"Greener pastures are afforded to those who are willing to journey to them."
Welcome to a world where peaceful serenity meets rustic charm—farm stays that invite you to unwind and reconnect with nature. From the rolling hills of Tuscany to the verdant fields of New Zealand, these idyllic retreats offer a unique escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Imagine waking up to the soft sounds of chirping birds, enjoying a fresh breakfast made from farm-grown ingredients, and exploring vast landscapes filled with beauty and tranquility. Join me as we journey through some of the most enchanting farm stays around the globe, each promising a memorable experience steeped in the warmth of rural hospitality.
Twin Farms, Vermont
5-Star Hotel
Twin Farms is a unique country estate in Vermont- situated on over 120 hectares of wildflower meadows, hardwood forests, ancient gardens and private ponds. The original 1790s farmhouse and lodge have been converted into gracious living and dining rooms and six elegant suites. Ten guest cottages - each with its own interior design style - are dotted about the property and The Farmhouse at Copper Hill provides four additional suites ideal for small gatherings. Since opening in 1993, Twin Farms has upheld a tradition of graceful hospitality and quiet beauty. Guests enjoy the use of a handsome pub, the fitness and wellness centers, a lakeside cabana and a Japanese-style furo.
What to do in Barnard:
Visit Silver Lake State Park: Enjoy hiking, swimming, or picnicking by the serene lake, with trails that offer beautiful views.
Explore Barnard Village: Stroll through this quaint village and admire the historic buildings, including the picturesque Barnard General Store.
Hiking and Biking: Check out local trails like those in the Green Mountain National Forest for stunning views and outdoor adventures.
Kayaking and Canoeing: Rent a kayak or canoe to explore the tranquil waters of Silver Lake or other nearby lakes.
Attend Local Events: Check for seasonal events, farmers’ markets, or craft fairs that showcase local artisans and produce.
Visit the Barnard Historical Society: Learn about the town’s history and see interesting exhibits related to its past.
Explore Nearby Quechee Gorge: Just a short drive away, this stunning gorge offers hiking trails and breathtaking views.
Go Apple Picking: In the fall, visit nearby orchards for a fun day of apple picking and enjoying the beautiful autumn scenery.
Enjoy Local Dining: Experience cozy restaurants and cafes that serve farm-to-table meals and local specialties.
Relax and Unwind: Take some time to enjoy the peaceful surroundings, whether it’s reading by the lake or enjoying a sunset hike.
White Barn Inn, Maine
4-Star Hotel
Located in the beautiful coastal town of Kennebunkport, White Barn Inn has been a beloved local landmark for over 150 years, synonymous with warm New England hospitality, rustic charm, and uncompromising attention to detail. Just a 90 minutes’ drive north of Boston, this inviting property is renowned as one of the country’s most distinctive getaways. At the White Barn Restaurant, award-winning dining and expertly choreographed service unfold.
What to do in Kennebunk:
Visit Kennebunk Beach: Relax on the sandy shores, take a swim, or enjoy a picnic with stunning ocean views.
Explore Dock Square: Stroll through this vibrant area filled with boutique shops, galleries, and local eateries.
Go to the Kennebunkport Historic District: Discover beautiful historic homes and buildings, including the famous Wedding Cake House.
Take a Whale Watching Tour: Experience the beauty of the ocean and its marine life with a guided whale watching adventure.
Visit the Rachel Carson National Wildlife Refuge: Enjoy hiking and birdwatching in this beautiful natural area.
Tour the Maine Art Gallery: Discover local artists and exhibitions in this charming gallery.
Go Kayaking or Paddleboarding: Rent a kayak or paddleboard to explore the tranquil waters and coastline.
Hike in the nearby nature preserves: Check out the trails at places like the Kennebunk Plains or the Eastern Trail for scenic views.
Dine at Local Seafood Restaurants: Savor fresh lobster and other seafood specialties at popular spots like The Clam Shack.
Visit the Seashore Trolley Museum: Learn about the history of trolleys and enjoy a ride on vintage streetcars.
