Historic Dutch farm in South Africa renovated for ultimate bliss and relaxation

One of the oldest Dutch farms in South Africa, Babylonstoren is a unique property with a luxury hotel, garden, spa, two restaurants, and its very own wine cellar that houses vintages made from grapes grown onsite.

The newest addition to the centuries old property is simply called the Farmhouse. A 1960s home underwent extensive renovations to become a nine-suite guest house where visitors can escape into luxury with spa treatments or a rejuvenating dip in the private ozonated vitality pool. The farm at Babylonstoren, where more than eight acres of fruits and vegetables are grown, dates back to 1692. Over the years, a slow series of renovations have seen some original farm buildings renewed to benefit visitors, such as the disused cow shed that was transformed into the current-day Babel restaurant, one of two on the grounds. The Farmhouse renovation is the latest in a series of investments by owner Karen Roos and general manager Terry de Waal, and it officially opened this year.

Chris Fick of Malherbe Rust Architects partnered with the farm’s management to design a renovation befitting the historic nature of the property, similar to previous renovations on the farm. The result is an indulgent getaway, where guests can enjoy a heated swimming pool in the Farmhouse’s courtyard, or step inside the spa, where there is a salt room, sauna, steam room, experience shower, and ozonated vitality pool. The guest rooms and suites are cozy and simply adorned, featuring a mixture of modern and Victorian furniture. The common area Butterfly Room, so named for the rare butterfly collection on display, houses a library and fireplace, creating an inviting space for relaxation after a long, hard day of soaking and steaming.