Rate Guide
Cottages from R950 - R1200 nightly for the first 2 guest and R375pp thereafter. Seasonal rates apply. Winter midweek specials apply. Discounted rates for children 5-16 years, children under 5 years free. Shepherd's Hut from R950 - R1000 nightly. Seasonal rates apply. Winter midweek specials apply. Pets charged at R100 per pet.
Quick Facts
E 19°14'10''
Budget Getaways Review
Big on farm vibe and gob-smacking mountain vistas, this one will have you in it's grip in no time. Whether you're opting for the Cottage's long voorstoep spilling gentle Hemel en Aarde vistas, an elegant understated interior of muted tones, exposed beams and screed floors, or the newly added Shepherd's Hut, a quickly and private little abode, with a far off and remote setting to boot.
Kicking off with the cootage, A weekend here is centered around a spacious living room and cozy open-plan kitchen - cement counter tops, open shelves, a scattering of couches, a wood-burning stove for those chilly winter eves, oil lamps and candles (no electricity), double doors leading onto the stoep…
Flanking the chill zone are two bedrooms: an ensuite double and a twin with shared bathroom. With an extra single bed in the living room, five guests can be comfortably accommodated.
The stoep is built for late afternoon bottomless G&Ts, followed by a sizzling chop or five on the braai.
If you're hankering after some remote, off-grid time for just the two of you, The Shepherd Hut is going to hit the spot. This querky and unique handcrafted hut sit on traditional cast iron wheels, with draw bar and timber chassis, just as they were made 200 years ago, when herders needed to be mobile and follow good grazing with their flock.
The perfect little nook for two, this hut is not only cute and quaint but is completely solar powered, with equipped kitchenette, bar-fridge and freezer. The double pull-down bed can be folded away to create a cozy little indoor seating / dining area - but we're sure you would prefer the spacious patio outside!
Time now to peel yourself away from this feathered nest and take in the surrounds. There's plenty to do.
Keep the heart rate down with a slow amble through the apple and pear orchards and fynbos, before upping the pace with a summit assault on Babylon’s Tower - the views over the Overberg are said to be unbeatable. The farm dam is filled with trout and swimming potential. Down the track there’s a feast of whale watching and sea kayaking, as well as some tough mountain biking and trail running routes a few clicks away.
If this all sounds way too demanding, do like the Budget team and stick to the nearby wine farms and restaurants.
The guestbook sings a good tune: “We just loved staying here! The scenery is amazing and the atmosphere relaxing,” but one of many glowing comments.
A failsafe option for couples and families within easy striking distance of the city.
"We booked the cottage for a birthday week-end getaway and we absolutely loved the cottage! The views are absolutely beautiful, surrounded by the apple farm and the tall pine trees. The fire place was a real winner since we had a very cold and wet rainy day but were happy to spend the time with our family and friends - thank goodness they supplied tons of wood. Everyone said that the beds were very comfortable and cozy. Wifi is not an option, and the power-source is limited so do not go looking for a week-end spent on cell phones or TV but rather to enjoy each others company and the surroundings. Since the weather was so bad we would have liked that the outside braai area could have been able to have a drop down to close it up a bit as it was very unpleasant to braai in the wind and gusts of rain onto the veranda. An upgrade on the fridge would be something to look into as it didn't get very cold and we brought a lot of fridge items that needed a well functioning fridge. The water is mountain water so if one is not fond of drinking brown water then taking along clear drinking water is a must. Overall our short visit was memorable and the people we met were very friendly and helpful - I would definitely recommend this place to our friends and family!!"
(visited Apr 2023)
"Amazing place. It is advertised for 5 people. When I asked specifically for 1 couple and 3 single guys, we arrived with it being set up for 2 couples and 1 single. So one of my friends had to sleep on the couch. Felt bad as he paid the same amount. Could easily have been arranged, so that is the only downside. But the setting and facilities were incredible."
(visited Apr 2023)
"We just love this little cottage on a working farm in the middle of Hemel en Aarde valley. The views are incredible, and position is great for wine tasting etc. The accommodation is very comfortable with everything you would need for a getaway. We had lovely evenings around the braai & stargazed when the sky was clear. Nice walks to the farm dam and beyond with more spectacular views. Our dogs loved it as well and its so nice that we are able to bring them along. Thank you for a wonderful stay. See you again soon!"
(visited September 2022)
"One of the most beautiful places to have a lovely relaxing holiday."
(visited May 2022)
"What a treat this place was. Extremely peaceful and tranquil. Was such a relaxing break away, so much to see and to do on the farm. Amazing hiking trails, amazing mountain biking trails. The hut is so well equipped with everything you need. A real gem of a find. Will definitely be visiting soon"
(visited Aug 2021)
"A stunning little spot in an apple orchard. A place to hide away from the world. Very comfortable and cute! Many lovely wine farms and restaurants in walking distance and beyond."
