Welcome to the era of the luxury farmstay, where countryside life is paired with polished design, spa menus, seasonal cuisine and a generous splash of award-winning wines. In Stellenbosch, this trend is nothing new. Here, some of the Cape’s most storied wine estates have long been perfecting the art of combining farm life with five-star living.
Babylonstoren: Simplicity Becomes Sensational
At Babylonstoren, every inch of the farm is curated yet rooted in authenticity. Think cobbled paths winding through botanically diverse gardens, crystal-clear water furrows, and chickens clucking contentedly among the vines.
Babylonstoren’s accommodation is as thoughtfully cultivated as the gardens. Guests can choose between beautifully restored Cape Dutch farm cottages and sleek, contemporary suites – all set within the working farm. Every room opens out onto a view – be it orchards, vineyards, or the Simonsberg mountains – and encourages a slower rhythm.
Guests are invited to roam barefoot through the gardens, join the daily harvest, attend hands-on gardening workshops, or simply unwind in the spa with its hammam and herbal tea rituals. It’s more than a place to stay, it’s an immersion into farm life at its most elegant.
Spier Wine Estate: Connecting Sustainability
Spier Wine Farm effortlessly marries sustainable farming with a rich cultural offering. As one of South Africa’s oldest wine farms, the estate’s ethos is grounded in the regeneration of soil, community, and spirit. Here, centuries of history blend seamlessly with innovative thinking and a deep commitment to regeneration.
Spier Hotel elegantly blends contemporary comfort, authentic farm living, Cape artistry, and wellness, catering to a wide variety of guests, including couples, families, wine-lovers, and eco-conscious travellers alike.
Guests can cycle through vineyards, taste organic wines, or dine under the stars on ingredients grown metres from the table. A visit to the Spier Craft Market or a stay at their art-filled hotel proves that meaningful luxury isn’t about excess, it’s about connection.
Boschendal: Authentic and Contemporary
Boschendal has emerged as one of South Africa’s most iconic agritourism destinations. With its mountain views, curated picnics, horseback trails and beautifully restored cottages, the estate invites guests to experience authentic farm living with a contemporary feel.
Whether you’re foraging for mushrooms with a chef or sipping rosé beneath ancient oaks, you’ll feel part of the land. Their deliciously nourishing, soil-to-fork fare is created especially by their artisan chefs, butchers, growers and bakers.
From award-winning wine and culinary adventures to exploring the spectacular landscape by foot, horse, or bike, Boschendal invites guests to explore, play, and discover the best of farm living.