COVID-19: ACCOMMODATIONS
Cape Grace, A Fairmont Managed Hotel | Cape Town
A graceful icon, crafting bespoke journeys into the essence of the Cape.
Welcome Home. Standing at the heart of the V&A Waterfront is a figure that evokes familiarity, comfort, and a sense of adventure – Cape Grace is a timeless presence. With rooms gazing out onto the harbour, marina, or the majestic silhouette of Table Mountain, this grand hotel feels as if it has always been part of the landscape. Every visit, even the first, truly feels like a homecoming. As you bid farewell, all those moments turned into memories linger in your heart, a gentle reminder that no matter where life takes you, Cape Grace will always welcome you back home.
Your Stay
4 Nights
Bed and Breakfast
Fast Facts
5 Star
Hotel
Spoken Languages: Afrikaans, English, French, German, Portuguese, Xhosa, Zulu
No. Rooms: 114
Special Interests: Adventure, Beach / Coastal, Birding, Cycling, Fishing, Flora, Golf, Gourmet, Hiking, History & Culture, Indigenous Culture / Art, Leisure, Nature, Relaxation, Shopping, Sports, Watersports, Wine
With views of the working harbour, these rooms offer elegant furnishing, and timeless contemporary decor complimented by luxurious linen. French doors, dressing area, and lavish en-suite marbled bathroom. Twin beds and interleading rooms are available on request.
Accommodates two adults and one additional child (5 years or younger) on an extra toddler bed.
With breathtaking views of the iconic mountain and tranquil yacht marina, these rooms offer elegant furnishing and timeless decor. French doors with ample room space and a dressing area.
Interleading rooms and twin beds are available on request. Accommodates two adults and one child (5 years or younger) on an extra toddler bed.
Glorious views of the iconic mountain, seamlessly equipped to cater to all your needs
These rooms offer elegant furnishing and timeless décor framed by glorious views of the iconic mountain and tranquil yacht marina.
Dressing area, roll in shower and separate tub both with grab bars, step out balcony.
Seamlessly equipped to cater to all your needs:
Ramp access to the balcony and extra room for wheelchair accessibility.
Rail assistance around the bath and water closet.
Shower and bath seat, available on request.
Panic button available for emergencies.
With a generous step-out balcony from where to enjoy the sights and sounds of either the working harbour or mountain and yacht marina, the abundant size and walk in closet makes this room ideal for couples or young families alike.
Accommodates two adults and one child (12 years or younger) on an extra bed.
Views from the balcony of either Cape Town’s working harbour or Table Mountain and the yacht marina. Situated on the top floor, each room is designed to feel like a private retreat – perfect for those looking to escape from it all.
Enjoy the privacy of the top floor with views of either the working harbour or yacht marina and Table Mountain. Providing seclusion and serenity with large living and terrace space, to soak up all that Cape Town has to offer.
Exquisitely detailed, with views of either the working harbour or mountain and marina. The timeless design incapsulates the separate lounge and dining area. Luxurious linen and lavish marbled bathroom complete this stylish room.
Accommodates two adults and one additional child (12 years or younger) on an extra bed.
Elegant and timeless decor, separate lounge and dining area. Generously sized rooms, including a balcony overlooking either the yacht marina or Cape Town’s working harbour – a blissful setting for solo travellers and couples alike.
Accommodates two adults and one additional child (12 years or younger) on an extra bed.
Extended balcony, luxurious home comforts, elegant lounge, and dining area make the collective spaces ideal for families or friends. Two private en-suite bedrooms with rich furnishings, ensure an indulgent stay.
Accommodates four adults and up to one additional child (12 years or younger) on an extra bed.
Enjoy time away with family or friends in this expansive suite. Three en-suite bedrooms, separate kitchen, stylish dining room, and balcony overlooking the working Harbour and V&A Waterfront ideal for socialising in comfort and style.
Accommodates six adults and up two additional children (12 years or younger) on extra beds. *
The classic contemporary space encourages total relaxation. One bedroom, private terrace and Jacuzzi, ideal for couples or those wishing to indulge in ultimate seclusion. Views of the working harbour or yacht marina and mountain.
The spectacular Two Bedroom suite offers a stylish lounge, dining area with private bar and butlers pantry, leading to an expansive terrace with sweeping views of Cape Town. A space curated to offer pure tranquillity and escape.
Property Facilities
24-hour Security, Bar, Disability Services, Gym, Internet Access (Complimentary), Library, Malaria Free, Meal on Request, Mobile Connectivity, Pool, Restaurant, Secure Parking, Spa
Room Facilities
Air Conditioning, Bath, Clothes Press, Complimentary Wi-Fi, Disabled Rooms, Dressing Gowns, En-Suite, Fan, Fridge, Hair Dryer, Heated Towel Rails, Heater, Iron / Ironing Board, Mini Bar, Safe, Satellite / Cable Television, Shower, Tea / Coffee, Television
Services
ATM, Babysitting Service, Chauffer Service, Credit Card, Foreign Exchange, Room Service, Room Service (24 hours), Travel Desk
Discover the epicurean gem of contemporary dining in the heart of Cape Town.
Crafted with precision, using the freshest seasonal and local ingredients to ensure that every plate showcases the beauty of the South African terroir. Elegantly served alongside a curated wine list, our menu pays homage to both classic and innovative culinary traditions.
