What's up! trouvaillesdujour: Babylonstoren, an eco-chic getaway in South Africa

Wednesday, November 23, 2011

Babylonstoren, an eco-chic getaway in South Africa

If you plan to spend the holidays somewhere and are still hesitating on where to go, you may want to check out Babylonstoren, an exceptional place located in the heart of the Cape Winelands, and an hour drive from Cape Town. In her inspired restoration of one of the Winelands oldest estates, the former editor of Elle Deco and owner of the estate, Karen Roos and her team have created a unique country getaway, a luxury hotel and working guest farm.

As a working farm, Babylonstoren's acreage is divided between orchards and vineyards. Its centerpiece is a magnificent eight-acre fruit and vegetable garden, modeled on the fabled gardens of Babylon, and inspired by Patrice Tarravella's creation of the medieval monastery garden at Prieure d'Orsan in France.

The historic werf, with its handsome buildings and pleasing spatial geometry is among the best preserved in the Cape. Among the old oaks and olive trees, a series of 18th century-style cottages have been built to accommodate guests. Skillful preservation and restoration of the original feel, combined with an infusion of 21st century life, the interiors are simple, yet utterly luxurious, a mix of modern and antique pieces and stylish touches such as a Magis Puppy Dog, a canvas wardrobe, a Xavier Lust hatstand.

The old cowshed has been converted into a cool milk-restaurant, Babel, where award winning stylist and food consultant Maranda Engelbrecht has come up with a unique new style of menu, which focuses on fresh produce from the garden and the region.

Babylonstoren