Babylonstoren is a contemporary farm hotel which combines the love for nature and natural products with elegant and modern architecture. It boasts its own farm and garden, a restaurant with food prepared with local products, a relaxing garden spa and an atmosphere of serenity and blissful relaxation.
Summary of reviews
Babylonstoren is a must-visit for anyone looking for a few days of relaxation and rejuvenation in a truly exceptional location. The property boasts breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and gardens and the rooms are fantastic with many guests raving about the beautiful and unique location of the hotel. The breakfast experience features fresh, healthy and farm-to-table food and the dinner experience at the highly acclaimed Babel restaurant is unlike any other. The staff are exceptional with a wealth of knowledge and genuine enthusiasm for their work, ensuring that your stay is as smooth and enjoyable as possible. Overall, Babylonstoren is a fantastic place to stay – beautiful, cozy and brimming with character and soul.
Wedgeview Country House & Spa, nestled amidst South Africa's picturesque vineyards, offers a tranquil and visually stunning retreat that consistently receives praise from its visitors. Its central location provides convenient access to Stellenbosch, Franschhoek, and Cape Town, making it an ideal base for exploring the region's renowned wineries and beautiful landscapes. Surrounded by magnificent gardens, the property exudes a dreamy and calming ambiance that delights guests seeking a peaceful getaway.
The establishment is celebrated for its exceptional breakfast experience, featuring a wide variety of high-quality, delectable offerings that cater to diverse tastes. Guests enjoy breakfast in the serene outdoor setting, accompanied by breathtaking views of the vineyards. While the dining options for dinner receive mixed reviews, with some expressing a desire for more variety and freshness, the breakfast remains a standout feature.
The rooms at Wedgeview are spacious and well-appointed, offering beautiful views and comfort, contributing to the restful and luxurious experience. Although some guests mention minor maintenance issues, the overall sentiment is positive. The property's commitment to cleanliness is appreciated, despite occasional lapses in detail that suggest room for minor improvements.
Visitors frequently commend the staff for their exceptional service, friendliness, and attention to detail, enhancing the welcoming atmosphere. The spa's serene setting and high-quality treatments are highly recommended, adding to the relaxation offered by the country house. The well-maintained pool area further enriches the outdoor experience, providing a scenic and inviting atmosphere for guests.
Overall, Wedgeview Country House & Spa provides a comfortable and picturesque escape, with its stunning views, delightful breakfast, and warm service making it a highly recommended destination. While there are some areas that could benefit from enhancements, its potential to deliver a five-star experience is evident, promising an unforgettable retreat amid the beauty of South Africa's wine country.
Le Franschhoek Hotel & Spa by Dream Resorts provides a serene and picturesque escape just outside the vibrant village of Franschhoek. Surrounded by breathtaking mountain ranges and immaculate vineyards, the hotel's location is frequently praised for its tranquility and stunning natural beauty. The well-maintained grounds and scenic views create a peaceful atmosphere, making it an ideal backdrop for relaxation and exploration of the renowned Franschhoek wine region.
Breakfast offerings at the hotel receive high praise for their variety, quality and exceptional service. Guests particularly enjoy the superb buffet featuring a range of local and fresh foods with some luxurious touches like oysters and sparkling wine that elevate the dining experience. Despite occasional inconsistencies, the majority of guests leave satisfied with the abundant options catering to diverse tastes.
Dinner experiences are mixed with some guests noting a lack of variety and issues with specific dishes, such as the trout. However, positive feedback highlights satisfactory meals and commendations for staff with special mentions of outstanding dinners on the Terrace and world-class cuisine.
The rooms at Le Franschhoek Hotel & Spa are predominantly spacious, clean and comfortable, offering beautiful views and a cozy atmosphere. The villas and suites are especially appreciated by families for their ample space and amenities. Nevertheless, some areas require modernization and issues like rising damp, mold, insufficient lighting and dated decor are noted. Noise due to lack of soundproofing and uncomfortable bedding also pose challenges for certain guests. Despite these drawbacks, the stunning location and attentive service contribute positively to the overall accommodation experience.