Cape Grace is excited to expand its epicurean offering by collaborating with Chef Gregory Czarnecki. A culinary visionary in his own right, Chef Gregory is known for his precision and ability to showcase each ingredient to the best and purest of its ability. His inspired approach to food, attention to detail, and creativity are what set him apart - a cutting-edge, authentic, and truly unique chef.
This partnership with Chef Gregory marks a significant milestone for Cape Grace as we continue to explore new culinary horizons.
Step into our LibraryLounge; a cosy retreat.
For those who appreciate the combination of literary charm, mixology mastery, and the company of like-minded individuals.
Whether you seek solace with a compelling book, engaging conversation, or joining us for Afternoon Tea, our Library Lounge serves a sanctuary for both the connoisseur and the curious.
A beloved rendezvous for Capetonians and a go-to for dishes, steeped in tradition, yet transformed through whimsy and skill.
Poised on the water’s edge of the V&A Waterfront yacht marina, Bascule Bar & Lounge is renowned for its extensive whisky collection, exclusive wine cellar and expertly crafted cocktails.
Bascule Bar & Lounge is set to reopen after an exciting refashioning in May 2024.
Babylonstoren Farm Hotel | Franschhoek
Babylonstoren is one of the oldest Cape Dutch farms. It has a fruit and vegetable garden of beauty and diversity, unique accommodation, fine food and a sense of wellbeing.
• A 250-hectare working wine and fruit farm that dates back over 300 years
• A place so beautiful, a welcome so warm and an experience quite unlike any other
• A quiet corner of the Cape that is surrounded by majestic mountains on three sides where the fynbos is home to many wild creatures
• Service that is both sincere and deeply proud of its heritage
• A garden that celebrates biological diversity
• Fresh food with distinct flavours that celebrates the seasons and the bounty of the garden
• A place to escape from the world and reconnect with it as it ought to be
• A sense of purity, simplicity and quiet where life is uncomplicated but where spontaneity and the unexpected are also celebrated
Your Stay
2 Nights
Bed and Breakfast
Fast Facts
Spoken Languages: Afrikaans, English
No. Rooms: 29
Special Interests: Adventure, Birding, Cycling, Fishing, Flora, Gourmet, Hiking, History & Culture, Leisure, Nature, Relaxation, Shopping, Sports, Wine
The pristine Cape Dutch style of our two-bedroom cottages emulate a farm stay experience with thick walls, elegant gables and a hearty fireplace. A contemporary glass cube has been seamlessly added to the 18th-century structure to house a dining and kitchen area. The interiors continue this contemporary pairing with modern four-poster beds and furniture from international design brands such as Kartell, Magis, Philippe Starck and the Bouroullec Bros. Each bedroom also has a luxurious en-suite bathroom. Bookshelves filled with carefully selected books, underfloor heating and free Wi-Fi are just a few of the things that await you. Our cottages are either garden or vineyard facing. A well-stocked personalised bar fridge, as well as breakfast, are included in the room rate. All our two-bedroom cottages are serviced daily and come with a king-size bed, and a king or two single beds in the second bedroom.
4 Cottages available
Each of the slightly larger open-plan cottages has a luxurious en-suite bathroom and lounge area with thick walls, elegant gables and a hearty fireplace. Into this pristine Cape Dutch style, a contemporary glass cube has been seamlessly added to house a kitchen area. The interiors continue this pairing with modern four-poster beds and furniture from international design brands such as Kartell, Magis, Philippe Starck and the Bouroullec Bros. Bookshelves filled with carefully selected books, underfloor heating and free Wi-Fi are just a few of the things that await you. Suites are either garden or vineyard facing, with access to the garden and the farm. A well-stocked personalised bar fridge, as well as breakfast, are included in the room rate. All our one-bedroom cottages come with a king-size bed and are serviced daily.
3 Cottages available
Each open-plan suite has a luxurious en-suite bathroom and lounge area with thick walls, elegant gables and a hearty fireplace. The interiors take on an altogether contemporary feel when paired with the modern lines of furniture by international design brands such as Kartell, Magis, Philippe Starck and the Bouroullec Bros. Bookshelves are filled with a wonderful selection of books while underfloor heating and free Wi-Fi are just a few of the things that await you. A well-stocked personalised bar fridge, as well as breakfast, are included in the room rate. All our one-bedroom suites come with a king-size bed or twin beds and are serviced daily.
6 Suites available
Comfort is key in the one-bedroom Farmhouse suites where a moody interior theme comprising swarthy four-poster king-size beds, dusted moss walls, luxurious en-suite marble bathrooms and generous walk-in cupboards are paired with contemporary furniture and accessories such as extra-length MDF Italia sofas. In addition to the underfloor heating, each room is fitted with a cast-iron stove. Bookshelves filled with a wonderful selection of books and free Wi-Fi are just a few of the things that await you. A well-stocked personalised bar fridge, as well as breakfast, are included in the room rate. All our suites are serviced daily.
9 Suites available
At Fynbos Cottages guests can fully immerge themselves in the beauty of the natural plant habitat of the Western Cape’s mountains. The cottages are newly built in the Cape Dutch style and adjoin vineyards and orchards – ideal for our more adventurous guest
Our Cape Dutch Manor House dates back to 1777. This exclusive house has five bedrooms accommodating ten guests. All rooms have a king-size bed, with two of the rooms having the option of twin beds. Rooms are serviced daily and breakfast is included in the room rate, as well as a well-stocked personalised bar fridge. The interior has been beautifully restored to its former glory, but with a definite contemporary touch. Bookshelves are filled with a wonderful selection of books and the traditional farm kitchen boasts a roaring old wood-burning stove. Guests have access to the garden at all times, with games set up on the private lawn. Curl up in front of the hearty fireplace and admire the architecture, or enjoy refreshments in the garden whilst savouring the exquisite views.
