Pet Friendly Farm Stays: (2022)

This very cute hobby farm is just 10 minutes west of Sooke, Vancouver Island in British Columbia, Canada and is a beautifully peaceful rural escape. They have a variety of clean, comfortable and spacious rooms and cabins all with private bathroom and terrace and some with kitchenette, and they treat their guests to a great breakfast which includes eggs from the farm’s free range hens. Apart from hens you can also introduce yourself to the deer, goats and rabbits and the surrounding area has plenty of wildlife, whale watching can be done almost straight from the farm for example, and all around are lovely wooded trails for hiking and biking as well as loads of rugged wind swept beaches typical of beautiful Vancouver Island. WHAT OTHER GUESTS SAY: “Great little self contained cottage. Everything you need. The surrounding area is beautiful. Watching the goats was fun!…” “It was fantastic! The views from the room were outstanding. A pair of binoculars and a telescope helped us see some dolphins and other wildlife! The breakfasts were absolutely delicious, Mike was very knowledgeable about the area too….” >> CLICK HERE TO READ MORE REVIEWS & TO BOOK YOUR STAY AT GORDON’S BEACH FARM STAY:   READ MORE

Cuevas del Pino is an agroturismo farm stay near Cordoba, Andalusia, Spain, which has some lovely quaint and rustic self catering cottages on its 60 acre organic farm. It also has the added intrigue of being set around an old stone quarry which has cave systems to explore and a cave house for overnight stays. The setting is quite unique and though just minutes from Cordoba city centre it is gorgeously peaceful. The hosts are friendly and charming and you’ll find a creative, bohemian vibe about with lots of activities to be enjoyed from yoga and meditation to photography and painting workshops, as well as various low key events; musical performances, micro theatre and film showings. THE ACCOMMODATION: The have a choice of four cottages, two of them are one double bedroom and two of them two bedroom, with the latter being able to sleep up to five people. They are all charmingly rustic and traditional in style, and with some nice antique furniture and art pieces decorating the space. They are also very clean and comfortable and with modern facilities. You’ll find a well equipped kitchen, a lounge area, and outside a nice private terrace area with tables, chairs and sun loungers. The most unique of the accommodation choices is of course the cave house. A clever bit of architecture, it is, as the name suggests, a cottage built in to a cave, with solid rock for (most of) the walls and ceilings.  The design is that of an open plan loft and is super spacious and stylish. Though all the accommodation is of a high standard and thoroughly charming the cave house is understandably the most popular and so be sure to book well ahead of time. Outside there are some nicely tended gardens and an outdoor swimming pool with plenty of space for relaxing. Beyond that there is the farm, an organic, eco-friendly project that grows a variety of fruits and vegetables including beet-root and sweet corn. THE LOCATION: The farm stay is conveniently near Cordoba, a popular destination for tourists in Andalusia and one which rivals Granada for its rich Moorish history and heritage. By car the journey READ MORE

A classic West Country retreat between Taunton and Bridgwater in the heart of beautiful Somerset; Hunstile Organic Farm has a mixture of B&B and self catering accommodation in a wonderfully atmospheric 15th-century farmhouse surrounded by green fields where the friendly owners keep a number of dairy cattle, pigs and around the farmhouse, hens. They also grow vegetables and medicinal herbs on their fully organic farm, and they serve an award winning breakfast each morning with much of the ingredients coming straight from the farm. All their rooms and self catering apartments are cosy, clean and tastefully furnished, all with private bathroom, flat screen TV and WiFi, and there’s a nice shared lounge at the property too, where you can get drinks and snacks all day. WHAT OTHER GUESTS SAY: “100% would stay again…in fact, I have just booked again! Beautiful scenery, very friendly staff, room was spacious and the shower was absolutely to die for. Wish I could’ve stayed a bit longer and seen the pigs/chickens/animals, but had to rush off for work….” “Amazing!! The whole place has a lovely wholesome feel to it, will come back again!…” >>CLICK HERE TO READ MORE REVIEWS & TO BOOK YOUR STAY AT THE HUNSTILE ORGANIC FARM: READ MORE

Near the city of Calgary, Alberta, Canada this is a friendly guest ranch/farm stay B&B that is very popular for its horseback riding, its spa and its top quality food. Paola herself is a qualified chef from Italy and you can expect the breakfast to be great. She is happy to adjust the menu to accommodate any dietary restrictions and on request and for an extra charge she can also serve some really fantastic and good value evening meals. She also provides excellent cooking classes too. There’s a common lounge area with a TV and cosy fireplace and of course there are the spa services, including massage to be enjoyed. Day long trail rides on horse back can be arranged too and you are also welcome to join in on Paola’s cooking classes. WHAT OTHER GUESTS SAY: “Wonderful. Breakfast was unique and amazing. Host was friendly. Room and home were immaculate….” “Rested, secure, happy, content. Liked the kind sincere asking questions about our Blackfoot Confederacy culture and sharing of their Italian culture….” >>CLICK HERE TO READ MORE REVIEWS & TO BOOK YOUR STAY AT PAOLA BEAUTY FARM: READ MORE

Between the popular towns of Kinsale and Clonakilty, Co.Cork, Ireland, Seafield Farmhouse is a 3 star B&B on a family run hillside cattle farm with views over Courtmacsherry Bay, and it can serve as a great base for exploring one of Ireland’s most beautiful regions; West Cork. Their rooms are comfortable and homely, all with private bathroom and tea and coffee making facilities. There is free WiFi throughout the building where you’ll find a nice dining and lounge area with a TV. Every morning you’ll be treated to a great traditional Irish breakfast, guests are welcome to wander around the farm and the friendly and helpful owners are always available to give advice about things to see and do in the local area. WHAT OTHER GUESTS SAY: “It was the perfect 2 day stay for couple with dog on a travelling south and west Ireland holiday….” “Beautiful setting and views, quiet farming community, very comfortable room, fantastic breakfast and such a lovely friendly host. Highly recommended venue….” >>CLICK HERE TO READ MORE REVIEWS & TO BOOK YOUR STAY AT SEAFIELD FARMHOUSE: READ MORE

Sunnyside Farm has a lovely and very spacious cottage to rent for up to 12 people at the edge of the stunning Brecon Beacons National Park, one of the highlight of any journey through rural Wales. The farm is an award winning sheep and cattle farm which you are welcome to walk around, and to watch, or take part in, different seasonal activities such as bottle feeding spring lambs for example or wool rolling during shearing time. You’ll find plenty of nice field & woodland walks, and mountain bike trails, around the immediate area too, and of course for more serious hiking there is the magnificent scenery of the Brecon Beacons just a few miles away. THE ACCOMMODATION: The cottage is large, it has seven bedrooms in total and can sleep up to twelve quite comfortably, but it still retains a nice cosy countryside cottage feel. There is a large living room with an adjoining, spacious, dining room and also a kitchen well enough equipped to cater for any occasion and which includes a washing machine and a dishwasher. The lounge area has digital TV and DVD player and there is WiFi throughout the house. Outside there is also plenty of space to enjoy with a patio and outdoor seating. As mentioned previously, you are free to wander all around the farm and to join some of the farm activities and you can take off on hikes or mountain bike rides in the surrounding area where you’ll find plenty of scenic trails to be explored. The friendly farm owners stay nearby and will always be at hand with help or advice and they can arrange things such a local bike hire and grocery deliveries etc. Pets will be welcomed at the farm but be aware it is a sheep farm so dogs should obviously be kept well controlled! THE LOCATION: The farm is just six miles from the village of Brecon, the gateway to the Beacons. It is a deeply rural area of rolling green hills, farms, woodland, winding country roads and quaint little villages, the most well known being Hay-on-Wye which hosts a world famous annual literary festival in late May-early READ MORE

  On the highest hill of beautiful Bozcaada island off the coast of Çanakkale, Turkey, Harmani Holiday Farmstay has a variety of clean and comfortable rooms in beautifully restored traditional stone houses. They all have private bathroom, WiFi, air-con and a mini fridge. And some rooms have a balcony with views of the sea as well as a private spa bath. The friendly owners grow organic fruit and vegetables on the small farm that surrounds, and they are also great cooks, with farm fresh ingredients and some very fine home made food included in the buffet breakfast each morning. There’s lots to see and do in Bozcaada and you can arrange to hire bikes from the farm for exploring with. READ MORE

Kauri Lodge offers pleasant, friendly, farm stay accommodation near the Hobbiton Movie Set, Lake Karapiro and the lovely town of Cambridge, amidst some typically beautifully New Zealand North Island countryside. THE ACCOMMODATION: There is a choice between a very spacious two bedroom cottage which can sleep up to 7 and a smaller, though still large, double studio. They both have very well equipped kitchens, a large lounge area with satellite TV, and plenty of outside space and barbecue facilities. The studio is a little away from the main farmhouse and doesn’t have its own WiFi but guests are welcome to come and use the WiFi at the farmhouse any time the want. Guests are also welcome to explore the farm which keeps horses and cattle. Horse riding can be arranged too, though not horse riding lessons so they would want you to have at least some experience before hopping on. You’ll find the owners super friendly and helpful and though the accommodation is self catering you can also arrange them to prepare you a good breakfast in the morning for a reasonable extra fee. THE LOCATION: As mentioned above Kauri Farm Stay is just outside the town of Cambridge on New Zealand’s North Island. Perhaps the most popular attraction in the area is the Hobbiton Movie Set which, even for non Lord of The Rings fans, is a beautiful, almost other worldly place. The idyllic, deep green, hills that surround the set are very typical of the area and the land around Kauri farmstay very much also has that Hobbiton feel to it. The town of Cambridge is a very pleasant little place, it has become famous for its many trees and for its prowess in the sport of rowing, leading it to be dubbed ‘The town of trees and champions’. It’s not a big town by any means but sees a good number of tourists and so has a few good cafes and restaurants. Within an hour’s drive of the farmstay you can enjoy some of the North Island’s best natural attractions; Raglan Beach or the incredible underground caves at Waitomo to the west for example, or Rotorua town and READ MORE

In the village of Swanton Morley, just a half an hour from Norwich city in the beautiful countryside of Norfolk, Hunter’s Hall farm stay is a working farm that offers very high quality B&B and self-catering accommodation. There is a holiday home on the farm with a full kitchen and lounge including flat screen TV and WiFi, and a nice outdoor terrace. And separately they have a selection of B&B rooms, some with en suite bathroom and all with flat screen TV, WiFi  and tea/coffee facilities. The surrounding area is great for exploring, with plenty of opportunities for bird watching, fishing, golfing and boating. Just ask at the farm for advice. WHAT OTHER GUESTS SAY: “Fabulous. Beautiful setting. Very friendly and helpful staff. Lovely room and breakfast. I would definitely recommend….” “The beds are superb and it was really peaceful and quiet. The owners are very nice and friendly and went out of there way to make our stay as pleasant as possible. if I ever travel back down i would definitely stay here again. Highly recommended from me….” >> CLICK HERE TO READ MORE REVIEWS & TO BOOK YOUR STAY AT HUNTER’S HALL:   READ MORE

Is Cheas is an organic, eco-friendly agriturismo farm stay near the beautiful beaches of the Sinis on Sardinia’s west coast. It has unique accommodation in the form of traditional Sardinian shepherd’s huts known as Pinettas. The small, 12 acre, farm produces citrus fruits, mushrooms, various vegetables & herbs They also keep some horses and have a small organic vineyard too. THE ACCOMMODATION: The unique accommodation is an updated version of the ancient Sardinian shepherd’s hut, the Pinetta. In the olden days they were of course basic, and no more than functional on the inside, but the ones at Is Cheas Agriturismo are beautifully designed and furnished, and they all come with private bathrooms, air-con, WiFi and mini bar. They can fit up to four people and are both thermally and acoustically insulated, making for a wonderful nights sleep under the rustic wooden vaults and branch roofs. You can be assured of comfort inside and the gardens outside are beautifully kept with lawns, flower beds and an outdoor swimming pool. There is an excellent restaurant at the agriturismo too with a range of Sardinian and Italian dishes made from locally sourced organic ingredients including their own. THE FARM: The agriturismo owners are enthusiastic about sustainable agriculture and though the farm is small it is carefully managed using crop rotation techniques and produces a lot of the ingredients for the restaurant’s fine food. There is a vineyard from where they get their home made reds, white and rosè wine, vegetable gardens, a citrus orchard and aromatic herb gardens, and they also keep some horses too. You are welcome to tour the farm and the friendly owners are a great source of information about eco friendly farming and food production. THE LOCATION: Is Cheas Agriturismo has a tremendous location for nature and beach lovers. Some of Sardinia’s best beaches are nearby including Sa Rocca Tunda, Su Pallose, S’anea Scoada and Putzu Idu, the latter being especially popular with surfers and from where you can take a speed boat to the little island jewel of Isola de Malu Entu. The coastal nature reserve of Oasi di Seu too is not to be missed. It is an untouched READ MORE

This luxury vineyard hotel near Narbonne, Aude, Languedoc-Roussillon, France, is in the heart of Pays Cathare and the Languedoc Region’s vineyards. It offers 3 star accommodation on a large and highly renowned Gerard Bertrand wine estate surrounded by ancient pine forest and olive groves. THE ACCOMMODATION: It has 38 extremely comfortable rooms, both doubles and four bed family rooms, all of which come with private bathroom, WiFi and flat screen TV. There is also has a lounge bar downstairs, sometimes with live jazz music, and a restaurant ‘L’Art de Vivre’, whose food and drink are of an extremely high quality. There are the extensive grounds to be explored too which include a nice courtyard, gardens and an outdoor swimming pool, along with the adjoining vineyards. THE VINEYARDS: The Château has a full package of wine tourism activities; tasting sessions, vineyards tours etc. You’ll find grape varieties typical of the Languedoc region in the Château vineyards; The whites: Marsane, Roussane, Grenache blanc, Viognier, Vermentino and Bourboulenc. And the reds, Syrah, Carignan, Syrah, Mourvèdre and Grenache. It is such a well known estate that it is something of a destination in itself, and known for the many festivals it hosts; a popular jazz festival in summer, the Art de Vivre Festival in spring and other smaller wine harvesting and truffle gathering celebrations at other times. THE LOCATION: The estate sits in the Massif de la Clape natural reserve, the largest of its kind in Languedoc-Roussillon. The reserve is a mixture of landscapes from vineyards like at Château L’Hospitalet to the garrigue scrub terrain typical of the region as well as forests of oak and pine. The scenery moves through flat plains, plateaus and rocky outcrops with some lovely hiking trails around, many with stunning views over the Mediterranean. Going south through the Massif you’ll eventually come to the coast around Narbonne plage; a well known beach resort that gets very busy in the summer. The ancient Roman city of Narbonne is about fifteen minutes drive north of the estate. It has something of an old style, elegant feel and a very interesting, multi-layered history, but though the surrounding area is quite popular with READ MORE

On a lovely spot overlooking the Tambo River east of Melbourne, Victoria, the pet friendly Rivendell Farm is a relaxing rural retreat with luxury self catering cottages on its working farm which keeps cattle, hens, peacocks and guinea fowl. It has beautiful grounds to explore, spa facilities and some fantastic, locally sourced food and wine at its on-site, farm to table restaurant. THE ACCOMMODATION: The choice is between a very stylish and romantic one bedroom chalet with hot tub, and a spacious three bedroom, two bathroom cottage that can accommodate up to seven people. The latter can also be booked as a one or two bedroom unit for a cheaper rate. Check out all the details on the booking page here.  The accommodation is of the highest quality and there is plenty of outside space to enjoy, with lovely gardens, the farm of course and also a private beach on the Tambo River. You can try your hand at fishing, relax in the spa or hot tub, or enjoy a hike and a picnic in one of the many scenic spots around the estate. The accommodation is self catering but for breakfast, and plenty more, there is a fantastic restaurant at Rivendell. It is a stylish, rustic-chic venue serving locally sourced, seasonal food, as well as a good selection of local gourmet wines, and with much of the ingredients coming fresh from their own kitchen garden. THE LOCATION: The farm lies on the banks of the Tambo River, in East Gippsland, just over three hours from Melbourne city centre. The area is famous for its wines and there are dozens of wineries in the surrounding area, many of which you can visit. You’ll also find many good restaurants, farmer’s markets, arts and crafts shops and good surf beaches. Its a relaxing, peaceful region but has a well established rural tourist infrastructure and so, as well as wine and food tourism, you can enjoy horse riding, 4WD tours, fishing, nature walks, canoeing, boating, surfing and plenty more without having to travel very far WHAT OTHER GUESTS SAY: “Amazingly beautiful. EVERYTHING. Josh the chef, you are seriously HIGHLY talented. Please continue to READ MORE

Just over two hours from Melbourne, near Victoria’s Great Ocean Road and just five minutes from Johanna Beach, Johanna River Farm has pet friendly, and family friendly self catering cottages with lovely ocean views. The farm is a 280 acre working farm with animals including sheep, goats, hens and ducks. THE ACCOMMODATION: The cosy cottages, which can sleep up to four, are spacious, comfortable and stylish, and all have an outside terrace with seating from where you can enjoy some great views of the ocean and the surrounding countryside. There are barbecue facilities outside too and inside you can prepare meals in the well equipped kitchens. You’ll also find spacious lounges with TV and DVD players, and one cottage has its own spa bath. Check your options out on the booking page here. THE LOCATION: There is a lot to do in the surrounding area; there is the lovely Johanna Beach just five minutes down the road while the Otway Fly Treetop Walk and the Cape Otway Lighthouse Station are both less than a half an hour away. Slightly farther away there are more attractions to be explored like the Otway Fly Treetop Walk, Apollo Bay and the iconic Twelve Apostles. WHAT OTHER GUESTS SAY: “Quaint & quiet farm stay, excellent for young kids! The hospitality by Helen & Julian was awesome. The animals were so friendly. highly recommended :)…” “The hosts and farm animals were super friendly and the beach was just a short drive away! Also very accessible to major sites like 12 Apostles, Port Campbell and Apollo Bay. Overall an excellent experience I would highly recommend….” >> CLICK HERE TO READ MORE REVIEWS & TO BOOK YOUR STAY AT JOHANNA RIVER FARM:   READ MORE