(visited May 2021)
"A lovely romantic getaway in the beautiful Hemel en Aarde valley, set between two excellent wine farms. We stayed in the Shepherd's Hut which is a tiny cottage for - at most - two people to squeeze in. There is a well supplied kitchen for self catering, but you'll probably be visiting the excellent restaurants in the area. We enjoyed walking up the river to a hidden kloof and waterfall with ancient trees; and watching the frolicking cows in the opposite pasture in the evening with a glass of wine. The hut is set out of the wind and is quiet except for birdsong and frogs at night. A wonderful place for a weekend with someone special - and it is dog friendly, assuming they are not scared of cows!"
(visited Feb 2021)
"The Shepherd's hut was perfect for my "Retreat for One". Beautiful setting. Spent most of the weekend on the porch with a gorgeous view of the orchards and mountain. Even better views if you walk up to the dam for a swim. Soul food :)"
(visited December 2020)
"This is a gem! A lovely cottage up on the hill, surrounded by green lawns and apple orchards. There is a dam nearby and lovely walks. The cottage had everything you would need for a weekend getaway. Bed were super comfortable and the duvets soft and warm. We definitely will be back."
(visited December 2020)
"Really nice place."
(visited October 2020)
"Remote and beautiful. We loved it"
(visited Jun 2018)
"Was a great weekend away and so close to all the wine farms. I will be back for sure! Appeared on budget getaways last minute booking section. The place is really amazing situated on top a hill with incredible views."
(visited Jun 2018)
"My Mom, girl dog and I had a comfortable and memorable stay at the cottage and I can recommend it as a cozy abode with great scenic appeal."
(visited May 2018)
"Simply astonishing surroundings and beautifully and comfortably furnished. Made living off the grid feel very do-able!"
(visited Jan 2018)
"I took my parents and hound to this beautiful spot for two nights to celebrate my birthday. We all absolutely loved it. The cottage has everything you need - comfy, clean beds and couches, well-equipped kitchen. I wasn't brave enough to try the slightly exposed outside hot shower, but my dad loved it. The trails within spitting distance of the cottage are heaven for trail runners and trail-running hounds. We liked the idea of top wine farms on our doorstep but opted not to leave the farm at all - between the walks, runs, braais and lazing on the sunny stoep, the time flew by. I'll definitely be back."
(visited Sep 2017)
"I cannot gush enough about this magical, secluded and stunning cottage in the most amazing location. I was blown away by this place and the experience...from the first enquiry to the last sms received from the host. This will definitely not be my last visit. I can't wait for winter next year to relax with a bottle of Creation wine next to the fire!"
(visited Sep 2017)
"Amazing location and a lovely cottage. The views are just spectacular and the setting can't be beat. We enjoyed the walks around the area and the privacy of the cottage, as well as the ability to bring our dogs with us for the weekend, which was appreciated."
(visited Aug 2017)
"A lovely setting and the views are fantastic. The house is pleasant, the garden tidy, crockery and good enough dish towels. Our stay could've be improved by attention to little details!"
(visited Dec 2016)
"Fantastic relaxed weekend getaway."
(visited Jul 2016)
"Babylons Tower is set high up on a mountain slope,situated on a beautiful farm. The views are spectacular. It is remote and very tranquil. We will be back."
(visited Jun 2016)
"This is a really great little cottage on an apple farm - secluded and peaceful, comfortable and cozy. Despite the cold and howling gale, we were nice and warm thanks to the wood stove and hot water bottles (outdoor showering was not an option!). The setting was beautiful and there were lovely walks. The cottage is well equipped with gas stove, fridge and water heater, and solar LED lights."
(visited Jun 2016)
"Not that great in cold weather. The rain leaks all over and it was very cold despite the wood burning stove. Our request for more wood never materialized even though we were more than willing to pay for it. There was a labourer outside all afternoon one day and the next morning ostensibly mowing the lawn. It didn't feel private and secluded at all. We wont be back."
(visited Apr 2016)
"We had the best Easter ever. 5 days of pure bliss in the most beautiful setting I have seen in a long time. Their photo's don't do all the justice to what it really is - 360 degrees of sheer magnificence. The house is perfect for 2 couples with en-suites for both rooms. All the kitchen goodies are there so you literally just need to bring yourself and food & drinks. Oh yes and your walking shoes because there are a few wonderful hikes to choose from and a few dams for summer swims. We will definitely be back over and over with our two Retrievers who loved every second."
(visited Mar 2016)
"We arrived and it was raining, but that wasn't a problem because the way the house is situated, we didn't get cold. The indoor fireplace is also amazing. The settings is so relaxing that you relax from the minute you arrive. Hermanus is not far away for a bite to eat and yet when you drive back to the cottage - you feel like you're miles away from civilization. The only negative, is that we found the wood that was supplied to be quite expensive for what you get; but for convenience sake it was there when we arrived which was great. I can't wait to return and enjoy heaven on earth. Thank you guys Craig and Diane."
