens, orchards, and vineyards, showcasing meticulous design and seasonal blooms.

Farm-to-Table Dining

Farm-to-Table Dining

Babel Restaurant, Greenhouse

Savor fresh, seasonal dishes crafted from ingredients grown on the estate, a true taste of the Cape Winelands.

Buffalo Milk Gelato

Buffalo Milk Gelato

Ice Creamery

Indulge in incredibly rich and creamy gelato made from fresh buffalo milk, a unique and delightful treat.

Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Garden Exploration is Key

Babylonstoren is renowned for its magnificent gardens. Allocate at least 4 hours to truly wander and discover its diverse sections, from orchards to vineyards. Wear comfortable shoes for extensive walking.

Dining & Wine Experiences

While the gardens are a highlight, some visitors find the wine tasting average. Consider focusing on the farm-to-table dining and unique offerings like buffalo milk gelato. Book dining in advance, especially for special events.

Best Times

When
Spring mornings
Why
Gardens in full bloom
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekday afternoons
Why
Fewer crowds, relaxed pace
Crowd
Low
When
Special event evenings
Why
Unique dining experiences
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

Best wineries in Stellenbosch/Franschhoek

Allocate Ample Time ⏳

Set aside at least 4 hours to fully explore the gardens and estate. You won't want to rush! Reddit

Comfortable Footwear Essential :athletic_shoe:

You'll be doing a lot of walking through the expansive gardens, so comfortable shoes are a must. Reddit

Book Dining in Advance 🍽️

Popular restaurants like Babel fill up quickly. Reserve your table well in advance to avoid disappointment. Reddit

Try the Buffalo Milk Gelato :ice_cream:

Don't miss this unique and delicious treat made from fresh buffalo milk. It's a standout! Reddit

Tips

from all over the internet

Allocate Ample Time ⏳

Set aside at least 4 hours to fully explore the gardens and estate. You won't want to rush! Reddit

Comfortable Footwear Essential :athletic_shoe:

You'll be doing a lot of walking through the expansive gardens, so comfortable shoes are a must. Reddit

Book Dining in Advance 🍽️

Popular restaurants like Babel fill up quickly. Reserve your table well in advance to avoid disappointment. Reddit

Try the Buffalo Milk Gelato :ice_cream:

Don't miss this unique and delicious treat made from fresh buffalo milk. It's a standout! Reddit

Focus on Gardens Over Wine :wine_glass:

Some visitors find the wine tasting average; prioritize exploring the stunning gardens for the best experience. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.5
(2k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Babylonstoren is overwhelmingly praised for its breathtaking gardens and serene atmosphere, offering a truly immersive farm-to-table experience. Visitors rave about the meticulous design, the fresh cuisine, and the overall charm of the estate. While some find the wine tasting average, the exceptional beauty of the gardens and the quality of the food make it a highly recommended destination.

"This a one of the few wow places that crossed my life so far.
It is peaceful and still busy. It is charming and yet edgy.

#1 atmosphere
The venue is phenomenal. The amount of love, dedication, creativity that went into must have been and still is outstanding. The results is staggering. Part of it is attributed to the stunning surroundings.

#2 wine tasting
We did the 5 wine selection.
The selection of wines seemed to me a bit dull and the snacks in particular.

#3 developments & improvements
I’ve first been in 2018 and again in 2023. It’s great to see how much the place has transformed over these 5 years. I’m excited to see it in another couple of years again.
The coffee and roast place for instance once was a storage place and now is a full equipped cafe with a bad ass espresso machine and capable barista."

Thilo Bohm

"Attended the carnivore night at the old bakery. Good was excellent more meat than you can eat. The steak tatar was outstanding. The vegetables were unfortunately all pickled and hard on the palate.
Dont arrive too early as there is no where to convenient sit and have a predinner drink. Great evening."

Steven Wright

"Babylonstoren is truly one of the most beautiful and unique places I’ve ever visited. The gardens are absolutely stunning and perfectly maintained, with so much to explore and discover. The food and wine are exceptional – fresh, seasonal, and full of flavor.

The staff are warm, welcoming, and very professional, which made the whole experience even more special. Whether you’re strolling through the gardens, enjoying a wine tasting, or dining at one of the restaurants, every detail is handled with so much care.

In short: Babylonstoren is a must-visit in the Cape Winelands – a perfect mix of nature, cuisine, and hospitality."

