Babylonstoren, a truly world class experience in Paarl.
Taryn Allie | 20 February 2023
People of Paarl! Today we are talking about Babylonstoren.
Haibo! Don’t give me that look! You surely should have heard about them by now.
You know, the wine farm situated in Franschhoek at the foot of the mountain. One of the oldest Cape Dutch farms… A name synonymous with luxury, care, and wellbeing.
No? Still nothing!? Ok, I’m concerned about you now. Indulge me while I educate you.
Let’s begin with acknowledging that this farm is what I consider a “multipotentialite”. That simply means that they excel at many different things. So… They farm, have a garden, restaurant, hotel, spa and -my favorite- an online shop. Not to mention you can always do functions. With views like that, how can they not?
The garden was designed by a French dude, so it's most definitely pretty. Luckily one of the features at the garden is a maze. Not only do you touch the ground and get rid of all the stress, but you can get lost in nature. Personally, I go because my soul needs something pretty to look at while breathing in the fresh air. But of course, being out and about you work up quite the appetite.
There are two restaurants of which one, delightfully named Babel, is actually in a converted cowshed. Schalk Vlok, executive chef, created for this space a menu reflecting unconventional combinations for the daring palate.
It’s summer so you must cast your gaze to the dessert section. How about a mango sorbet with mampoer-marinated litchi and a dash of sweet basil? Mmmmango! Or if you prefer something more tart - go for the marinated Rubus raspberries, garden mint & water buffalo gelato!
Uno momento, I said there were two restaurants. The second is the Bakery, where food is served on boards because it’s the ‘Kyk-en-Gryp’ family setting. Fast fingers for the WIN else it's all gone. I joke but that’s how it was in my family.
Know that you are being treated to the farm-to-fork philosophy with every bite you take. Only the best seasonal produce to tantalize and delight your senses. Ok, I admit it. I am a foodie and this is the highlight of any visit. But these days South Africans are super stressed. We don’t talk about the economy or certain service providers that fails us daily… Meaning we internalize a lot and its not good for your health.
Can someone please say SPA DAY?
We need to HAMMAM. I need you to experience this ancient Turkish cleansing treatment for yourself. Just let go of all that stress, feel good in your body, relax and recover. For those of you who love the water, there is an indoor pool. And for those of you with the stubborn knots, don’t leave without having a massage. Asseblief, take care of yourself.
Now it’s time for you to go home and you feeling a bit distressed at returning to reality. This is where I remind you about the online shop, with a smirk on my face. Yes! You absolutely knew this was coming -Bring Babylonstoren into your life! Let it feature bright, bold, and center of your being.
Please excuse me as I head straight into the non-dairy section!
Belgian milk chocolate yogurt
Water buffalo gelato with salted almond & dark chocolate
Foxenburg chevre goat’s cheese
Dalewood petit brie
Vegan camembert
Now add some fruit, preserves, honey, crackers and bread! It’s almost a party, you just need some crockery, cutlery, table linens and wine – which you can buy from the store too. Now we can entertain!
I must point out the use of glass containers & bottles on Babylonstoren products. I’m impressed at the conscious effort towards sustainability and environmental responsibility.
Your friends hail you the perfect host/hostess as you send them off with their own gift bag. A gentle reminder that SHARING is CARING and next time round you’d rather book into the hotel for a week or weekend because we NEED it! You know, self-care. WINK!
Now my avid readers, you know Babylonstoren. When this word passes over my lips it whispered in reverence at the astonishing accomplishments of expansion over the years but also an intense desire to get some CHEESE! I joke, but I really am hooked on it.
Head over to the Babylonstoren website for more info: https://babylonstoren.com/