With the rush of Christmas behind us, it’s time to start planning spring and summer getaways! Whether you’re planning a trip for a group of work colleagues, a school field trip, a family adventure or a fun friends vacation, it might be time to step out of the norm and try out an agritourism adventure. Visiting a working farm or other agricultural business can provide your group with a fun and educational experience that they’ll remember forever!
Ontario has amazing farms that are open to the public. Yes, they want you to visit! Even if you’re not taking a trip, check out Farm Fresh Ontario for a place nearby where you can soak in nature and shop farm-fresh produce! Need a ride for your group? Switzer-Carty Transportation will get you there!
What is agritourism?
Agritourism refers to the blending of agriculture and tourism to offer a fun and educational experience for visitors who might not be very familiar with this way of life. A variety of rural businesses have joined in on to the idea, encouraging locals and tourists to immerse themselves into life at their farms, ranches or wineries. These experiences often introduce attendees to a number of different experiences, allowing them to see firsthand where their food and drinks come from, and inviting them to take part in the process.
Many reasons to choose an agritourism vacation in Ontario
An agritourism destination is the perfect choice for a group, school or family trip this year. While this kind of trip may seem unusual for some, there are many reasons why an agritourism trip will be a memorable experience.
- Learning how other people live is a great way to learn empathy and understanding for others.
- Seeing the growing, harvesting or preparation process firsthand at a farm, ranch, winery or other agriculture business teaches those in attendance just how much work goes into the things they eat and drink.
- Encouraging group members to work together in order to complete a task can help build and strengthen their relationship.
- Getting out of the city any immersing in a more rural environment can help attendees relax and appreciate a slower pace of life.
- Spending time outdoors is great for both mental and physical health. Walking around the property, finding hiking trails, taking a horseback ride, going for a bike ride or taking classes on the farm are all fun ways to get active.
3 Great farm stays in Southern Ontario
There are several kinds of destinations to choose from when looking for an agritourism destination. Farm stays are one of the more common options, with opportunities popping up regularly. We’ve found 3 great farms in southern Ontario that will make a great trip from the GTA.
1. Mountain Ash Farm Stay
Mountain Ash Farm Stay – Creemore, Ontario
Located in Creemore, Ontario this farm stay is less than 2 hours from Toronto. There is a spa and wellness center on site, as well as tennis courts, a salt water swimming pool and restaurant. If you’d rather cook for yourselves, there’s also a shared kitchen that you’re welcome to use. Mountain Ash Farm offers bicycle rentals, horseback riding, and walking trails, and you’ll find golf, fishing, and skiing opportunities nearby.
2. Foxingham Farm B&B
This fruit and nut farm is set in the countryside near the Blue Mountains and offers a comfortable bed & breakfast experience. Hazelnut, almond, walnut and apple orchards surround the property, and visitors can find hiking, fishing, swimming, cycling, archery and horseback riding nearby.
3. Transvaal Farm Stay
The town of St. Mary’s is located just 20 minutes from London, and is where you’ll find the Transvaal farm stay. This entire house rental is located on a working farm with vegetable plots, hens and goats. The owners offer culinary workshops on a number of the products they make and sell, like goat cheese, chocolates, preserves, and bread. They also offer free bike rentals to explore the area.
Time to book the agritourism (school) bus!
Hiring a school bus to transport your group to their destination is one of the easiest ways to get everyone there safely, while having fun along the way. The experienced driver that comes with every booking means that even the organizer can focus on having fun, without worrying about the safety of their group. Booking an agritourism getaway is the perfect way to have fun this year!