Cleanliness across the hotel is commendable with many guests appreciating the neat and well-maintained rooms. However, occasional maintenance issues such as dampness and cleanliness of the pool area, including a dirty jacuzzi, affect some experiences. The hotel grounds, nonetheless, receive high marks for their beauty and upkeep.
The staff at Le Franschhoek Hotel & Spa are consistently recognized for their friendliness, professionalism and helpfulness. Guests frequently commend the staff for their warm hospitality and efficiency, especially during special occasions. Although there are isolated critiques on service attitudes and engagement, the overall impression remains positive, creating a favorable guest experience.
Internet connectivity at the hotel presents a mixed bag; while the Wi-Fi is excellent in most areas and meets recreational needs, some guests face challenges with poor signal strength in certain rooms and during periods of loadshedding, affecting business travelers.
The spa facilities at the hotel add a significant touch to the guest experience with many praising the superb therapists and lovely treatments. Despite occasional issues with management interactions and hard-sell tactics, massages and overall spa offerings remain highly appreciated.
The pool area garners mixed reactions, appreciated for its beauty and ambiance but occasionally criticized for cold water and inconsistent cleanliness. Nevertheless, it remains a favored spot for relaxation.
In summary, Le Franschhoek Hotel & Spa excels in providing a tranquil, scenic escape with impeccable service and a delightful breakfast experience. While room and maintenance issues exist, the beautiful surroundings, attentive staff and spa facilities offer a compelling stay for visitors.
Lalapanzi Lodge, an extraordinary getaway nestled high on a hill amidst a tranquil pine forest, offers an unmatched retreat with breathtaking views over False Bay and Cape Point. Surrounded by stunning landscapes of mountains, vineyards, and free-roaming wildlife, the lodge perfectly blends seclusion and convenience. The beautifully appointed rooms, noted for their comfort, cleanliness, and spaciousness, provide a peaceful haven complemented by picturesque vistas, ensuring a relaxing stay in harmony with nature.
Guests praise the lodge's dining experiences, with breakfasts and dinners receiving high acclaim for their quality and flavor. The breakfast offerings, both continental and freshly prepared hot dishes, are enjoyed amid stunning views from the dining room and patio, creating an enjoyable start to each day. Evening meals, including generous barbecue servings, satisfy diners with flavorful dishes served in a cozy, inviting setting.
Exceptional service is a hallmark of Lalapanzi Lodge, with staff frequently commended for their friendliness, warmth, and attention to detail. Rose, the attentive host, alongside her team, provides a welcoming and hassle-free experience, ensuring that every guest feels cared for and at ease during their stay. Overall, Lalapanzi Lodge offers a memorable escape characterized by its natural beauty, outstanding hospitality, and a seamless blend of comfort and tranquility.
Skilpadvlei Wine Farm, located in the picturesque Winelands near Stellenbosch, is celebrated for its stunning location, offering breathtaking views of surrounding vineyards and mountains. This tranquil setting provides an ideal base for exploring nearby attractions while maintaining accessibility, being conveniently close to Cape Town International Airport. The property’s well-maintained gardens and scenic surroundings create a peaceful environment for relaxation.
Visitors to Skilpadvlei consistently praise the delightful breakfast experience, noting the wide variety of delicious options available. Guests enjoy beautiful views during mealtime, enhanced by friendly and attentive staff, making breakfast memorable. Standout items like the "best French toast" and satisfying portions provide good value for money.
The restaurant at Skilpadvlei is also highly regarded for its excellent dinner offerings, particularly its steaks paired with wines from the vineyard. With a reasonably priced menu and charming nature-filled ambiance, the restaurant ensures a satisfying dining experience. Families appreciate the large outdoor playground, adding to the appeal for visitors with children.
Accommodations at the farm offer a tranquil escape with spacious rooms that cater well to families. Guests highlight the cleanliness and coziness of the rooms, which are equipped with necessary amenities, including private terraces with braai facilities. Despite occasional maintenance issues or dated furnishings, the property provides a comfortable and welcoming atmosphere.
The staff at Skilpadvlei are frequently recognized for their exceptional friendliness and attentiveness, ensuring a positive experience from arrival to departure. Although service speed may occasionally falter, the staff's willingness to assist exceeds expectations.
