Babylonstoren, Cape Winelands, South Africa, Africa

Sleep

An ‘avenue’ of traditional Cape farm cottages and suites house the contemporary guest accommodation, all with views of the surrounding mountains. They echo the style of Cape Dutch farm buildings of the 17th and 18th century...outer walls are whitewashed and decorated with ornate gables and thatched roofs. Interiors are pleasantly cool in summer (due to the thick walls) and are heated by open hearths in winter. There are six One Bedroom Suites, as well as three One Bedroom Cottages and four Two Bedroom Cottages.

The original Farmhouse has also been transformed into a separate boutique hotel comprising nine Farmhouse Suites. The Farmhouse combines authentic architecture with a modern botanical-themed design with four poster beds, dusted moss walls and European stoves in each room. A green communal library known as The Butterfly Room contains a rare collection of butterflies bequeathed to the farm. The loft above it has become one of the most sought-after honeymoon suites in the Cape! The Farmhouse also has its own private spa and swimming pool for Farmhouse guests only.

The six Fynbos Cottages, set on the crest of a ridge through the vineyards and past the dam, offer the same Cape Dutch style, but with even more seclusion. They are almost entirely 'white' living spaces with elegant clean lines, Oregon pine floors, pitched ceilings and private outdoor patios with swing nest seats. Light streams in through the glass walls with views over water and mountains while a floor-to-ceiling bookcase offers a chance to engage your thoughts in local history and botany. Guests staying here also have access to a private pool, lounge and bar area.

For larger families, Babylonstoren's new Fynbos Family House is a luxury five-bedroom country residence under the gaze of the Simonsberg and Franschhoek mountains. Each room has its own snug fireplace and en-suite complete with marble floors and elegant freestanding baths, while the spacious lounge and kitchen are delightful communal spaces. The charming courtyard and swimming pool brings the whole house together, the pool fed by a shallow channel, mimicking the streams found throughout the rest of the property.