5 Rooms, 10 guest. Exclusive use
Fully equipped kitchen, spacious lounge, private pool and courtyard
Up to ten guests are accommodated in five individual bedrooms, each comprising a fireplace and spacious en-suite with marbled tile floors and luxurious freestanding baths to soak away your worries. Leading off the spacious lounge is a contemporary glass cube, seamlessly encompassing a fully equipped kitchen. The heart of the house is the private central courtyard, offering a gathering space for friends and family to share. A crystal pool in the center of the courtyard is fed by a shallow channel, emulating the streams on the rest of the property and providing the tranquil sound of gently trickling water.
5 Rooms, 10 guest. Exclusive use
Property Facilities
24-hour Security, Activity Desk, Bar, Battery Charging Facilities, Conference Centre, Gym, Gym (nearby), Internet Access (Complimentary), Laundry Service (Available), Laundry Service (Complimentary), Library, Malaria Free, Mobile Connectivity, Pool, Restaurant, Secure Parking, Spa
Room Facilities
Air Conditioning, Bath, Complimentary Wi-Fi, Dressing Gowns, Electrical Outlets, En-Suite, Fan, Fireplace, Fridge, Hair Dryer, Heated Towel Rails, Internet Access (Complimentary), Laundry Service (Available), Lounge Area, Mini Bar, Mini Bar (Complimentary), Pure Cotton Linen, Safe, Satellite / Cable Television, Shower, Tea / Coffee, Television, Underfloor Heating
Services
Airport Shuttle (Available), Babysitting Service, Credit Card
The days are intentionally unscripted at Babylonstoren, and for our hotel guests, there’s much to do. In addition to exploring our 200 hectares of farm, in season, you can take part in the harvesting of fruit in the orchards or the pruning of our vines. Whatever the season, our garden is an ever-changing tapestry of fruit and vegetable plantings. Hotel guests are invited to join in the harvesting, pruning, planting or picking of our many fruits, herbs, nuts, spices and vegetables. We have maps for five different walks on the farm (available from Reception) and if you’re interested to learn more about the provenance of the garden, do join one of our garden tours that starts daily at 10h00. Booking is essential, so please enquire in advance at Reception.
Our daily guided garden tour starts at the Farm Shop at 10h00. One of our experienced gardeners will be your guide on this tour, during which we encourage guests to pick, taste, smell and touch while walking through our garden. Each of the 300 plant varieties is edible or has medicinal value. The beautiful garden is not only pleasing to the eye, but also provides the restaurants with fresh produce, harvested daily. Our enthusiastic guides will share some of the garden’s special stories with you and give practical gardening tips. We hope you will enjoy our garden and be inspired when you leave to plant your own!
Booking is essential for the garden tour.
Remember to wear comfortable shoes, bring a hat in summer and wellies plus an umbrella in winter. A famous Swedish proverb holds: There ain’t no bad weather, just the wrong clothes.
Entrance fees payable at the gate go to the Babylonstoren Trust for the education of our local children.
Regrettably, no dogs are allowed, as this is a working farm with lots of feathery friends.
Kindly note that all pathways in the garden are gravel and in some areas covered with peach pips.
You can walk or cycle to the dam – it is about 1,5 km. The view from the dam is spectacular and you will be amazed by the abundant bird life. Get a backpack from Reception (see Walk or Run). We have three canoes and life jackets for your rowing expedition – make sure you wear a life jacket. Please note that children have to be accompanied by an adult.
The gym, open from 6h00 to 21h00, is for the exclusive use of adults. We have a great selection of machines to keep you fit. Private yoga sessions are available on request. For more details, please enquire at Reception.
The Tasting Room sits adjacent to the Wine Cellar, offering views of the conical Babylonstoren hill, Simonsberg and the Banghoek Mountains. The eye-catching steel-and-glass creation is a modern link between the two Cape Dutch-style wings of the wine cellar and a perfect reflection of Babylonstoren’s philosophy of embracing both heritage and innovation. Floor-to-ceiling glass walls offer breathtaking views over the vineyards towards the small rocky koppie from which the farm derives its name, while indoors the striking central bar bedecked in vivid green tiles mirrors the lush vineyards beyond. A range of tantalising snack platters with charcuterie, cheese, pâté and fresh fruit and vegetables from the garden are on offer. The platters are an ideal light bite while tasting the Babylonstoren range of wines.
The Tasting Room is accessed via a maturation cellar revamped into a retail space, with exposed brick walls, lofty ceilings and a statuesque curving wall – a display of antique farming implements and packing crates creating a gentle farm motif in the triple-volume space. For guests with a little more time to spare, informative cellar tours offer an in-depth, behind-the-scenes look at how the estate’s wines are crafted. The tour includes a walk through the vineyards and a visit to the olive oil production plant.
Come and unwind with us in this perfect spot for wine sipping and cheese nibbling.
The Tasting Room is open daily – from 10h00 to 17h00 in winter and 10h00 to 18h00 in summer.