The Pig in the Cotswolds, England
The Pig in the Cotswolds is right in the heart of it all. A genuinely elegant building filled with large bedrooms overlooking the original arts and crafts style gardens, created by renowned garden designer, Rosemary Verey.
Stepping into this special house feels like coming to visit your great Aunt Rosemary. It’s filled with lots of nooks and crannies – the kind of rooms you can hunker down and lose an afternoon in.
The house is cozy and homely with hidden gems around every corner – from The Village Pub across the road to the Fieldhouse, a space for treatments and wellbeing tucked away in the gardens.
Things to do in the Cotswolds:
Explore Charming Villages: Visit iconic villages like Bibury, Bourton-on-the-Water, and Stow-on-the-Wold, each with unique charm and character.
Hike the Cotswold Way: Enjoy stunning views along this 102-mile trail that stretches from Chipping Campden to Bath, perfect for walkers of all levels.
Visit Sudeley Castle: Discover the history of this beautiful castle, its gardens, and its connections to Queen Katherine Parr.
Stroll Through Gardens: Explore beautiful gardens like the Hidcote Manor Garden and Kiftsgate Court Garden, known for their stunning designs and vibrant flowers.
Discover the Market Towns: Visit towns like Cirencester and Chipping Norton for local shops, markets, and historic sites.
Enjoy Local Cuisine: Indulge in traditional pubs and restaurants serving local dishes, including hearty fare and fine Cotswold cheese.
Visit the Cotswold Wildlife Park: This family-friendly attraction offers a chance to see a variety of animals in a beautiful park setting.
Tour the Historic Churches: Admire the architecture of beautiful churches like St. Mary’s Church in Fairford and the impressive church in Blockley.
Take a Scenic Drive: Enjoy the countryside views along the Cotswold Scenic Drive, which connects many of the area’s highlights.
Explore the Arts and Crafts Movement: Visit the village of Chipping Campden to learn about its significance in the Arts and Crafts movement and explore local galleries.
Blackberry Farm, Tennessee
5-Star Hotel
Blackberry Farm may well be the most delightful place on the Eastern seaboard. Nestled at the foothills of the Tennessee Smokies, it includes the best parts of American hospitality. Picture this: 4200 acres of wildflower-strewn land, 44 rooms of feather beds and English country antiques. Then add a regime of iced tea picnics, horseback riding, tennis, fishing, and fireside dining. Staying here is like being the guest of an extremely rich plantation owner, only you don't have to kiss up to the host. It's enough to make the sourest Yankee smile.
The best rooms are in the Cottage Suites, separate from the Main House, with whirlpool tubs and fireplaces to boot. And, of course, you can get any spa treatment delivered to your door at any time. For those of you who do manage to drag yourselves out of doors, there's the pool (open in the summer), the trails, the ponds, and the tennis courts (Outdoor activities continue well through the mild Tennessee winters.) The point, of course, is to work up an appetite for the star attraction at Blackberry — the food.
No matter how hard you resist, everyone gets on a three-meal eating plan, plus extras. You couldn't starve if you tried: from breakfast in bed to lunch (including, but not restricted to new potato salad, beef tenderloin, deep fried corn on the cob, and two kinds of pie) to the four-course dinner. Blackberry Farm has been winning raves for the last eleven years for its unpretentious and yummy foothills food — pecan-crusted trout, pickled, freshwater prawns and grits. Plus, Blackberry Farm has one of the best wine cellars in the southeast with over 60,000 bottles to satisfy any wine enthusiast. No amount of hiking and swimming will work off the amount you will eat and drink. So for goodness sake, bring baggy clothes. (It's not a place to strut in Gucci, anyway.) You will put on a few pounds at Blackberry for sure, but every one of them will be worth it.
What to do in Walland:
Great Smoky Mountains National Park: Explore hiking trails, scenic drives, and breathtaking views. Popular spots include Cades Cove and Clingmans Dome.
Tuckaleechee Caverns: Just a short drive away, these stunning caverns offer guided tours showcasing impressive rock formations and underground waterfalls.
Visit the Townsend Farmers Market: Open seasonally, this market features local produce, crafts, and baked goods. It's a great place to experience local culture.
