‘Twas a beautiful sunny day in Cape Town and we decide to head out to Franschhoek to explore the much heard about gardens of Babylonstoren. But of cause Murphy does not let us get there in peace and we get hopelessly lost. Damn you Murphy! My phone’s navigation also decides to punish us by not working. After many wrong turns and failed attempts to stop for directions, my phone finally decides to rescue our poor little lost souls. I’ve never been more relieved to hear that self-assured voice say “in 500 metres turn left”.
A Burst of Colour and Sheer Beauty at Babylonstoren
When we arrive at our destination, I’m somewhat panicky and feel an inkling of disappointment to see construction taking place. I’m worried this will extend to the gardens and affect our sightseeing. Luckily the construction is confined to the parking area only and I happily skip off to the gardens. Let me tell you, NOTHING will prepare you for this kind of beauty. It is a beauty unlike I have ever seen before. I’ve been to quite a few places in the scenic Western Cape but I was in absolute awe of Babylonstoren. Rows and rows of picture perfect fruit, vegetables and indigenous gardens. Benches are situated in-between so you can have a seat and catch your breath that the exquisiteness of these gardens took away.
Eating from the Gardens
The farm has two restaurants – Babel and The Green House. We ate at the latter as the other is closed on Mondays. The Green House serves delectable light dishes and the majority of the ingredients used come from the gardens of the farm that you stroll through. I have the smoked chicken and leiden cheese on ciabatta bread with a red juice (made from freshly squeezed red fruits and vegetables). Hubby goes for a boerewors roll with salad and a green juice (made from freshly squeezed green fruits and vegetables). Both of our dishes are yummy and after our tummies were nice and full we proceed to explore the rest of the gardens.
Magical Walk Down the River
There are a host of sights and activities to busy yourself with at Babylonstoren. From the gardens, friendly little ducks and chickens, to the mystical river/clivia walk. And if you just cannot bear to stay merely for one day there’s the guest cottages and spa which are available to guests who want to linger longer. They also offer wine tasting and have a quaint little farm shop where you can purchase all sorts of goodies. Pay them a visit – you’ll thank me for it!