Very near Florence in the famous town of Vinci, Tuscany, this is an idyllic luxury agriturismo B&B set in a 16th-century Medicean Villa. It is surrounded by acres of vineyards and olive groves from which the owners produce their own award winning wines and olive oils. THE ACCOMMODATION: They have two double rooms and two larger double luxury suites at the farmhouse (check the booking page here), all of which are very comfortable and elegantly decorated in classic Tuscan style. Each come with private bathroom, WiFi and satellite flat screen TV, while the larger suites also have a separate lounge area. Outside there is plenty of space to relax in the gardens and guests are free to wander the estate and the ancient wine cellars, and can of course arrange wine and olive oil tasting sessions, as well as Tuscan cooking classes, at the villa. Their wine making tradition dates back to 1700 and their wines have won numerous awards, the most well known being their Chianti Dianella which is served in many top restaurants and taverns all over Italy. Their food is fabulous too at their informal restaurant and a generous and healthy buffet breakfast will await you each morning, to be served in your room, in the dining hall or outside in the gardens. PRICES: Check out all the details – prices, reviews & more photos on the booking page here. THE FARM & VINEYARD: For those of you in the know of such things, the Estate is located in the western Montalbano Chianti DOCG area of Tuscany and has about 25 hectares of vineyard stretched over gentle hills with a south to south west exposure. They grow a variety of grapes here; Cabernet Sauvignon, Vermentino, Sangiovese, Colorino and quite a few more. There are also about 15 hectares of olive groves, growing a variety such as Leccino, Pendolino, Frantoio and Moraiolo which go into the making of make their branded Dianella extra virgin olive oil. They are passionate about both and have even a small wine museum in the ancient cellars of the villa. Tours are offered too of course, of the farm and the cellars, as well READ MORE

Mandra Edera is a charming and peaceful B&B agriturismo farm stay near Abbasanta in central Sardinia, Italy, that specializes in cooking classes & horse riding; it has been a breeding farm for Anglo-Arabian horses for over 100 years now and they roam freely around the property. THE ACCOMMODATION: Their rooms and suites are all clean, comfortable and simply and tastefully presented in traditional style with cedar wood furniture, wood beamed ceilings and exposed brick walls, and they all come with private bathroom, air conditioning and a mini bar. Outside in the large gardens they have a swimming pool, lots of sun loungers and a terrace area with plenty of outdoor dining space. They have a small restaurant and bar at the property and the food, including the free breakfast, is generous and high quality, they serve up a range of traditional local and mainland Italian dishes with ingredients locally sourced as much as possible. THE FARM: Being an important horse breeding centre they have a number of the beautiful Anglo-Arabian horses to be admired at the farm. Horse riding excursions and lessons are a big activity for guests but they can also arrange cycling excursions as well as different archeological, nature, gastronomy and wine tours of the surrounding area. Cooking classes can be arranged at the farm stay too where you can learn how to cook some classic, age-old Sardinian recipes. THE LOCATION: The farm stay is located in the north eastern part of Oristano province, almost at the very centre of Sardinia. This is very much rural country, sparsely populated, with sleepy villages and small farms where lifestyles have not changed much for decades if not centuries. You’ll find it a world away from many of the classic tourist resorts of coastal Sardinia, and indeed even coastal Oristano is almost free of mass tourism having some beautifully pristine, semi isolated stretches of beach that are a rarity in much of the rest of Sardinia. Like the rest of Sardinia, Oristano has plenty of ancient history, with some relatively unknown but historically important sites to be seen. The ruins of the ancient Phoenician coastal city of Tharros for example, or the two READ MORE

  Casa de Cacela is a very relaxing farmstay hotel in Vila Nova de Cacela, Portugal, just minutes from the Algarve coast, and has a range of B&B rooms among the fruit orchards and vegetable gardens which produce  oranges, almonds, plums, loquats and many mor THE ACCOMMODATION: The comfortable rooms all come with private bathroom, satellite TV and WiFi. There is also room service and guests can enjoy a drink at the hotel bar and lounge. And their breakfast is terrific, full of wholesome local produce some of which, like their great home-made jams, are made with ingredients straight from their farm. It has an outdoor swimming pool too in the gardens surrounded by sun loungers or you can rest under the shade of a tree in one of the hammocks. And guests can also arrange horse riding trips around the local area or rent bikes direct from the farm. THE LOCATION: Casa de Cacela is 50 kilometres from Faro International Airport, just 15 minutes from Tavira town centre and is close to numerous good local golf courses. There are a few good beaches very nearby too; Manta Rota Beach and Terra Estreita Beach for example are both just under 3 kilometres away. WHAT OTHER GUESTS SAY: “Charming in every way. Location, gardens and pool, architecture, decor, attention to detail. Friendly and laid back atmosphere...” “Lovely relaxing week at this beautiful peaceful location – well recommended!! ” Click here to read more of what other guests say. READ MORE

Hotel Mastinel, in Vilafranca del Penedes near Barcelona, Catalonia/Catalunya, certainly isn’t your average farmhouse; It’s a five star vineyard hotel in a very striking and architecturally unique property that represents bottles of wine laid flat. THE ACCOMMODATION: As you might imagine in such a building the rooms are also unique from inside ‘the bottle’. They are also stylish and very comfortable, with WiFi and flat screen TV, work desk, mini fridge, private bathroom (which in most rooms comes with a bath) and all have nice views over the vineyards below. There is a really top class, but still excellent value, restaurant, a wine shop and a wine therapy room on the premises. The property is large and has lots of public space for indoor and outdoor dining and drinking, as well as a swimming pool in the gardens. THE FOOD & WINE: It has won many awards for its design but its not the only attraction, the quality of the accommodation, the service, the Catalan and Mediterranean cuisine and of course the wine and cava, are all excellent and it all together makes for a truly luxurious experience. But where Hotel Mastinell differs from a usual 5 star hotel is in terms of educating its guests; they do very good on site wine tasting sessions, vineyard and culinary tours and allow guests to watch the preparation of the rich variety of Catalan and Mediterranean cuisine they serve in the restaurant. You can also organize more formal cooking classes with their chefs too. So all in all a quite immersive experience for the food and wine lover. THE LOCATION: The surrounding area is peaceful and tranquil and is popular place for well heeled residents of Barcelona to get their rural fix. Activities include horse riding, cycling and hiking in the nearby hills and mountains, and tours can be arranged from the reception staff, who can be relied upon to give good recommendations of what to see and do in the area. It’s about 45 minutes by car to central Barcelona, while the beaches of Sitges and Vilanova i la Geltrú are just about 20 minutes away. WHAT OTHER GUESTS SAY: “A gem READ MORE

Just outside the beautiful hilltop town of Pienza, Tuscany, Italy, Agriturismo Casapicchiata is a very highly rated farm stay that has comfortable B&B rooms in a traditional Tuscan farmhouse surrounded by acres of wheat fields, olive groves, lavender and cypress trees. The views are tremendous too and it is in a perfect location for further exploration of this fabled sub-region of Tuscany; Val ‘Orcia. THE ACCOMMODATION: All the rooms are rustically stylish, with tiled floors, antique furniture and classic bed frames, and they all come with nice private bathrooms. This farm stay comes with lots of other niceties too; a spa & wellness center with massage services, a fitness center, a small indoor swimming pool, a hot tub and a solarium. They know how to look after their guests here and they can also provide a number of other, more practical, services; babysitting, laundry and maid services for example. Their food is tremendous, and not only the breakfast; the friendly owners cook up some great locally sourced food (Much from their own farm) in the evenings too which can be shared with other guests in the farm’s ‘family and friends only’ informal restaurant. THE LOCATION: The lovely Pienza is of course very much on the Tuscan tourist trail and there are innumerable other lovely small towns nearby too; Bagno Vignoni, Montacino, Rocca d’Orcia to name just a few. In between too of course you have some classic Val d’Orcia/Southern Tuscany countryside to enjoy (you’ll find a special section on Val d’Orcia on this page). You can hire bikes from the farm to head out exploring if you wish, and/or they can also arrange some wonderful horse riding trips which take you around the local area and some of the more hidden, less touristy areas of Val d’Orcia. WHAT OTHER GUESTS SAY: “Amazing location right at the heart of Val d’Orcia, within driving distance of many central locations of Tuscany. Beautiful place with warmhearted owners….” “Excellent property, the owner was very kind and helpful. The breakfast was great and we fell in love with the location (and the dog!)….” >>CLICK HERE TO READ MORE REVIEWS & TO BOOK YOUR STAY AT AGRITURISMO READ MORE

Narköy is a quite unique, eco-friendly hotel on an large organic farm in the province of Kocaeli, Turkey, about an hour east of Istanbul. It’s more a countryside retreat than a hotel though and has a range of workshops in everything from permaculture and bread making to yoga and stress management. And guests are welcome to get to know the farm, help milk the cows, collect eggs or gather fruit, herbs and vegetables. There’s lots to explore in the surrounding area too, with plenty of swimming and hiking to be done, and you can enquire at reception about horse riding and their free bicycle rental. The rooms are spacious, clean and comfortable and all come with private bathroom and WiFi, and instead of air-con the hotel uses an ecologically more friendly natural ventilation system. There is a very good on-site restaurant too, with a range of Turkish dishes, most of the ingredients of which come straight from the farm. Breakfast is included in the room rate and is, as you might expect, top quality.   READ MORE

Conveniently near both Baden-Baden and Karlshule, Germany, luxury vineyard hotel Schloss Eberstein is very much a place to relax and be pampered and has gained a solid reputation over the years for consistently great food and wine. Offering cooking classes too, it is one of Germany’s most famous go to places for foodies. It also has a gorgeous, fairytale like, setting; overlooking the little town of Gernsbach, the Murg Valley and the Black Forest hills, in the heart of some of the Baden-Wurttemberg region’s most lovely scenery. THE ACCOMMODATION: Schloss Eberstein is very much a luxury hotel and you can expect very high levels of comfort and service. They have a choice of nicely furnished double and single rooms, all with private bathroom, minibar, WiFi, TV and seating. The hotel itself is a beautiful structure, both inside and out. Though the rooms are modern much of the hotel has an old world atmosphere and is a joy to wander around. The views all around are stunning too; it is quite the fairytale setting, though it must be noted that the actual castle adjacent to the hotel is privately owned and so access to the inside is not allowed. As mentioned above the food here is exceptional and both of the restaurants have an old fashioned elegance that adds to the dining experience. The main restaurant, Werner’s, has a Michelin Star and so overshadows somewhat the other, Terrace Restaurant, but such are the high standards overall that you’d be forgiven for wondering which is which sometimes. Note: Werners Restaurant is open from 18:30 to 22:00 from Wednesday to Sunday. On Sunday also from 12:30 to 14:00. And from 1 January until 11 March each year both restaurants are closed on Monday and Tuesday, except for breakfast. There is the opportunity at Schloss Eberstein to partake in some of the best cooking classes anywhere in Germany, and they make excellent wines. Their vineyards are just outside the door and vineyard and winery tours, tasting sessions etc. can be organized too. All in all an excellent gourmet vacation. THE LOCATION: The setting of Schloss Eberstein is very much fairytale like. It sits on a READ MORE

Masseria Agnello on Sicily’s west coast, is quite simply a very special property. The grand stone building is the first thing that strikes you, an aristocratic farmhouse villa from the 19th century, it is stately and imposing from the outside, and on the inside very tastefully styled and furnished, with its modern touches at ease on the traditional Sicilian farmhouse canvas.  The grounds are something of a fertile oasis too, with the green lawns, lush palms, carob, citrus and olive groves a striking sight against the barren hills that surround. THE ACCOMMODATION: The have a range of rooms and suites to sleep up to four people, some of which have their own terrace and all of which are spacious, clean and super comfortable. There is a curated mix of old and new in terms of furniture and decor, but the rooms, and the whole building in fact, retain the charm and atmosphere of a bygone era. You can expect luxury hotel standards at Agnello and all the rooms come with flat screen TV, WiFi, mini bar etc., plus some very plush en suite bathrooms. The grounds have a series of very attractive gardens with various flowers and aromatic plants and herbs, like rosemary, lavender and thyme. There is an outdoor swimming pool too and the views from all around the property are stunning, especially towards Realmonte and the sea beyond. There is a fine restaurant at the Masseria, where you will be treated to an excellent breakfast, and where you can sample some great local food for lunch and dinner too. If the food appeals so much that you may miss it at home, you can also arrange daily cooking classes with the chef! PRICES: Check out all the details – prices, reviews & more photos on the booking page here.  THE LOCATION: The agriturismo is on the west coast of Sicily, the lesser known coast, quite a bit away from the major urban areas of the north and east. Therein lies its charm though, much of the west of Sicily has an isolated, almost other worldly feel to it, and the coastline can be spectacular. The one place that READ MORE

  Ayayorgi Evleri offers high quality hotel type accommodation on a farm containing hens and ducks, olive trees and vegetable plots on the lovely island of Bozcaada, Turkey, about 3km from the ferry terminal. All their rooms have private bathroom, flat screen TV with satellite channels, air-con, WiFi, coffee machine and mini bar. And outside in the gardens they have a swimming pool plus plenty of seating and places to relax. They serve a really great buffet breakfast in the morning where you can sample some of their home produced vegetables, olive oil, eggs, pastries and jams as well as lots of other good food. READ MORE

A little piece of paradise in Provence; Le Hameau de Pichovet gîte is the ultimate place to experience the beauty and tranquility of this iconic region of France. It has self catering apartments in a lovingly restored old farmhouse surrounded by fields of lavender and sunflower and is the kind of place you will really not want to leave. THE ACCOMMODATION: There are five self catering units in total, to sleep up to eight people each. The property itself is gorgeous; it dates back to 1897 but has been beautifully restored in recent years, and its modern comforts and minimalist decor blend nicely with the traditional Provençal farmhouse feel. All the accommodation is spacious and super clean with good size lounges and practical kitchens. The outside space is a real highlight though, with lovely gardens overlooking the peaceful valley below. There is plenty of space to sit and dine outside as well as barbecue facilities, sun loungers and two swimming pools. The place is surrounded the classic Provence lavender and sunflower fields and though the gîte itself doesn’t harvest its own lavender they keep bees and make a nice line of lavender honey. The accommodation is all self catering but the friendly owners are always around and for an extra fee they can prepare a very nice breakfast basket for you and some equally good evening meals too. THE LOCATION: Though Provence is full of the promise of rural idyll many parts of it can be a little busy with tourists, especially over the summer. But not around here; Le Hameau de Pichovet is in a relatively undiscovered corner of Provence and is a really superb place to get away from it all. It is about 70km north of Aix-en-Provence, just east of the famous Luberon National Park and around 30km from the town of Apt. The nearest village is Vachères, 3km away, which is a cute sleepy little place that has a grocery store where you can stock up on necessities. For more extensive shopping, dining and drinking you can head to the larger town of Celeste about twenty minutes drive away. All around the gîte the countryside is serene and very READ MORE

Domaine de Piégros is a beautifully peaceful agritourism estate in a secluded location near Aix-en-Provence. It is in the heart of the Luberon National Park and its famous lavender fields and the farmhouse itself is surrounded by its own lavender fields as well as woodlands, a lake and a full 85 acres of olive groves producing extra virgin olive oil. THE ACCOMMODATION: The accommodation is a six bedroom self catering farmhouse gite with a huge amount of space inside and out. It is a traditional farmhouse that has been recently renovated and has a full range of modern conveniences, while also managing to maintain plenty of rural French charm. As well as the six bedrooms (5 doubles and a twin room) there is a large, very well equipped kitchen and two dining areas. There’s also a spacious lounge area and a 250 sq. meter stone terrace outside with seating and dining furniture. A few steps away from the house you’ll also find a nice outdoor swimming pool with sun loungers. There is also a lake in the grounds, a boules pitch, and, as mentioned before, acres of olive groves, lavender fields and woods to explore. It is a working farm but outside of olive harvest time (September to November) the work is fairly low key and you can have as much or as little interaction with the farm work as you wish.  THE LOCATION: For visitors looking for a rural retreat in Provence this location is almost unbeatable. The farmhouse is inside the Luberon National Park, possibly Provence’s most serene rural area (you can read about the area and its famous lavender fields here), and to make it even more serene it has its own, nearly two kilometer private road leading up to the gite. It therefore offers lots of privacy and is beautifully quiet throughout the day and night. The medieval village of Grambois is just 5km away. It is a classic Provençal commune that, as well as being a very lovely place to stroll around, has shops, cafes and restaurants and sees a steady trickle of tourists throughout the year. The famously cultured city of Aix-en-Provence meanwhile is READ MORE

This lovely, North Island, family friendly, farm stay has great views over the Firth of Thames and the Coromandel mountain ranges and is home to many animals; sheep, horses, hens, pigs and a goat. You’re more than welcome to watch or help out with looking after the animals. The friendly owners have ponies too that can be ridden, and there are several lovely hiking and walking trails in and around the farm. Accommodation is in the form of very comfortable self-catering cottages with full kitchen and WiFi and there’s also a communal lounge area which offers a 3D TV, and an great outdoor barbecue area. The surrounding area is beautifully scenic, nearby the Coromandel mountains and Tararu Bay only about 8 minutes away by car. WHAT OTHER GUESTS SAY: “Absolutely stunning views from the farm down to Thames bay over the lush forest. A very quiet and secluded place like nothing we have seen before….” “A slice of paradise….” >> CLICK HERE TO READ MORE REVIEWS & TO BOOK YOUR STAY AT FOR NIGHTINGALE FALLS RETREAT:   READ MORE

Situated in the famous wine region of Côte des Nuits, Burgundy, France, Castel de Très Girard is a 17th century manor house offering luxury accommodation in Morey-Saint-Denis surrounded by vineyards. THE ACCOMMODATION: The soundproofed rooms include a flat-screen TV, minibar, electric kettle and safety deposit box. Each room features a private bathroom with bath or shower and free toiletries. Guests can enjoy meals in the hotel’s restaurant which offers views of the surrounding vineyards. Meals are prepared using local produce and a wide selection of wines are available. Additional facilities include an outdoor swimming pool, a bar and a seminar room. THE LOCATION: Local activities include horse riding and visiting the surrounding vineyards. Nearby attractions include the Château du Clos de Vougeot 3 km away and the Abbey of Cîteaux 16 km away. Castel de Très Girard is situated between the historic towns of Beaune and Dijon which are both 25-minutes drive from the hotel. The closest train station is Dijon Train Station. WHAT OTHER GUESTS SAY: “A gourmet delight…..” “Beautiful setting and views, the interior was a nice blend of boutique and rural style….” >>CLICK HERE TO READ MORE REVIEWS & TO BOOK YOUR STAY AT CASTEL DE TRES GIRARD:   READ MORE

