Top Pick: Embrace the Unspoiled Beauty of the Trenta Valley, Slovenia
Slovenia is punctuated with an array of enchanting organic agriturismos, amongst which, Pri Plajerju, nestled in the Trenta Valley stands out. The farm, immersed in the pristine and perennial beauty of Slovenia, captivates with its diverse offerings. Staying in one of the self-catering apartments is an option, however, the unique experience is to slumber in the hayloft. This economical accommodation provides warmth, cosiness and an element of rustic allure after a day spent hiking on the Soča trail. The farm's jaw-dropping mountainous backdrop, the opportunity to interact with the farm animals, and the provision of hearty, home-made meals, always accompanied by friendly service, epitomize the charming allure of a rural retreat. The mere thought is so captivating, it might stir up a longing for countryside living.
Starting price for apartments: €70, barn beds are an economical choice at €15pp, Check details at eko-plajer.com
MORE SLOVENIA
Limestone and black wine
Immerse yourself in a unique experience in Slovenian culture by visiting Francinovi. A dedicated gem in the realm of Slovenian agritourism, this family-owned gem is nestled in Avber, a picturesque hilltop village situated within the limestone-rich Karst region. The vibrant city of Trieste lies in proximity to this bucolic paradise. Bojana, an incredibly warm host, ensures your stay is nothing short of exceptional, keen on going the extra mile for her guests. Indulge in sumptuous, homey delicacies she lovingly cooks, all complemented by the locally renowned teran, a "black" wine variant, and fruity white wines straight from her personally tended vineyards. In addition to serving food and wines, Francinovi is also operational as a farm, ready to welcome visitors on weekends and at other allotted times if booked in advance. It boasts of five minimally adorned, yet cozy ensuite rooms, a quaint restaurant, and a spacious terrace that divine views of vineyard expanses and verdant meadows. With rates starting at a mere €40 for a B&B, it makes for a budget-friendly travel experience without compromising on quality or scenic elegance.Visit ukmar.si to book your stay.
Authored By: Peter Davey
A Serene Escape in Povsin’s Car-free Bled
Tucked just 2km away from the serene Lake Bled, a haven for those yearning for the quietness of nature, lies Povsin's eco-agricultural farm. The farm offers a fantastic car-free experience, perfect for eco-tourists and nature lovers. The humble quad room that we stayed in, despite being fundamentally simple, encapsulated a sense of comfort and tranquility in its clean, spacious design. More than just the room, guests have access to a shared kitchen catering to all their culinary needs.
The daily trek along the rustic trail through the verdant fields down to Lake Bled, with the breathtaking backdrop of rolling hills, is simply a delight to the senses. To top off the entire experience, we indulged in a satisfying farm-to-table breakfast, consisting of mouth-watering products straight from the farm. Such a gourmet delight is something you wouldn't want to miss. The farm not just offers a friendly and warm atmosphere but is also a perfect getaway for solo adventurers, young couples, or families looking for a unique vacation.
Explore serenity at its best starting from €64 B&B at povsin-bled.com
Flour power, Velenje
Nestled in scenic Slovenia, the vacationing haven known as Tourist Farm Lešnik offers some of the best farm stay experiences in the country. A haven for home-cooked meals, this remarkable lodge takes pride in serving dishes crafted from its very own produce. Interestingly, even the flour used in their kitchen is derived from their grain harvests.
The lodgings or accommodations boast a unique charm, with each room being named and adorned after a type of wood procured directly from the farm's own wilderness, adding a touch of enchanting authenticity. If one desires an even more distinctive experience, there's also an opportunity to spend a night in their specially designed 'bee house'.
The rates for B&B start at €23 per night. Further details are available on farmtourism.si.
