From wandering the legendary gardens to indulging in the freshest seasonal dishes at Babel, The Sandton Times took the December break to explore Babylonstoren in Franschhoek.

• Lush gardens, fine dining, and Cape Dutch heritage are what making this working farm a hot-spot for locals and visitors alike.
• From vibrant seasonal plates at Babel to honey straight from the hive, Babylonstoren redefines “farm-to-fork” with unrivalled charm.
• Exploring the legendary gardens of Babylonstoren, visitors will discover a living tapestry inspired by history, biodiversity, and the art of wellbeing.
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Set against the dramatic backdrop of the Simonsberg mountains in the Franschhoek wine valley, Babylonstoren is more than just a destination—it’s an experience steeped in history, biodiversity, and modern elegance. One of the oldest Cape Dutch farms, it is a place where the vibrancy of nature intertwines seamlessly with fine dining, unique accommodations, and a palpable sense of tranquillity. Whether you’re a botanical enthusiast, a food lover, or simply seeking a restorative escape, Babylonstoren promises something unforgettable.

The journey begins at the Welcoming Office and once through the gates, the sprawling beauty of the property beckons. For those seeking a deeper connection with the land, Babylonstoren offers a variety of tours, including the Collections Tour led by Arné Stander, the in-house beekeeper and entomologist. Departing from the Farm Shop, this tour delves into the intricate interplay between the farm’s buzzing bee population, flourishing flora, and diverse fauna. It’s a must for anyone curious about the ecosystem that supports the farm’s vibrant produce.

At the heart of Babylonstoren lies its celebrated fruit and vegetable garden, a meticulously cultivated 5-hectare expanse inspired by the historic Company’s Garden in Cape Town. The garden serves as both a practical source of produce for the farm’s kitchens and a stunning visual masterpiece. Designed by French architect Patrice Taravella in 2007, it combines medieval cloistered garden principles with a nod to the mythical Hanging Gardens of Babylon. The result? A paradise of 15 clusters featuring stone fruits, citrus, berries, herbs, and even a prickly pear maze.

Every plant—more than 300 varieties—is edible or medicinal, with water channelled from a natural stream into the garden’s ponds, feeding edible lotus and lilies. Stroll through paths bordered by clivias, marvel at the heirloom vegetables, and take in the delicate interplay between the natural and cultivated landscapes.

Babylonstoren’s name harks back to the Biblical Tower of Babel and its metaphorical confusion of languages. Historically, the farm served as a waystation for travellers navigating the Drakenstein Valley en route to Cape Town’s harbour, and its iconic hill, “Babylon’s Throne” was a landmark. Today, the farm preserves this legacy while embracing innovation and expansion.

Dining at Babel Restaurant is a highlight of any visit. Housed in a converted cow shed, the space blends Cape Dutch architecture with contemporary design, creating an elegant yet unpretentious atmosphere. The menu, driven by the “pick, clean, and serve” philosophy, features seasonal produce harvested daily from the garden.

Our meal began with starters like Moestuin Carrots with Alta’s Buffalo Milk Hangop and Sunflower Seeds and Chianina Beef Tartare with Tannie Leonie’s Hens Egg and Garden Radish. The mains, a symphony of flavours, included Babylonstoren Carnaroli Risotto with Onion, Chives, and Alta’s Buffalo Ricotta and Norman’s Line fish of the Day with Summer Marrows and Smoked Tomato. Side dishes like Heirloom Moestuin Beetroots with Garden Herb Aioli brought an additional burst of freshness.

Dessert was a sweet celebration, featuring Cheese from a Neighbour’s Farm with Fynbos Honeycomb and a Blueberry and Buffalo Cream Cheesecake with rooibos and spring strawberries. An unexpected delight came when a young chef visited our table with freshly picked raspberries and plums for us to sample—an authentic touch that underscores the restaurant’s farm-to-table ethos and fresh produce.

Babylonstoren is open daily, excluding Christmas Day, with an entrance fee of R150 for adults (children under 18 enter free). Comfortable shoes, sunscreen, and a hat are essentials for summer visits, while wellies and an umbrella are wise for winter wanderers.

Beyond its gardens and gourmet delights, Babylonstoren is a hub for learning. Workshops on beekeeping, pruning, composting, and more are available, catering to everyone from professional farmers to green-thumbed enthusiasts. This commitment to knowledge-sharing enhances Babylonstoren’s reputation as a model for sustainable farming in South Africa.

Babylonstoren is constantly evolving. A new education center, the (Bee)zantium, is set to open in 2025. This immersive space will be dedicated to the world of bees, offering visitors a chance to step into an “upscaled hive” and learn about the critical role of these pollinators. Regular guests will also notice new additions and expansions across the farm, ensuring there’s always something fresh to discover.

Whether wandering the gardens, savouring a meal at Babel, or joining a workshop, a visit to Babylonstoren is a must! As you leave this tranquil haven, you’ll likely carry a bit of its magic with you—a reminder that places like Babylonstoren are rare treasures in our industrialised, busy world.

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