This organic farm stay B&B, near Brisbane, Queensland, on Australia’s Sunshine Coast and just 10 minutes from Steve Irwin’s Australia Zoo, has a large spacious suite on its small (by Australian standards!) farm with cows, alpacas, pigs and hens. THE ACCOMMODATION: They have three accommodation choices. There is the sleek, modern and spacious, suite which has its own separate lounge area with flat screen TV, DVD player and ipod docking station. It also comes with a kitchenette, plus an en-suite bathroom with a nice old style claw foot bathtub. Then there is the cosy ‘tiny house on wheels’ which has 2 bedrooms, 1 of which has a queen-sized bed, the other 2 single beds. There is a TV, reverse-cycle air-conditioning, a full kitchenette and a large terrace outside where you’ll find a BBQ. Finally it has a small bathroom with a shower and compost (no smell!) toilet. Note: the ‘tiny house on wheels’ accommodation involves stairs and a climbing ladder and is not suitable for children under the age of 7. Finally there is the bungalow which has two bedrooms, one with a king size bed and the other with two king size singles. It has a nice bathroom with a claw foot bath tub, and a kitchen and lounge. Outside there is a large outdoor terrace area with seating and a barbecue. Check out all your options on the booking page here. Guests have access to the entire farm and are welcome to help out with farm tasks such as feeding the animals, collecting fresh eggs etc. They also have an organic vegetable garden and the friendly owners give kitchen garden workshops where you can learn how to create your own organic garden at home. There is a common lounge at the farm with books and board games, and there is WiFi throughout. The accommodation is self catering but you’ll also be treated to a great organic breakfast in the morning, included in the rate, and breakfast and BBQ dinner hampers can be provided on request. THE LOCATION: As mentioned the farm is conveniently just 10 minutes away from the world famous Australia Zoo, a definite must visit in the READ MORE

Chambres a la Ferme offers exactly that near the town of Combourg, Brittany and near also to Mont Saint-Michel, St. Malo and the regional capital Rennes. The farmhouse, the farm and the surroundings make for a quaint and very relaxing B&B farm stay holiday in the heart of upper Brittany, where you will be welcomed with traditional Breton hospitality and a generous breakfast every morning. THE ACCOMMODATION: They have just two rooms at the property which can sleep up to three people and you’ll find them both comfortable and nicely decorated. There is a common lounge area with TV at the farmhouse and the rooms have their own private entrance with a terrace just outside. There is a nice garden area outside too with more seating and a children’s playground. THE FARM: A fully working cattle farm, the property also has a number of hens as well as friendly goats and some shetland ponies that are usually a hit with the children. THE LOCATION: The farm is less than 5km from the town of Combourg which is a common stop off on the upper Brittany tourist trail, with its main attraction being the medieval fortress of Combourg Castle, once the childhood home of one of France’s most renowned historical figures Francois-Rene de Chateaubriand. It is also within a half an hours drive of St. Malo and the iconic, and very much photographed, island commune of Mont Saint-Michel in next door Normandy. The vibrant university city and regional capital of Rennes with its wealth of traditional half timbered houses and its grand cathedral is also close by, less than 40km away to the south. The countryside surrounding the farm stay is green and lush and a delight to explore. It’s generally flat and the roads are relatively traffic free so it is great place for long country walks and for cycling and you can hire bikes directly from the farmhouse. Horse riding trips can also be arranged, just ask at the farm for details of that plus other things to see and do in the locality. WHAT OTHER GUESTS SAY: “Lovely old working dairy farm. Superb self contained accommodation with the owner’s artistic READ MORE

This very much family friendly farm stay is in Southern Germany‘s Swabia region, in the state of Baden Württemberg and near to both Lake Constance and the Black Forest. Kids will particularly love the cornfield maze, the play barn and the petting zoo. The Accommodation: Their accommodation options, eighteen in total, run from double rooms to suites and self catering apartments and you can expect plenty of space, cleanliness and comfort, satellite flat screen TV, free WiFi, and hotel standard service throughout. Their food is also a big attraction, they have a top quality restaurant that serves a diverse selection of Swabian and German dishes every day. The ingredients being locally sourced and organic as much as possible and they provide a good choice of gluten free, vegetarian and vegan choices too. The Farm: Outside there is plenty of space for children and adults to explore, with a very popular cornfield maze, a play barn, and a petting zoo with sheep and rabbits. There is a cherry orchard too where guests are welcome to join in harvesting of the fruit during June and July. The Location: The surrounding area gets plenty of visitors, the countryside is beautifully peaceful and rural with plenty of nice hiking and cycling routes, and of course the famous Lake Constance (Bodensee in German) is only about 10 km away at the city of Friedrichshafen, which has its own regional airport. WHAT OTHER GUESTS SAY: “Such a fun place to stay! Family room was fantastic! The kids loved their private little loft! The whole place was really family friendly and fun! So convenient to have the restaurant on site….” “The property is very family friendly with plenty of area around for kids to wander…the cornfield maze, the cherry picking, the farm animals, the indoor bouncy cow, and plenty of toys to keep the kids busy. The restaurant onsite also serves delicious food at reasonable prices….” >>CLICK HERE TO READ MORE REVIEWS & TO BOOK YOUR STAY AT GUT HUGLE ERLEBNISHOF:   READ MORE

Farm Gite des Chartroux near Calais, northern France, has a lovely, traditional French, farmhouse gite on its working farm which includes horses, donkeys, pigs, sheep, hens and geese.  The owners are welcoming and friendly; you’ll feel like you’re visiting long lost relatives, and the location is perfect; a green, peaceful oasis under an hour from Calais and twenty minutes from the seaside town of Touquet-Paris-Plage. THE ACCOMMODATION: They have a three double bedroom cottage on their working farm to sleep up to six, though there is also a double sofa bed in the living room where you can squeeze in two more. The cottage is modern and clean and has a well equipped kitchen, cable TV, WiFi and laundry facilities. Outside, guests are welcome to relax in the gardens and explore the surroundings, including the farm with its friendly animals. THE LOCATION: Roughly between Calais and Amiens, (about an hour from each) Gite des Chartroux is in the middle of Pas-de-Calais’ Montreuillois region. This is a richly rural region well known for its good food and peaceful, slow pace of life, it is a land of green fields, country roads and small friendly villages. You are near the sea here too too, with and the port of Etaples being just ten minutes away, while lively seaside towns like Berck, Merlimont, Touquet-Paris-Plage and Stella are within 20. The journey to Paris will take no more than two and a half hours. Note: Ferme des Chartroux also has B&B rooms at the main farmhouse, you can check them out by clicking here. WHAT OTHER GUESTS SAY: “This was a great place to stay – owners were extremely friendly and helpful. Being a working farm was wonderful for the children and adults alike. Chester the donkey was a wonderful highlight. Highly recommended!….” “There are some great resorts around the world, but Cape Kidnappers is right up there, in every sense. Terrific food, great wine(s), outstanding service. All delivered against a backdrop of spectacular scenery…” >> CLICK HERE TO READ MORE REVIEWS & TO BOOK YOUR STAY AT FARM GITE DES CHARTROUX:     READ MORE

Near Clearwater, British Columbia, Canada, Wells Gray Guest Ranch is a western style ranch with plenty of activities to be enjoyed including horse riding, hiking, fishing, golfing and white water rafting, all of which can be organized from the ranch. They have cute, rustic, western style accommodation with a seating area and patio. They all have free WiFi access and a good continental breakfast included in the price. They’ve got their own restaurant and bar too, the Black Horse Saloon which serves good meals and drinks throughout the day, seven days a week.   READ MORE

Pietra Campana is a very highly regarded agriturismo farm stay B&B with a stunning setting; a 17th-century hillside manor farmhouse overlooking the town of Orvieto, Umbria, Italy. They have a selection of modern comfortable suites and apartments, each having a lounge area with flat screen TV and DVD players and the apartments having a full kitchen. All the accommodation options, self catering included, come with a great Italian breakfast buffet including some of their own home made organic cakes and jams. There is free WiFi throughout, and small pets can come and stay but you’re asked to let them know before you arrive. The farmhouse is surrounded by acres of olive groves which you are welcome to wander around, and from where you can also enjoy more of the lovely views. The friendly owners make their own olive oil at the agriturismo, as well as various jam and soaps, all of which you’re welcome to sample and of course to buy to take home if you so wish. WHAT OTHER GUESTS SAY: “Amazing magical place with the most accommodating, friendliest and thoughtful hosts!…” “The view of Orvieto from our room was spectacular! The space was beautiful and perfect for our family. Little extras made it feel very special. Frederica was fantastic and made sure everything was perfect for our stay. Wish it was longer, such a beautiful area….” >> CLICK HERE TO READ MORE REVIEWS & TO BOOK YOUR STAY AT AGRITURISMO PIETRA CAMPANA:   READ MORE

Tambor Del Llano is a lovely farmstay on an organic, eco-friendly farm in Grazalema, Spain, a small village hidden away in the Andalucian mountains between Cadiz and Malaga, and just north of Marbella. THE ACCOMMODATION: They have a range of very clean and comfortable rooms, ten in total, all with a patio, terrace or balcony and free WiFi, and there is access to a shared lounge with TV and the on-site restaurant which serves some very good local food. Feel free to explore the farm where there are Merino sheep and some of the world famous Andalucian horses. There is a lot of local flora to be seen too; wild olive, oak and cork trees, lavender, laburnum and thyme plants to name but a few. THE LOCATION: The farmstay itself is in the Parque National de la Sierra de Grazelema, which is a gorgeously wild and scenic part of Andalucia. You’ll find some great hiking trails around here as well as rock climbing, and horse riding trips can be arranged from the farm. The nearest city (and airport) is Marbella, about an hour and a half drive to the south, while Andalucia’s biggest city, Seville, is about two hours north. WHAT OTHER GUESTS SAY: “Absolutely gorgeous surroundings, super friendly staff, stylish interior. A real gem in the otherwise rustic accommodation space in the area. Would return in an instant!…” “Everything was amazing! The house is located in the incredibly beautiful natural reserve. Room was clean and comfortable with the balcony facing the greenery and mountains. Stunning view from the terrace. Excellent dinner. The horse ride was such a pleasure – the horses are very calm, picturesque trails, friendly guide. Perfect place to stay some days and explore the trails and villages of Grazalema Park on foot or by car. Helpful and friendly stuff. Definitely would like to return….” >>CLICK HERE TO READ MORE REVIEWS & TO BOOK YOUR STAY AT TAMBOR DEL LLANO:   READ MORE

Surrounded by beautiful woodland and wine groves, Les Hauts De Chenas has B&B rooms on a working vineyard near Lyon in the heart of the Beaujolais/Burgundy region of Rhone-Alpes, France. It has an on-site winery for its highly rated red chenas wines, a small wine museum and its own restaurant which serves some great local food throughout the day. The rooms are spacious and bright with en-suite bathroom, TV and WiFi and a minibar, with some of the larger rooms having a seating area too. There’s plenty of space outside too with a terrace and large gardens leading on to the vineyards which contain a very cute children’ s playground as well as a hot tub/jacuzzi. Beaujolais is world famous wine country and the helpful owners of Les Haut de Chenas will be happy to advise on where to go and what to see in the surrounding area. WHAT OTHER GUESTS SAY: “Everything! Really can’t fault this lovely place. The location on the hill above the village with views of the vineyards and the valley is superb….” “The welcome, the people, the terrific views, the general friendly atmosphere, the splendid wine made by the proprietor….” >> CLICK HERE TO READ MORE REVIEWS & TO BOOK YOUR STAY AT LES HAUTS DE CHENAS: READ MORE

This organic farm stay is just outside the little village of Vorderstoder in the Upper Austrian Alps, and near to the well known Kalkalpen National Park. They have bright, clean and modern self catering apartments at the farmhouse and there’s a lot to see and do, on the farm and in the surrounding area. THE ACCOMMODATION: The have a choice of very nice apartments at Familienbauernhof Grossgrub, to sleep up to two adults and three children. They are all quite newly decorated, but very much in keeping with that classic Alpine rustic style, i.e. with traditional looking wooden panels and furniture everywhere. They all also have a balcony or at least some place from where to enjoy the lovely views. The accommodation is self catering and you’ll have a good, fully equipped kitchen at your disposal, but you can also order a very fine breakfast to start the day with if you need. There are also barbecue facilities outside and the owners organize sociable barbecue evenings over the summer months. The spa area has a nice stone sauna, an infrared cabin and a steam bath. There is also a children’s playroom and a playground in the garden, so they will be well entertained, and adults too can enjoy things like volleyball, table tennis, football and even go karting in summer. While in winter; cross country skiing, snowshoeing, sledding and tobogganing. You can also wander the farm and meet the cattle, goats and hens which call it home. Hiking and mountain bike trails are all around this area too and just steps away from the farm. If you walk in the right direction you’ll also find a nice swimming lake just half a kilometre away, the friendly farm owners can point you in the right direction for that and other sights in the area. THE LOCATION: The cross-country ski run and the toboggan run are also right outside the farm, and they have toboggans which you can use free of charge. In terms of actual ski resorts the nearest is the Hinterstoder ski area, 6 km away while the Wurzeralm ski area is around 15 km, with a ski shuttle bus READ MORE

Just outside the lovely village of Godshill, this is a very peaceful Isle of Wight farmstay with self catering accommodation on a lovely organic farm surrounded by lush green countryside. The Accommodation: They have lovely self catering cottages as well as a glamping style shepherds hut on the farm. You’ll find them all to be clean, comfortable and tastefully furnished. The cottages have two and three bedrooms, a lounge area with flat screen TV and WiFi, bathrooms and a private entrance. The Shepherds Hut is one double bedroom and though obviously a little tight on space it still has a small kitchenette and seating area, and a wood burning stove. It has hot water too and its own private compostable toilet, and you are welcome to use the shower and kitchen facilities at the farmhouse. Though the accommodation is self catering a nice breakfast can be arranged at the main farmhouse each morning for an extra charge. The Farm: The farm is particularly nice, with classic Isle of Wight meadow fields, an orchard grove and a range of animals including  horses, sheep, llamas and pigs. There is plenty of outdoor space to relax around the farm too and guests can explore as much as they like and get to meet some of the animals. You’ll find a millpond at the farm too which attracts a wide variety of wildfowl. The Location: The Isle Of Wight, and particularly this location, has much to offer the visitor. The farmstay is right outside the picturesque village of Godshill and within easy reach of many attractions, and a good base for many activities; country walks, cycling, coarse angling, horse riding and golf. The Isle of Wight Donkey Sanctuary for example, is a nice, novel day out, especially for children, and just a mile away from the farmstay, while the Ventnor Botanic Garden is about five miles away. The chalk cliffs and downs of the lovely Tennyson Coast, and the Isle of Wight Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty too are less than 20 minutes drive. Golfers can use the nearby Ventnor golf course, and there is also a horse riding school in the local area, just ask READ MORE

Take a step back in time at Fabbrica Di San Martino, a luxury agriturismo near to both Lucca and Pisa in western Tuscany which has self catering accommodation in a beautifully restored, over 250 year old, manor farmhouse. The property is palace like, and truly gorgeous, as is the location; set high among green hills it offers lovely views over the surrounding countryside at every turn. It is an organic & biodynamic agriturismo which makes its own quality wine and olive oil and promises a healthy, relaxing rural retreat but with easy reach of the popular tourist cities of Lucca and Pisa. THE ACCOMMODATION: The stunning property has top quality suites and apartments, which can sleep up to four, and blend the rustic charm of an 18th century farmhouse with 21st century standards of comfort. Check your options on the booking page here. The floors and the wood beamed ceilings are all original and much of the well chosen antique furniture dates back to similar eras. All the units come with TV, WiFi and a well equipped kitchenette. They are spacious too with good sized sitting areas and have some lovely design touches; you’ll find nice lighting and traditional furniture and fittings which lend a cosy, rustic Tuscan farmhouse feel. The grounds are large with an outdoor swimming pool and plenty of space for relaxing, dining or just wandering around, and you’ll find beautiful views at every turn. The accommodation is self catering but you can also order a fresh breakfast to be brought to your suite every morning. There is no restaurant at the agriturismo but there are a few good restaurants, cafes and shops just a few minutes away. PRICES: Check out all the details – prices, reviews & more photos on the booking page here. THE FARM: Lucca is famous in Tuscany for the quality of its olive oil (The gold of Lucca) and this agriturismo doesn’t disappoint in this regard, producing nearly 500 litres of premium organic and biodynamic extra virgin olive oils from its 10 acres of olive groves. All the olives are hand picked and milled within 12 hours of harvesting and are of the READ MORE

  The Cabins and Cottages at Shale Lake is a lake-side self catering farm stay in the town of Williamson, just north of St. Louis, Illinois, with horse stables, a vineyard and a winery. They have a good range of very comfortable cabins and cottages, all with full kitchen and lounge, TV and DVD player though with no internet access and outside they all have a patio with a fire pit and barbecue facilities. There are some nice hiking and biking trails around the lake and you can arrange bike hire from the owners. The lake is of course a great place to fish (catch and release only) and guests are welcome to explore the horse stables and vineyards and taste some of their wine at the winery.   READ MORE

Monaci delle Terre Nere has a prime location in the foothills of Mt. Etna between Catania and Taormina. It is a gorgeous property, both the building itself (a beautifully restored 18th century-era villa) and the surrounding estate which comprises organic vineyards, olive groves and vegetable gardens, and has sweeping views over the Mediterranean 10km to the east. The gently elevated slopes that surround Mt. Etna produce some of Italy’s best wines and among them is the produce of the Monaci delle Terre Nere Estate. Under its Guido Coffa organic label it makes whites and reds from local grape varieties such as Carricante, a grape that can still only be found in the Etna wine region, and Nerello Mascalese. THE ACCOMMODATION: It has a choice of rooms and suites at the main building and a number of detached suites and villas, converted from old farm outhouses, dotted around the estate. They range from 27 square meter classic double rooms to a 200 square meter, two-bedroom villa which can sleep up to seven with the help of two sofa beds in the lounge. All are spacious, bright, stylish and elegant, their interiors display a confident mix of the historical and the contemporary, though leaning more towards the latter – modern art trumps classic art on all walls for example – but overall not too much interferes with the grandiose historical charm of the place and having no TVs in any of the accommodation certainly helps. Despite the wealth of space on offer at the villas none have self catering facilities beyond coffee makers, kettles and mini-bars. The food here though is highly praised, and a major focus of the estate – Monaci delle Terre Nere is as well regarded for its food as its wines. It is not cheap though, be advised. Their on-site restaurant, which has a large outdoor terrace and sea views, is also fully organic with much of the ingredients coming fresh from the estate’s kitchen gardens. Their menu is proudly Sicilian and if you feel you might miss it when you’re gone you could join the chef’s regular cooking classes. Guests can also take advantage of the resident READ MORE

