VISIT SOETMELKSVLEI
Farm life in the late 19th century required ingenuity and a high degree of self-sufficiency. Soetmelksvlei honours the legacy of artisanry. Visitors are encouraged to interact with master craftspeople as they go about their daily chores. Get a glimpse of life before the turn of the 20th century through the immaculately recreated interiors of the Farmhouse and Old Cellar.
Take refreshment at the Old Stables Restaurant and browse the Jonkershuis Farm Shop for old-world keepsakes. Soetmelksvlei has an indoor playhouse in the Old Cellar, as well as a family of adorable farm animals. Allow yourself enough time to experience all that Soetmelksvlei has to offer. Above all, take time to experience life at a slower, more grounded pace.
PLAN YOUR VISIT
Meet at the Babylonstoren Ticket Office at the appointed time and hop on a shuttle to Soetmelksvlei. Wear comfortable shoes and a sunhat or rain gear, depending on the season. Explore the farmyard at your leisure or join in scheduled activities throughout the day.
Thursday to Sunday, 09h00 to 16h00.
Shuttle departs Babylonstoren at 30-minute intervals from 08h30 to 13h00.
Returns at 11h00 and every hour, on the hour, until 16h00.
R300 per adult (incl. annual Babylonstoren membership valued at R100) and R200 for adults with valid membership.
R100 per child aged 4 – 17.
THINGS TO DO AND SEE
Immerse yourself in the meticulously refurbished Farmhouse and charming Gardener’s Cottage. Take in the sights, tools and techniques of a bygone era in the Old Cellar, Distillery, Mill and Workshop. After working up an appetite, indulge in hearty farm fare in the Old Stables Restaurant. Pop into the Jonkershuis Farm Shop for beautifully crafted keepsakes and treats.
Farmyard activities include milking, cream separation, metal forging, carpentry, animal care, wheat milling, distillation, and ox wagon rides.
WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW
Soetmelksvlei is a working farm with open water, mechanical equipment and unprotected drops and steps. Children and anyone unable to swim must always be closely supervised.
Regrettably, no dogs are allowed, as this is a working farm with many feathered friends. Please be mindful of our farm animals. They are charming but may catch a fright when caught by surprise.
Areas of the farmyard may be challenging for wheelchairs or pushchairs. We offer wheelchairs at the Pakhuis Reception but do not have staff available to escort guests.