Smoky Mountain River Rat: Enjoy tubing, rafting, or kayaking on the Little River. It’s a fun way to experience the beautiful scenery and wildlife.
Cades Cove Loop Road: This scenic drive offers opportunities to spot wildlife, historic homesteads, and beautiful landscapes. Don’t forget to stop at the visitor center!
Hiking: There are numerous hiking trails in the area, suitable for all skill levels. Check out the Laurel Falls Trail or the Alum Cave Trail for stunning views.
Local Distilleries and Wineries: Visit nearby establishments like the Ole Smoky Moonshine Distillery for tastings and tours.
Photography and Wildlife Watching: The area is perfect for capturing stunning photos of landscapes and local wildlife, including deer and various bird species.
Explore Townsend: Just a short drive from Walland, Townsend has charming shops, restaurants, and access to outdoor activities.
Relax by the River: Enjoy a peaceful day by the Little River, perfect for picnics, fishing, or just unwinding in nature.
Beach Plum Farm, New Jersey
5-Star Hotel
For more on Cape May, see my post: Best Hotels in every U.S. state - Part II
The southernmost point on the Jersey Shore, Cape May has little in common with the resort towns to its north. The town’s Victorian mansions are authentic examples of the form, and a mile to the west of town, Beach Plum Farm occupies 62 bucolic acres of verdant agricultural land. To the working farm have been added five guest houses, some renovated, some new: three barns and a pair of cottages, to be precise.
This is another side of Cape May, not just literally but figuratively as well — rather than stroll the boardwalk you’ll ramble across farmland or borrow a bike (or a golf cart!) for a jaunt to the beach or into town. Indoor fireplaces and outdoor fire pits keep things cozy, and the décor is a lively marriage of classic farmhouse utilitarianism and colorful modernist style. Full kitchens and laundry facilities make clear that these are self-contained residences; outdoor grills make them perfect summertime escapes.
There’s also a swimming pool, and farm tours can be arranged; meanwhile the farm’s produce is for sale at the Farm Market, in the central barn, where the Farm Kitchen is also open for breakfast and lunch. And you can find Beach Plum Farm’s produce elsewhere around town as well — before it was a lodging it was the dedicated supplier of quite a few of Cape May’s better restaurants.
What to do in Cape May:
Visit the Beaches: Enjoy the sandy shores and beautiful Atlantic Ocean views. The beaches are perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and beachcombing.
Explore the Cape May Historic District: Stroll through this charming area filled with Victorian homes, boutique shops, and quaint cafes.
Take a Whale and Dolphin Watching Tour: Experience the excitement of spotting whales and dolphins in their natural habitat.
Visit the Cape May Lighthouse: Climb to the top for stunning panoramic views of the coastline and surrounding area.
Explore the Nature Center of Cape May: Discover local wildlife and participate in educational programs and guided nature walks.
Enjoy Local Cuisine: Dine at restaurants serving fresh seafood and regional specialties. Don’t miss trying some local crab cakes or clam chowder.
Tour the Emlen Physick Estate: Learn about Victorian life and architecture on a guided tour of this historic home.
Take a Cape May Ghost Tour: Discover the town’s haunted history on a spooky walking tour in the evening.
Visit the Cape May Winery: Enjoy wine tastings and tours in this charming vineyard, where you can relax and savor local wines.
Explore Cape May Point State Park: Hike the trails, visit the beautiful beaches, and see the historic WWII bunker.
Wildflower Farms, New York
5-Star Hotel
Blanketed with meadows of native flowers and wild woodlands, Wildflower Farms sways in rhythm with the seasons to embody Hudson Valley ease. Set on 140 arcadian acres in Gardiner, New York, a slow-rippling river gently embraces free-standing cabins framing clear views of the mighty Shawangunk Ridge. Warm air, bright skies and the melodies of Mother Nature beckon stillness and contemplation, while forested footpaths and towering cliffs call to an adventurer's spirit.
Designed to blend seamlessly with nature, each of the 65 freestanding cabins and cottages merge outdoors with in. Expansive floor-to-ceiling windows allow bedside views of the wildflower meadows and open to private patios with lounge areas. The interiors are cozy and outfitted with natural materials welcoming guests to unwind after the outdoor adventures of the day.
