Introduction
Agritourism is transforming the global travel landscape, inviting visitors to connect with the land, experience rural life, and discover the origins of their food.
From lavender fields to berry farms, agritourism has become a way for farmers to share their stories while providing memorable experiences for travelers. Across the world, farms have embraced this trend, blending agriculture with entertainment, education, and sustainability to draw thousands—sometimes millions—of visitors annually.
In this article, we explore some of the most captivating agritourism destinations and gems that have successfully integrated farming with tourism.
These places not only celebrate the beauty and bounty of rural life but also inspire others to see the potential of agritourism as a thriving industry. Let’s begin by delving into a few standout destinations that have become icons in the world of agritourism.
1. Knott’s Berry Farm (USA)
Location: Buena Park, California
Knott’s Berry Farm is the quintessential success story of agritourism. What began as a small family farm in the 1920s, selling berries and jams, has evolved into one of the most iconic theme parks in the United States. The transformation started when Cordelia Knott opened her chicken dinner restaurant, which became so popular that visitors began lingering around the farm.
Walter Knott saw an opportunity and built attractions, including a Ghost Town, to entertain the growing crowds. Over time, the farm’s agricultural roots became intertwined with entertainment, setting a benchmark for agritourism innovation.
The annual Boysenberry Festival keeps its farming heritage alive, attracting food lovers to experience unique berry-inspired treats. Knott’s Berry Farm continues to be a beacon of creativity, showing how a small farm can become a global destination.
For more info visit their website at California's Best Theme Park & Amusement Park | Knott's Berry Farm
2. Alstede Farms (USA)
Location: Chester, New Jersey
Alstede Farms brings a charming, hands-on approach to agritourism. This family-owned farm offers an authentic rural experience with its pick-your-own produce fields, hayrides, and seasonal festivals.
Visitors can immerse themselves in farm life by harvesting fresh fruits and vegetables, such as apples, berries, and pumpkins, depending on the season.The farm also hosts educational programs, making it a favorite destination for school trips and families seeking a day in nature.
Seasonal events, including corn mazes, sunflower festivals, and petting zoos, keep visitors coming back year-round. Alstede Farms demonstrates how a focus on community and family-friendly activities can create a beloved agritourism destination.
3. Lavender By the Bay (USA)
Location: East Marion, New York
Lavender By the Bay is a sensory paradise, drawing visitors to the North Fork of Long Island for its breathtaking fields of lavender. This family-run farm is a prime example of agritourism that leverages the aesthetic and therapeutic appeal of agriculture.
The farm offers opportunities for visitors to walk through rows of vibrant lavender in full bloom, particularly during peak seasons in late June and July. Guests can shop for handmade lavender products, from essential oils to sachets, ensuring they take home a piece of the experience.
The farm’s popularity extends to photographers and Instagram enthusiasts, whose images help spread its charm far and wide. Lavender By the Bay’s success shows how focusing on a single crop and creating an immersive experience can captivate visitors.
4. Zaanse Schans (Netherlands)
Location: Zaandam
Zaanse Schans blends history, culture, and agriculture into a seamless agritourism experience. This picturesque village offers visitors a glimpse into traditional Dutch rural life, with working windmills, cheese-making demonstrations, and clog workshops.
While not a single farm, Zaanse Schans features small-scale farms and agricultural displays that highlight the region's rich heritage. Tourists can learn how dairy products like Gouda cheese are crafted, explore flower farms, or enjoy freshly baked bread made using traditional methods.
What sets Zaanse Schans apart is its emphasis on preserving history while making it accessible to modern visitors. The combination of authentic agricultural practices and the charm of a living museum attracts millions of tourists annually, proving that cultural agritourism can be both educational and entertaining.
5. Domaine de Chaumont-sur-Loire (France)
Located in the picturesque Loire Valley, Domaine de Chaumont-sur-Loire is more than just a farm—it's a cultural and artistic hub that seamlessly integrates agriculture, history, and creativity. Known for its International Garden Festival, this destination attracts thousands of visitors annually, offering a unique agritourism experience.
A Historic Gem
The Domaine de Chaumont-sur-Loire dates back to the 10th century and is a site rich in history. Originally a castle, it now serves as a center for art and nature. Its gardens showcase how agricultural spaces can be transformed into vibrant canvases for creativity, blending botanical beauty with innovative design.