ITALY
Wine and honey, Italian Lakes
Our journey last year took us to Agriturismo Forest, nestled on one of the scenic elevations that cradle Lake Iseo. Despite its smaller size compared to the other northern Italian lakes, Iseo never lacked in enchanting allure, especially with the benefit of fewer crowds. The culinary experience was authentically local. From the enticing entrée of fresh pumpkin-stuffed pasta to a diverse array of cheeses and cured meats, down to the irresistible nettle gnocchi as dessert, the meal was a masterful representation of the region's culinary expertise. The evening's festivities were further elevated by Franciacorta wine, priced lovingly at just €2 per glass.
One remarkable detail about Agriturismo Forest is its strategic proximity to surrounding vineyards, just a stone's throw away. Furthermore, the town of Iseo itself, exuding charm and warm summer vibes, was easily accessible, located merely downhill. They feature a charming terrace that offers not just a dining experience but a visual delight in the form of panoramic views encompassing the serene lake and an adjacent wetland reserve, a haven for wildlife enthusiasts.
One could feast their eyes on the captivating spectacle of the sun descending, highlighting the lake with its twilight hues, all from the comfort of their dining table.
Doubles from €80, complete with B&B, dominates the offer. For those interested, your Agriturismo adventure awaits at agriturismoforest.com.
Thumbs up to Sardinia
The cherished experiences we obtained from a stay at the Agriturismo Agave, Alghero, predominantly lie within the shared dinners, ambiance, and camaraderie with other guests hailing from various parts of Europe. We communicated praises for the home-made culinary delights of the in-house chef, a mix of all things incredible that came with wine, coffee, and the iconic after-meal mirto, by a common gesture - a thumbs up. The farm, bustling and genial, boasts of 15 well-appointed rooms, each offering respite in the form of a cool, shaded terrace.
The package also offers sumptuous breakfasts. Our kids particularly enjoyed the farm's swimming pool and the chance to interact closely with the pigs, dogs and horses. The ancient city of Alghero and the immaculate beaches nearby are easily accessible by car.
Prices for double occupancy start at €80 for bed and breakfast,via agriturismoagave.com.
Wooden spoon, Italian Lakes
Experience the charm of Italian agritourism nestled near the serene Lake Orta at Il Cucchiaio di Legno. The accommodations are roomy, doused in natural light, and have comfort etched into their every nook. Begin your day here with a toothsome breakfast spread of yard-fresh fruits, creamy local yoghurt, and freshly laid eggs, perfectly complemented by the farm's aromatic coffee.
As the sun dives below the horizon, the farmhouse comes alive with the aroma of its traditional meal spread. Each night, a gastronomic adventure awaits your taste buds with the agriturismo's selection of appetising dishes, each course paying homage to the local cuisine and crafted with pride from their harvest.
The hidden jewel of Italy, Lake Orta remains, shockingly, untouched by crowds. The cool, crystal-clear water is perfect for a blissful swim or row. At the heart of this lake lies an island, home to an aged basilica, sheltering a Benedictine monastery, offering you a glimpse into antiquity.
No wonder, leaving this serene Italian paradise can be a painful affair. For months, if allowed, one can lose themselves in the enchanting ambience of this bucolic retreat.
Pricing for double occupancy starts from €73 B&B, ilcucchiaiodilegno.com
Fountain of health, Tuscany
We've had the pleasure of experiencing the rustic charm of Podere Benelli, located in the scenic Pontremoli, as guests attending a local wedding. The dreamy setting, coupled with our charming host Paolo, added layers of authenticity to our stay. Our second evening was illuminated with Paolo's tales about his traditional cheesemaking, olive oil pressing and lard production processes. We had the joy of indulging in a delectable, freshly baked pie, its ingredients handpicked by Paolo that morning while caring for his flock of sheep.
The charm of the place extended to our accommodation - an idyllic stone farmhouse, offering arresting views of the majestic Apuan Alps. And speaking of tradition, the farmland is not just a business but a family legacy. This beautifully maintained property has been passed down through generations, bearing witness to centuries of farm life. This heritage is preserved in their quaint farm life museum that deserves special mention. Adding a touch of historical mystery, on the property is a spring reputed for its therapeutic properties, anecdotes of which can be traced back to the 1600s.