What do in Gardiner:
Visit Minnewaska State Park Preserve: Enjoy hiking, biking, and stunning views of the Shawangunk Mountains. The park features beautiful waterfalls and glacial lakes.
Explore the Walkway Over the Hudson: Take a scenic stroll or bike ride on this elevated walkway, offering incredible views of the Hudson River and surrounding landscapes.
Hike in the Mohonk Preserve: Experience the beauty of this nature preserve with miles of trails, climbing routes, and breathtaking vistas.
Check Out the Local Wineries: Explore nearby wineries and vineyards for tastings and tours, enjoying the local wine scene.
Visit the Historic Village of New Paltz: Just a short drive away, this quaint village offers shopping, dining, and historic sites, including the Huguenot Street Historic District.
Take a Farm Tour: Discover local farms that offer tours and fresh produce, including apple picking in the fall.
Explore the Gunks: If you’re into rock climbing, the Shawangunk Ridge is famous for its climbing spots, attracting enthusiasts from all over.
Enjoy Outdoor Activities: In the warmer months, you can go kayaking, fishing, or picnicking along the nearby rivers and lakes.
Attend Local Events: Check the calendar for seasonal festivals, farmers' markets, and art shows that showcase local talent and produce.
Relax and Unwind: Take time to enjoy the peaceful surroundings, whether it’s at a local café or a scenic spot in nature.
Single Thread Farm, California
5-Star Hotel
SingleThread Farm is nestled in and amongst the Dry Creek Valley bringing 24 acres of biodiversity to wine country. It is undeniably fueled by and thrives at the hands of thoughtful farmers with a shared ethos to respect the land and practice responsible land management. Chef Kyle Connaughton and his wife Katina- a farmer- opened SingleThread in 2016. The restaurant's eleven course tasting menu is driven by the couple's farm produce and personalized to meet the preferences of their guests. With five guest rooms above the restaurant, overnight guests can enjoy luxurious amenities and an exclusive breakfast. Authentic hospitality is a driving principle at SingleThread.
Things to do in Healdsburg:
Wine Tasting: Explore the many wineries in the area, including renowned spots like Ferrari-Carano, Dry Creek Vineyard, and Jordan Vineyard & Winery. Many offer tastings and tours.
Healdsburg Plaza: Stroll around the charming town square, where you’ll find boutiques, art galleries, and cafes. It’s a great place to relax and people-watch.
Explore the Russian River: Enjoy kayaking, canoeing, or tubing on the river. The scenic views and peaceful waters make for a lovely day outdoors.
Healdsburg Farmers’ Market: Visit the local farmers' market (typically on Saturdays) to sample fresh produce, artisanal goods, and local specialties.
Take a Culinary Class: Join a cooking class at a local culinary school or restaurant to learn about farm-to-table cuisine.
Hiking and Biking: Explore the scenic trails in the surrounding area, such as the Healdsburg Ridge Open Space Preserve or the nearby Dry Creek Valley.
Visit Local Art Galleries: Check out the vibrant arts scene with local galleries showcasing work from regional artists.
Attend Wine and Food Events: Participate in wine and food festivals or special events that celebrate the local culinary scene.
Explore Nearby Towns: Take short trips to nearby towns like Geyserville or Windsor to discover more wineries and local attractions.
Relax at a Spa: Treat yourself to a day of pampering at one of the local spas, many of which offer wine-themed treatments.
Farmhouse Inn, California
4-Star Hotel
Boutique Luxury Inn on 6 rural acres, 60 miles north of San Francisco in heart of Sonoma Wine Country. Convenient to Sonoma, Napa wineries and Sonoma Coast, near Santa Rosa and Healdsburg, Farmhouse Inn offers 25 sublime rooms and suites, a Farmhouse restaurant and a farm to table spa with a sophisticated mix of historical whimsy and classic elegance. Surrounded by world class vineyards, the property is anchored by an elegant 1870 farmhouse that houses the famed Farmhouse Restaurant. Dotted throughout are the beautifully appointed Main House, Cottage, Barn accommodations that boast fireplaces, large tubs, steam showers, luxurious bedding and modern amenities. Farmhouse also features a tranquil landscaped pool with hot tub and cutting gardens, outdoor fire pits for evening chats and house made smores, ample outdoor lounge areas for sophisticated relaxation. All the warmth and hospitality of a family-owned inn coupled with the services and amenities of a AAA 4-Diamond luxury boutique hotel. Arriving at Farmhouse guests are transported into the owners' gracious wine country lifestyle.