Daily cellar tours start at the Tasting Room, every hour on the hour, from 11h00 to 15h00.
Booking is advised for groups of 11 to 24 people.
Our wines are best exemplified by the Babylonstoren logo, which consists of the pipe (representing the farmer), the flower (representing the garden) and the bird (representing nature). It is a combination of the very essence of Babylonstoren – keeping things simple and as true to the earth as possible. "It is this that we strive to achieve in our wine," says Charl Coetzee. "Truth to the area we are situated in on the slopes of Simonsberg, and simplicity by making elegant and balanced wines as natural as possible."
You may come across our resident tortises tortoises, our donkeys, the chickens, turkeys, ducks, geese and squirrels that all roam happily, or maybe even a wild steenbok. Keep your eyes and ears open – you may be lucky enough to see or hear the fish eagle. We have spotted 58 bird species on Babylonstoren. Guests are welcome to use the bird book in the Butterfly Room for reference.
For a closer look, we also have binoculars available at Reception.
As we are passionate about our garden at Babylonstoren, we welcome fellow gardeners, horticulturists, botanists or those who are interested in learning more about gardening. If you’re happy to get your hands dirty (you'll be planting, harvesting, pruning and mulching) and eager to learn and/or share your knowledge, we'd love to welcome you as a volunteer at Babylonstoren. You’ll work with our gardeners in every aspect of the garden but most importantly get a chance to contribute to the garden in a real way.
The farm is a paradise for children! Our beloved donkeys, Meisiekind and Lulu, live
opposite the Farm Shop. We invite our young guests to help feed the donkeys, to collect eggs and to help harvest fruit and vegetables from our garden, especially for the breakfast table. Kids are also welcome to help our bakers knead and bake delicious farm breads. And don’t forget to go on the scavenger hunt. Please arrange these activities at Reception.
Our outdoor pool is not just another infinity pool! Take a plunge or relax afloat the tractor tube. Diving is not permitted and children must be supervised at all times.
Enjoy bass fishing at the farm dam. Fishing rods are available from Reception.
We have bicycles available for adults as well as children to explore the farm. Bottled still water and helmets are available from Reception, and in your room you’ll find a map.
The map in your room suggests six trails for walking or running. These vary in length, the shortest being a mere 5-minute walk. A backpack with water, sun lotion and a small first-aid kit is available from Reception. Please ask if you need anything else, and then go out and enjoy the abundance of fresh air and country views!
The Tasting Room overlooks our beautiful vineyards and the iconic Babylonstoren conical hill.
We offer five cellar tours a day, every hour on the hour, from 11h00 to 15h00. Let us know if you wish to join the tour – we prefer to keep the tours small and intimate, therefore limited space is available. We depart from the Tasting Room and our first stop is the vineyard, after which the tour moves to the olive production plant where we show you how extra virgin olive oil is made. Next is a visit to the wine production cellar where the details of the winemaking process are explained. We proceed to our underground barrel maturation cellar. Last but not least is an informative yet relaxed wine tasting with your guide. The Tasting Room is nice and cool in summer, with cosy fireplaces for chilly winter days. A choice of four delicious snack platters can be ordered while you taste your way through our range of wines.
Open seven days a week 10h00–18h00 (summer) or 10h00–17h00 (winter). Cellar tours start at the Tasting Room at 11h00, 12h00, 13h00, 14h00 & 15h00 and last approximately one hour. Booking at Reception is advised.
Our two signature treatments are the hammam water ritual and our bamboo massage. In addition, we have a wonderful selection of classic treatments.
To book a treatment with one of our qualified therapists, please contact reception. Please arrive 15 minutes earlier than your booked treatment time. Late arrivals will be able to enjoy the time remaining on their treatment but will be charged for the full treatment. Lockers are provided for your valuables.
The Garden Spa has a garden-inspired food menu to replenish, revive and delight you. Please note that no glass containers or alcoholic beverages are allowed at the pool. Although we do not serve food or drinks at the pool, we can offer you chilled still or sparkling water from the gym should you be thirsty. If you would like to enjoy other eats or drinks, you can do so at the Greenhouse, which is right next to the pool.
Booking is essential for spa treatments. Open Monday to Sunday 8h00–17h00.
Private yoga sessions are available on request. For more details, please enquire at Reception.
Our Bakery offers scrumptious Italian-inspired evening meals but also supplies our shop with freshly baked bread to be enjoyed with delicious local cheeses from our Cheese Room. We grow our own wheat on the farm which is stoneground after harvest. This flour is sold in the Farm Shop but is also used by our own bakers who, under the guidance of our head baker Ernie Beck, make sure we have freshly baked bread early every morning for our restaurants and the Tasting Room. We have a variety of breads, including sourdough, rye, white and whole wheat.
At dinners in the Bakery, we serve our food family style – guests dish up for themselves from wooden boards placed on their table. Our Italian-inspired set menu starts with an antipasti and salad offering. This is followed by wood-fired pizza straight from the oven, to be enjoyed to your heart’s content. We round off the meal with a delicious dolce and our famous coffee.
The Bakery is open Wednesday and Friday evenings from 19h00 to 21h00.
Booking is essential. Reservations open two months in advance and can be made between the hours of 8h00 and 17h00.
Priority will be given to hotel guests for bookings.