The stay at Podere Benelli, which offers cosy double rooms starting at €60 B&B, is a unique experience filled with charm, tradition, and a slice of rustic life you’d be hard-pressed to find elsewhere. Explore more about their property and offerings at their website poderebenelli.it.
Exploring Olive Groves: The Charm of Calabria
Imagine a 16th-century noble estate nestled amongst grand olive groves, sitting at the end of a winding, quaint trail. This unique agriturismo, the perfect fusion of rural charm and upscale elegance, with a generous splash of an outdoor pool, is what makes this not just a regular farm. When our cordial hosts sensed my disbelief about the place being an operational farm, they were more than eager to unravel the magic behind their extensive olive oil production process.
The majestic panorama visible here can only be described as a visual feast – it stretches out over miles, heightening the allure of al fresco dining experiences. The sight of distant villages twinkling under the night sky further adds to the scene's allure. Indulge in mouthwatering Calabrian cuisines, each course tantalizing your taste buds, finally culminating with a fine glass of homemade pomegranate liqueur to seal the gastronomic journey. For those keen on culinary exploration, there's an option to enroll in the offered cooking classes. For guests yearning for a more intimate, home-like setting, a self-catering villa is available.
Rates start at €80 B&B, Check availability and book at lecarolee.it.
Fruit and fairy lights, Sicily
Marianeddi, an agriturismo with a bustling environment, takes pride in its rich farm produce, including almonds, artichokes, and diverse citrus fruits. Despite the flurry of activity, tranquility surrounds this place. The guest rooms offer a charming rustic appeal, with their stone flooring, earth-tone walls, and repurposed wooden screens, and the comfort of a luxuriously soft bed which is a sheer delight to sleep in. Stepping outside your room, you're met with a whimsical garden lit softly by fairy lights and scattered hay bales adding to the casual charisma of this place. If you're seeking a unique place to stay within the Vendicari nature reserve, then Marrianeddi is your haven. It grants you exclusive accessibility to private beach strips, setting the perfect backdrop for when you're not lounging poolside. Remember to remain casual; if you're not in beachwear, then consider yourself overdressed! The perfect way to conclude a day here is to savor a delectable swordfish steak, enhanced by the accompanying Campari spritz. Rooms start at a rate of €100 per night, including breakfast – a worthwhile deal for the experience that's on offer. Visit their website at marianeddi.info for more information and booking.
FRANCE
Donkey business, Limousin
Nestled in the rural Creuse department of France is an unconventional playground for families, the donkey farm of Ânes-de-Vassivière, maintained passionately by Christophe and Olivier. In Peyrat-le-Château's proximity, this agricultural paradise is set up where exploring on your own is celebrated with homemade cuisines offered for supper and daybreak, crafted with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. A plethora of diverse accommodation options include staying in traditional gîtes, unique yurts, or caravans. However, the true jewels of this place are the donkeys and the other animals living freely on the farm. The farm offers a unique chance to engage with the donkeys; guests can take them along for hikes along the stunning, well-mapped trails. These excursions can last one to three days, including marvelous packed meals and B&B arrangements made with utmost care and precision by the farm itself. Did you know that the interaction with animals can significantly contribute to your emotional well-being and that such farm stays will offer you a fantastic way to digitally detoxify?
Travel enthusiasts can start their delightful journey by booking a cosy yurt for two, starting from just €59. Visit anes-de-vassiviere.com for more details and bookings.