Things to do in Forestville:
Explore the Russian River: Enjoy kayaking, canoeing, or swimming in the scenic Russian River. There are several spots for picnicking along the banks.
Visit Forestville’s Historic Town Center: Stroll through the quaint downtown area, featuring local shops, cafes, and art galleries.
Hiking in Nearby Parks: Check out the trails in nearby parks like Armstrong Redwoods State Natural Reserve, where you can walk among towering redwoods.
Wine Tasting: Discover local wineries in the area, such as the nearby Russian River Valley wineries, known for their exceptional Pinot Noir and Chardonnay.
Attend Local Events: Look for community events, farmers' markets, or seasonal festivals that showcase local produce, crafts, and culture.
Explore the Northwood Golf Club: If you enjoy golfing, spend some time at this local golf course, which offers a scenic and challenging round of golf.
Visit the Regional Parks: Explore the nearby Sonoma County Regional Parks for hiking, biking, and enjoying nature.
Take a Scenic Drive: Enjoy a leisurely drive through the surrounding wine country, taking in the picturesque vineyards and landscapes.
Relax at a Spa: Treat yourself to a spa day at one of the local wellness centers for some relaxation and pampering.
Discover Local Art: Check out local art installations and galleries, often featuring works from regional artists.
Quinta de São Bernardo Winery & Farmhouse, Portugal
Right by the side of the Douro River, in the heart of Portugal’s wine country, Quinta de S.Bernardo - Winery and Farmhouse is just what it sounds like, plus a little more. This charming agricultural estate has been given a modern design-and-architecture makeover, retaining its heritage silhouette but finished in modern fixtures and furnishings. The seven rooms are plush and stylish, and five of them look out over the river — as do the infinity pool, the bar terrace, and the farm-to-table restaurant. The on-site winery is still in operation and offers tastings and tours.
What to do in Vila Real:
Visit the Douro Valley Vineyards: Explore the picturesque, terraced vineyards, and consider taking a wine tour to taste the local Port wines and other regional varieties.
Hike in the Douro International Natural Park: Enjoy stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife on the park's hiking trails, which offer breathtaking views of the Douro River.
Tour the Solar do Vinho do Porto: Discover the history and production of Port wine at this local wine museum, with tastings available.
Explore the Historic Center: Wander through the charming streets of Mesão Frio, admiring the traditional architecture and visiting local shops and cafes.
Visit the Church of São Pedro: Check out this beautiful church known for its unique architecture and historical significance.
Enjoy River Activities: Try kayaking or canoeing on the Douro River for a different perspective of the stunning valley.
Take a Scenic Drive: Explore the Douro Valley by car, enjoying the scenic views along the winding roads and stopping at viewpoints.
Experience Local Festivals: If you're visiting during the summer or fall, check for local festivals celebrating wine, food, or traditional crafts.
Visit the Nearby Town of Régua: Just a short drive away, this town offers more cultural experiences, including museums and riverside promenades.
Relax in Nature: Spend some time simply enjoying the tranquil surroundings, whether it's picnicking by the river or enjoying the views from a lookout point.
Los Poblanos Historic Inn & Organic Farm, New Mexico
Organic shampoo, hand-milled honey soap, complimentary earplugs. Wait, what? Don’t worry, it’s not the pulsing beats of a nightclub below that might interrupt your sleep — it’s the peacocks. The fabulously decorative birds, infamous for their early morning call, are just some of the exotic creatures that wander the grounds of Los Poblanos Historic Inn & Organic Farm.
