Soetmelksvlei is a meticulously recreated 1890s Cape farmstead located on the Babylonstoren estate between Paarl and Franschhoek in the Western Cape. Opened in mid-2024, this immersive experience transports visitors back to 1897, showcasing the self-sufficient lifestyle of Boland farmers during that era.
Our Home, Your Home in the Heart of Stellenbosch
Our home is your home in the heart of Stellenbosch. Look no further for the perfect stay at this landmark Stellenbosch property in the Cape Winelands, South Africa. Classic meets contemporary at this elegant Victorian villa set in a landscaped English garden. With a history spanning over a century and a recent major revamp - Bonne Esperance Boutique Guest House is the epitome of modern luxury combined with the charm of historic Stellenbosch. We are also located on the best corner in town and within 500 m easy walking distance from the town center and Stellenbosch University. We pride ourselves in our truly South-African hospitality, giving recommendations, and meeting your needs - leaving you plenty of time for moments to reset your senses and experience joy. Whether you are travelling for business or leisure, we look forward to creating a unique experience for you here in our home.
Bonne Esperance Boutique Guest House and Studio Apartments are powered by solar energy and battery back-up.
Leisure travellers
- Short walking distance to the historic core of Stellenbosch
- Modern luxuries in every room (USB charging stations, heated towel rails, Nespresso machines)
- Abundant a la carte breakfast served on veranda with garden view
- Personalised guest service with tailored day trip recommendations
Business travellers
- Fast and free WIFI
- Desk in every room
- Ideally located, easy walking distance (500 m) from the University of Stellenbosch, STIAS conference centre, Coetzenburg sports grounds and central CBD
- Early breakfast from 7:00
- Early and late check-in by prior arrangement
The Guest House
Bonne Esperance Boutique Guest House offers 16 supremely comfortable and stylish guest rooms.
The rooms are decorated in keeping with the old world charm of the typical Victorian house but are enhanced with the added luxuries of the modern age.
Studio Apartments
Bonne Esperance’s studio apartments provides an alternative form of luxury accommodation that retains all the quaint charm and top-quality hospitality that forms our character. The studio apartments are situated 50 m from the main bed-and-breakfast house across the road from the picturesque University of Stellenbosch Botanical Gardens.
Each studio includes the following: en suite bathrooms, air-conditioning, LED flat screen televisions with satellite bouquet, lounge/dining space and kitchenettes with microwave, refrigerator, kettle, toaster, cutlery and crockery. Each room has been decorated in a modern classic style to compliment the Victorian Villa with all the comforts one would need.
Stellenbosch Chocoholic Experience
Love artisan chocolate? Look no further for an indulgent chocolate experience in the Stellenbosch wine lands.
Special Offers
On Honeymoon, a Special Anniversary or simply a Romantic Weekend away? Look no further for a perfect treat.
Guest Reviews
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Bonne Esperance Villa Experience
Nice guesthouse, friendly people, super experience. We booked the villa. What a enormous space. We were with 6 persons and had all the privacy in the world.
Hans
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Excellent
This is the second time that I've stayed at this hotel and everything has been wonderful. It's a quiet neighborhood across the street from the Botanical Garden, yet it's a five minute walk into the center of Stellenbosch. The property itself is a comfortable B&B with every detail considered, but overall it's the staff who make every stay there a memorable one
varady
Kansas City
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A little piece of paradise!My husband & I stayed at Bonne Esperance & had a wonderful time. Not only are the staff extremely friendly & welcoming, but our room was also beautiful (deluxe with balcony), the breakfast delicious & the location superb! We strolled the leafy streets of Stellenbosch & explored the town on foot - everything is a few minutes walk away!We will highly recommend a stay at... Read this review
Liselle Raath
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We had an overall very nice and relaxing experience. Thank you. We will most certainly visit again.
Joanne Turnbull
Latest News
A Step Back in Time at Soetmelksvlei
Mon June 2, 2025
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OUR TOP 5: Museums to Visit in Stellenbosch
Fri April 18, 2025
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Step into the past and uncover the rich layers of Stellenbosch's history, art, and culture with our curated list of the town’s top five museums. Whether you're an art lover, history buff, or simply seeking something unique to do on a rainy day, these museums offer something for everyone.
Babylonstoren: A Garden Experience
Sat April 12, 2025
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Babylonstoren is a historic Cape Dutch farm in the Franschhoek area, known for its stunning gardens, seasonal farm-to-fork dining, boutique hotel, winery, and spa. Visitors can explore the 8-acre garden, enjoy wine tastings, relax at the spa, or join guided tours and workshops—making it a must-visit destination in the Cape Winelands.
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