Down on the ferme, Dordogne
Tucked away in Aquitaine, in the southwestern corner of France, lies the quaint permaculture farm named Simply Canvas. This is no ordinary farm, but a cozy retreat showcasing boho-chic safari tents equipped with standard bathroom facilities. A natural pool with minimal environmental impact further adds to the property's rustic charm. Immersed in an environment rich with the enticing aromas of herbs and blooming flowers, one can relax on their personal deck, taking in the sunset views with their loved ones and pets. An engaging sight greets the guests every evening when they watch pigs freely foraging under shady cherry trees.
The owners, Sandra and Santi, have a narrative that's equally compelling and enriching, which you can immerse yourself in during their communal dinners. These dinners are set at a sprawling wooden table, offering panoramic views of the vibrant permaculture fields. But those preferring their own cooking can whip up meals in the well-equipped kitchens in their tents. This place offers the opportunity to press the 'pause' button on life, and just breathe in the slow-paced, sun-kissed ambiance. It is an ideal site to rekindle a sense of simplicity and innocence - a perfect place for quality family time.
Starting from €85 per night for bed and breakfast, with a minimum stay of two nights, visit their website to book or know more.
Eco-gite and treehouse, Ardèche
Perched high in the mountains above Privas and adjacent to the origins of the River Loire, resides a unique agritourism retreat known as Au Fil de Soi. This venue, originally a silk mill, now fosters a harmonious relationship with nature and provides a tranquil escape for those seeking solitude. The farm stay hosts, Anne and Jerome Legros, are not only fluent in multiple languages but actively include visitors in their eco-conscious way of life.
The meals served here are as breathtaking as the location itself. Made exclusively from organic produce either grown on the premises or sourced from the vicinity, the food is a tribute to the distinctive terroir of the region. Alongside an eco-friendly ethos, Au Fil de Soi also boasts diverse lodging options — from the elegance of a treehouse to the simplicity of rustic cottages.
Immerse yourself in this idyllic setting and embrace the tranquillity that comes with being one with nature. Starting from €60 for B&B, make your reservations at aufildesoi07.fr.
PORTUGAL
Costa farm, Alentejo
Envisage the Costa Vicentina sight. Image by Alamy.
Marry country comfort with laid-back luxury at Herdade do Touril, an actively functioning farmland nestled in the heart of the Alentejo national park on the appealing Costa Vicentina. The property's charm lies in its convivial atmosphere and unpretentious allure, providing perquisites like a palatial breakfast buffet, an abundance of bicycles for guest use, and an enticing pool to plunge into right after you open your eyes to the day. It's strategic location allows for a leisurely stroll to the nearby seaside path where an adventurer’s dream awaits. A rope aids your descent towards the inviting water and light-coloured sandy beaches flanked by towering cliffs, all typically devoid of bustling crowds.
Starting rates for double rooms at €100, which includes breakfast, more information can be found at herdadedotouril.com
Seventh heaven, near Sintra
Set only a 15-minute stroll away from an alluring beach, you will find the cooperative farm, Quinta dos 7 Nomes. This remarkable homestead, teeming with dinosaur fossils and stunning coastal paths, is also within proximity to Sintra's palace and castle, visible in all their regality from the property grounds. An added advantage is the bus stop conveniently located outside, sure to whisk you to Sintra in a mere quarter of an hour. Moreover, Airbnb offers you the choice of ecocamping in your own tent or living in a comfortable caravan. For food enthusiasts, the property hosts an organic shop which stocks a plethora of fresh items straight from the farm's garden. The lively on-site café serves indulgent treats and drinks, and the establishment also organises various therapeutic treatments and workshops which are sure to enrich your stay.
Guests can rent a pitch for their tent at €13 per night, while caravans are available at €18 per night. For further details and booking, refer to the property's original website, quinta7nomes.com.