While the Wi-Fi connection is generally strong, inconsistencies in availability are noted, suggesting potential improvements in accessibility and guidance for guests. The charming pool, though small, is a favored spot for relaxation, enhanced by its well-kept grounds and nearby amenities.
Comfortable beds with clean white linen contribute to the restful atmosphere of the farm, although some guests note minor issues with bed comfort. Overall, Skilpadvlei Wine Farm offers a serene getaway with positive guest interactions, making it an enchanting choice for travelers seeking peace amid South Africa's wine country.
High Season Farm Luxury Cottages is renowned for its captivating location, nestled in the breathtaking Hemel and Aarde Valley with views of Babylonstoring Peak. This remarkable setting offers guests a tranquil escape with superb panoramic vistas, combining rural charm with convenient access to nearby attractions. The cottages are situated close to the celebrated vineyards of Hemel en Aarde, making it an ideal choice for wine enthusiasts. Additionally, the lively town of Hermanus and its attractions are just a short drive away, providing both serenity and accessibility.
Guests consistently praise the dining experience, especially the delightful breakfast and braai baskets, which are both pleasing and thoughtfully presented. The dining service is generally exceptional, with staff attentive to dietary preferences, and unique touches like visits from baby cows during breakfast add to the charm. The convenience of fresh eggs delivered to guests' doors enhances the personalized service.
The cottages themselves, known for their spacious and luxurious self-catering facilities, offer an inviting blend of comfort and scenic beauty. Well-equipped and meticulously maintained, they provide a perfect sanctuary for relaxation amidst stunning mountain views. The interiors are celebrated for their stylish finishes and cozy atmosphere, making them an ideal retreat for couples and families. However, some guests have noted occasional ventilation issues, though these do not detract significantly from the overall experience.
Cleanliness is a standout feature at High Season Farm, with consistent praise for the spotless and well-kept accommodations. The aesthetically pleasing and homely interiors contribute to a comfortable and enjoyable stay, despite minor lapses in cleaning noted by a few guests. The diligent and helpful cleaning staff further enhance the appeal of this beautiful and clean environment.
Remarkable staff play a crucial role in creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Guests frequently commend the friendly, responsive, and helpful service, with specific recognition given to outstanding team members such as Tasneem. While availability may be limited at times, the staff's professionalism and willingness to assist ensure a positive and memorable experience. The combination of exceptional service and luxurious amenities makes High Season Farm Luxury Cottages a sought-after destination for those seeking a peaceful and picturesque retreat.
Jan Harmsgat Country House is a serene retreat set in a breathtaking location between Robertson and Swellendam, offering guests a picturesque escape amid farm-style historic buildings and lush greenery. The property's central position makes it an ideal base for exploring nearby wineries, while still providing the tranquility of a countryside getaway. Nature walks and vineyard explorations add to the charm, supported by a staff that enhances the warm and welcoming atmosphere.
The culinary experiences at Jan Harmsgat are delightful, with breakfast often highlighted for its exceptional quality, providing beautifully plated dishes in a charming Old Cape building setting. Dinner receives glowing reviews, praised for extraordinarily delicious meals like lamb Rogan Josh, supported by great wine and delivered by attentive restaurant staff. While occasional critiques exist, they are minor compared to the overall high standard of the dining offerings.
Rooms at Jan Harmsgat seamlessly blend old-world charm with modern comforts. Guests appreciate the spaciousness, luxurious linen, and tasteful decor, which contribute to a restful stay. The serene environment offers a beautiful escape, complemented by delicious food and excellent facilities. The charming and caring staff ensure guests feel welcomed and pampered, enhancing their overall experience.
Impeccable cleanliness is also a standout feature, with the property consistently praised for its neat and tidy rooms, modern amenities, and well-maintained grounds. The staff, recognized for their exceptional service and friendliness, further enrich the pleasant experience. Overall, Jan Harmsgat Country House delivers a harmonious blend of nature, hospitality, and comfort, making it a destination where guests can unwind and enjoy every aspect of their stay.