Experience Farm Life with Agritourism

Agritourism — tourism that draws visitors to an agricultural destination – is not a new idea. People have been escaping to the countryside for centuries to relax and play. Most of us have been to an orchard, petting zoo or pumpkin patch at some point in our lives. For those of us who like to be active and involved when we visit a new place, agritourism offers a new way to gain a deeper understanding of the agrarian lifestyle through hands-on experiences. There are so many agritourism options, you’re sure to find something to intrigue you.

If you’d prefer to just dip your toe into the waters of agritourism, a simple farm tour might be for you. Usually only a few hours long, a farm tour will give you a chance to learn about the daily activities on a working farm, from harvesting crops to milking cows. Some farms even offer tastings at the ends of their tours, showcasing farm-made products such as cheeses or preserves. Specialty farms and plantations are even more fun to visit, especially if you’re traveling abroad, as you can catch a glimpse of where everything from cocoa beans to tea leaves begin.

For those who are ready to jump head first into an agritourism experience, you can find great opportunities to stay and work on a farm for the duration of your vacation in exchange for room and dining. World Wide Opportunities on Organic Farms (WWOOF) will help you find opportunities all over the globe, using search criteria such as length of visit, number of visitors, farm type or food and lodging offered. Some even allow you to bring along your children or pets. You could find yourself milking goats in Finland, growing hay in Slovenia or beekeeping in Russia.

Whichever route you decide to take, agritourism can be an enriching and educational opportunity for both individuals and families alike.