The International Garden Festival
Every year, the International Garden Festival draws visitors from across the globe. Designers and landscapers create temporary gardens around a central theme, offering inspiration for gardeners, horticulturists, and tourists alike. The festival highlights how agriculture and design can come together to create something extraordinary.
Sustainability at Its Heart
The Domaine emphasizes eco-friendly practices, showcasing sustainable agriculture and biodiversity. Visitors leave with an appreciation for how agriculture can contribute to environmental stewardship while providing a beautiful and educational experience.
6. Ballymaloe Cookery School and Organic Farm (Ireland)
Nestled in County Cork, Ballymaloe Cookery School and Organic Farm is a world-renowned destination for food and farming enthusiasts. This 100-acre farm has turned its passion for organic agriculture into a thriving agritourism hub, offering visitors a chance to connect with nature and learn culinary skills.
Farm-to-Table Excellence
Ballymaloe embodies the farm-to-table philosophy. Visitors can explore the organic gardens, which produce a bounty of fruits, vegetables, and herbs used in their cooking classes and café. The farm also raises livestock in harmony with the land, making it a showcase of ethical farming practices.
Culinary Education
The Cookery School is the crown jewel of Ballymaloe. It offers a wide range of classes, from beginner courses to advanced chef training. Visitors can learn to bake bread, prepare gourmet meals, or master sustainable cooking techniques—all while surrounded by the beauty of the Irish countryside.
An Immersive Agritourism Experience
Ballymaloe is more than just a farm or school; it’s an experience. Guests can take guided tours, participate in workshops, or simply relax in the serene environment. The farm also hosts events like harvest festivals and pop-up dinners, creating a year-round attraction for locals and tourists alike.
7. Hokkaido Flower Farms (Japan)
The Hokkaido region of Japan is famous for its breathtaking flower farms, particularly those in Furano. These farms have become iconic tourist destinations, drawing thousands of visitors each year who come to marvel at their vibrant fields of blooms and experience the serenity of rural Japan.
A Kaleidoscope of Color
The flower fields of Furano are a sight to behold. Lavenders, poppies, sunflowers, and more create a stunning patchwork of colors that change with the seasons. Tomita Farm is the most famous among them, known for its fragrant lavender fields that peak in July.
Beyond the Flowers
Hokkaido’s flower farms offer more than just visual appeal. Many also feature interactive experiences, such as flower-picking, perfume-making, and workshops on horticulture. Visitors can take home unique souvenirs, like handmade lavender sachets or freshly pressed oils.
Culinary Delights
The farms often incorporate culinary experiences, featuring menus that highlight local ingredients. Lavender ice cream, floral teas, and dishes infused with herbs grown on-site add a sensory dimension to the visit.
Eco-Tourism and Sustainability
Many Hokkaido farms are committed to sustainable practices, preserving the natural beauty of the region while offering an educational component to their tourism efforts.
8. Villa Taranto Botanical Gardens (Italy)
Located along the shores of Lake Maggiore in northern Italy, the Villa Taranto Botanical Gardens is a testament to the beauty and diversity of plant life. This sprawling 16-hectare garden draws thousands of visitors annually, making it a standout destination for agritourism enthusiasts.
A Visionary’s Creation
The gardens were created in the 1930s by Captain Neil McEacharn, who transformed the land into a botanical masterpiece. Today, it features over 20,000 plant varieties from around the world, carefully curated to thrive in Italy’s temperate climate.
Seasonal Splendor
Villa Taranto is a year-round destination, with each season bringing a new display of floral beauty. Spring showcases vibrant tulips, while summer offers exotic blooms like Victoria Cruziana water lilies. The autumn foliage and winter displays ensure there’s always something to see.
Blending Art and Agriculture
The gardens are an excellent example of how agriculture can merge with artistic expression. Every path, fountain, and plant bed is meticulously designed to create a harmonious and inspiring landscape.
An Educational Experience
Visitors to Villa Taranto can enjoy guided tours that delve into the history and horticulture of the gardens. The experience is both relaxing and enlightening, appealing to plant lovers, families, and those seeking a tranquil escape.
