By general consensus the most luxurious of Londolozi properties, Private Granite Suites lies midway between the Varty and Founders camps and caters for just six guests.
Babylonstoren
Babylonstoren
Conveniently located between Franschhoek and Paarl, Babylonstoren offers a unique opportunity to experience life at the heart of a three hundred year old working wine and fruit farm.
Conveniently located between Franschhoek and Paarl, Babylonstoren offers a unique opportunity to experience life at the heart of a three hundred year old working wine and fruit farm.
Surrounded by vineyards and orchards, and overseen by majestic mountains, it’s a relaxed and welcoming place with a distinct village feel with Cape Dutch style cottages – including the Farmhouse Suite that calls out to honeymooners and the exclusive-use Fynbos Family House where relatives congregate around the courtyard pool. Central to the farm is the formally designed kitchen garden, brimming with seasonal herbs, fruits and vegetables – guests are free to wander through the gardens, perhaps in the company of the chef or on a guided tour with the gardeners each morning – wellington boots are thoughtfully provided.
Menus, naturally, are based on the farm’s own produce and change to reflect the seasons. Dining options include the bright and airy Greenhouse, the renowned Babel restaurant or on selected evenings, join with other guests for gourmet pizzas or an Italian-inspired meal in the sociable and informal surroundings of the bakery. Freshly baked breads, locally sourced meats, cheeses and of course the farm’s own excellent wines, are available to purchase in the farm shop.
Whatever the season, you are encouraged to join in the harvesting, pruning or planting at one of the oldest Cape Dutch farms. Spread with vineyards and orchards, it features an exceptionally well-preserved werf, or farm yard, and an eight acre fruit and vegetable garden inspired by those of the Dutch East India Company, which in turn harked back to the mythical gardens of Babylon. Many guests visit simply to explore the gardens - an incredible confection of foliage, flowers and fruit patrolled by the farm's friendly safe of ducks.
Fly Fishing
Hotel guests who love the great outdoors can now try their hand at fly fishing in Babylonstoren's private trout dam. Each trip will take place at 2pm and will be led by an experienced guide. Due to popularity, booking is essential.
Guided Tour of the Gardens
In addition to the daily garden tour, hotel guests can now also take part in a guided walk to discover the special collections hidden away. Depending on the time of year, gardeners may take guests to see the succulent collection, the cycads alongside the stream, or for a tour through the Healing Garden.
Afternoon Drive
Guests are invited to join a guided afternoon drive up the slopes of Simonsberg Mountain for a splendid view of the farm. Wine and delicious nibbles will be served along the way.
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