Found just outside Franschhoek, the spectacular gardens at Babylonstoren offer a totally unique experience. This Cape Dutch farm with vineyards and orchards is surrounded by the dramatic mountains of the Drakenstein Valley and its eight acres of fruit and vegetable garden are home to over 300 varieties of plants – all of which are edible.

Inspired by the 17th and 18th century Company Gardens of the Dutch East India Company, as well as the mythical gardens of Babylon, the garden is divided into fifteen clusters spanning vegetable areas, berries, bees, indigenous plants, ducks and chickens and a prickly pear maze. Fruit and vegetables are harvested year round for daily use in the farm’s restaurant.

Beautiful meandering walks span over 3 kilometres in the garden, and during spring 7 000 clivias bloom down by the stream, where a secluded path runs in the shade of wild olives and oaks.

Housed in a converted cowshed with contemporary glass walls – Babel serves food using the farm’s ‘pick, clean and serve’ philosophy. Creative, seasonal and generous meals are Babel’s trademark. Open for breakfast daily from 8h00–9h30, and dinner daily from 19h00. Open for lunch Wednesday to Sunday from 12h00-15h30. Booking is essential. Reservations open two months in advance and can be made between the hours of 8h00 and 17h00 on +27 (0)21 863 3852 or enquiries@babylonstoren.com.

The magnificent Greenhouse tucked away at the rear of the gardens amongst Oak trees is the perfect casual stop-off after exploring the gardens. Serving home-baked cakes, coffee, tea and fresh garden juices, as well as artisanal breads, handcrafted cheeses and meats, served with homemade herb oils, chutneys, preserves and relishes, and fresh garden salads. No reservation needed.