9. Hobbiton Movie Set Farm Tours (New Zealand)
Located in the heart of Matamata on the North Island of New Zealand, the Hobbiton Movie Set Farm offers an immersive agritourism experience like no other. Originally a working sheep farm, this site gained global fame as the filming location for Peter Jackson’s The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit trilogies.
oday, it draws thousands of visitors each year, not only for its cinematic connections but also for its stunning rural landscape and its blend of farming and tourism.
A Journey to Middle-Earth
Hobbiton is a must-see for fans of The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit films. The set has been meticulously preserved, with iconic locations such as Bilbo’s home, the Green Dragon Inn, and Hobbit Holes still standing.
Visitors can enjoy guided tours through the enchanting farmland, marveling at the lush, rolling hills and the vibrant gardens that add charm to this famous location.
The Agritourism Element
Beyond the film set, Hobbiton is a working farm that produces fresh, locally sourced ingredients for the site’s restaurants and events. The farm offers visitors a chance to learn about New Zealand’s pastoral lifestyle, with insights into sheep farming and organic vegetable cultivation. Special seasonal experiences like sheep shearing and traditional farming methods are popular additions to the tours.
The Farm-to-Table Experience
While visiting Hobbiton, guests can enjoy farm-fresh meals at The Green Dragon Inn. The inn serves a variety of locally inspired dishes, including hearty meats, fresh vegetables, and locally brewed beverages. The farm-to-table dining experience is an excellent way for visitors to savor New Zealand’s rich agricultural heritage.
10. Bloopydurians: A Paradise for Durian Lovers
In the lush hills of Bentong, Pahang, sits Bloopydurians, a durian orchard that has earned a reputation as a must-visit destination for durian enthusiasts worldwide. Owned and operated by the passionate and innovative Stephen Loke, this orchard is more than just a farm—it’s a durian lover’s dream come true.
With its mix of premium-quality fruit, immersive experiences, and a serene countryside setting, Bloopydurians is redefining the art of durian appreciation.
The Story Behind Bloopydurians
Stephen Loke’s journey with Bloopydurians began as a labor of love. A durian enthusiast, Stephen combined his agricultural experience with a commitment to creating an orchard that would celebrate Malaysia’s “King of Fruits” in its purest form.
Under his guidance, the orchard has blossomed into a thriving enterprise known for giving visitors a taste of Musang King which is one of the finest durians species in Malaysia. The farm’s fun name, “Bloopydurians,” reflects Stephen’s desire to make the durian experience fun and accessible while staying true to the orchard’s authenticity.
A Destination Worth Traveling For
Bloopydurians attracts visitors from every corner of the globe, offering them a firsthand encounter with Malaysia’s durian culture. Whether it’s the creamy Musang King, the bittersweet D24, or the Kampung Durians, the orchard’s offerings are a treasure trove for durian aficionados.
Guided Durian Tastings: Visitors can indulge in curated tastings that introduce them to the distinct flavors, textures, and aromas of different durian varieties. Stephen himself or his partner often leads these sessions, sharing their wealth of knowledge and passion.
Orchard Tours: The orchard offers guided tours where visitors can learn about durian cultivation, harvesting techniques, and the practices that make Bloopydurians stand out.
International Appeal: From China to Australia, Hong Kong to the United States, durian lovers fly in to experience the authentic flavors and atmosphere of Bloopydurians. International tourists who come get to experience the Malaysian culture of eating durians! You either hate it or love it!
Suitable For Company Events
Companies in Malaysia send their staff into the farm to get a durian farm experience. Most recently, Bloopydurians collaborated with Watsons Malaysia which is a global personal care brand to promote durians to their customers.
Companies who want to send their VIP, guests or staff to experience what a durian farm feels like can make a visit to Bloopydurians.
Plan Your Visit
Bloopydurians welcomes visitors (almost) year-round, though the peak durian season (typically June to August) is the best time to experience the orchard in full swing. Reservations are highly recommended, especially for guided tastings and tours.
Website: Visit www.bloopydurians.com to learn more, book your visit, or explore the farm’s unique offerings.
11. Bonito Ranch (Brazil)
Bonito Ranch is an ecotourism hotspot located in the state of Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil. Known for its pristine natural beauty and commitment to sustainability, this farm is a prime example of how agritourism can successfully merge nature conservation with agricultural and eco-tourism practices.