Please enquire about options for groups. For groups of 13 to 18 guests, a deposit is required to secure the booking. Should you wish to bring a larger group, we have private function venues available.
Kindly note that all pathways on the farm are roughly surfaced and not intended for high heels.
Nature's medicine chest is an ongoing discovery of old and new herbs tried and tested over centuries by different cultures around the world. Originally collected from the wild, the best plants were selected, cultivated and shared.
Our medicinal garden at Babylonstoren includes a range of beautiful species – some more powerful, aromatic, rare or even dangerous than others but all with an interesting story worth discovering. The central layout of the garden follows the form of a body with herbs to heal from the head, heart, lungs, digestive system, organs, skin, bones and feet. The trees are some of the “giants” in African healing traditions. Herbs along the outer wall follow the seasons, summer to winter, specially selected to heal, soothe and balance the body through the time-honoured pleasure of tea.
We invite you to enjoy this healing garden as a quiet space, slowing down and blending herbal teas as guided by our gardener Gundula. Seated on the floor of the shaded bamboo gloriette, a selection of savoury and sweet confections is served to complement the infusions you create. Only fresh, seasonal ingredients are used and great care is taken in the preparation.
For the ultimate tickle, do not go before dipping your toes in the pond to experience the nibbling Garra rufa fish while reflecting on the moment and aiming to balance pleasure and health.
Tea rituals take place at 9h30 on Tuesdays.
Our Healing Garden is a restful place for quiet reflection and tranquillity. Regrettably, children under the age of 10 years are not permitted.
Reservations are weather dependent and booking is essential. Reservations open two months in advance and can be made between the hours of 8h00 and 17h00. A deposit is required to secure bookings.
Priority will be given to hotel guests for tea ritual bookings.
Kindly note that all pathways on the farm are roughly surfaced and not intended for high heels.
Housed in an old cow shed, Babel is a wonderful mix of Cape Dutch architecture with contemporary glass walls that makes for a simple yet edgy environment in which to try our tasty yet often unconventional combinations. We have a farm-to-fork philosophy, which means we like to serve food that is seasonal and that reflects our "pick, clean and serve" approach.
Because our menu is guided by what is available in the garden, our food always reflects the season, and so in summer we may serve you a yellow salad of pineapple, gooseberries, granadillas, yellow tomatoes and apricots while in winter a slow-cooked leg of lamb in red wine is more likely. Dessert subscribes to four flavours, namely salty, bitter, sweet and sour. And while our meals are creative, we don't like to tamper unduly with our food. Our meals are always clear in structure, so that fruit and vegetables gathered daily from the garden is often served with its skin on. Helpings are generous and depending on the weather you can take your meal in the glass-enclosed restaurant or under the plane trees in the courtyard.
Breakfast: Open daily, 8h00–9h30
Lunch: Wednesday to Sunday, 12h00–15h30
Dinner: Open daily from 19h00
Booking is essential. Reservations open two months in advance and can be made between the hours of 8h00 and 17h00 on +27 (0)21 863 3852 or enquiries@babylonstoren.com.
Hotel guests enjoy priority for restaurant bookings.
Please enquire about options for groups. For groups of 13 to 18 guests, a set menu will be offered and a 50% deposit is required to secure the booking. Should you wish to bring a larger group, we have private function venues available.
The restrooms at Babel restaurant are wheelchair friendly.
Kindly note that all pathways on the farm are gravel, and covered with peach pips in some areas of the garden.
At the rear of the garden, tucked away between the oak trees, our Greenhouse offers guests the perfect place to rest and enjoy delicious home-baked cakes, coffee, tea and fresh garden juices. We also offer more substantial meals of artisanal breads with handcrafted cheeses and dressed meats, served with our homemade herb oils, chutneys, preserves and relishes, as well as delicious, fresh garden salads.
The 26 metre vintage conservatory in dark green steel was custom built for Babylonstoren in France by Serres et Ferronneries d'Antan. Paired with a collection of brick-red tables and colourful green Luxembourg chairs (the classic park chair design), the Greenhouse is a surprising but thoroughly logical refreshment station for guests who have completed the garden tour.
The Greenhouse menu subscribes to the self-same "pick, clean and serve" philosophy as Babel, with a strong emphasis on honest food with little to no fuss. All our food is served picnic-style in wooden crates with the preserves, jams and salads packaged in weck jars, while fresh bread from our wood-fired oven come wrapped in the iconic blue-and-white Babylonstoren paper.
Despite its obvious aesthetic appeal and its function as a refreshment station, the Greenhouse also performs a vital role in the garden. It is here where plants or varieties are brought when they struggle to make it in the formal garden due to the Western Cape’s winter rainfall or the lack of humidity in summer. And so you'll find that exotic granadillas, ginger, cardamom, pineapples, dragonfruit, vanilla and even a baobab all reside here.
The Greenhouse is open Monday to Sunday from 10h00 to 16h00.
Bookings
There is no need to make a reservation for the Greenhouse. Guests are seated on a first-come, first-served basis. We may have a waiting list during very busy times.
Should you wish to bring a group of 13 to 25 guests, kindly make a reservation. These reservations open two months in advance. For even larger groups, we have private function venues available.
