Time in Babylon
Babylonstoren, South Africa
Like most people in their early twenties, I tend to get ahead of myself. Questions such as: “Where do I want to work? What should my living situation be? Do I want to stay out or sleep in?…” creep through my mind on a regular basis. Adding to that list; I now know where I want to eventually get married: Babylonstoren.
This small dutch farm dates back to 1692 and sits in the heart of South Africa wine country. Mountains guard the edges and streams flow within. Wandering the grounds, you can find a magnificent 8-acre garden, secluded streams, a contemporary hotel and spa, a couple of farm-to-table restaurants and a botanical greenhouse. Everything at this South Africa retreat is centered around conservation and relaxation.
We arrived at mid-morning for a brunch at the marquee restaurant “Babel.”
Unlike the fancier Michelin restaurants crafting science experiments in the kitchen, Babel has discovered an old but timeless trick: use simple and local ingredients.
A hostess sat us in an open and sunny courtyard. Calm jazz played in the background, while we glanced at a seasonal menu divided into colors: I ordered the orange salad. What came was a mountain of local fruits and veggies, all in the same satisfying hue of orange. For the second course, I had a white soup, again arriving in an appealing hue of similar colors. The three of us shared plates, laughs and a half-bottle of local wine. The entire meal took over 2 hours and flew by in seemingly 20 minutes.
Time to wander the grounds.
At first, the gardens seem petite, but a quick promenade inwards and you realize the sheer size and abundance of the greenery. Guests are encouraged to pick and enjoy fresh overhanging produce. Streams flow alongside the paths, which break the silence and stillness in this blissful garden.
An old wooden swing lays on the edge of the property, beneath an enormous ancient tree. I happily swung in the afternoon sun, while my friends slept in the soft grass. A rooster, (not so delicately), sounded on a nearby fencepost — reminding us of the fading time.
Next stop was the winery for a quick tasting.
Various awards line the entrance walls showcasing Babylonstoren’s celebrated varieties of chardonnay, chenin blanc, shiraz, pinot noir, cabernet, merlot, malbec, and pinotage. We were guided into a glass gazebo to sample the wine and olive oil collection. Our trio each found a wine to satisfy their pallet. My personal favorite was the local specialty: pinotage blend.
A day spent in Babylonstoren is the perfect break from the bustling city. Upon leaving the South African farm, I couldn’t help but realize a newfound sense of ease. I arrived in the morning anxious and left completely calm and reset. Hopefully, I’ll be back… for a weekend getaway, spa vacation, or even a prospective wedding.