A Natural Paradise
Bonito Ranch is located in the heart of the Brazilian Pantanal, the world’s largest tropical wetland. It offers visitors an unparalleled experience of biodiversity, with activities such as birdwatching, fishing, and snorkeling in crystal-clear rivers. The farm is also home to a variety of native wildlife, including capybaras, jaguars, and caimans, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers.
Sustainable Agriculture and Ranching
The ranch operates with a deep respect for the environment, focusing on sustainable practices like organic farming and wildlife protection. Visitors can learn about sustainable ranching, where cattle are raised in harmony with the natural ecosystem, and can even participate in activities like cattle drives or wildlife tracking.
Educational and Eco-Friendly Tours
Bonito Ranch offers a range of educational tours, with expert guides explaining the delicate balance between agriculture and conservation. These tours provide visitors with a chance to learn about the ecological importance of the Pantanal wetlands while gaining a deeper understanding of Brazil’s agricultural practices.
12. Green Meadows Petting Farm (USA)
Located in Multiple locations across the United States, Green Meadows Petting Farm is a family-friendly destination that offers visitors a hands-on experience with farm life. The farm has become an attraction for children and families looking to connect with nature, interact with animals, and learn about sustainable farming practices in an accessible way.
Animal Encounters for All Ages
Green Meadows Petting Farm allows visitors to interact with a wide variety of farm animals, including goats, sheep, pigs, chickens, and even alpacas. Children, in particular, love the opportunity to feed and pet the animals, which fosters a sense of responsibility and care for the animals. It’s a great way for young ones to learn about where their food comes from in a fun, engaging setting.
Agriculture Education in a Fun Setting
While the farm is playful and interactive, it also offers educational programs that teach children and adults alike about farm life, planting crops, and animal care. Hayrides, corn mazes, and seasonal activities like pumpkin picking or Easter egg hunts ensure there’s always something new and exciting to experience.
Sustainability and Local Sourcing
Green Meadows is committed to sustainable farming practices. The farm produces its own fruits and vegetables, offering an authentic farm-to-table experience. In addition to educational tours, the farm often hosts workshops on topics like composting, sustainable agriculture, and raising livestock.
13. Cotswold Farm Park (UK)
Location: Gloucestershire, England
Overview:
Cotswold Farm Park is a prime example of agritourism in the UK, offering visitors a chance to experience the charm of the countryside while learning about farming practices. The park is particularly famous for its conservation efforts in preserving rare and endangered breeds of farm animals.
Founded by the renowned farmer and TV personality, Joe Henson, the farm aims to educate visitors about sustainable farming and the importance of biodiversity.
What Makes It Stand Out:
Rare Breeds: Cotswold Farm Park is home to a wide variety of rare and traditional British farm animals, such as Gloucestershire cattle, Cotswold sheep, and British Lop pigs. The focus on rare breeds sets it apart as a leader in farm conservation.
Interactive Experiences: Visitors can get hands-on with animals by feeding them, petting them, and learning about their care. There are also seasonal activities like lambing, which attract crowds every spring.
Farm Education: The farm provides educational programs about farming, animal care, and environmental sustainability. School groups and families can participate in workshops to learn about the science behind farming.
Visitor Experience:
The park is designed to be family-friendly, with plenty of activities for all ages. There are also play areas, nature trails, and a café serving locally sourced food, making it a perfect day out for families looking to immerse themselves in farm life.
14. O'Keeffe’s Farm (Australia)
Location: Yarra Valley, Victoria, Australia
Overview:
O’Keeffe’s Farm is located in the beautiful Yarra Valley region, a popular destination for food and wine enthusiasts. This farm focuses on sustainable practices and is known for producing a variety of artisanal goods, including olive oil, cheeses, and gourmet produce. Visitors can experience farm tours, learn about organic farming methods, and enjoy farm-to-table meals in a picturesque setting.
What Makes It Stand Out:
Farm-to-Table Dining: O'Keeffe's offers visitors the chance to taste products straight from the farm, with a strong emphasis on organic and sustainable food practices. The on-site café serves meals made from the farm’s own produce, providing an authentic agritourism experience.
Educational Experiences: Guests can take guided tours of the farm to see how olives, vegetables, and other products are grown and harvested. The farm also hosts workshops on sustainable farming techniques, olive oil production, and cheese-making.