OTHER COUNTRIES
Favourite things, Austria
During our Viennese residence, we often sought refuge from the city's hustle and bustle through idyllic farm stays discovered on farmholidays.com. Among our top picks was Bachbauer, nestled in the Austrian Lake District and just a short 3km jaunt from Mondsee's tranquil shores. This farmhouse, adorned with captivating floral arrangements, provided panoramic mountain vistas and an array of inviting apartments. Interacting with the friendly farm animals, playing mini-golf, and taking refreshing swims in the natural pond were among the delightful activities we cherished. Mornings at Bachbauer were savored with the farm's very own sumptuous, organically sourced dairy products.
A cozy has accommodation that accommodates four guests starts at €90 per night (with a minimum stay of three nights),
A Gem in Istria, Croatia
Hidden in the quaint village of Zrenj in proximity to the Slovenian boundary lies the delightful Agrotourizam Nežić. This exceptional agriturismo is housed within charming stone structures, offering cosy yet sophisticated lodging. The allure of this farm stay, however, lies not in its surroundings, but in its owner and haute-cuisine. One cannot forget the exquisite dinner where Paolo, the owner, served mouth-watering dishes featuring truffles procured by him and his loyal dogs. His amazing goulash will redefine your culinary expectations, while the in-house vineyard-produced wine, paired perfectly with your meal, will have you relishing every sip. And in a final enchanting swirl, Paolo tops off the experience with a heartwarming session of traditional folk songs, accompanied by his accordion.
Accommodation for four starts from €270 for a three-night stay, available for booking at booking.com
Oil the wheels, Crete
Immerse yourself in working farm life at Villa Angelos, nestled in the north-western region of Crete. The British-owned establishment sits within the Saint Basil Olive Grove, welcoming guests to partake in key farming activities. Enthusiasts can leap into the age-old traditions of annual pruning in April, or delve into the November harvest – offering a first-hand insight into the journey an olive takes from field to bottle, culminating in a bottle of extra virgin olive oil. The temperature averages a pleasant 18C-23C during these months, making it an enticing destination for those seeking a unique shoulder-season escapade. Glance into the local Cretan lifestyle with guided walking tours led by Berendt, a seasoned local connoisseur. An added bonus his insider suggestions for the best traditional culinary delights, tucked away in the neighboring hamlets. Available amenities include a cozy four-bedroom villa complete with a pool, with prices starting from £567 per week. Discover more on their official platform: rentavillacrete.co.uk.
Breakfast with the cows, Iceland
Nestled amidst a volcanic landscape, Vogafjos Farm Resort is a captivating retreat bordering the tranquil waters of Lake Mývatn. Not only does it offer an easy path to the inviting warmth of the Mývatn Nature Baths, it also provides an excellent base for outdoor enthusiasts ready to embark on whale watching expeditions and waterfall treks. Moreover, it's effortlessly accessed from the main circular route of the country. Apart from delightful accommodation, the place features charming and cozy cabins close to the milch herd, providing an exceptional setting from which to catch a glimpse of the breathtaking aurora borealis - an experience we were lucky enough to have.
The cabins, each opening onto an inviting deck, embody simplistic rustic elegance that pairs quite well with the arctic backdrop. They keep you close to the daily life of the farm while offering unparalleled views. A standout experience at Vogafjos is the breakfast - touted as the finest in all of Iceland. This generous spread is a feast of local culinary delights including rye bread seasoned with lava salt, smoked salmon sourced directly from the nearby fjords, along with fresh-off-the-farm milk and cheese. A glass panel allows you watch cows while your day begins on a wholesome note. Overnight stays start from £108 for bed and breakfast. To know more or to book your stay, visit vogafjosfarmresort.is.
Grape escape, Romania
Immerse yourself in the scenic magnificence of Vinalia, located within Conacul din Ceptura, roughly 80km north of Bucharest. This splendid vineyard offers charming accommodations, delivers locally-sourced cheeses and meats, and serves their home-grown and freshly-made wines. The proprietor is always more than willing to offer enlightening tours and delightful wine-tasting experiences. This destination is truly extraordinary!
Starting rates for double rooms are at €55, including breakfast, vinaliaceptura.ro