(visited Feb 2016)
"Views to die for up towards Caledon and onto Babylons Tower, a place you can sit and dream. But one shouldn't sit too still as there is amazing fynbos teaming with birds a stones throwaway with an interesting meandering trail. A short hop (walk) from Creation and the amazing MTB trails of Hermanus make this a great place. Throw in the most delicious home made chicken pie by Dre and you're sorted for a fantastic weekend. Despite the fickle Cape winter weather we had a wonderful time, warmed by the a great fireplace."
(visited July 2015)
"Our stay at the Babylon's cottage was absolutely amazing. It was one of my top Budget Getaway stays. Marcel was so kind to show us the cottage and how everything works. They even supplied is with wood for the whole weekend, which was more than enough. You could see the cottage was taken good care of. The location is perfect, it was our own little heaven. We enjoyed our nature walks to relaxing on the stoep with a fire. Everything was arranged perfectly. I will recommend this place above anything. This was amazing, it was really a great weekend. I can't wait for the next trip and it's only a hour and half's drive. Shops and everything you need is located only 12km out side from the cottage. Thank you Marcel and Sally for making this one of my memorable's weekend ever."
(visited April 2015)
"We loved staying at Babylon's Cottage. The setting is divine, very private, with great views of the valley and Creation Wine Estate. Relaxing under the starry skies was as peaceful as we could hope for. The house is comfortable and has everything you need for a nice getaway. Will definitely be back soon!"
(visited February 2015)
"My boyfriend and I were looking for a romantic and tranquil place to stay, not too far from Cape Town and Babylon Cottage offered us this and so much more. We were blown away by the scenery and the charm. Thanks for the wonderful hospitality and welcoming. We will be back of sure!"
(visited January 2015)
"We absolutely loved staying here. A cottage all alone overlooking a magnificent view, swimming in the dam, beautiful stars at night and all the facilities you need to be comfortable. Would definitely go again."
(visited December 2014)
"This was, by far, the most amazing escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. The view goes on forever and the peace and serenity that it offers is priceless. It is amazing how well the cottage is equipped with no electricity, completely off the grid! Candle chandelier and solar lights are the order of the day, and the atmosphere couldn't be better! Thank you to our hosts for sharing their piece of paradise with us!"
(visited November 2014)
"What a breathtaking setting. If privacy and seclusion is what you're after then Babylon cottage is the one. Tastefully and comfortably furnished, it has that shabby chic thing going throughout the cottage. The wrought iron candle chandelier in the lounge was my favourite. The kitchen is fantastically equipped and the hosts really do provide everything one could need for a lovely stay. From the rolling hills and dams to the naughty outdoor shower it's the perfect spot for a romantic getaway as well as a family holiday with kids in tow. Book now! You wont be sorry."
(visited October 2014)
"Beautiful place, can't wait to go back!"
(visited August 2014)
"Thank you for sharing your little piece of heaven with us. I was in awe of the fantastic views and the surrounding nature was breath taking. I definitely want to return!"
(visited August 2014)
"Lovely peaceful surroundings! This is the place to be if you want to take a break from the husstle and busyness of life."
(visited June 2014)
"We loved staying here! The cottage is very neat and tidy and has everything you need. The scenery is amazing and the overall atmosphere is very relaxing. We would definitely recommend staying at Babylons Tower Cottage."
(visited January 2014)
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Where You'll Also Find Us
Arniston (Waenhuiskrans) • Barrydale • Beaufort West • Betty's Bay • Bonnievale • Bot River • Bredasdorp • Caledon • Calitzdorp • Cape Agulhas and Struisbaai • Cape Town area • Ceres • Citrusdal • Clanwilliam & Cederberg • Darling • De Rust • Franschhoek • Gansbaai • George • Grabouw & Elgin Valley • Greyton • Heidelberg • Hermanus • Knysna • Ladismith • Laingsburg • Lamberts Bay • Langebaan • Malgas • Matjiesfontein • McGregor • Montagu • Mossel Bay • Napier • Oudtshoorn • Paarl • Paternoster • Plettenberg Bay • Porterville • Prince Albert • Pringle Bay • Pringle Bay, Betty's Bay and Kleinmond • Riebeek West and Riebeek-Kasteel • Riversdale • Riviersonderend • Robertson • St Helena Bay • Stanford • Stilbaai • Strand, Gordon's Bay and Somerset West • Swellendam • Tulbagh • Uniondale • Velddrif • Vermaaklikheid • Wellington • Wilderness • Witsand • Worcester & Hex Valley • Yzerfontein • Baviaanskloof • Cape St Francis • Cape St Francis & St Francis Bay • East London • Graaff-Reinet • Hogsback • Jeffreys Bay • Makhanda (Grahamstown) • Middelburg • Nieu-Bethesda • Rhodes • Sutherland