Babylonstoren Farm Hotel

Set amidst 8 acres of fragrant fruit orchards and meticulous vegetable gardens, the original 18th century buildings form the heart of the farm. Exquisitely restored, there’s whitewashed walls, plenty of Cape gables and thatched roofs on the outside and handpicked designer pieces on the inside. An old cow-shed with an edgy facelift is now the home of award-winning Babel restaurant and credits for the very modern and rather beautiful wine-tasting room go to renowned architect Gerard de Villiers. There’s also a reservoir-style swimming pool, Garden Spa and several pretty courtyards to relax in.

The Garden Cottages are the old farm labourer’s cottages and each blends the old with the new, and Scando-chic with African charm. Pick one with a modern, glass-encased kitchen to cook up a DIY farm-to-table storm. The newer Fynbos cottages are low-key, minimalist and, quite simply, stunning and share a beautiful, kidney-shaped swimming pool amid the rocks. At the Farmhouse, the one-bedroom suites are homely yet refined and the easy-on-the-eye loft suite is one of the best honeymoon spots in South Africa. If you’re travelling as a group, consider the authentic Manor House, an exclusive-use farmhouse that’s been lovingly restored to its former glory.

You can’t miss the spectacular gardens but to really make the most of them take a guided tour, which happily ends in the vast cellar for a wine tasting with the knowledgeable staff. In the afternoon, sample the seasonal colour specials in Babel at lunch before washing away the dust in the spa. If you’re feeling active, try a hike up Babylonstoren’s kopje, worth it for the views at the top, or hire a canoe for a paddle on the dam and a spot of fishing. There’s also a gym, bikes for hire, and plenty of specialist workshops and tastings – enquire to see what’s on during your stay.