Harness nature’s colours with fynbos dyeing at Soetmelksvlei

22 May 2025

Join us for a hands-on workshop on creating natural dyes from the diverse indigenous vegetation at Soetmelksvlei.

R 1500 per person.

Only 10 spaces available

The Soetmelksvlei homestead is surrounded by diverse indigenous vegetation with many hidden qualities. Join us as we take a closer look at these plants’ resilience and resourcefulness.

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, master gardener Gundula Deutschländer will encourage guests to celebrate the stories of our local Cape fynbos in a fun, explorative workshop. Many fynbos plants have a high tannin content, which means the leaves may not be appealing to eat but exhibit wonderful hues when bound in cloth and thrown in the dyeing pot.

After a hands-on morning in the farm air, we’ll enjoy a hearty lunch at the Old Stables Restaurant before heading back to Babylonstoren.