Wine and Olive Oil Tastings: As part of the Yarra Valley wine region, O'Keeffe’s Farm offers olive oil and wine tasting sessions, allowing guests to experience the best of local produce. The tastings are paired with educational sessions about the production process, creating a rich agritourism experience.
Visitor Experience:
The tranquil farm setting and the opportunity to sample high-quality local produce make it an ideal destination for food lovers. With plenty of outdoor seating and views of the surrounding vineyards, it’s a great place to unwind while learning about sustainable agriculture.
15. The Alpaca Experience (Peru)
Location: Cusco, Peru
Overview:
The Alpaca Experience in Peru offers an immersive agritourism experience focused on alpaca farming, one of the country’s traditional industries. Located near the historic city of Cusco, the farm gives visitors a unique opportunity to learn about alpaca care, wool production, and indigenous textile arts. The experience also includes hands-on interaction with the alpacas, making it a memorable trip for animal lovers and cultural enthusiasts alike.
What Makes It Stand Out:
Cultural Significance: Alpacas are integral to Peruvian culture, and the farm provides a deep dive into the history of alpaca farming. Visitors learn about the animals' role in traditional Andean agriculture and how their wool is used to create high-quality textiles.
Animal Interaction: The farm allows visitors to get up close and personal with the alpacas, feeding and grooming them. The farm also hosts special events, such as shearing demonstrations, where guests can see how wool is collected and processed.
Sustainable Practices: The farm emphasizes ethical and sustainable farming practices. The focus is on animal welfare and the preservation of traditional farming methods, which are increasingly important in the modern era of agriculture.
Visitor Experience:
Visitors can enjoy guided tours of the farm, where they’ll be introduced to the alpacas and other local animals. The experience often includes a demonstration of the wool-spinning process and a chance to purchase handcrafted textiles, such as scarves, hats, and blankets made from alpaca wool. The Alpaca Experience also offers breathtaking views of the Andes, making it an unforgettable addition to any trip to Peru.
16. The Cider Orchard Experience (France)
Location: Normandy, France
Overview:
The Cider Orchard Experience in Normandy takes visitors on a journey through the picturesque French countryside, where they can learn about the production of cider and calvados (apple brandy).
Normandy is known for its rich apple-growing history, and this agritourism destination offers a chance to explore traditional farming practices while indulging in some of the finest ciders the region has to offer.
What Makes It Stand Out:
Apple Orchards and Cider Production: Visitors can explore extensive apple orchards and learn about the different varieties of apples used in cider production. The farm offers guided tours that explain the entire cider-making process, from harvesting to fermentation and bottling.
Tastings and Pairings: The highlight of the visit is the cider and calvados tasting. Guests can sample various ciders, paired with traditional French cheeses, meats, and other local delicacies. This culinary experience is a key feature of agritourism in the region.
Historical Context: The farm also delves into the history of cider-making in Normandy, offering an educational experience that connects guests to the region's agricultural heritage.
Visitor Experience:
The Cider Orchard Experience offers a relaxed, authentic agritourism environment where guests can explore the scenic orchards, enjoy tastings, and learn about the history and production of cider.
It’s a perfect destination for food and drink enthusiasts looking to immerse themselves in French agricultural traditions while sampling some of the region’s finest products.
17. Mount Tamborine Farms (Australia)
Location: Queensland, Australia
Highlights: Mount Tamborine, nestled in the beautiful Gold Coast hinterland, is a destination known for its natural beauty, including vineyards, artisan cheese farms, and a wealth of other farm-based experiences. It attracts agritourism visitors with its wide variety of hands-on activities such as grape stomping during harvest season, cheese making demonstrations, and farm tours that offer visitors a closer look at the region's agricultural practices.
Agritourism Features:
Wine tastings at local vineyards showcasing the region's famous cool-climate wines.
Guided farm tours exploring local produce, including honey, fruits, and vegetables.
Beautiful views of the hinterland combined with artisanal products that draw tourists looking for a relaxing, nature-filled experience.
Best Time to Visit: Year-round, with special events during the harvest season and annual festivals like the Tamborine Mountain Wine & Food Festival.