Our Bakery offers scrumptious Italian-inspired evening meals on Wednesday & Friday, but also supplies our shop with freshly baked bread to be enjoyed with delicious cheeses from our Cheese Room. We grow our own wheat on the farm which is stoneground after harvest. This flour is sold in the Farm Shop, but is also used by our own bakers who, under the guidance of our head baker Ernie Beck, make sure we have freshly baked bread early every morning for our restaurants and the Tasting Room. We have a variety of breads, including sourdough, rye, white and whole wheat.
At dinners in the Bakery, we serve our food family style – guests dish up for themselves from wooden boards placed on their table. Our Italian-inspired set menu starts with an antipasti and salad offering. Main course may be enjoyed to your heart’s content. We round off the meal with a delicious dolce and our famous coffee.
Booking is essential. Reservations open two months in advance and can be made between the hours of 8h00 and 17h00 on +27 (0)21 863 3852 or enquiries@babylonstoren.com.
Hotel guests enjoy priority for restaurant bookings.
Old Drift Lodge | Victoria Falls (Zimbabwe)
Escape to the ultimate luxury retreat at Old Drift Lodge, a haven nestled in the heart of the Zambezi National Park, just upstream from the world-renowned Victoria Falls. Set on the banks of the mighty Zambezi River, the lodge offers a pristine wilderness that spans over 56,000 hectares of natural beauty, teeming with an abundance of wildlife. Whether it’s a game drive, river cruise, or a guided walking safari, guests can explore the park by road, river, or on foot.
Boasting a prime location only 4.5 kilometers from the town of Victoria Falls, Old Drift Lodge offers 10 double suites and 4 family suites, each uniquely designed with stylish furnishings that blend in perfectly with the natural environment. The spacious canvas en-suite rooms offer the perfect blend of modern luxury and authentic safari charm, featuring a private lounge, viewing deck, indoor and outdoor showers, plunge pool, and an outdoor bath with uninterrupted views of the Zambezi.
The main lodge area offers breathtaking 360-degree views, with the north facing onto the Zambezi and the south onto a waterhole, showcasing the lodge’s pristine natural surroundings. Old Drift Lodge is the perfect retreat for those seeking a luxurious safari experience while immersing themselves in the beauty of nature.
Your Stay
3 Nights
Fully Inclusive - Bed, All Meals, Fees and Activities
All Local Brands (Spirits, Wine and Beers) Included
Fast Facts
5 Star
Lodge
Spoken Languages: English
No. Rooms: 14
Special Interests: Adventure, Birding, Flora, Gourmet, Hiking, History & Culture, Indigenous Culture / Art, Leisure, Nature, Relaxation, Wildlife
Our luxurious canvas suites epitomise safari sophistication while offering guests a chance to return to life’s simple pleasures and meaningful moments with a romantic bath under the stars, private plunge pools frequented by thirsty elephants, and a beautiful view around every corner. The high ceilings and glass sliding doors create a seamless flow between the interior of the rooms and the beautiful natural surroundings. The suites feature an en-suite bathroom, four-poster king-size bed or twin beds with mosquito netting, a writing desk and chair, a comfortable lounge and mini bar, a tea and coffee station as well as an ice machine.
Welcome to the ultimate family retreat with our 4 luxurious Family Suites, thoughtfully designed to forge unforgettable memories together. We have four beautiful family suites, each with its own bathroom and entrance so that children and parents have their own space but easily visit each other without venturing into the bush. Our family suites sleep a maximum of four guests.
Immerse yourself in the beauty of nature while soaking in breathtaking views from the outdoor bath, and create endless fun in your very own private plunge pool. Unwind in the exclusive lounge area, complete with a well-stocked tea/coffee station and mini bar. Stay refreshed and comfortable with the convenience of air conditioning and a soothing ceiling fan, guaranteeing a truly relaxing and enjoyable stay for your entire family.
Three of our standard luxury suites are equipped with star beds. The star beds are elevated on a platform adjacent to the suites, featuring four-poster beds elegantly poised above the River, with a higher vantage point to admire the exquisite view. Our star beds offer both convenience and luxury, located next to the suites so that guests can easily access the room facilities, from the minibar to the outdoor bathtub or the bathroom. Whether guests choose to enjoy the uninterrupted view on a cool afternoon, or sleep under the stars and wake up to a sunrise over the Zambezi River, the unique suites provide an extraordinary escape.
Our 14 luxurious tented suites are set along the banks of the Zambezi River, with beautiful views from the spacious deck, which boasts an outdoor shower, a private plunge pool and a claw-footed outdoor bathtub. The high ceilings and glass sliding doors create a seamless flow between the interior of the rooms and the beautiful natural surroundings. The suites feature an en-suite bathroom, four-poster king-size bed or twin beds with mosquito netting, a writing desk and chair, a comfortable lounge and mini bar, a tea and coffee station as well as an ice machine.
Our fourteen luxurious canvas suites epitomise safari sophistication while offering guests a chance to return to life’s simple pleasures and meaningful moments with a romantic bath under the stars, private plunge pools frequented by thirsty elephants, and a beautiful view around every corner. All our suites were designed with exclusivity and privacy in mind. The four family suites have interleading bedrooms, each with its own entrance and bathroom, creating a spacious but intimate and luxurious home away from home. Our family suites sleep a maximum of four guests.
There of our standard luxury suites boast their own star bed. Our star beds are elevated on a platform adjacent to the suites, featuring four-poster beds poised over the river, boasting incredible panoramic views from the higher vantage point. Our star beds offer both convenience and luxury, located next to the suites so that guests can easily access the room facilities, from the minibar to the outdoor bathtub or the bathroom. Whether guests choose to enjoy the uninterrupted view on a cool afternoon, or sleep under the stars and wake up to a sunrise over the Zambezi River, the unique suites provide an extraordinary escape.
