Thursday, 12 November, 2026
Babylonstoren
Bubble, bubble, boil and bottle.
In 1896, a visit to your neighbour would have meant a journey up a long winding track on foot or by carriage. Stopping off at Soetmelksvlei brought a welcoming relief with a cup of rooibos tea or a refreshing cordial to quench the thirst.
Join us for a hands-on morning in the fresh farm air as we step back in time to brew our own fruit and flower cordials and bush teas. Following a short ride along the picturesque slopes of Simonsberg, we’ll descend towards the historical farmyard of Soetmelksvlei, which represents a time when life was simpler and craftsmanship was treasured.
Here, tea master Gundula Deutschländer will guide us up the mountain slope to find the ridge where the honeybush grows. We want to celebrate this cheerful local plant that provides so many health benefits.
The journey continues into the sheltered valley of Soetmelksvlei where the harvest has been generous, and cordials are made from the windfalls.
We will revisit traditional recipes and share techniques on how to adapt them with seasonal ingredients in your own kitchen.
After a hands-on morning, we’ll enjoy a hearty lunch at the Old Stables Restaurant before heading back to Babylonstoren.
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