Tucked away in the picturesque Franschhoek Valley, Babylonstoren has long been celebrated as a sanctuary for design lovers, foodies, and nature enthusiasts. Now, the renowned estate is offering a fresh perspective on farm life with its newly launched Water Buffalo Tour at Rietvlei. Designed for curious minds of all ages, this interactive experience goes far beyond standard sight-seeing, offering an intimate, multi-sensory escape into the heart of the countryside.
A Journey to the Heart of the Valley
The adventure begins at the main Babylonstoren Ticket Office, where guests board a short shuttle to Rietvlei, the quiet home of the farm’s water buffalo herd. The shift in pace is immediate. As the shuttle rolls along dusty farm tracks, the fresh valley air carries the sweet scents of surrounding flora and working pastures. It is a gentle invitation to leave the rush of daily life behind and tune in to the rhythmic beat of a living, breathing farm.
Gentle Giants and Unexpected Symphonies
Upon arriving at Rietvlei, visitors are introduced to the farm’s striking water buffalo herd. Despite their massive size and imposing horns, these animals are known for their calm, affectionate temperaments. Each buffalo has its own name and personality, making them instant favourites among younger guests who get to try their hand at bottle-feeding calves or grooming the herd.
Perhaps the most magical aspect of the visit is the serene atmosphere inside the dairy barn. Against the backdrop of daily farm work, classical music plays softly to keep the animals relaxed. Inspired by an Italian farm, resident farmer Kobus Lambrechts introduced the playlist to ensure the herd stays content—creating a delightful, sophisticated harmony between nature and nurture.
Indulgent Tastings Around the Table
No visit to Babylonstoren is complete without a celebration of flavour, and the Water Buffalo Tour delivers an unforgettable culinary highlight. Guests gather around a shared, sunlit table to sample an array of artisanal creations crafted right on the farm using rich water buffalo milk.
The tasting pairs comforting, warm beverages with cool, indulgent surprises that highlight the natural sweetness and velvety texture of buffalo dairy. From creamy cheeses to unexpected frozen treats, the tasting menu offers a playful moment of pure discovery that appeals equally to refined palates and enthusiastic young foodies.
Grounded Creativity and Connection
Before the journey concludes, the tour invites guests to get their hands dirty with a relaxing clay-moulding workshop. Using natural clay, adults and children alike can slow down, connect with the earth, and craft their own tactile keepsakes.
By weaving together sight, sound, taste, smell, and touch, Babylonstoren’s Water Buffalo Tour offers far more than a typical day out. It is a warm, grounding, and deeply memorable celebration of farm life that leaves visitors feeling refreshed, inspired, and beautifully connected to the land.
Plan Your Visit
- When: Every Tuesday and Thursday, 13h30–16h00 (shuttle departs at 13h20).
- Where: Meet at the Babylonstoren Ticket Office, Franschhoek.
- Cost: R600 per adult | R500 per child (ages 4–18) | Free for under 4s.
- Includes: Tour, tastings, activities, and Babylonstoren garden entry/membership (R250 deposit required upon booking). Intimate groups are limited to 10 guests per tour.
