Island Hill Farm

Island Hill Farm is a charming, family-friendly farm located in Brudenell, Prince Edward Island. The farm offers an educational and interactive experience, giving visitors the chance to learn about local farming practices, sustainable agriculture, and the island’s rural way of life. This small, family-run farm prides itself on providing a hands-on experience where guests can connect with nature, enjoy farm animals, and gain insight into the day-to-day workings of a farm.

The farm has a warm and welcoming atmosphere, making it an ideal stop for families, school groups, and anyone interested in experiencing farm life in PEI. Island Hill Farm also promotes environmental sustainability by growing and producing fresh, local, and organic foods, giving visitors a unique opportunity to understand how food is produced from the ground up.

Things to Do & Activities at Island Hill Farm

Island Hill Farm offers a variety of activities for visitors to enjoy, making it a great spot for a fun and educational day out. Some of the key activities at the farm include:

1. Farm Tours

• The farm offers guided tours, where visitors can learn about the different aspects of farm life, from planting and harvesting crops to caring for animals. During these tours, you’ll also hear about the farm’s sustainable farming methods and how they care for the environment.
• You’ll get a close-up view of the farm’s gardens, greenhouses, and animal pens.

2. Interacting with Farm Animals

• One of the highlights of the visit is the opportunity to meet and interact with a variety of farm animals, including chickens, goats, sheep, pigs, and cows. The farm is very hands-on, and visitors can help feed, pet, and care for the animals, making it a great experience for kids and animal lovers.
• There may also be seasonal opportunities to help with milking or collecting eggs, depending on when you visit.

3. Workshops & Demonstrations

• Island Hill Farm hosts educational workshops and demonstrations on various topics, such as gardening, composting, and sustainable farming techniques. These workshops are perfect for anyone interested in learning more about how to grow their own food or support eco-friendly farming practices.
• Workshops are typically scheduled throughout the year, so be sure to check the farm’s website or contact them for more details.

4. Farm-to-Table Experiences

• The farm often offers farm-to-table meals, where visitors can enjoy meals made from fresh, local ingredients grown right on the farm. This provides a wonderful opportunity to taste the produce and meats produced on-site, giving you a true farm-to-fork experience.
• There may also be opportunities to purchase fresh, organic produce directly from the farm, allowing you to take home some of the farm’s finest products.

5. Nature Trails and Outdoor Activities

• The farm is situated in a beautiful, natural setting, with plenty of outdoor space to explore. There are walking trails around the farm, where you can enjoy the surrounding landscape, get a closer look at the farm’s crops, and explore the local flora and fauna.
• During the summer, the farm often hosts picnic areas where visitors can relax and enjoy a peaceful moment in nature.

6. Seasonal Events

• Seasonal events and festivals are a regular feature at Island Hill Farm. These events may include activities like pumpkin picking, Christmas tree sales, or themed events for holidays like Halloween or Thanksgiving. It’s a great way to experience the farm’s community atmosphere and celebrate the local culture.

Best Time to Visit Island Hill Farm

The best time to visit Island Hill Farm largely depends on the activities you’re interested in. Here’s a breakdown of the different seasons:

Spring (April – June)

• Spring is an ideal time for learning about planting and preparing for the growing season. This is when the farm begins its planting season, and visitors can take part in garden tours or even participate in planting seeds.
• The farm’s animals also begin to give birth, so you might get the chance to meet newborn farm animals.

Summer (June – August)

• Summer is the peak season at Island Hill Farm. The farm is bustling with activity as crops are in full bloom, and farm animals are in their prime. It’s the best time to participate in guided tours, workshops, and enjoy outdoor activities like hiking and picnicking.
• Visitors can enjoy fresh produce, farm-to-table meals, and interact with the animals in a relaxed, sun-filled environment.

Fall (September – November)

• Fall is a wonderful time to visit as the farm enters the harvest season. Visitors can experience the farm’s crops at their peak, especially with the abundance of pumpkins, apples, and other seasonal produce.
• Fall also brings the opportunity for harvest festivals or special activities like apple picking and pumpkin carving.
• The fall foliage in the surrounding area also provides a picturesque backdrop for outdoor activities.

Winter (December – March)

• Winter at Island Hill Farm offers a quieter, more peaceful experience. The farm might be less active, but it is still a great place for enjoying the winter scenery and perhaps participating in holiday-related events (e.g., Christmas tree sales or winter markets).
• For those who love winter landscapes and peaceful settings, this is a great time to visit, though many of the interactive farm activities will be limited during colder months.

Where to Stay Near Island Hill Farm

Although Island Hill Farm itself doesn’t offer overnight accommodations, there are several options for places to stay nearby. You can choose from a range of accommodations, including:

• Brudenell River Provincial Park: A nearby park offering campgrounds, cabins, and picnic areas for an immersive natural experience.
• Cottages and Bed-and-Breakfasts: Several private cottages and B&Bs are located in the surrounding area, offering cozy, home-like accommodations.
• Resorts in the Area: There are also a few resorts and inns, such as The Dundarave Resort, where visitors can enjoy more luxurious stays with access to golf and other outdoor activities.

Dining Options

• Farm-to-Table Meals: As mentioned earlier, Island Hill Farm offers meals prepared from fresh, on-site grown ingredients. You may also find opportunities to enjoy homemade pies, preserves, and locally sourced dishes.
• Local Dining: There are other restaurants and cafes nearby that specialize in fresh, local seafood and produce. Some local spots are Brudenell River Resort Dining and other charming eateries in nearby towns.

Why Visit Island Hill Farm?

Island Hill Farm is a unique and engaging destination for those looking to learn more about sustainable farming, enjoy a relaxing day outdoors, and connect with animals and nature. It’s especially great for families, schools, and anyone looking for an educational yet fun farm experience. The opportunity to engage directly with the farm’s activities and learn more about local food production makes it a must-visit for anyone on Prince Edward Island, especially those interested in eco-tourism or sustainable living.