Allegro Agriturismo Argiano, near the ancient Etruscan city of Arezzo, is a wonderful place to relax and unwind in the heart of some typically gorgeous Tuscan countryside. It’s a hillside farm so the views are lovely and being surrounded by rows of olive groves, orchards and old woodlands it feels, and very much is, close to the peace of nature. It’s very much a family farm too and they make some quality food stuffs, extra virgin olive oil and various jams for example, and also Vinsanto, a traditional Tuscan sweet wine made from raisins. THE ACCOMMODATION: The accommodation is in the form of  two two bed apartments just off the main farmhouse, both of which have one double room and one twin. They are cosy with well equipped kitchens and nice lounge areas with fireplace. They have central heating and air-con, and the interiors will impress all round with some beautiful design and decor on display, very much in keeping with the historic, traditional, nature of the farmhouse. The exteriors are wonderful too, nice terraces and gardens with seating, an outside dining area, and a swimming pool too. And all of it surrounded by hundreds of fruit, cypress and oak trees, and overlooked by the lovely Tuscan hills. It’s a family owned agriturismo and you’ll find the family super friendly and helpful. THE FARM: The owners are enthusiastic about their busy little farm, with the main work being in the production of fruit, and a huge variety of fruit at that: Strawberries, blackberries, figs, walnuts, cherries, apricots, apples, grapes and olives. There will always be some little home made goodies to try, their fresh fruits of course, and also their previously mentioned Vinsanto wine and extra virgin olive oil. And you can buy plenty of their farm produce to cook with in the apartment and to take home with you afterwards. THE LOCATION: Tuscany can get pretty busy with tourists, especially in Summertime and though the agriturismo is just 3km from historical Arezzo, within walking distance really, it is a very peaceful oasis of calm. There is 40 acres of woodland surrounding the farm and is a lovely place for a READ MORE

Conveniently between Paris and Dijon, France, the child friendly Ferme de Flo has B&B accommodation on its busy little animal rescue farm which hosts a huge amount of animals; pigs, ponies, goats, hens, ducks and more, most of which had been abandoned by their previous owners but then found a loving home here. It’s sure to be a hit with the kids as they can have plenty of interaction with the animals but adults too will appreciate the comfortable accommodation, friendly hosts and the educational farm workshops and tours where you can learn about such things as sustainable agriculture, bread making and even how to drive a tractor. THE ACCOMMODATION: They have four B&B guest rooms, all with private bathroom, in the farmhouse as well as a very pleasant self catering cottage with one double/twin bed, three singles and one futon bed to sleep one or two more. All of the accommodation is clean and well maintained and the homemade breakfast is excellent. Guests in the self catering cottage can also enjoy the breakfast but for an extra charge and they can buy all sorts of locally produced food products at the on site shop for cooking with later. The main attraction at La Ferme de Flo are the animals. Over two hundred in total many of them had been abandoned by their owners and then rescued by the farm. They are all very friendly and well used to visitors and guests can partake in farm tasks as much as they like as well as learn a little about farming and taking care of animals. THE LOCATION: The farm is in the little village of Evry, between Paris and Dijon, on the north western edge of Burgundy, less than 100km from Paris and around 200 from Dijon. WHAT OTHER GUESTS SAY: “Such a lovely and interesting place to stay. We really enjoyed our stay, lovely accommodation, very friendly, and best of all a tour of the farm which was great for the kids and very interesting. I would recommend Ferme de Flo 100%….” “It is really comfortable, spacious, the host is very friendly and warm, the breakfast is super. My READ MORE

For those who’d like to add a little quirkiness to their Icelandic farm holiday or horse riding experience, in the shadow of Esjan Mountain near Reykjavik, some unique glamping style accommodation awaits you. THE ACCOMMODATION: The accommodation is in the form of converted city buses which are cosy and cute and can sleep up to four people on one double bed and one bunk bed. The space is tight there’s no denying but clever design allows for something of a seating area, including dining table, and a kitchenette. They are all rather nicely decorated and come with heating and WiFi. There are no private bathrooms on the buses but just outside is the ‘Bath Bus’ which you’ll clean, warm and well equipped. Outside too you’ll find picnic tables and a barbecue where you can socialize with your fellow guests. The farm is a working farm with sheep and Icelandic horses and horse riding trips can be arranged around the surrounding countryside. Esjan mountain, from where the farm gets its name, towers above and the surroundings have a beautifully wild feel to them. THE LOCATION: Though just across the bay from the city of Reykjavik the surroundings, like most of rural Iceland, have a wild, frontier like feel to them. It’s a great place for long hikes, especially around Esjan Mountain which though generally referred to as a single mountain is more a series of volcanic peaks with the tallest reaching over 900 meters (3,000 feet) and they generally have tremendous views over the sea and Reykjavik in the distance. The location is also less than twenty minutes from the Golden Circle many other of Iceland’s natural wonders; the awesome Þingvellir National Park for example, the Geyser, the Blue Lagoon and many hot springs and lava fields. Public transport is limited in this area so it’s recommended you come by car or taxi with the journey from Reykjavik taking no more than a half an hour. WHAT OTHER GUESTS SAY: “This place is AMAZING!!!! The landscape is stunning, the buses are so cool – you can tell that they put a lot of thought and effort into the renovations. They have READ MORE

Near to Dartmoor in Devon, England, Puddleduck Valley has fun, very much family friendly, glamping and conventional style eco-friendly accommodation in a truly lovely part of the West Country. It’s a real kid’s favourite, with so much to explore around the farm and surrounding woodland and many fun activities. For adults of a certain age too it will bring back happy memories of childhood holidays in the countryside before the era of computers and smartphones. THE ACCOMMODATION: There are four accommodation choices: -Two large glamping yurts; the larger sleeps up to 6 and comes with its own private bathroom, while the smaller of the two can sleep up to four and has access to an external bathroom. Guests at both yurts have full access to the kitchen and lounge area of the main farmhouse. -Then there is The Stables, a converted stone barn holiday cottage which can sleep up to 5 and has a lounge and a fully equipped kitchen. -And finally The King Suite, a more conventional choice upstairs in the renovated 17th-century farmhouse. It can sleep up to four and also comes with its own lounge and fully equipped kitchen. There is also plenty of outside space for all to use with plenty of seating, play areas and barbecue facilities, and well behaved pets are allowed to stay too! THE FARM: The small farm has a herd of friendly goats as well as hens and rabbits, all of which are well used to guests and children will certainly enjoy meeting them. There is a pond at the farm and there is access to the many acres of lovely woodland next door owned by the National Trust. Many activities are organized at the farm and families are welcome to partake in as much or as little as they like. Things like egg collecting, fishing, pond dipping, woodland walks, wildlife spotting, face painting etc. etc. THE LOCATION: The location is perfect for exploring the wilds of Dartmoor less than a half hour to the south by car, and there are some lovely beaches about the same distance away to the north at Bude. The Hartland Cornwall & Devon Heritage Coast is closer still and has READ MORE

In lovely Abruzzo, Italy, L’Orso e L’Ape B&B is a highly rated agriturismo just outside the popular seaside town of Giulianova. It has a busy working farm which produces its own wine and extra virgin olive oil and has fabulous views over the Adriatic and the surrounding countryside. All their rooms have air-con, private bathroom, satellite TV and WiFi, and the hospitable owners serve a great breakfast in the morning, full of the finest homemade food. And they’re always happy to show guests around the vineyards and olive groves and have a look at how wine and olive oil are made. WHAT OTHER GUESTS SAY: “A pearl on the way from Bologna to Bari. Excellent spot in the middle of vineyards and olive trees. A family run B&B hotel with a stunning view, comfortable, home feeling rooms and a good breakfast. You will be greeted warmly!….” “Beautiful property and wonderful staff. It is also in a fantastic location….” >> CLICK HERE TO READ MORE REVIEWS & TO BOOK YOUR STAY AT AGRITURISMO L’ORSO E L’APE:   READ MORE

Wacky Stays is just outside Kaikoura on New Zealand’s South Island and has a range of cute glamping accommodation on a working farm which guests are very welcome to explore and get to know some of the animals. You can choose from a colonial wagon, a yurt, a house truck/caravan, a tipi tent, a train carriage and a conventional, less ‘wacky’, two-bedroom farmer’s cottage. THE ACCOMMODATION: The Wagon: It can can sleep up to four, with two single beds and one double which can also be converted into two singles. It also has a small kitchen with a fridge, a microwave, toaster, kettle, etc. There is a small lounge area with a comfortable sofa, a widescreen TV and Blu-Ray/DVD player, air conditioning/ heater and the canvas roof is insulated with sheep’s wool. The Yurt: The 7 meter yurt is the real thing, imported all the way from Mongolia. It sits on a raised and insulated wooden floor and the walls, if that is the right word, are insulated with thick camel hair, which makes it wonderfully cool in summer, and warm in winter. It can sleep four, with one king size bed and two single beds, and separate to the unit, its own private bathroom and shower. The House Truck: The hand-crafted house truck  has a double bed (above the drivers cab),  a compact, well equipped kitchen, a lounge area with flat-screen TV & DVD player and traditional pot bellied stove (and electric heating too), and a toilet & separate shower. The Teepee: The large, 7-metre wide, teepee has, like the yurt, one king size bed and two singles and it too sits on a raised and insulated wooden floor. The walls are made from poly-cotton, waterproof, canvas with a semi insulated second layer. It has a separate bathroom with a shower and toilet. The Carriage: The carriage is a fully restored 1889 train carriage with two bedrooms; one with a double bed and the other with two bunk beds. There is a cute, compact bathroom there too with an antique toilet, sink and shower. The lounge area and kitchen are open plan and come with a TV and DVD player. The Farmer’s Cottage: READ MORE

Hof Auf Der Wurp is highly rated pet friendly, farm stay B&B in the village of Harrierwurp, just north of Bremen in Lower Saxony Germany. All rooms have private bathroom, flat screen TV, DVD player and WiFi and there is a lovely terrace and patio leading on to the well kept gardens. There is room service at the farm and you can hire bicycles for free, as well as go horse riding and there’s plenty to explore on horse or bike in the surrounding, richly rural countryside full of low green fields and numerous canals. WHAT OTHER GUESTS SAY: “Very large, cozy apartment with a lot of toys. Very nice hosts, the breakfast was great and very lovingly prepared. We got good tips for excursions. Also outside there are many toys / vehicles for children. We will definitely be back….” “Exceptional. Very nice and helpful family, a very nice farm, large apartment. We had a wonderful holiday…..” >> CLICK HERE TO READ MORE REVIEWS & TO BOOK YOUR STAY AT HOF AUF DER WURP: READ MORE

Farmstay Palazzetto Ardi has top quality, pet-friendly accommodation in Torri di Confine, between Vicenza and Verona in the Veneto region of Italy. They have their own restaurant serving the finest local food, with some of it coming from the farm’s own organic vegetable plots, vineyards and orchard groves. They have a small farm shop too so you can buy some of their various organic produce to take home, which include extra virgin olive oil and a range of organic wines,  jams, tomato sauce, pickles and liqueurs. And to really take the experience home you can arrange cooking classes during your stay and learn some fabulous local recipes from the farm’s resident chef. All their rooms have a flat screen TV and WiFi throughout, and come with views of the garden or the surrounding mountains and some come with a seating area. They have plenty of nice outdoor space too, with a swimming pool in the garden, and the surrounding area is great for exploring, with hiking, cycling and golfing popular nearby (Free bicycle rental at the farm). WHAT OTHER GUESTS SAY: “A wonderful experience. The hospitality was just amazing. Carlo and Micheala were just wonderful, they couldn’t do enough. An amazing place to stay, eat, drink and make new friends. We would love to go back and would recommend a stay….” “Everything! Carlo & Micheala are wonderful and make you feel at home and very welcomed. We loved that everything eaten is from an organic source and farming. Micheala is a wonderful chef and meals are exceptional. Homemade organic wines are spectacular! 🙂 A must stay place….” >> CLICK HERE TO READ MORE REVIEWS & TO BOOK YOUR STAY AT AGRITURISMO PALAZZETTO ARDI:   READ MORE

For a real slice of Greek, specifically Cretan, village life, you can rent this lovely self catering cottage (two nights minimum) at Orgon Farm, an organic olive farm near Heraklion. The area is peaceful and serene and the house is charmingly traditional, while not forsaking modern comforts. THE ACCOMMODATION: The cottage has one bedroom with two double beds, a bathroom and a kitchen and living room which also has a sofa bed so can sleep up to 6 people. Though it’s a one bed unit the house is a good size and comes with a nice, well equipped, kitchen. It really is a charming little place, in the classic Greek, traditional farmhouse style, and it has a terrace outside from where you can enjoy the lovely views over the the surrounding hills and farmland, and you’ll also find a hot tub, seating & sun loungers. The farm mainly produces olives, but also a really huge range of vegetables fruit and herbs, such as grapes, zucchini, thyme, sage, water melons, broccoli, mint, cabbage and cucumbers. And it is also home to some rabbits and hens. It is self catering, as mentioned, and you can be left alone as much as you like, but guests are always welcome to tour the farm and to partake in light farm work if they so wish, things like collecting the fruit, vegetables and herbs etc. You’ll find the owners helpful and welcoming and guests can sample some terrifically fresh organic ingredients straight from the farm, including breakfast supplies; fresh, homemade bread, eggs, tomatoes etc. For more supplies you can wander into the local town just down the road from the farm where you’ll also find some cafes and food places. If you’re interested you can also learn a little about making some home made food at the farm, such as grape molasses, tomato sauces, wine and raki, and also such non food items things as hand made soaps, wax ointments and herb oils in the traditional Greek way. All of which are organic of course and all of which you can by to take home THE LOCATION: The stunning Island of Crete sees a large READ MORE

This very popular farm stay is on the Isle of Wight, England, only five miles from the main town of Sandown, and can offer a range of lovely self catering stone cottages and glamping style yurts in beautifully peaceful rural surroundings. The farm itself is quite famous for its production of garlic products, especially, garlic beer! The Accommodation: All their cosy cottages are fully equipped in every way, with a nice kitchen, lounge with TV and WiFi, and varying numbers of bedrooms. The glamping yurts can accommodate up to four people and it too has its own cooking facilities, both inside and out, as well as a seating area and a hammock. There is a farmhouse restaurant at the property too where you can order top quality meals for breakfast and lunch. Outside you’ll find a large garden with barbecue facilities and a full tennis court, surrounded on all sides by green meadows and small patches of woodland. The Farm: Their lovely farm has a number of animals including a herd of highland cattle, hens, guinea fowl and even peacocks. But, what really makes Mersley Farm stand out is garlic. They make a great range of garlic products at the farm, including even a unique garlic beer, which has became very famous in these parts in recent years. They have their own farm shop selling these as well as other good fresh produce, from the farm itself and from other sources on the Isle of Wight. The Location: The area around the farm is idyllic, richly rural farming country; it’s wonderful to explore by bike or on foot and you can find a whole series of footpaths around the farm that will take you deeper still into the countryside. There are plenty of activities to be enjoyed in the local area too including fishing, sailing, windsurfing and horse riding; just ask at the farm, they’ll have plenty of advice and recommendations. WHAT OTHER GUESTS SAY: “Exceptional: Really well equipped property, everything you could think. The patio area adjoining the property was great too. The animals on the grounds are a great touch too. Delicious local or garlic farm reared produce on READ MORE

In the rolling hills south of Siena, Tuscany, Italy, pet friendly Tenuta di Corsano has a series of self-catering apartments in a classic 17th century farmhouse surrounded by vineyards, olive groves and vegetable plots. THE ACCOMMODATION: Their rustic apartments are cosy and comfortable with a kitchen and a lounge area and a choice of one, two and three bedrooms. They are traditional style with terracotta floors and wood beamed ceilings and all have WiFi, satellite TV, a kitchenette and living area. Outside you’ll find a swimming pool and extensive gardens, and the whole property has really lovely views over the surrounding countryside. Though the accommodation is self catering, both breakfast and even meals can also be arranged. THE FARM: It is a working farm with a busy trade in grapes and olives as well as many vegetables that make up some of the ingredients of their excellent home made food. The food at Ville di Corsano is of a very high standard and guests are generally very impressed by their hearty, healthy Tuscan dishes. If you find yourself equally impressed you can arrange cooking classes at the farmhouse which feature some of these same Tuscan specialities. THE LOCATION: The farm stay is on a wonderfully peaceful hillside but still just steps away from the little village of Ville di Corsano. Ville di Corsano is a very cute little place with a population of just 200, and has a church, a shop, a very good restaurant and a small winery. This surrounding area is of course classic rural Tuscany and all of it is fantastic to explore. You’ll find many hiking routes and nature trails around, and there is the nearby Alto Merse Nature Reserve, about 10km from the farmstay. There are many classically beautiful Tuscan towns around too, as well as historical sights and an abundance of food and wine tourism.  The friendly farmstay owners at Tenuta di Corsano can give you lots of tips and recommendations, and they can organize tours and various other services such as car hire, bicycle hire, babysitting and transfers from the lovely city of Siena just 16km to the north. WHAT OTHER GUESTS SAY: “This place READ MORE

This very cute, pet friendly, agriturismo B&B near Catania, Sicily, Italy, grows 100% organic citrus fruits and vegetables in a beautifully rural setting with Mt. Etna towering above. All their comfortable rooms and suites have a private bathroom and a terrace or balcony, some come with a kitchenette, but guests are also free to cook in the well equipped shared kitchen. Outside they have barbecue facilities in the garden and the surrounding area is really nice to explore by hiking or biking, especially the nearby Mt. Etna National Park, and the farm can offer free bike rental to do just that. WHAT OTHER GUESTS SAY: “Everything: accommodation (perfect rustic design), very friendly owner, excellent breakfast, good location (in the nature and at the same time close to the city)….” “We truly loved our stay here. Cesare was a very kind and relaxed host. The atmosphere was extremely relaxing and the whole place just beautiful. We will come again!….” >> CLICK HERE TO READ MORE REVIEWS & TO BOOK YOUR STAY AT LA CASA DI PIPPINITTO:   READ MORE