Jonathan Kuchler

What People Like

Stunning gardens
Farm-to-table dining
Peaceful atmosphere

What People Dislike

Average wine tasting

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Babylonstoren is located in the Cape Winelands, about an hour's drive from Cape Town. You can rent a car, hire a private driver, or join a guided tour. Many visitors opt for self-driving to explore the surrounding wine region at their own pace. Reddit

Yes, ample parking is available for visitors. It's conveniently located near the entrance, making it easy to start your exploration of the estate. Reddit

While ride-sharing services like Uber operate in the region, availability can be less frequent in more rural areas like Babylonstoren. It's advisable to pre-book a return trip or have a backup transportation plan. Reddit

For wine tasting tours, it's best to arrange a dedicated driver or join a tour that includes transportation. Driving yourself and then tasting wine is not recommended due to legal limits. Reddit

Public transport options are very limited for reaching Babylonstoren. Renting a car or booking a tour are the most practical ways to visit. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Entry to the gardens and estate is generally free for day visitors. However, specific activities like wine tastings, workshops, or dining at restaurants may require separate bookings and fees. Reddit

The estate and gardens are typically open daily from morning until late afternoon. It's always best to check their official website for the most up-to-date opening hours, as they can vary seasonally. Reddit

For general garden access, reservations are usually not required. However, if you plan to dine at their restaurants, especially Babel, booking in advance is highly recommended. Reddit

Yes, Babylonstoren often offers guided tours of the gardens and farm. These tours provide in-depth insights into the estate's history, horticulture, and sustainable practices. Check their website for schedules and booking. Reddit

Access to the gardens and general estate is typically complimentary for day visitors. Costs are associated with specific experiences like dining, wine tasting, or workshops. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

The stunning, meticulously curated gardens are the main draw. Don't miss the diverse themed areas, the farm, and the opportunity to sample their buffalo milk gelato. Reddit

Most visitors recommend dedicating at least 4 hours to fully explore the estate and gardens. You can easily spend a full day enjoying the atmosphere, food, and scenery. Reddit

Yes, the expansive gardens and farm areas offer plenty for children to explore. They can enjoy the open spaces, learn about different plants and animals, and the gelato is always a hit. Reddit

Babylonstoren hosts a variety of workshops, from gardening and cooking to floral arranging. Check their website for current offerings and booking information. Reddit

Wi-Fi is generally available at the hotel and some of the dining areas, but it might be spotty in the more remote garden sections. It's a great place to disconnect and enjoy nature. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Babylonstoren offers several dining experiences, including the acclaimed Babel restaurant (farm-to-table), the Greenhouse (casual lunches), and the Bakery (coffee and pastries). They also host special events like 'Carnivore Nights'. Reddit

Absolutely! A core philosophy of Babylonstoren is its farm-to-table approach, with a significant portion of the produce and ingredients sourced directly from their own extensive gardens and farm. Reddit

While Babylonstoren produces its own wines, some visitors have noted that the wine tasting experience can be average compared to the exceptional gardens. It's worth trying, but manage expectations. Reddit

Generally, outside food and drinks are not permitted, especially within the dining areas. The estate offers a wide array of its own culinary delights to enjoy. Reddit

The 'Carnivore Night' is a special dining event held at the old bakery, featuring an abundance of high-quality meats. Reviews suggest it's a good evening with excellent food, though some found the pickled vegetables less appealing. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Every corner of Babylonstoren is photogenic! The diverse gardens, the historic farm buildings, the vineyards, and the vibrant produce offer endless photo opportunities. Look for unique textures and colors. Reddit

Yes, photography is generally welcomed throughout the estate for personal use. However, professional photoshoots might require prior arrangement or permission. Reddit

The 'golden hours' – early morning and late afternoon – offer the most beautiful light for photography, casting a warm glow on the gardens and landscapes. Midday sun can be harsh. Reddit

While generally encouraged, be mindful of other visitors and respect any private areas or ongoing events. Avoid intrusive photography. Reddit

A versatile lens (like a 24-70mm) is great for capturing both wide garden vistas and details. A macro lens can be useful for close-ups of flowers and produce. Even a smartphone can capture stunning shots here! Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Babylonstoren is a fantastic destination for families. The expansive gardens offer plenty of space for children to run around and explore. They can discover different plants, learn about farm animals, and enjoy the open air. The buffalo milk gelato is a guaranteed hit with younger visitors! Reddit

Consider packing a picnic to enjoy in one of the scenic spots, or opt for a casual lunch at The Greenhouse. While some workshops might be geared towards adults, the general atmosphere of the estate is welcoming to all ages. Encourage kids to engage with nature and discover the wonders of the farm.