18. The Alpaca Experience (Peru)
Location: Cusco, Peru
Highlights: Nestled in the Andean mountains, The Alpaca Experience offers a unique and educational insight into the world of alpaca farming. Peru is home to the vast majority of the world’s alpaca population, and visitors can explore the process of breeding and maintaining alpacas, including how their wool is spun into textiles. This experience also educates tourists on the cultural importance of alpacas in Andean society.
Agritourism Features:
Guided tours through the alpaca farm, with the chance to interact with the animals.
Workshops where visitors learn about alpaca wool weaving and the intricate designs of traditional Peruvian textiles.
The opportunity to purchase authentic, handmade alpaca products like blankets, scarves, and sweaters.
Best Time to Visit: Year-round, though the high season for tourists is during the dry months from April to October.
19. Bali Pulina Coffee Plantation (Indonesia)
Location: Ubud, Bali, Indonesia
Highlights: The Bali Pulina Coffee Plantation offers a quintessential agritourism experience with a focus on coffee production. Known for its famous Luwak coffee, the plantation gives visitors the opportunity to explore the coffee production process, from the cultivation of coffee beans to the traditional methods of roasting and brewing. Visitors can also witness the unique process of civet coffee (kopi luwak), where civet cats consume and excrete coffee cherries, a delicacy prized worldwide.
Agritourism Features:
A walking tour through the coffee plantation, where guests can learn about various spices and herbs grown on the farm.
Coffee-tasting sessions, including the famous Luwak coffee, with an explanation of the history and process.
Scenic views over the plantation and the surrounding rice terraces, creating a peaceful and immersive experience.
Best Time to Visit: The dry season (April to October) is the best time to visit Bali, with clear skies and favorable weather for walking tours and tastings.
20. Highgrove Gardens (UK)
Location: Gloucestershire, England
Highlights: Highgrove Gardens, the private residence of King Charles III, is one of the UK’s most well-known examples of sustainable farming and organic gardening. Visitors are given exclusive tours of the gardens, which have been carefully cultivated using organic and biodynamic farming principles. The gardens offer an idyllic mix of natural beauty and eco-conscious farming practices, making it a popular destination for those interested in organic agriculture, sustainability, and horticulture.
Agritourism Features:
Guided tours of the gardens, focusing on sustainable agricultural practices and the principles of organic gardening.
A chance to learn about the importance of biodiversity and sustainability in farming.
The opportunity to visit the Highgrove Shop, which sells products created using the farm’s organic produce, including jams, honey, and gardening tools.
Best Time to Visit: The gardens are typically open for tours from April to October, with the peak of floral blooms and gardens in full color during the summer months.
Conclusion: 20 Agritourism Gems Around the World: Farms That Blend Culture, Nature, and Adventure
Agritourism has become a powerful force in the global tourism industry, offering unique opportunities for farms to engage visitors while also preserving agricultural heritage.
Farms like Knott’s Berry Farm, Lavender By the Bay, and Ballymaloe Cookery School have proven that combining the charm of agriculture with the excitement of hands-on experiences, local food, and educational programs can lead to tremendous success.
From berry picking and farm-to-table dining to immersive cultural tours and environmental education, agritourism offers something for everyone. These destinations not only draw in thousands of visitors annually but also play an essential role in supporting local economies, providing jobs, and sustaining rural communities.
They demonstrate that farms are no longer just about crops and livestock—they are vibrant, dynamic places where people can learn, connect, and enjoy the beauty of nature.
As more visitors seek authentic, sustainable travel experiences, agritourism will continue to grow and evolve. For farmers and agricultural businesses, embracing this trend can open doors to new revenue streams and allow them to showcase the value of their work while fostering a deeper appreciation for the land and food production.
Whether it’s a scenic lavender field, a hands-on farm tour, or an eco-friendly vineyard, agritourism is enriching the travel landscape and offering visitors unforgettable, meaningful experiences.
The farms listed above are just a few examples of how creativity, innovation, and a connection to the land can turn traditional agriculture into a thriving tourist attraction.
As the demand for authentic, immersive experiences grows, the future of agritourism looks incredibly promising, and the farms that embrace this evolution will undoubtedly continue to flourish.
p.s. details above with regards to places may not be 100% accurate or may have change. Please do some research on your own by visiting their website before going to any of them.
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