Sisterhood of Timeless Retreats
February 4th, 2025Six distinct entities in four countries, each characterised by a profound sense of place and history. They share a philosophy of celebrating natural beauty, farm-to-table living and immersive guest experiences.
2010
Babylonstoren
Franschhoek, South Africa
Situated at the foot of Simonsberg in the Franschhoek wine valley, Babylonstoren has a fruit and vegetable garden of beauty and diversity. It is both a working farm and a hotel, a place of wellbeing and a paradise of sorts, anchored to the land.
2014
Vignamaggio
Petriolo, Italy
A Living Masterpiece
Nestled between forests and streams in the hills of Chianti, Vignamaggio is a sustainable farm with a wine cellar dating from 1404. More than 400 hectares with vineyards as well as vegetable and ornamental gardens offer a taste of la dolce vita to all who visit.
2019
The Newt in Somerset
Hadspen, England
A Country Estate, Reimagined
A working estate with acres of splendid gardens, woodland, farmland and cyder orchards to explore. Stay a night or two, or become a member and see the landscape change throughout the year.
2024
Over-Amstel Boerderij
Ouderkerk aan de Amstel, The Netherlands
Journey of Inspiration
Built in 1894 on the Amstel River in the historic Duivendrechtse Polder near Amsterdam, Over-Amstel Boerderij has been lovingly restored. Experience polder life through the charming B&B, cheesery and farm-to-fork restaurant. Over-Amstel can only be reached by boat, bicycle or on foot.
2024
Story of Emily
St Ive, England
Ode to Courage
At the site of her childhood home in St Ive, Liskeard, The Story of Emily honours the incredible impact Emily Hobhouse had on events in the Anglo-Boer War. Travel back in time at the impeccably restored Rectory and War Rooms and enjoy a typically South African meal in the restaurant.
2025
BLOU
Keurboomstrand, South Africa
Ground Yourself
Our owners have been holidaying at Keurboomstrand on the Western Cape coast for decades. BLOU’s eight self-catering cottages personify barefoot luxury on the edge of the Indian Ocean. Only guests who have already stayed at either of the farm hotels Babylonstoren or The Newt in Somerset can stay at BLOU.