Property Facilities
24-hour Security, Activity Desk, Bar, Battery Charging Facilities, Communal Dining, Eco Friendly, Internet Access (Complimentary), Laundry Service (Available), Laundry Service (Complimentary), Mobile Connectivity, Pool, Private Vehicle Available, Restaurant, Secure Parking, Spa
Room Facilities
Air Conditioning, Balcony / Deck, Bath, Complimentary Wi-Fi, Dressing Gowns, Electrical Outlets, En-Suite, Fan, Fridge, Hair Dryer, Heater, Internet Access (Complimentary), Laundry Facilities, Laundry Service (Available), Laundry Service (Complimentary), Lounge Area, Mini Bar (Complimentary), Mosquito Nets, Outside Shower, Plunge Pool, Private Pool / Jacuzzi, Safe, Sala, Shower, Tea / Coffee, Verandah
Services
Airport Shuttle (Complimentary), Credit Card
A guided tour of “the Victoria Falls”, situated merely 7km from Old Drift Lodge, is included in the nightly rate, but excludes park fees, which are payable direct. This excursion can be booked in conjunction with a lunch at the Lookout Café.
Africa has an air of romance that sets her apart from anywhere else in the world. However, it is upon stepping into the Victoria Falls rainforest that guests are truly swept off their feet. There is no finer ambience than the gentle roar of the waterfall. The trees grow so closely together that their branches entwine, and their soft, wet drip across the stone path that weaves through this natural wonder. Submerge yourself in the fragrance of the fauna and the playful fauna in this enchanting and awe-inspiring space. A guided tour is included in the nightly rate, excluding park fees. Satisfy your wanderlust by visiting the more beautiful of the Seven Wonders of the World.
Morning and afternoon game drives in 4 x 4 game viewing vehicles will take you along the Zambezi River through the Zambezi National Park. Game that can be seen include elephants, buffalo, kudu, giraffe, zebra, eland, impala, warthogs, lion, wild dog and on occasions, cheetah. Tea baskets and snacks will be taken on the morning drives and Sundowners and snacks on the afternoon game drives.
Old Drift has two luxury 10 seater pontoon boats which will be used for morning and afternoon river safaris. Drinks and snacks will be provided on both safaris.
Morning and afternoon walking safaris will take place along the river but also in the spring lines of Zambezi National Park. Guests will be accompanied by a Professional Guide. Please note that children U 16 years are not permitted on walking safaris.
Guests have the option to enjoy a lunch at the Lookout Café, inclusive of drinks.
This can be booked in conjunction with the Tour of the Falls or for the adrenalin lovers, after they have taken part in any of the high wire activities that take place at the “Lookout”.
andBeyond Ngala Tented Camp | Ngala Private Game Reserve
andBeyond Ngala Tented Camp is situated in Ngala Private Game Reserve, which shares an unfenced boundary with the world-renowned Kruger National Park, South Africa’s largest wildlife sanctuary and one of the biggest game reserves in the world. A spectacular diversity of wildlife moves through this immense wilderness, including breeding herds of elephant, leopard, spotted hyena, giraffe, large buffalo herds and white rhino. With its name meaning lion in Shangaan, the local language, Ngala lives up to its promise, supporting several large prides of these powerful cats. African wild dog can also be spotted moving through the reserve.
Chic and contemporary, andBeyond Ngala Tented Camp is renowned for sophisticated tented accommodation in tranquil bush surrounds. It comprises nine luxurious tented suites set on raised platforms with outdoor showers, baths mounted on rough-hewn wooden bases, swirling overhead fans, air conditioning, electric blankets for winter and private wooden decks. The overall essence is African, with warm, earthy tones used throughout. Built on platforms, each tented suite is cleverly designed to blend into the riverside trees, minimising impact on the environment. Mature indigenous shade trees form a luxuriantly cool canopy overhead and elegant guest areas overlook the seasonal Timbavati River. The camp’s lap pool, which follows the contours of the riverbank, is perfect for idle afternoon game viewing, while a massage sala adds a touch of pure indulgence. The food at Ngala is as individual and inventive as the camp itself. Private lunch platters are savoured on the viewing decks, at the poolside or on the lush lawn. Theatrical al fresco dinners in the dry riverbed are unforgettable.
Your Stay
4 Nights
Fully Inclusive - Bed, All Meals, Fees and Activities
All Local Brands (Spirits, Wine and Beers) Included
Fast Facts
Safari Lodge
Spoken Languages: English
No. Rooms: 9
Special Interests: Adventure, Big 5, Birding, Flora, Leisure, Nature, Relaxation, Star Gazing, Wildlife
Tented Suite(s)
andBeyond Ngala Tented Camp comprises nine luxurious tented suites set on raised platforms, cleverly designed to blend into the riverside trees, minimising impact on the environment. A new layout and an extended outdoor deck ensure tents are even more spacious and luxurious, with the addition of secluded outdoor spaces to while away the afternoon. Ensuite bathrooms with a courtyard, boast double vanities, both an indoor and outdoor shower, and an al fresco bathtub. Tents are equipped with overhead fans, air conditioning, and electric blankets for winter. Private wooden decks offer quiet spots for contemplation or comfortable spaces to read a book. Discrete butler hatches, outdoor screens and well-positioned pathways add an extra element of tranquility and privacy. The overall essence of each tent is African, with warm, earthy tones used throughout and magnificent views over the riverbed.