🌿 Nature & Garden Enthusiasts

For those who appreciate the beauty and tranquility of nature, Babylonstoren is a dream come true. The meticulously designed gardens are a highlight, offering a diverse range of flora, themed sections, and stunning landscapes. Spend hours wandering through the different areas, learning about the plants, and enjoying the peaceful ambiance. Reddit

Take your time to observe the intricate details, the seasonal changes, and the sustainable farming practices. The estate's commitment to biodiversity and organic methods makes it a truly inspiring place for anyone passionate about horticulture and the environment.

🍽️ Foodies & Wine Lovers

Babylonstoren offers a unique culinary journey with its strong farm-to-table philosophy. Indulge in fresh, seasonal dishes at Babel or enjoy a relaxed meal at The Greenhouse. The opportunity to taste ingredients grown on-site is a special treat. Reddit

While the wine tasting might be considered average by some, the estate's own wines are a pleasant accompaniment to the meals. Don't miss the chance to try the exceptional buffalo milk gelato. For a truly immersive experience, consider attending one of their special dining events.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Enchanting Gardens of Babylonstoren

Babylonstoren's gardens are the heart of the estate, a testament to meticulous planning and a deep respect for nature. Spanning 3.5 hectares, they are divided into 15 distinct sections, each offering a unique sensory experience. From the fragrant Spice Garden and the vibrant Berry Patch to the ancient Olive Grove and the expansive Vegetable Garden, every area is a masterpiece of horticultural design. Visitors can wander through pathways lined with indigenous and exotic plants, discover hidden nooks, and marvel at the sheer abundance of life. The gardens are not just for show; they are a working farm, providing much of the produce for the estate's acclaimed restaurants. Reddit

The design philosophy emphasizes sustainability and biodiversity. You'll find a variety of fruit trees, berry bushes, and a vast array of vegetables, all grown using organic and biodynamic principles. The attention to detail is astounding, from the irrigation systems to the companion planting. It’s a place where you can learn about different plant species, their uses, and the cycles of nature. Many visitors find the gardens incredibly peaceful and inspiring, offering a perfect escape from the everyday hustle. Reddit

Beyond the visual beauty, the gardens are designed to engage all senses. The scent of herbs and flowers fills the air, the sounds of birds and buzzing insects create a natural symphony, and the textures of leaves and bark invite touch. It’s an immersive experience that encourages slow exploration and appreciation. Don't miss the chance to simply sit on a bench and soak in the tranquility, or to pick a ripe fruit (where permitted) for a taste of true freshness. Reddit

Culinary Delights: Farm-to-Table at its Finest

Babylonstoren is a paradise for food lovers, with a strong emphasis on fresh, seasonal, and locally sourced ingredients. The estate's farm-to-table ethos is evident in every dining experience. Babel, the signature restaurant, is renowned for its vibrant, colorful dishes that change daily based on what's harvested from the gardens. Dining here is not just a meal; it's an exploration of flavors and a celebration of the land. The menu is often presented as a 'pick list' of ingredients, allowing diners to choose their preferred combinations. Reddit

For a more casual experience, The Greenhouse offers delicious lunches and light meals amidst a relaxed, garden-setting. The Bakery is the perfect spot for a morning coffee and a freshly baked pastry, or a light lunch. Beyond the main eateries, Babylonstoren also hosts special culinary events, such as the popular 'Carnivore Nights' at the old bakery, which offer a hearty and memorable dining experience. And for a sweet treat, the buffalo milk gelato is a must-try – incredibly rich and creamy, it's a unique indulgence. Reddit

The commitment to sustainability extends to their wine production. Babylonstoren produces its own range of wines, which can be enjoyed at their restaurants or sampled during a tasting. While some reviews suggest the wine tasting itself might be less remarkable than the gardens, the wines complement the estate's culinary offerings beautifully. The overall dining experience at Babylonstoren is about savoring the essence of the Cape Winelands, with every bite and sip telling a story of the land. Reddit

You may also like

1 of 2