The wildlife is part of the charm: Los Poblanos, located outside of Albuquerque, isn’t just a hotel. It’s a working ranch where lavender grows abundantly in the fields — and finds its way into everything from in-room bath products to the artisanal cocktail menu. To be fair, the lavender is a relatively new addition to the local harvest, planted well after the wheat, corn and chili peppers that have grown here for hundreds of years.
Los Poblanos is best known as the homestead of a 1930s-era power couple — a Congressman and Congresswoman — who spared no expense in its construction. The lady of the house tapped celebrated Santa Fe architect John Gaw Meem, landscape architect Rose Greeley, and a winning team of local artists and craftsmen to overhaul the ranch. Today, even after additional updates, Los Poblanos still exudes old-fashioned Southwestern-style elegance. Guest rooms and suites, divided between the original Meem buildings, a series of repurposed dairy buildings, are rich with period details: hand-carved beams, wood-burning fireplaces, ironwork, tin light fixtures, hardwood floors, hand-plastered walls, original artwork. Some have private patios, too.
Things to do in Los Ranchos de Albuquerque:
Visit the Los Ranchos Farmers' Market: Explore this vibrant market, typically held on Sundays, featuring local produce, artisanal goods, and handmade crafts.
Stroll Through the Village: Enjoy the scenic streets lined with adobe-style homes, gardens, and small shops that capture the local charm.
Explore the Rio Grande Nature Center State Park: Enjoy hiking trails, birdwatching, and beautiful views of the Rio Grande. The park features a visitor center with educational exhibits.
Visit the Los Ranchos Art Gallery: Check out local art exhibitions featuring works from regional artists, often showcasing the area's cultural heritage.
Discover Local History: Visit the historic sites in the area, including old adobe structures and cultural landmarks that reflect the village’s history.
Take a Bike Ride: Explore the nearby bike trails along the Rio Grande for scenic views and outdoor exercise.
Enjoy Local Dining: Savor delicious New Mexican cuisine at local restaurants, featuring traditional dishes like enchiladas, tamales, and green chile.
Attend Community Events: Check for local festivals, art shows, and cultural events that celebrate the village's heritage and community spirit.
Explore Nearby Open Space: Enjoy the natural beauty of the surrounding landscapes by hiking or picnicking in nearby open spaces like the Open Space Visitor Center.
Visit the Albuquerque BioPark: Just a short drive away, the BioPark includes the zoo, aquarium, and botanical garden, providing a fun day for families.
Finca Rosa Blanca Coffee Farm and Inn
4-Star Hotel
Stay at Finca Rosa Blanca and experience authentic Costa Rica; combine luxury accommodations, a sustainable forested coffee farm, and cuisine that creatively honors the culinary traditions of the coffee highlands. Come share the richness of the local culture, steaming volcanoes, cloud forests and the splendor of the abundant nature that surrounds you.
What to do in Heredia:
Visit the Central Park (Parque Central): A great spot to relax, people-watch, and enjoy the local atmosphere. The park is surrounded by historic buildings and cafes.
Explore the InBio Parque: This biodiversity park offers trails, interactive exhibits, and a chance to learn about Costa Rica's flora and fauna.
Tour a Coffee Plantation: Heredia is known for its coffee. Consider visiting a local plantation like Café Britt or Doka Estate for tours and tastings.
Hike in Braulio Carrillo National Park: Just a short drive away, this park has beautiful trails, waterfalls, and rich biodiversity. It's great for hiking and birdwatching.
Visit the Universidad Nacional: The university campus is home to beautiful gardens and art installations. It's also a great place to experience local student life.
Check out the Orchid Garden (Jardín de Orquídeas): A lovely garden featuring a variety of orchid species, perfect for plant lovers.
Explore the towns of San Rafael and San Isidro: Both towns have their own charm, with local markets and traditional architecture.
Enjoy Local Cuisine: Try traditional dishes at local sodas (small restaurants). Don’t miss the Casado or Gallo Pinto!
Visit the Mirador de Barva: For stunning views of the Central Valley and surrounding mountains, this lookout point is a must-visit.
Take a Day Trip to Poás Volcano: About an hour's drive from Heredia, Poás is an active volcano with an accessible crater and visitor center.
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