Climbing out of bed in a luxury glamping tent to the nearby chatter of friendly llamas sounds like a uniquely lovely way to start the day, and even more so when it is in the heart of one of France’s most charming rural regions, the infamous Loire Valley; the Garden of France.  The family friendly & pet friendly Loire Valley Llama Farm Stay, between Le Mans and Tours, offers visitors two Lotus Belle tents on their 17 acre farm with llamas and hens.  All of which are happily free range, and friendly to visitors; this place is not some large commercial farming venture, it is a blissfully peaceful, little rural idyll, with a mixture of pastureland, woodland, (as well as a lake and a stream), and somewhere where the welfare of the farm animals (and the farm guests of course!) comes first. Note: The llama farm is a small intimate affair, with just two tents available to rent, so booking ahead is advised! THE ACCOMMODATION: They have two clean and comfortable rooms at the farmhouse; a double and a twin (one double and one single) and outside in the gardens there are two spacious, nicely furnished, tents offer ‘back to nature’ escapism without the need to sacrifice comfort. The tents have room for up to 4 or 5 sharing, and are made up as either a double bed with a pull out day bed converting to another double, or a King size bed with two single beds. All of them are proper, framed, beds with Egyptian cotton bedding and you’ll find them reliably comfortable every night. You’ll have an insulated PVC layer on the tent windows for the winter as well as a mesh layer on the windows and doors to keep you cool and keep the mosquitoes at bay in the summer.  Plus, from late September, wood log burners are installed in the tents keeping them perfectly warm and cosy. Within 50m you’ll find the renovated barn where the shared bathroom facilities are, and include 2 separate toilets and a shower room. Outside of the tents there is a private seating area plus also, a little farther away, a large communal dining area next to READ MORE

On the edge of the outback in New South Wales, Australia, this pet friendly farm stay, halfway between Sydney and Adelaide, is a great way to experience an authentic Australian sheep station and large farm producing irrigated crops. THE ACCOMMODATION: All cottages have modern comforts including five star bedding, air conditioning and heating. Full kitchen and dining facilities for self catering with dinner hampers also available. Full breakfast hampers are included free of charge in the rate for the one and two bedroom cottages. PRICES: Check out all the details – prices, reviews & more photos on the booking page here. THE FARM: Corynnia Station is an old working station and farm tours with your hosts are usually available. There is also a magnificent garden oasis with a swimming pool and tennis courts. You’ll find pushbikes and friendly animals, bushwalking, amazing 360 degree skies perfect for star gazing as well as paddock picnics and campfires during the cooler months. THE LOCATION: Guests can travel by car – no 4×4 vehicle required – or they can fly direct by private plane to the Corynnia Station Airstrip. Guests need to bring a full tank of fuel because there is no fuel supply available within 65 kilometres of Corynnia Station. Do not use GPS as it will not give you correct travel times and directions. Corynnia Farm Station is one hours drive from Hay and 45 minutes from Griffith. Full, detailed directions will be given after reservation. WHAT OTHER GUESTS SAY: “The station was awesome. Felt relaxed and was such a beautiful place to stay the sunrise and sunset….” “Wonderful cottage stay in a beautiful setting. Can only recommend!…” >>CLICK HERE TO READ MORE REVIEWS & TO BOOK YOUR STAY AT CORYNNIA STATION FARM STAY:   READ MORE

A peaceful rural retreat near the historic city of Evora in Alentejo Portugal, Herdade da Amendoeira Agroturismo has B&B accommodation in a lovely, old style farmhouse surrounded by its 1700 acre farm estate which produces, amongst other things, a popular range of sheep cheeses and various jams. THE ACCOMMODATION: The agroturismo has eight rooms in total, four double and four twins, all of them are spacious, comfortable and clean and come with private bathroom, TV, air-con and mini bar. There is no WiFi in the rooms but it is available in the main hall & sitting room, and around the outdoor swimming pool. The double rooms are a few yards away from the main farmhouse with their own private terrace and lovely views over the surrounding area, while the ‘twin rooms’ surround the traditional patio area which was once used to house the estate horses. There are many common areas to discover; outdoor terraces, gardens and an outdoor swimming pool. Inside there is the great ‘Hunting hall’ where you can relax in the evening and where you’ll be treated to a very fine home cooked breakfast in the morning, including fresh orange juice, traditional regional ham, honey, jam and eggs, all of which are produced on the farm. And in the summer months they serve up a buffet lunch for an extra charge. THE FARM: The huge, 1700 acre estate is a calm and beautiful place to wander around though there is lot of activity going on; they have a traditional cheese making facility which produces around 30.000 packets per month from their herd of circa 1000 pure bred “saloia” sheep that they milk twice a day. They also keep hens, ducks and Limousine cattle, and they even have a distillery where they produce some lovely traditional Portuguese liqueurs. The guests are more than welcome to walk around the farm, visit all the facilities and, if the like, enjoy guided tours and food tastings of some of their top quality cheese, hams, honey, liqueurs and jams. There is a farm shop where you buy some to take home with you and they also provide workshops for those who would like to READ MORE

On Bowen Island, just outside Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada, this gorgeous little cottage farm stay on a small farm is a very popular choice. The cottage has a kitchenette, lounge with fireplace, bedroom, bathroom. Outside you have a nice little patio with outside seats and barbecue facilities and you are free to wander around the farm and meet the animals and just take in the amazing views of the surrounding forests and mountains. There’s plenty of good hiking around here as you might imagine and your hosts will be more than happy to advise you plus you’ll find good fishing, canoeing and cycling opportunities too. The farm produces some quality home made food and they serve a great breakfast every morning. They have an on-site farm shop too where you can buy more of their produce to take home. Note: there is Wifi at the main building but the signal is very weak in the cottage itself.  WHAT OTHER GUESTS SAY: “The accommodation was beautifully presented and Jules was very friendly. Great views….” “Amazing cottage and property, amazing hostess, and beautiful island – worth a visit!…” >> CLICK HERE TO READ MORE REVIEWS & TO BOOK YOUR STAY AT ALDERWOOD FARM COZY COTTAGE: READ MORE

  Near to both Seville & Cordoba but very much in the wilds of northern Andalucia, Spain, this charming farm stay has a variety of rooms and suites on a working organic farm with an outdoor swimming pool. It offers horse riding lessons too and has ready access to some of Europe’s most enchanting landscapes including the beautiful Sierra Norte de Sevilla Nature Reserve. THE ACCOMMODATION: They have a range of rooms; both doubles and triples as well as a larger double suite. And all of the rooms are spacious and clean and come with with private bathroom, WiFi, air conditioning, and heating. There is also a very nice outdoor terrace with barbecue facilities and of course the swimming pool. And the owners can provide a very good breakfast every morning for a small extra charge which includes some of the farm’s own organic produce. THE FARM: The main attraction at the farmtay are the horses; they train horses here and can provide horse riding lessons to guests as well as horse riding tours in the surrounding area. It’s not just horses though, they have an orchard and vegetable plots and they also keep sheep goats, hens and a peacock, and guests are welcome to meet all of them. THE LOCATION: The surroundings; the Sierra Norte de Sevilla Nature Reserve is a truly spectacular region full of old European wildlife that have been pushed to, or towards, extinction in most other parts of the continent: Imperial eagles, black vultures, black storks, mongeese, wolves and wild boar to name but a few. There are some great hiking trails around, and mountain biking and horse riding can be arranged through the farmhouse. More lively guests can go climbing on the Cerro del Hierro, exploring underwater caves in the reserve’s many gorges or watersports at the El Pintado reservoir The area has what’s know as a Starlight Certification, which is to say that such is the lack of artificial light in this remote region that the stars at night seem to shine extra brightly, as bright almost as they would have done thousands of years ago. If you’ve spent most of your life READ MORE

On a 60 hectacre working organic farm producing extra virgin olive oil and award winning red and white wines, this delightful Agriturismo near San Gimignano and the cities of Siena and Florence, Tuscany, has a lovely hillside setting with tremendous views over the surrounding countryside. THE ACCOMMODATION: They offer a range of rustic style self-catering apartments, which have wood beamed ceilings and terracotta floors, a living room/lounge area and a kitchen plus their own private garden with seating. There is a lot of lovely space outside, with a swimming pool, a playground and plenty of space to dine or to relax and just take in the Tuscan sun, surrounded by the vineyards and olive groves. THE FARM, THE FOOD & THE WINE: Their farm is a full 60 acres of vineyard and olive groves and has won awards for its wine, both whites and reds as well as that Tuscan classic dessert wine, Vin Santo.  It also produces a large amount of extra virgin olive oil, with around 2500 olive trees on the farm. All of it is organic which requires an extra level of care and attention and the owners are happy to share some of the secrets with guests. They do full tours of the farm, the winery and the production lines, and their enthusiasm for the craft is infectious. Of course you are welcome to buy some of their produce to take home or you can even arrange to have it shipped home for you after your departure. THE LOCATION: Even by Tuscan standards this farmstay has an enviable location being just three kilometers from the gorgeous medieval town of San Gimignano. It is surrounded by classically beautiful Tuscan countryside, and being nearly 350 meters above sea level, the views are quite special, and make it a quite inspiring place for painters and photographers. It is also on the ancient pilgrimage route; the Via Francigena, which in medieval times ran from England, France and Switzerland all the way down through Italy to Rome. You can walk or cycle along the route and also take in some of the local historical religious sights like the Sanctuary of Madonna di Pancole, READ MORE

The Harbour House offers a peaceful, healthy farm hotel experience in the town of Ganges, Salt Spring Island, British Columbia, Canada. The hotel overlooks Ganges Harbour where the ferries from Vancouver arrive, and at the back they have a very well kept organic farm which supplies the hotel’s restaurant with fresh organic ingredients for a variety of its highly rated dishes. The Accommodation: All the rooms are spacious and very comfortable, with private bathrooms, TV and WiFi, and all have views of Ganges harbour or the garden farm. Some of the rooms have a balcony or a patio and some have a hot tub in the room and/or a fireplace; check when you book. As I mentioned before, the food is great and you can order organic meals throughout the day. Dietary restrictions can be catered for, gluten free etc. and they have a variety of local craft beers and wines. On weekend evenings there is usually live music at the restaurant and the hotel also offers a number of services; yoga sessions, and in room spa treatments for example. The Farm: The small organic farm is right at the back of the hotel and has a number of sheep, goats and free range hens, as well as over 100 maple trees and a variety of fruits and vegetables. The owners are passionate about organic farming and are always happy to show guests around and to let them meet the animals. They can also give plenty of tips on small scale organic farming and in the making of such things as their home made fruit jams, maple syrup and honey. The Location: The local area, Salt Spring, and its surrounding islands, might be a popular escape from Vancouver, which can be easily reached by local ferries, but the landscapes still feel isolated and wild, and the small towns have something of a bohemian, artistic edge. There are a number of markets in the town of Ganges where the hotel is located; A busy Saturday market from April to October for example, which has stalls selling everything from pottery and photography to local food produce and clothing, or a Tuesday farmer’s READ MORE

Ferme des Chartroux Farm Stay near Calais, northern France, has comfortable B&B rooms in its lovely authentic French farmhouse. The farm is a working farm which includes sheep, pigs, horses, donkeys, geese and hens. The owners are friendly and welcoming; you’ll feel more like you’re visiting long lost relatives than hotel owners and the setting is lovely; a peaceful green idyll within and hour of Calais, a half an hour of Boulogne-sur-Mer and less than twenty minutes from the lively seaside town of Touquet-Paris-Plage. THE ACCOMMODATION: They have 6 comfortable, unpretentious, B&B rooms at the farm house; one twin room, three doubles and two ‘family rooms’ which have one double bed and two singles. They all come with private bathroom, cable TV and WiFi, and all have a very nice, cosy country cottage feel. Guests are treated to a fine fresh continental breakfast in the morning and can spend their days relaxing in the gardens, exploring the farm, with its friendly animals, or the surrounding peaceful green countryside. THE LOCATION: The farmstay is near Calais, less than an hour’s drive, and about hour north of Amiens. The location is the heart of Pas-de-Calais’ Montreuillois region. This is a charmingly rural region that produces a lot of good food and has a character all of its own, a character well away from the industrial excess of many urban areas in North Eastern France. It is peaceful and slow paced, with winding country roads, vast plains of green fields and some lovely little villages to explore. The sea is nearby too, with the coastal fort town of Montreuil-sur-Mer and the port of Etaples being just ten minutes away, while popular seaside towns like Touquet-Paris-Plage, Berck, Merlimont and Stella can be reached in less than 20 minutes. The city of Amiens is under an hour away to the south, and beyond that Paris which can be reached in about two and a half hours. Note: Ferme des Chartroux also has a self catering farm cottage gite for rent, you can check it out by clicking here. WHAT OTHER GUESTS SAY: “This is a charming place to stay. The host was so helpful and friendly. We READ MORE

Daisy Cottage is a charming self catering cottage on a working farm near Perth, the Avon Valley and the historic town of Northam. The farm which has sheep, horses and hens, has a long history with the main farmhouse being a wonderfully grand old mansion dating all the way back to 1836. THE ACCOMMODATION: The rustic cottage has two comfortable double bedrooms, a fully equipped kitchen and a large lounge and dining area. Outside you have a nice veranda with plenty of space for lounging and outdoor dining, and has lovely views over the farm, the lake and the surrounding countryside. There is an outdoor swimming pool in the gardens too, and barbecue facilities. THE LOCATION: The farm is in the lovely Avon Valley, just over an hour north east of Perth, less than 15 minutes from the historic town of Northam and just over 20 from Toodyay. The area is very picturesque and famous for its wine and food. You’ll find many wineries in the area offering a whole host of wine tourism activities, and many great restaurants too. There is also plenty of wild open countryside around with great hiking trails around the nearby Avon Valley National Park and the Julimar State Forest. WHAT OTHER GUESTS SAY: “Lovely rustic location, open farmland with sheep, horses and chickens. Full featured kitchen with plenty of cookware. Whole family loved it….” “The property is very picturesque. The cottage was well presented and very comfortable. It has very thing we needed and even a laundry. The main house is gorgeous. Perfect host, perfect for a night away or even a wedding….” >> CLICK HERE TO READ MORE REVIEWS & TO BOOK YOUR STAY AT DAISY COTTAGE:   READ MORE

L’Amandola Agriturismo is an ideal rural base for exploring Cinque Terre, one of Italy‘s most iconic and beautiful areas. It lies on a hillside just outside the historic coastal town of Levanto and you can enjoy some nice views over Levanto Bay and some great hikes around the surrounding hills and coastline. Levanto itself is not part of the Cinque Terre villages but is just a short train ride or drive away. Lying in the shadow of the Cinque Terre it tends to get overlooked by all but the most savvy foreign tourists and so retains a very local Italian feel. It has a very nice sandy beach and harbour, as well as an atmospheric historic center where you’ll find prices across the board much lower than in the tourist villages. THE ACCOMMODATION: L’Amandola agriturismo has five very nice B&B rooms and suites to sleep up to five people, and all of them, and the common areas, have a lovely traditional atmosphere. Their antique furniture and high, wood beamed, ceilings give gentle reminders that the farmhouse villa dates from the 17th-century and though offering the best in modern comforts; private bathroom with bathtub, WiFi & flatscreen TV, the property still retains a rustic charm. There is a dining area and lounge with a large open fireplace and some nice patio areas outside too along with the gardens and the farm. They have a range of native shrubs, flowers, herb plants and fruit trees including apricots, oranges, lemons and olives. They use a lot of their own fresh produce in their home made, traditional sweet and savoury Italian breakfasts and you’ll find it all excellent quality, generous and healthy. There is plenty of outside seating around the patios and gardens and they also have a thoroughly modern whirlpool hot tub where you can soak in the evening while taking in the views with a glass from one of their collections of fine wines. THE LOCATION: Being just 700 meters from Levanto train station the agriturismo is pretty convenient for anyone just arriving in the Cinque Terre area. The five villages can all be reached by train in minutes while the historic town READ MORE

Family run Agriturismo Orrido di Pino has a stunning mountain setting for its beautifully rustic farmhouse near Naples on Italy’s Amalfi Coast. In terms of location it is near to Amalfi town, and to Salerno and Sorrento too, though be aware that the scenic but winding mountain roads will make the journey somewhat slow. Apart from the incredible views to be enjoyed what guest rave about the most with this agriturismo is the fantastic food on offer, with a great range of organic ingredients coming fresh from the farm; fruits, vegetables and various herbs and spices. THE ACCOMMODATION: The have just three rooms at the agriturismo and the place has an intimate, friendly atmosphere.  There is one double and two triples rooms which each contain one double bed and one single. They are quite minimalist in decor, super clean and the whole property has a nice rustic farmhouse feel. The beds are very comfortable, there is air-con, WiFi and flat screen TV, and some nice en-suite bathrooms. The view, as mentioned are absolutely beautiful, looking into the mountains and down to the Amalfi Coast below. There is a terrace outside, and a garden, where you can relax in the evening and really soak it all in. Around the gardens you’ll see lots of fruit and vegetable plots. They grow quite a lot here, everything from figs, squash and zucchini to cherries, pears and plums. Plus lots of herbs and spices too; rosemary, sage, chamomile and fennel to name but a few. The gardens are organic and much of what they produce goes into their superb food. The accommodation is B&B and the breakfast is generous, fresh and full of variety.  Make sure to enjoy some of the fabulous evening meals at the restaurant too where you’ll have a great choice of traditional Amalfian, Campanian and Italian food. THE LOCATION: Agriturismo Orrido di Pino is about 35km south of Naples just inland from one of Europe’s most revered stretches of coastline, the Amalfi Coast. There is a huge amount of great scenery to be enjoyed in this area and having a car would be a good idea, both in getting to READ MORE

Outside Marçà, in the wine-producing Priorat area of Catalonia, Mas Figueres has comfortable B&B rooms on a working vineyard just over a half an hour from Barcelona Reus Airport. They have a wine shop on site where you can buy wine to take home and the friendly owners also offer tours of the vineyards as well as wine tasting sessions. The food is excellent too with plenty of local produce including vegetables straight from their own farm. All rooms have private bathroom and WiFi and nice views over the vineyards and some also come with a private balcony. There is a swimming pool in the gardens outside and a nice comfortable lounge inside with an open fireplace and TV. WHAT OTHER GUESTS SAY: “Beautiful place in the countryside, excellent access to local vineyards. Very peaceful and relaxing. Plus, excellent breakfast….” “Great visit, would stay there again! Breakfast was great, with a freshly cooked egg dish plus a good selection of cold items, including meats cheese, bread and fruit. The location was very convenient. The owner, Quima, is incredibly helpful and helps you do everything you want to do by making reservations, providing information, etc. The house itself is lovely, with nice common areas to spend time in….” >>CLICK HERE TO READ MORE REVIEWS & TO BOOK YOUR STAY AT MAS FIGURES:   READ MORE