Property Facilities
24-hour Security, Bar, Gym, Internet Access (Complimentary), Laundry Service (Complimentary), Pool, Restaurant, Spa
Room Facilities
Air Conditioning, Balcony / Deck, Bath, Complimentary Wi-Fi, Dressing Gowns, Electrical Outlets, En-Suite, Fan, Fridge, Hair Dryer, Laundry Service (Complimentary), Mini Bar, Mini Bar (Complimentary), Outside Shower, Safe, Sala, Shower, Tea / Coffee
Services
Airport Shuttle (Available), Credit Card, Room Service
Enjoy early morning and late afternoon game drives that continue after nightfall. andBeyond’s professionally trained guides will ask you about your favourite wildlife and will do their best to ensure that your preferences are met, whether it is tracking a particular species or spending more time enjoying each sighting and getting to know the habits of the animals. They will also tell you about the vegetation of the region and will explain the behaviour of the animals that you come across. In some cases, the guides will be able to identify individual animals and let you know about their history and habits.
andBeyond Ngala Private Game Reserve is home to all of the Big Five, but is particularly well known for its large prides of lion and occasional sightings of wild dog, as well as large herds of elephant and buffalo. Venture out in search of leopard or lion sleeping off the exertion of the hunt from the night before.
Accompanied by your ranger, enjoy an interpretive nature walk, around the lodge, where you learn more about the intricacies of the African bush, from discovering fascinating flora and reading animal tracks with your guide to meeting smaller wildlife up-close
Experience the thrill of tracking animals on foot, as you engage all your senses to discover a world where each sound, scent and bent blade of grass has a meaning. Led by an expertly-trained ranger and tracker team, a tracking walk offers the chance to track and view certain Big 5 animals on foot. Done in such a way that the animals never know that you are there, tracking walks ensure an undisturbed natural experience of their lives, while ensuring safety, as they never feel threatened by your presence. An unparalleled way to experience Africa, a Tracking Walk is a uniquely &Beyond mix of the excitement of tracking big game and gaining an understanding of one’s place in the natural order.
Experience the romance of Africa under a blanket of stars in the luxurious Ngala Treehouse, a remote, yet safe retreat in the middle of the reserve, far from Wi-Fi and artificial light. The treehouse features two sleep levels including a covered and weatherproof space with a king-size bed, hot running shower and flushing toilets. An elevated sleep-out platform allows you to slumber al fresco under a retractable screen. Enjoy sundowner drinks and snacks on the upper deck, a picnic and midnight treats. Completely off the grid, this treehouse promises luxury and comfort while offering the most exclusive wilderness experience.
Cocooned in natural bush surrounds, this 4-level treehouse features two sleep areas: level 3 is covered and weatherproof, with a king-size bed, and level 4, a sleep-out platform under a retractable awning. Toast the sunset. Enjoy a starlit picnic dinner. You’re assured of an intimate wilderness experience, completely off the grid, themed in luxury and exclusivity.
Surrounded by home comforts, a stocked bar and a selection of midnight and breakfast snacks, you could be forgiven for thinking you were in a lodge. However, your night at Ngala Treehouse is essentially an overnight wilderness experience that complements your stay either at &Beyond Ngala Tented Camp or Ngala Safari Lodge.
For those looking for an active thrill beyond the excitement of Big Five sightings on a game drive vehicle, a walking safari offers an opportunity to connect with the African bush, interacting with all its inhabitants, from largest to smallest. Embark on an adventure where your feet tread in the tracks of zebra and buffalo, your nostrils fill with the scent of crushed wild grasses and you push through the brush and all six senses re-awake as Africa touches you and you touch Africa.
Additional costs apply
Photographic enthusiasts, from beginners to advanced, can now capture the wondrous landscapes and magical creatures of andBeyond Ngala Private Game Reserves, by taking advantage of a fully-equipped photographic safari vehicle. The vehicle has been fitted with state-of-the-art camera mounts and cater for a maximum of four guests, ensuring exclusivity during your safari experience.
Enjoy a once in a lifetime opportunity to get up close and personal with a rhino at andBeyond Ngala Private Game Reserve while assisting in the conservation of this rare species. This adventure allows guests to witness the capture and darting of a rhino and assist the veterinary team in tagging the sleeping animal for research and security monitoring. Groups of up to eight guests each (sharing the same vehicle) can participate in the entire process, from locating and darting the rhino by helicopter to the never to be repeated opportunity to touch the anaesthetised giant during the tagging procedure. Guests will need to spend a minimum of three nights at Ngala.
With a dedicated game ranger and tracker, as well as a private game drive vehicle, guests have the luxury of tailor-making their own safari experience; choosing their own game drive times and spending as much time as they want at sightings.
&Beyond has partnered with Healing Earth, a leading natural, eco-friendly and holistic spa & skincare company, to produce a truly authentic African spa experience for the mind, body and soul. Therapeutic in its approach, Healing Earth only uses all-natural ingredients and essential oils. The luxuriant spa products & soothing treatments are inspired by the wisdom of Africa’s traditional healers & celebrate our continent’s vibrant heritage, communities and plant life.