Akurholt is a small horse riding school and guesthouse on the edge of the Icelandic capital, Reykjavik with a communal, hostel type atmosphere, a shared kitchen and lounge, and very friendly, hospitable owners. The location is a plus; conveniently close to the city but just far away enough to feel the peace and tranquility of nature. The views are gorgeous too, with the lights of Reykjavik and the coast below and Mount Úlfarsfell right behind. THE ACCOMMODATION: The house has just four rooms; triples and doubles, so it’s a small, intimate place and a great place to get to know your fellow guests as well as the friendly owners.  There is lots of common space including a spacious communal kitchen and lounge area and  the rooms, though somewhat on the small side, are very clean and comfortable. The bathrooms are shared too but they are equally clean and well maintained. The Icelandic horse farm predates the guesthouse by a number of years and they do some lovely horse riding tours around the local area. There are some nice hiking routes around here too including a hike to the top of Mount Úlfarsfell just behind the farm. THE LOCATION: The farm is only 14km from the city but still feels very rural indeed, with lots of wild open scenery all around. There is bus stop just down the road too so it’s convenient to get to even if you don’t have a car at your disposal. It can also make a good stopping off point for those of you exploring Iceland’s scenic Golden Circle, the route which runs by some of the country’s most iconic scenery; the stunning Thingvellir National Park for example and Gullfoss Waterfall. A section of the route passes just a few kilometres from the farm. WHAT OTHER GUESTS SAY: “This place was great to stay at, close enough to the city so you can easily get to it, and far enough that when you step outside you can see the Northern Lights! The staff were lovely and I definitely recommend taking part in their horse riding experience, very beautiful….” “We’ve spent there 6 nights and it was READ MORE

Margaret River Hideaway & Farmstay is a 57 acre bushland farm in Western Australia that has eight very comfortable self catering cottages surrounded by a host of farm animals and plenty of local wildlife too. THE ACCOMMODATION: Their dog-friendly accommodation come in various sizes with the larger cottages being able to sleep up to six people. They all have a patio with BBQ facilities, a flat screen LCD TV & DVD player. All of them have a fully equipped kitchen except the studio option, which has a smaller, but still useful, kitchenette. The accommodation is self catering though on arrival the hospitable owners greet guests with a free breakfast starter pack which includes cereal, juices, milk and fresh bread. And if the hens are hatching when you’re there you are also welcome to use their eggs any time. THE FARM: The farm covers 57 acres and is home to a number of different animals; Scottish Highland cattle, Dorper sheep, emus, guinea fowl ducks, geese, hens and peacocks. You can arrange guided tours of the farm and meet the animals, with every Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday and Sunday being feeding time where the guests are welcome to join in. THE LOCATION: The Farm Stay is less than 5 minutes north along Osmington Road from Margaret River township, with both Margaret River Golf Club and Prevelly Beach each being about 15 minutes away. There is lots to see and do in the Margaret River region. There are some great bush walking trails around with jarrah, karri and marri forestlands where you can see a whole range of native wildlife. A spectacular coastline that is very much a mecca for swimmers and particularly surfers, and where you can go whale watching (from Augusta and Dunsborough). You can do lots of outdoor adventure sports in the region too, like canoeing, rock climbing, abseiling and caving, as well as more conventional sports like golf and tennis. The town of Margaret River too is a lovely place to hang out, famous for its food and wine, you’ll find some of Australia’s best here; with lots of boutique wineries and vineyards to visit, restaurants, cafes, galleries and farmer’s READ MORE

Agriturismo Casale Degli Ulivi is a top quality farmhouse B&B near Alghero, and the Coral Riviera where you’ll find some of Sardinia’s and indeed Italy’s most beautiful beaches. Their 30 acre farm grows grapes, olives and various fruits and vegetables, their accommodation is modern, clean and comfortable and outside in the well tended gardens you have a hot tub and a swimming pool at your disposal. THE ACCOMMODATION: The farmhouse dates from 1930 but has been completely renovated in 2015 and there they have a range of rooms to sleep up to four people. All of them are quite modern in style though the exposed wood beamed ceilings also give them a nicely rustic farmhouse feel. They are all super clean and comfortable and come with nice private bathrooms too. The property is eco-friendly; the renovations incorporated a photovoltaic system for hot water and heating and overall the building has a A + energy class certificate. Their breakfast is highly rated by guests and it features some of their own farm produce including their own eucalyptus honey and various home made jams. This you can take inside or outside on the lovely veranda overlooking the gardens which have a swimming pool, a hot tub and plenty of space to lounge around or sunbathe. Beyond that there are the grapevines, olive groves and orchards which you are of course free to wander around. THE LOCATION: In the heart of some lovely peaceful countryside, this agriturismo is also just minutes away from the stunning beaches of the Coral Riviera. The lovely, and ever popular, city of Alghero is just 9 km away too, with its international airport even closer at 3 km. Porto Ferro is 4 km away while the incredibly beautiful coastal park of Porto Conte is just 6 km, and there are plenty more beautiful places to see too. You’ll find the friendly owners of Agriturismo Casale Degli Ulivi will have plenty of tips and advice about this wonderful area. WHAT OTHER GUESTS SAY: “The produce from this farm is high quality and INCREDIBLE! My favorite was the homemade ricotta with marmalade and honey (all grown, raised, and made on the property). Also, Anna READ MORE

A couple of hours outside Christchurch on New Zealand‘s South Island this homely and very friendly farm stay offers B&B beside Peel Forest, a large reserve park with a huge range of New Zealand’s native flora and fauna; birds such as karearea, kereru, robins and warblers, and plants such as totara, matai and kahikatea. The owners will be very happy to advise you about local hiking and to show you around their sheep farm. They have three choices of comfortable and clean rooms with shared bathroom, a sociable shared lounge and kitchen where guests can come together and cook, and all with free WiFi throughout. WHAT OTHER GUESTS SAY: “We really enjoyed our stay at Peel Forest Farm! It’s a working cattle and sheep farm and we loved the atmosphere there! Quiet, calm, perfect place to relax and enjoy nature, do some hikes or just chill on the terrace. We just loved it!…” “The peace and quiet of a real country farm…I couldn’t have ask for more. It was exactly what I was hoping to find!…” >> CLICK HERE TO READ MORE REVIEWS & TO BOOK YOUR STAY AT PEEL FOREST FARM:   READ MORE

Le Rianon has a beautifully peaceful setting deep in the heart of central France. It offers B&B rooms as well as self catering accommodation including a cute wooden caravan. The farmhouse is classic old style French, and very atmospheric, with lots of old wood and stone and they have horses, donkeys and hens on their small farm.   READ MORE

Allegretto is a, very much luxury, vineyard hotel in the Paso Robles Wine Country, California. The stunning, Mediterranean inspired, property sits amidst acres of beautiful gardens, orchards and vineyards, and blends some of Paso Robles’, and California’s, best wine and food with excellent spa facilities and a very European sense of style and class. THE ACCOMMODATION: The have a choice of top quality rooms and suites, many of them with their own private patio area or balcony. You can expect all the usual upmarket hotel features; comfortable beds, air-con, cable TV, WiFi, mini bar & fridge, coffee maker and some very plush bathrooms. The stunning property, though quite new, has all the aesthetics of an aristocratic Tuscan villa but with modern hotel infrastructure. There is plenty of common space throughout the hotel, living rooms and terraces with lots of space for relaxing or socializing. They have excellent spa facilities; massage, body scrubs, aromatherapy and more on offer, and in the beautifully tended gardens, an outdoor swimming pool, a hot tub and a bocce ball court The food here, at the Cello Ristorante & Bar, is exceptional; they have a nice range of Tuscan and Italian influenced dishes with the ingredients locally sourced as much as possible, and some coming from the chef’s own organic gardens. There is also of course a great choice of Paso Robles wines available including their own branded Allegretto wine; from the on site Malbec, Viognier, Tannat, Vermentino, and Cabernet Sauvignon grapes. You’ll find all the usual wine tourism activities here too; tasting sessions and vineyard tours etc. Many other activities in the local area can be arranged via the concierge; horseback riding, golf, art tours, visits to other wineries and olive oil producers, exhibitions etc. THE LOCATION: Equidistance from both Los Angeles and San Francisco (around three hours), Paso Robles lesser known of California’s two main vineyard regions, and all the better for it. Just as Perugia is less favored than Tuscany, Paso Robles is equally eclipsed by Napa. But both Perugia and Paso Robles have something that their more illustrious rivals have long since lost. An unhurried, laid back atmosphere that is perfect for those urbanites seeking READ MORE

Agroturismo Turmaden des Capita is a top quality farm stay in a restored 19th-century traditional Menorcan farm house surrounded by limousin cattle, horses, bee hives, olive trees and vegetable plots on its 75 hectare organic, eco-friendly farm. THE ACCOMMODATION: The entire house can be rented or individual rooms, which have a flat screen TV and WiFi and access to the shared kitchen and lounge. And outside there is a nice terrace with outdoor seating, a swimming pool and barbecue facilities. THE FARM: The organic, eco-friendly farm contains limousin cattle, horses, bee hives and olive trees. Adjacent there is also a small area of protected oak forest, and, quite uniquely, is the site of the ruins of a small necropolis typical of the ancient Menorcan Pretalayotic culture, which dates back to between 3,000 and 1,600 BC. THE LOCATION: The farm lies in an area known as “Es Plans d’Alaior”, between the villages of Alaior and Mercadal in the centre of the Island and is about 20 minutes by car to Mahon city and airport, with the nearest beach being about 15 minutes away. Bikes can be hired from the farm and you can also arrange horse riding too. WHAT OTHER GUESTS SAY: “Central location in the island, delicious breakfast, super comfortable room, nice swimming pool and friendly staff! I definitely recommend and would go back again!….” “An experience you can’t afford to miss. Where to begin? What an amazing experience! What a place! But more importantly what a nice couple who are running this establishment….” >> CLICK HERE TO READ MORE REVIEWS & TO BOOK YOUR STAY AT AGROTURISMO TURMADEN DES CAPITA:   READ MORE

Agriturismo Villa Cefalà, near Palermo, Sicily, is just a stone’s throw from the beach and its hillside location allows some really stunning views over the Mediterranean and some nice sea breezes too. The farmhouse is a classic old Sicilian mansion, in this case from the 18th century, and a place where the nobility of Palermo used to spend long leisurely summers. The building has an aristocratic, elegant feel, and the grounds are gorgeous too, there is a swimming pool and some lovingly maintained garden areas surrounded by rows and rows of citrus and olive trees. They also have a great restaurant on site where you can enjoy a generous, fresh, breakfast each morning and some thoroughly enjoyable evening meals on the outdoor terrace. THE ACCOMMODATION: Agriturismo Villa Cefalà has both B&B rooms and apartments. All have a nicely traditional Sicilian feel to them, with wrought iron bed frames, tiled floors, wood beamed ceilings and antique furniture, but they are modern hotel standard in terms of comfort and facilities; en-suite bathrooms, WiFi, Satellite TV, mini bar and safe, plus some nice little touches like a complimentary beauty kit in each of the bathrooms. The rooms are all double rooms and have plenty of space with a separate seating area included. The apartments have also one double bedroom though are slightly larger with a small kitchenette and lounge area included. In the grounds there is an outdoor swimming pool and various terraces and extensive gardens where you’ll also find a small children’s playground. The food is fantastic at this agriturismo, their traditional breakfast is large and tasty, and has a very nice selection of home made delicacies for you to try; pastries, breads, cakes, cheeses and yoghurts, washed down with freshly squeezed orange juice straight from the farm and of course some great coffee. The restaurant is open for lunch and dinner too, where the quality of the food & wine, and the beautiful surrounds, attract many local visitors too, which is always a good indication. They have excellent cooking classes at the agriturismo, in case you would like to try your hand at making some of their dishes yourself at home, READ MORE

The very highly rated Agriturismo Renaccino near Siena, Tuscany, is well known in the local area for breeding thoroughbred riding horses, but also provides rustic self catering accommodation in traditional cottage style apartments. The owners are helpful and friendly and the countryside surrounding is typically Tuscan, but also quiet and peaceful despite being less than 10km from the much loved city of Siena. THE ACCOMMODATION: You have a choice of one and two bed apartments to sleep a maximum of four people. They are in traditional Tuscan farmhouse style, romantic and cosy with a well equipped kitchen and lounge, WiFi and TV. Outside in the gardens and lawns there is plenty of seating/outdoor dining space and a salt water swimming pool. You’ll find the owners of Agriturismo Renaccino extremely helpful and friendly, and you can quite quickly feel like you’re part of the family. Though they don’t cook a breakfast for you but every morning they do provide a daily generous selection of what a Tuscan might call ‘basic food staples’ but what for outside visitors is more like a sumptuous hamper of fresh food; apart from the necessary eggs and milk you will also be treated to a fine selection of cheeses, breads, salami, some delicious homemade cakes, and more. Guests are welcome to take a look around the farm and can learn a little about horse breeding from the enthusiastic horse loving owners. It is a thoroughbred breeding farm so they are quite sensibly careful with the animals, which means they don’t allow horse riding or provide horse riding lessons, but you can get up close and admire these beautiful creatures just the same. THE LOCATION: The agriturismo is super convenient for the famously beautiful and historic city of Siena, less than 10km away, and just to the north of the equally famously beautiful Val d’Orcia, which, like Siena, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and a place steeped in important medieval history. Towns like Montalcino, Castiglion d’Orcia, Pienza and many, many more live and breath that history and the countryside in between is a rural wonderland of rolling green hills and winding roads. WHAT OTHER GUESTS SAY: READ MORE

Le Domaine d’Ablon is a luxury farm stay rural retreat near to Le Harve and the artistic coastal town of Honfleur, in rural Pays d’Auge, Lower Normandy. Accommodation is offered in classically Norman half timbered farmhouses, and the design, both interior and exterior is impeccable. You’ll find the interiors comfortable and plush but with a very pleasant rustic feel while the farm itself has organic orchards and vegetable gardens which offer some of the ingredients for the very highly regarded food on offer. Cooking and horticulture classes, amongst others, can be arranged on site too. THE ACCOMMODATION: There is a choice of double suites, in order of size; the Standard Suite, the Queen Suite and the King Suite, with The King being the largest. Even the standard suite though, if it was in most other hotels it would be considered a top choice, being around 40 sqm in size and the epitome of comfort and style. There is also a self catering cottage on site which has a huge amount of space, with two bedrooms (one double, one twin), a large lounge with an open fireplace, a kitchen and a private patio and garden area outside. The bathrooms are particular highlight in all of the accommodation choices, spacious and rather opulent, they come with a nice old style standing bathtub and a range of Bvulgari bath products. Le Domaine d’Ablon is a luxury hotel but also an agritourism farm stay; it prides itself on offering up some of the best local, seasonal food in Normandy and the owners take great care in producing much of the ingredients themselves. They grow a range of organic vegetables and fruits on site as well as various herbs some of which are medicinal herbs, and the owners and staff are a great source of knowledge about all things horticulture and food. The food is truly excellent and if you would like to try and recreate it yourself at home you arrange a cooking class with the head chef, Jérôme Billochon, which also includes an educational tour of the kitchen gardens. There are other courses at the farm too; photography, flower arranging, gardening, origami and even beekeeping. READ MORE

This child friendly & pet friendly farm stay near San Sebastian in the Basque Country, has a range of comfortable, clean rooms in a classic Basque hillside farmhouse on its working sheep farm which also has a variety of other animals too. The Accommodation: All the rooms in their traditional style Basque farmhouse come with private bathroom, flat screen TV and WiFi throughout. There is also a shared TV lounge and a spacious shared kitchen where you are free to cook for yourselves, and the owners can also cook you a nice breakfast each morning for a few euros extra. It’s very much child friendly too; they have a play area well stocked with toys and plenty of games and other entertainment to keep them occupied. The Farm: The farmstay has a large working sheep farm that has over 400 sheep as well as a variety of other animals, ponies, which children can ride, some cows, horses, geese and even an emu. The Location: The location is super convenient for visitors to the lively, sophisticated, city of San Sebastian, and though it’s just 15 minutes drive from the city centre but is still a quiet rural area of typically Basque green hills, small farms and forests. It is a lovely place for countryside walks and hikes around the hills, especially down towards the coast and Monte Igeldo, which has spectacular views over San Sebastian and the Bay of La Concha (Kontxako Badia). You can organize guided horse riding trips around the area too from the farmstay. San Sebastian city, as mentioned previously is just 15 minutes away and if the countryside gets too much for you you can spend the day there at its beautiful beaches and busy town centre where you can sample some of what is considered the Basque Country’s, and Spain’s, best food. A special mention too of course for its pintxos, the regions own version of tapas, which is served in almost every one of its lively bars. WHAT OTHER GUESTS SAY: “The place was very cosy and everyone in the staff was great, treating us with a lovely warmth! There were also a lot to do READ MORE

For a farm stay with a difference, Yapham Holds Farm has some cute glamping huts on its small farm in the lovely green countryside of East Yorkshire, England, about 10 miles from York City, and about an hour by car from Scarborough. The cabins are small but perfectly formed and surprisingly comfortable. They all have a sofa-bed, a TV and DVD player, a little veranda outside as well as their own picnic table, and you can rent a grill from the farm if you need. All the huts are heated too and have access to the shared bathroom and toilets on site. Note: Dogs are welcome for a small extra charge, but with a maximum of two per guest. WHAT OTHER GUESTS SAY: “Amazing: Loved every second.. first time I’ve been clamping and already planning my next trip here, lovely owner.. quite.. close to amenities, best sleep I had in ages….” “Fabulous. Friendly & informative hosts. Very clean & well kept grounds & shower/WC. Pods were great, with a few little luxuries such as TV/DVD, heater & lighting so an upgrade from traditional camping. Very peaceful & quiet….” >>CLICK HERE TO READ MORE REVIEWS & TO BOOK YOUR STAY AT YAPHAM HOLDS FARM:     READ MORE

Situated along the rolling hills 16.1 km north of Dumfries town, Boreland Farm features a variety of farm activities and animals. Free fishing can be enjoyed on the River Cairn (when in season), which is less than 5 minutes’ walk from the property. An en suite bathroom is featured in each Boreland Farm room, as well as a TV & DVD player and tea/coffee making facilities. All rooms have their own private access. A full cooked Scottish breakfast is served each day at a time of your choosing. Staff can recommend places to eat in the local area, with many more available in Dumfries which is only a 25-minute drive away. Guests can take in the farm’s 365 acres of pasture and rough grazing, which feature a flock of 550 breeding sheep include pure Beltex ewes and tups. WHAT OTHER GUESTS SAY: “Such a spacious, beautiful place to stay. Our host was so very accommodating and helpful recommending the great Italian restaurant. Delicious! Beautiful farm with sheep, rock fences. Husband enjoyed his walk there. We ate our first haggis here. What a cook our host is! We will return if available and travel to this area again. I highly recommend….” “Wonderful location in the middle of nowhere, with the walk up the hillside to the top just splendid, birdsong everywhere and loads of wildflowers….” >> CLICK HERE TO READ MORE REVIEWS & TO BOOK YOUR STAY AT BORELAND FARM: READ MORE

Crake Trees Manor has B&B farm stay accommodation in a traditional Cumbrian farmhouse alongside its working sheep farm just inside the Lake District National Park, England. It sits about 800 feet above sea level, the countryside is peaceful and green and the views from the farm are gorgeous. THE ACCOMMODATION: They offer spacious and comfortable B&B rooms at the beautifully restored traditional farmhouse, all of them with TV and private bathroom and there is also a nice communal lounge with a TV and dining area. Outside you’ll find a nice courtyard with plenty of space to relax and sit. Their breakfasts are really top notch too and range from the traditional fry to various continental options. Dietary restrictions can also be taken care of, with just a little advanced notice, and they can deliver you a continental breakfast direct to your room in the morning if you so wish. Note: No children allowed, and no pets! THE FARM: The farm is a working farm with herds of sheep and is a joy to wander around. There is a pond on the farm and lots of local wildlife; foxes, rabbits, pheasants and hares for example, and various bird species. And it has beautiful views east to the Pennines and north to the Eden Valley. THE LOCATION: Ten minutes stroll down the road will bring you to the cute village of Crosby, where you’ll find a couple of shops and good pub food and drink. The farm is within the boundaries of the spectacular Lake District National Park which has an abundance of hill walking, mountain biking (you can hire bikes at the farm) and climbing. The Pennines National Park is also not far away towards the east and it too is a wonderful natural environment that has much to offer nature lovers. Though in a supremely quiet and tranquil area the farmstay is just 15-minute’s drive from junctions 38 and 39 of the M6, while the nearest train connection is at Appleby. There you can catch the train just north to Carlisle, from where you can be in London Euston in 3 and a half hours. WHAT OTHER GUESTS SAY: “Absolutely fantastic. Peaceful, life READ MORE

Just a short drive from the city of Alghero and the Costa Smeralda, Sardinia, Agriturismo Il Podere Di Monte Sixeri has stylish cottage and villa accommodation on its 60 acre working farm which produces, amongst other things, classic San Giuliano extra virgin olive oil and keeps animals including donkeys, hens, pigs and horses. Though very near the city the location is blissfully rural and peaceful and the views over the surrounding countryside, and of Alghero itself, are beautiful. THE ACCOMMODATION: The have a huge range of self catering accommodation to choose from studio apartments to four bedroom villas which can sleep up to nine people comfortably. All of them are rustic and traditional in style, having been converted from various old farm buildings on the estate, but they lack nothing in terms of comfort or modern necessities. Even the smallest studio has plenty of space and facilities including at least a well equipped kitchenette, a flat screen TV and a washing machine for example, and all have at least some outdoor space; a balcony or private terrace. Out in the gardens there is loads of space to enjoy with three swimming pools with hydromassage, two children’s playgrounds, and plenty of deck chairs and sun loungers etc. The estate has a nice hillside location and there are hiking trails around that lead higher into the hills that offer even better views than from the farm. Horse riding trips and mountain biking around the local area can also be arranged. You are also welcome to visit the farm of course where you can meet the animals, and take part in guided tours from the ever helpful and hospitable staff and owners who can show you what goes into making their classic San Giuliano olive oil and olive oil paste. The accommodation is self catering and there is a good supermarket just 2km down the road from where you can get supplies and you can collect basic supplies from reception too, some lovely fresh home made bread for example. And as you drive the road between the agriturismo and Alghero you’ll also find quite a few local farmer’s stalls where you can buy quality fresh READ MORE

Costa di Faraggiana is a luxury agriturismo near Cinque Terre, Liguria, and a place to spoil yourself a lot. You can have the full Italian Agriturismo experience on the organic farm with vineyards, olive trees and the finest of food, while also enjoying a full range of spa and wellness treatments; Turkish bath, sauna, sensory shower, various massage and beauty treatments etc. The views are stunning from the farmhouse and there is a nice, and very well positioned to enjoy the view, infinity swimming pool and hot tub, and you’ll find the rooms and services on offer very much luxury hotel standard. THE ACCOMMODATION: They have a range of rooms and suites to sleep up to four people. You’ll find them all very comfortable, spacious and beautifully decorated with pastel shades and nice antique pieces throughout. Every room has a seating area, study desk, and a very plush bathroom. And all of them will have access to some of the beautiful views that surround, with some of the more expensive options coming with a private terrace or balcony and outside seating. All the accommodation is B&B and there is a fantastic organic breakfast to look forward to, with lots of interesting sweet and savory options, many made with ingredients from their own gardens, and dietary restrictions will be well taken care of too. Between spending your time enjoying the infinity pool or hot tub and the fabulous food, you can also avail of some of their many spa, wellness & beauty treatments. THE LOCATION: On a hillside overlooking a lush green valley Agriturismo Costa di Faraggiana has an enviable setting. For the energetic amongst you the hills surrounding make for some wonderful hiking with, in some parts, tremendous views over the town of Levanto and the Cinque Terre coastline. The agriturismo owners can arrange horse riding trips for you in the local too and they also have mountain bikes and scooters for rent. Levanto, at the edge of the Cinque Terre, is less than 3km away from Agriturismo Costa di Faraggiana and you can avail of the free shuttle service to and from there and the beach. From there you can set READ MORE

Near the town of Berga in the Berguedà region of Catalunya, Spain, Complex Rural Can Caubet has pet friendly, self catering accommodation in rustic stone cottages surrounded by gardens and green pastures. And all of it with beautiful views over the rocky slopes of the Queralt Mountains. THE ACOMMODATION: Their cottages come with a fully equipped kitchen, a lounge with a sofa and fireplace, a TV & DVD player and there is WiFi throughout the house. Outside you’ll also find plenty of space for relaxing in the garden which has barbecue facilities, a seasonal swimming pool and a hot tub. There’s also a children’s play area with a trampoline, swings and table football, amongst other things. THE LOCATION: This area of Catalunya, as it rises up into the Pyrenees, is a very popular place for outdoor sports enthusiasts; mountain biking, rock climbing, horse riding, skiing and paragliding are all notably popular. You can ask at the farm for advice and recommendations. You don’t have to be the sporty type though; the region also has peace and rural charm in abundance, and of course the landscapes are very beautiful with some great, and not so strenuous, hill walks close to the farm that offer spectacular views. The cute village of Avià is just about five kilometres away, in fact you can see it, and the nearby monastery from the farm itself. The nearest major ski centres are at Port del Compte, La Molina and Tuixen La Vansa, all not much more than a a half an hour’s drive away, while to get to the city of Barcelona takes about an hour. For a reasonable fee the farm hosts can arrange pick ups and drop offs from the airport and the city centre though, just let them know before you arrive. WHAT OTHER GUESTS SAY: “It is ideal for large groups, has 5 full rooms and 3 or 4 bathrooms with shower or bathtub. The kitchen is well equipped, with microwave, dishwasher and a large dining table. The exterior has a huge garden with barbecue and tables and a trampoline for children. The setting is beautiful, fantastic for long walks, surrounded by READ MORE

Le Mas de Peint has luxury farmhouse hotel accommodation hidden away in the wild Camargue region of southern Provence, between Marseille and Montpellier, and near to both Arles and Aix-en-Provence. The estate is huge, there is a full 1250 acres of it to explore and can done on horseback. They keep a number of those iconic Camargue Horses at Le Mas de Peint and horse riding tours can be arranged, as can 4WD and mountain bike tours. The gardens are beautifully kept too with an outdoor swimming pool and plenty of areas to relax. Beyond both the gardens and the farm you are in the middle of some beautifully natural countryside with wild flamingos to be seen among the salt marshes, rice fields and hidden beaches. THE ACCOMMODATION: They have a choice of 13 luxury double rooms and suites that are tastefully and carefully designed in traditional style; where antique furniture and wood beamed ceilings sit easily with modern comforts and facilities. As well as the gardens and the outdoor swimming pool there is a top class restaurant at the farmhouse which serves up some extremely good authentic Provençal food, food which is accompanied by a great selection of wines. You can enjoy your meal in the dining room or on the terrace outside. The breakfast is excellent too, though sadly you need to pay extra for it, i.e. it’s not included in the room rate. The huge ranch is great for exploring. You can head out hiking or biking by yourself, mountain bikes are available for hire, as are massage services for any aching limbs afterwards, or you can join 4WD ‘Safari’ or horseback riding tours which go beyond the farm and deep into the Camargue. The horses on the estate, the famous white Camargue Horses, are, as you probably guessed from the name, native to the area and are believed to be one of the oldest species of horse in the world. You will also see herds of wild horses on your travels in the area. THE LOCATION: Between the cities of Montpellier and Marseille where the River Rhone meets the Mediterranean, lies the Camargue, a vast area READ MORE

This pet-friendly, self catering farm stay accommodation is near Pesaro, in the beautiful, and quite underrated, Le Marche region of Italy, just 6 km from Rossini Opera Festival and 30 kilometres from Federico Fellini Airport. It has a year round outdoor pool in the well kept gardens and its apartments are all comfortable and clean with WiFi and a flat screen TV with satellite channels. The farm itself produces and sells its own wine, as well as olive oil and some fruit, and the friendly owners are always happy to show guests around and teach them a little about the business. WHAT OTHER GUESTS SAY: “We stayed in villa with family for a week and we really enjoyed it! The apartment was clean, plenty of space and very quiet. The swiming pool was brilliant with gorgeous view to the mountains! We enjoyed Stefan’s perfect wine!…” >> CLICK HERE TO READ MORE REVIEWS & TO BOOK YOUR STAY AT AGRITURISMO I CERRI:   READ MORE

This pet friendly Tasmania farm stay, near the town of Richmond in the Coal River Valley wine region, is organic and eco-friendly and includes a vineyard, olive groves, vegetable gardens and various farm animals. THE ACCOMMODATION: They have two comfortable self catering apartments, both clean and modern and both come with a flat-screen TV and DVD player and a full kitchen, lounge and private bathroom. There is also a private patio and BBQ area. One of the apartments is two bedroom with a sofa bed in the living room and and can fit up to five people, while the other is one bedroom for a maximum of two people. The accommodation is self catering but the friendly owners also provide a free organic continental breakfast which includes freshly baked bread, homemade jams & fruit, and fresh coffee every morning, with much of the ingredients coming fresh from the farm. The entire property is as eco-friendly as possible; half of its electricity needs come from solar energy, the central heating and hot water comes from a wood fired boiler, drinking water is collected from rainfall while the water in the toilets comes from the local river. THE FARM: The farm is a working, eco-friendly, organic farm with a range of animals including horses, sheep and ducks. It also has an extensive vineyard, an olive grove as well as a small orchard and vegetable gardens. In line with ecological principles all waste water from the property is used for irrigation. and they make efforts to be carbon positive too with an annual tree planting program. The owners are enthusiastic environmentalists and farmers and are always keen to show guests around the farm. THE LOCATION: The old town of Richmond, and especially its historic bridge, features in almost all tourist photo albums from Tasmania. The bridge was built in 1820 by convicts of the old Van Diemen’s Land and is to this day Australia’s oldest bridge. A tour of the old Richmond Gaol will you an uncomfortable insight into the hardships suffered by these same convicts. With more than fifty buildings dating back to the Georgian era, its quaint historic streets, and cool READ MORE

In the historic and picturesque village of Granville, not far from Columbus, Ohio, Orchard House B&B is a stylish and homely farm stay which lacks nothing in terms of comfort or hospitality and displays an eclectic mixture of contemporary and antique furniture and art. They have a variety of farm animals on their small farm including sheep, goats, llamas and hens, as well as growing various vegetables and fruits, and guests are always welcome to have a look around and meet some of the animals. The rooms and suites are spacious, clean and very comfortable, all with private bathrooms and WiFi, plus there is a very nice shared lounge/TV room and dining area downstairs where the friendly owners host evening time wine and cheese receptions. They do a great breakfast in the morning too, including eggs from the farm, and drinks and snacks are available throughout the day, all of which will be organic and locally sourced as much as possible. WHAT OTHER GUESTS SAY: “Exceptional: Beautiful farm setting with fields to explore and some farm animals. Pet friendly. Fabulous breakfast and cheese and wine in the evening….” “Great Location, very comfortable, beautiful place. Host was very attentive and helpful. Breakfast was delicious, farm fresh local ingredients in a very charming setting. Room was very comfortable….” >>CLICK HERE TO READ MORE REVIEWS & TO BOOK YOUR STAY AT ORCHARD HOUSE: READ MORE

La Ferme D’Augustin is a top quality agritourism farm stay hotel right on the French Riviera. It is near Saint Tropez and even nearer the famously beautiful, five kilometer long, Tahiti beach at Pampelonne Bay. It makes for a thoroughly relaxing stay in the south of France and you’ll find the service top class with the food being a particular highlight. THE ACCOMMODATION: They have a choice of standard and superior B&B rooms as well as larger suites, to sleep from one to four people each. All are nicely decorated and come with en-suite bathroom, WiFi, air-conditioning, flat screen cable TV, mini-bar and room safe. Some of the larger rooms and suites also come with various extras such as whirlpool jacuzzi baths, hammam type showers and private terraces or balconies. The largest suite of all; the top floor superior suite, also has a tremendous views over Pampelonne Bay from its private terrace. The grounds are beautiful too; with well tended gardens filled with various flowers and plants and an outdoor swimming pool. The pool is a balneo spa type pool; it’s good for swimming but also includes features such as hydromassage jet streams, shower cascades and various jacuzzi effects. It has a glass cover too and is kept at a constant 28 degrees centigrade year round. There is a homely lounge area at the farmhouse with an open fire and comfortable sofas, and they have a terrific onsite bar and restaurant; La Table d’Augustin. The head chef is a Provence native and an enthusiastic exponent of using fresh local, seasonal, produce as much as possible in his highly rated dishes. They are always happy to cater for dietary restrictions too, and the wine on offer is, as you might probably expect, consistently excellent. Much of the ingredients used in the meals are grown on the farm itself. They have a range of vegetable and herb gardens, and fruit orchards, to supply the restaurant and they also produce some very good home made jams, particularly their famous watermelon jam, that you can buy to take home at the farm shop. A whole range of services are offered at the farm stay; READ MORE

Eumelia Agritourism is an organic, eco-friendly, farm stay in the Laconia region of southern Peloponnese, Greece, an area rich in historical sites, picturesque villages and enchanting rural landscapes. There is a lot to do at Eumelia, it’s a unique sustainable development agritourism and eco-tourism, and guests can partake in as much or as little as they like of such things as fruit, vegetable and herb collecting, olive oil and marmalade making, wine tasting & making, cooking & baking classes, massage therapies, yoga and natural soap making workshops. THE ACCOMMODATION: The have a number of cute, ecologically friendly, cottages which have all modern comforts, including flat screen satellite TV, and are stylishly minimalist with soothing pastel shades all around. They can sleep up to four people each and all come with a lounge area with fireplace, and a well equipped kitchen where guests can cook with ingredients that they are welcome to collect from the farm. And though the accommodation is self catering there is a farm to table restaurant at the property which serves healthy organic fare all day starting with a Greek breakfast. Outside they each have their own terrace with views over the farm and the surrounding mountains, and a small private garden area. All the buildings on the farm use geothermal power for heating and cooling, and they use a standard bearing root system natural waste management, the first of its kind in the south of Greece. They also host organic & eco weddings, yoga retreats and various workshops and events for wellbeing. THE FARM: A range of organic fruit, vegetables and herbs are grown on the farm, from which they make a variety of things, including their own branded virgin olive oil (which you can buy to take home), home made wine and various other bits and pieces. They also have some animals at the farm; hens, sheep, rabbits and dogs. You can join in as much farm activity as you like with a whole host of activities to choose from depending on the season; fruit, herb and vegetable harvesting, olive and grape pressing etc. and the enthusiastic farm owners are always very happy to show guests around the READ MORE

This popular dude ranch is just outside Sandpoint Idaho, U.S.A., in the middle of beautiful surroundings with great trails for horseback riding, mountain biking, hiking, sleighing and winter sports, especially cross country skiing. There’s plenty to do at the farmhouse too with evening entertainment, a cosy shared lounge, a recreation room, an outdoor hot tub, a library, a children’s playground as well as meeting and banquest facilities. All of their cosy comfortable rooms have private bathroom and WiFi as standard and come with free breakfast, while their western style self-catering log cabins come with the same plus full kitchen and lounge but minus the breakfast. READ MORE

A slice of rural luxury near Aix-en-Provence, Domaine de Fontenille has 17 rooms in a beautifully atmospheric 18th century mansion house surrounded by its own vineyards. It is in the pretty village of Lauris, along the Durance River, which, though very near Aix-en-Provence, happily doesn’t see the same magnitude of tourists as much of the rest of the region. Domaine de Fontenille has a long reputation as a wine producing estate, with its first harvest being all the way back in 1638 but these days it is most well known for its Michelin star awarded restaurant; Le Champ des Lunes, and in general for being one of the finest boutique luxury hotels in rural Provence. THE ACCOMMODATION: It has just 17 rooms in total (check the booking page here) and so is a somewhat intimate place. They run from standard doubles, through family rooms to top of the range suites all of which you will find spacious and elegant with high ceilings, wooden floors and tastefully rustic furniture. Perks include extra large beds, music systems, sound proofing and some particularly nice bathrooms, most of which will have traditional bathtubs along with modern showers. All of the rooms and suites are B&B, or just B as the breakfast is not included in the room rate (though it is worth the extra € 21 charge), but for self caterers they also have a nice two bedroom apartment which has full kitchen facilities, a good sized lounge and its own private garden. The building itself is quite lovely with plenty of common areas to relax in; lounges, library areas and of course their two restaurants: Fine dining can be enjoyed at the Le Champ des Lunes, which won a Michelin star for its classic French & Provençal cuisine, and more casual dining at the La Cuisine d’Amélie. The restaurants are open to the public and though hotel guests will have some priority it’s generally wise to make a reservation or reservations a few days in advance especially in the summer and especially at Le Champ. The grounds of Domaine de Fontenille are equally impressive, with a full 86 acres of mostly landscaped gardens READ MORE

In Peso da Régua, in the heart of Portugal‘s premier wine producing region, the Douro Valley, and about 100km from Porto Airport (Airport transfers can be arranged) Quinta de Marrocos is an award winning vineyard estate with B&B accommodation at its restored 17th century farmhouse. THE ACCOMMODATION: Their homely, traditional style rooms all come with air conditioning, flat screen satellite TV, WiFi, private bathroom and a balcony with nice views of the surrounding mountains or the river Douro. You’ll also find a bar and restaurant here, and a nice shared lounge and terrace overlooking the gardens and vineyards. THE WINE: The big focus here is wine, specifically the Douro and Port wine of which the the region is famous. The Quinta de Marrocos estate has produced a number of award winning ports and they still make use of traditional granite presses where the grapes are pressed by foot, and cellars where the wine is aged in barrels, vats and casks of wood which gives the wine its famed complexity. There is a lot to learn and the estate owners organize very interesting vineyard tours, cellar tours and tasting sessions. THE LOCATION: Northern Portugal’s Douro Valley is well known for its wine, in fact it is reputed to be the longest continual wine growing region in the world. But besides that it is also beautifully rural with great stretches of rolling green hills and woodlands all around. Even if wine is not your thing you’ll still find it a very lovely place for exploring, with some nice hikes offering great views over the river below. It is also great for all sorts of outdoor activities; cycling, golfing, hiking, water sports, boat trips and horse riding can all be easily arranged; just ask at the Quinta for advice. For more education on the region we’d also recommend a trip to the Douro Museum, only about 4km from Quinta de Marrocos in the centre of Peso da Régua, where you can learn a lot more about this iconic region generally, with of course a major focus on the wine industry. Again not far from Quinta de Marrocos, on the the south bank of READ MORE

Hacienda de San Rafael, Andalucia, is a luxury agroturismo rural retreat between Seville and Jerez and close to the pleasant beaches of the Costa de la Luz. A boutique hotel in a restored 450 year old Hacienda farmhouse, it has rustic charm in abundance, but doesn’t forgo modern comforts or facilities. It has three swimming pools, two bars and a tremendous restaurant. The gardens are suitably beautiful with lush lawns and flower beds shaded by giant palm trees. And it also has a little organic garden farm from where it gets much of the ingredients for its highly rated food. THE ACCOMMODATION: The have a choice of rooms and suites, or what they call rooms and suites, as a more appropriate description would be suites and larger suites. All of the rooms are very spacious, over 40m² in fact, and all of them come with a separate sitting area and an outside verandah/terrace area. The suites are enormous really; a full 120m² in total. They are in the form of individual thatched cottages with their own private garden & terrace area, and an infinity pool to be shared with guests of the other suites. You’ll find both the rooms and the suites to be beautifully appointed, with a nice mix of antique furniture, art works and design touches that preserve the rustic ambience of an Andalusian farmhouse. The bathrooms are marble or slate and all have showers and separate bathtubs. The Hacienda exudes an old fashioned glamour but you can expect hotel facilities alongside the rustic decor; air con, WiFi, flat screen satellite TV etc. As mentioned above, there are two bars at the property and a restaurant which serves up some outstanding seasonal Andalusian food much of the ingredients of which; herbs, fruits and vegetables, come fresh from the organic garden farm outside. You can start the day with a generous fresh breakfast, sample some tapas later and then enjoy a full multi course evening meal with unlimited wine to end the day with. You can choose to dine outside on the terrace or around the swimming pool in the gardens if you wish. Various relaxation treatments, massage, aromatherapy, reflexology and READ MORE

The homely Agriturismo Fattoria La Prugnola has a great variety of accommodation, including glamping style yurts and a tree house, on an organic, eco-friendly olive farm in the gentle hills of Montescudaio, near Pisa in Tuscany’s upper Maremma/northern Maremma region. The location is idyllic; it is very much surrounded by nature and in its isolated setting you can enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding countryside all the way down to the famous Etruscan Coast and the sea beyond. THE ACCOMMODATION: There really is a great choice at this agriturismo with cottages, apartments, yurts and a tree house available for up to eight people per unit. So much so that to describe them all individually would take some time but suffice to say that they are all charming in their own way. You’ll find them well equipped, comfortable, clean and cosy, and all have all a nice rustic, Tuscan farmhouse feel to them, with much antique furniture, wood beamed ceilings and soothing pastel shades. Their 5 yurts are not by any means traditional Tuscan of course but they are beautifully put together, spacious and homely. And they are also nicely furnished, blending well some of those same rustic farmhouse touches with the more colourful and exotic ‘walls and ceilings’ of the Central Asian origin yurt. Four of them can sleep up to four people, using one double bed and one double sofa bed, while the largest of them can sleep up to five people with the help of an extra sofa bed. They all too have their own external, private bathrooms. The cosy, romantic tree house is a special property too, and very much sought after, be aware that minimum stay restrictions apply over the summer; in June to September the minimum stay is three nights while in July and August it is one week, from Saturday to Saturday. The treehouse is made entirely of wood and built around a large oak tree. It is small with just a double bed, a bedside table and wardrobe but it also has a very nice outdoor terrace with table and chairs, which offers some unique views of the woods and if you’re lucky READ MORE

Toghill Farm is a family run working farm with homely bed and breakfast accommodation near Bath and Bristol, England. The farmhouse dates back to the late 17th century and though much renovated since it still has lots of historical character, and a cosy, traditional farmhouse feel. The gardens surrounding it are immaculately kept, as is the farm which has sheep, horses and hens, and both have gorgeous views over the surrounding countryside, as far as the River Severn and the Bristol Channel to the west. THE ACCOMMODATION: They have a selection of double and twin rooms as well as family rooms to sleep up to five in both the farmhouse and in the adjacent converted barn buildings. Check your options out on the booking page here. All are comfortable and clean and display plenty of old English farmhouse character. The bathrooms are en-suite and all rooms come with flat-screen TV, heating and tea and coffee facilities as standard. You’ll find your hosts friendly and welcoming and you can enjoy some excellent breakfasts in the morning; full traditional English as well as continental options, to be taken in the lovely dining hall overlooking the gardens. Guests are free to wander around the farm, take in the fresh air and the lovely views of the surrounding countryside, and, if they so wish, to meet some of the animals that call Toghill home; horses, sheep, hens and some friendly dogs and cats. THE LOCATION: The farm lies high on a hill near the small village of Wick, which has a couple of shops, a pub and a restaurant, and less than ten minutes’s drive from both Bristol and Bath. It is also a few minutes from the Cotswold Way and can make a good base for exploring the Cotswolds, one of England’s loveliest rural regions. Chippenham and Malmesbury are both less than a half an hour away with Cirencester being just a little farther. Many other places of interest are also within an hour from the farm including Gloucester, Cheltenham, Stonehenge and Salisbury. WHAT OTHER GUESTS SAY: “Exceptional: Great stop. Would highly recommend it and wish I had more time here. Comfortable beds. READ MORE

Near Bodmin Moor, Cornwall, U.K., The Old Wagon House offers an excellent value, self catering, farmhouse stay in the heart of some gentle, peaceful countryside. Their beautifully maintained, rustic style, self catering cottage is on a working sheep farm close to the town of Launceston, and also to the city of Plymouth in neighbouring Devon. THE ACCOMODATION: The accommodation is a tastefully done barn conversion, dating from the 19th century, complete with traditional exposed wood beamed ceilings. It’s a one bedroom property with a four poster double bed, but also comes with two single beds in an annex off the lounge area if needed for extra guests. There’s a log burning stove in the living room/lounge area too, and a flat screen TV. You’ll also find a modern, fully equipped kitchen at the property plus a bathroom with a wet room and walk in shower. And outside there is a nice patio/decking area with a table and chairs THE FARM: Old Wagon farmhouse is on a working sheep farm which guests are welcome to explore, there is also a small vegetable garden from where you can pick a few of your own vegetables for cooking with. They have a small gift shop at the farmhouse too where you can buy some of their own wool products to take home. THE LOCATION: St. Clether is a beautifully quiet and rural part of Cornwall, about a mile in from the coast and Downderry; a picturesque little village with its own popular beach. From the farmstay you can see the sea in the distance while also enjoying some lovely views of the surrounding nearby countryside. If you’re feeling energetic they have bike hire at the farmstay as well as some great walking and hiking routes. The village centre is just a few minutes drive away, and there you’ll find a couple of cafes, pubs and small shops. There is a coastal footpath near the farmstay which runs east to Whitsand Bay and west to Looe, from where you can join sea fishing and boating trips. Another lovely day out is the Seaton Valley Countryside Park with many meandering paths through some gorgeous old woodland. READ MORE

  In the heart of Fethiye’s countryside, this organic farm stay has eco-friendly accommodation and a taste of traditional village life with outdoor activities for both children and adults. Pastoral Vadi is committed to the health of the environment and its guests. This unique farm property features organic vegetable plots, farmyard animals and a rustic ambience. A stay at Pastoral Vadi is a true learning experience. The friendly staff includes guests in all aspects of the farm and runs seasonal workshops, such as photography and yoga. Pastoral Vadi’s charming bungalows are made from stone, mud-brick or wood. Each one has been ecologically designed and all waste and used water is recycled. The produce used for meals has been grown on the farm or supplied by local farmers. Staff will teach guests how to prepare traditional Mediterranean cuisine. Children will find plenty to keep them entertained. There is a lovely animal farm and children’s arts and crafts workshops. They can also help out with tasks around the farm. Enjoy a relaxing escape from the stresses of 21st-century life in Yaniklar Village. Indulge in culture and art workshops and agricultural activities. Visit the local beach, just 10 minutes away. READ MORE

Near the city of Florence and nearer still to Leonardo’s home town of Vinci, Chianti, Tuscany, Agriturismo Colle da Vinci is a classically rustic hillside farmhouse surrounded by organic olive groves and enjoys some stunning views of the Montalbano Valley, especially from the ideally placed swimming pool in the gardens. THE ACCOMMODATION: There are five pleasantly old style self catering farmhouse apartments, which can sleep up to four with one double bedroom and one double sofa bed in the lounge and children’s cots can also be provided if needed. You can check your options on the booking page here, and be advised there is a two night minimum stay. They are all spacious and well equipped and you’ll find them bright, airy and comfortable. Though the bathrooms err on the side of modern the general feel is of a homely, rustic Tuscan farmhouse, with wood beamed or brick ceilings, tiled floors and crisp white walls. WiFi and satellite flat screen TVs feature too though and the standards of comfort and cleanliness are certainly of the modern age. Outside they all have their own semi private space with table and chairs and with the agriturismo having such a wonderful hillside location there are wonderful views of the Montalbano Valley to be enjoyed from all around. The well tended gardens have a swimming pool from where you can also admire the views and in general there is plenty of space to lounge around or dine al fresco on the terraces or around the gardens. There’s a barbecue area too, and a play area for kids. The main business of the farm is in the making of organic extra virgin olive oil which guests are welcome to sample and of course also to buy to take home. You can also learn about farm work from the friendly owners; the processes involved in the growing and pressing of the olives etc. THE LOCATION: Agriturismo Colle da Vinci  is just outside Leonardo’s home town of Vinci (which is still, for historic reasons, actually a city) and also lies within the Montalbano Natural Park, which was once named Barco Reale, a famous hunting ground created by READ MORE

Hanselishof has self catering accommodation on a hillside farm just outside Matrei in the famously beautiful Tyrol region of Austria. The apartment at Hanselishof features 2 bedrooms fitted with wood panelling, a fully equipped kitchen with a dining area and a dishwasher, a bathroom with a shower and a hairdryer, a balcony with mountain views, satellite channels and a CD player. The apartment additionally has a living area with a sofa and a washing machine. Guests can sunbathe on a lawn in the garden and during winter you can meet farm animals which are kept warm in their sheds. In summer the remain out on the lovely Alpine pastures which can also of course be visited. Homemade products like butter, cheese, bread, yogurt and marmalades can be bought at the farm stay. Amenities include a ski and bicycles storage room, free WiFi and a children’s playground. The closest ski lift of the Großglocker Ski Resort is a 10-minute drive away. The closest restaurant is less than 1 km away. A supermarket, cross-country skiing trails and public pools are 8 km away. Lake Triestachersee is 20 km from the premises. WHAT OTHER GUESTS SAY: “Exceptional: Was an all around nice vacation. Very nice hostess, great apartment, super equipped, could go on like this … just great….” >> CLICK HERE TO READ MORE REVIEWS & TO BOOK YOUR STAY AT HANSELISHOF:   READ MORE

Wydon Farm has four star B&B accommodation on a 366 acre working cattle farm on the Bellister National Trust Estate, close to Haltwhistle, Corbridge, Haydon Bridge and the infamous Hadrian’s Wall in Northumberland, U.K. The Accommodation: They have three traditional style rooms, all of which are very comfortable and spacious and come with private bathroom, TV and WiFi, and one room has its own whirlpool bath. Their full English breakfast is generous and good, with the eggs coming from the farm’s own hens, and they can offer a nice choice of cereals, yoghurt and fruit too. Guests are welcome to bring their dog to stay at the farm, just phone before you arrive to arrange. The Farm: The farm is a working cattle farm stretching across nearly four hundred acres of prime agricultural land on the Bellister Estate, a beautifully peaceful place with a history going back to the 13th-century. These days the Estate has a small 19th-century mansion house alongside the ruins of a 14th-century tower. The Location: The infamous Hadrian’s Wall of course gets number one billing in this area and is only about ten minutes drive from the farmstay, but there are other Roman ruins around too in this richly historic area too, at Vindolanda, Chesters, Housesteads and Birdoswald, and they can all be reached with the very convenient Hadrian’s Wall Bus Service which has a stop about a mile away from the farmstay. Europe’s largest man made lake at Kielder Water is also easily reachable from the farmstay. As is the spectacular Alnwick Castle with its famous gardens which make a lovely day out, Fishing is a popular activity around here and the farm has its own pitch on the South Tyne River which is reputed to be among the best salmon rivers in the country, and which guests are welcome to use. The surrounding area is also great for hiking and cycling, especially around the hills and moors of the Northumberland National Park and Kielder Forest Park, and if you want to venture farther afield Northumberland has miles of gorgeous coastline including the ancient, eerily beautiful, monastic site of Lindisfarne and the bird life filled nature reserve at Farne READ MORE

Cas Gasi Boutique Hotel is a luxury hideaway surrounded by carob, almond and fig trees, olive groves and vegetable gardens on a small organic farm in rural Ibiza. The surrounding countryside is peaceful and quaint but still conveniently near Ibiza City/Old Town and some of the island’s best beaches (around 15 minutes drive). With some top quality food, excellent spa facilities and the highest levels of service, you will find yourself very much pampered. THE ACCOMMODATION: They have a choice of ten rooms and suites, to sleep up to four people, and all of which are clean and comfortable, and elegantly furnished in a chic, bohemian style. There is a swimming pool outside, yoga areas, the above mentioned spa with sauna, whirlpool/hot tub, a fully-equipped gym and an outdoor yoga deck. They also offer a range of therapies and treatments from beauty therapy and massage to yoga classes and Naturopathy Nutrition coaching with their own in-house nutritionist. The restaurant is a particular highlight with much, if not most, of the ingredients for their tasty and healthy food coming directly from the organic farm outside. Free range eggs are freshly collected for breakfast in the morning, and a whole range of fruits, herbs and vegetables are harvested daily. Most of the food is farm to table in the least time possible with everything else, meat and seafood for example, locally sourced. They have an on site bar too, and an extensive wine list too with a great selection of international wines. THE LOCATION: In the heart of rural Ibiza, Cas Gasi Agroturismo is a true hideaway. You’ll find the surrounding countryside peaceful and quiet, a world away from the many touristic hotspots around the island. Ibiza being small though you can still be in the old town in around 15 minutes by car, and around the same to San Antonio and some of the island’s most popular beaches too. This being a luxury agroturismo you can avail of the concierge services for such things like booking restaurants and clubs, boat tours, various excursions shuttle services, taxis, childcare etc. And of course you can get all the best advice about what to do and where READ MORE

Quinta de Palhacana is a peaceful, relaxing farm stay near Lisbon, Portugal, in the tiny village of Pereiro de Palhacana (A shuttle service can be arranged from Lisbon city centre or airport), and has B&B rooms in a farmhouse with a nice terrace, an outdoor swimming pool, gardens, horse stables and meadow fields. THE ACCOMMODATION: All their comfortable rooms come with private bathroom, WiFi, TV and air conditioning, and every morning there’s a good continental breakfast to be enjoyed in the restaurant, which, along with the stylish shared lounge, has nice views of the surrounding hills and which serves other light meals throughout the day. There is a bar too, and they stock a very good choice of local wines. Outside there is plenty of space with a swimming pool, terrace and gardens, where you can join in yoga sessions or just relax and read a book. THE FARM: Quinta de Palhanca has a horse farm at the back of the farmhouse with adjoining stables, and horse riding lessons can be arranged, along with guided rides; short trips around the farm or to explore the surrounding area. THE LOCATION: You’re less than an hour from Lisbon at the Quinta (a shuttle service can be arranged, as mentioned previously) and you’ll find staying in this area allows a real insight into rural Portuguese farming life, with unpretentious, welcoming & friendly people. There is some nice hiking to be done in the area; the Serra de Montejunto, for example, is about a half an hour’s drive north of the farmstay and at over 600 meters towers over the rolling hills between the Tejo River and the Atlantic. A climb up the Sierra makes for a good day out; but if that sounds a bit too much work there is also the national park surrounding the mountain which has some more gentle trails through lovely countryside. You’ll also be near one of Portugal’s Rota dos Vinhos, or wine routes, and the owners of Quinta de Palhanca, as well as being experts themselves on the subject, are happy to organize tours of nearby vineyards and wineries for their guests. WHAT OTHER GUESTS SAY: “It READ MORE

Ballyboy House is located at the foot of the Knockmealdown Mountains, outside Clogheen Co.Tipperary. Surrounded by beautiful grounds this charming farm stay offers B&B rooms in a lovely Georgian setting. With amazing mountain views of the Galty, Comeragh and Slievenamon ranges, Ballyboy House is set in 4 acres of gardens leading onto 75 acres of woodland walkways. Each of the rooms at Ballyboy House has an elegant, traditional design. And all the rooms have an en suite bathroom. Breakfast is served in the property’s grand dining room and you can also visit the tea room throughout the day, which serves home baking, tea and coffee. You can dine outside in the converted courtyard too, which has 400-year-old stone archways and lovely views. The nearby Vee Pass offers a dramatic drive through the Knockmealdown peaks. The river Tar, famous for its brown trout, runs through the farm and there is also a lake in the grounds, as well as the ruins of Ballyboy Castle. You can also go fishing, horse riding and walking in the surrounding countryside. WHAT OTHER GUESTS SAY: “Our room was beautiful & literally our best night’s sleep in Ireland. The property in its rural setting was a breath of fresh air for winding down….” “Fantastic. Will be back! Beautiful house & grounds. Lovely walk with a river and views!…” >> CLICK HERE TO READ MORE REVIEWS & TO BOOK YOUR STAY AT BALLYBOY HOUSE:   READ MORE