Planning for a Farmstay

A farmstay can be an enjoyable experience forfarm breakfast for you. Some farmstays allow
kids and adults alike. Depending on the nature ofyou pitch your own tents and have a camping
farms, some specialize in rearing sheep andexperience. You may wish to find out the facilities
chickens, while others have cattle, horses, calvesand amenities available at the farm. Different
and goats. A farmstay provides an abundance ofrooms may have different bed configurations. Not
learning activities and memorable hands-onall rooms come with ensuite facilities; you may
opportunities.have to share the bathroom with other guests.
Things to Do at the FarmUsually, your hosts will have a check-in time. They
You stay can include :may not be able to accommodate early arrivals
1. Feeding and caring for animalsas they may have to spend the day preparing for
2. Learning about breeding horsesyour stay. Farmstays do have their own
3. Planting and harvesting organic vegetablescancellation policy; some require 14 days notice.
4. Gathering the horsesThings to Bring
5. Milking the cows and collecting eggsYou should pack your shoes and clothes according
6. Feeding out the hayto the activities of the farm such as bushwalking,
7. Riding on a tractorhorse riding. You may wish to bring along your
8. Shifting stocksunblock, insect repellent, camera, hat and
9. Watching sheep dogs at worksunglasses.
10. Learning about haymaking and sheep shearingThings to Note
11. Making country wines and jam from wild1. As many of the farms are located in the
berriesmountain regions away from the city, it is best to
12. Making wild craft from berries, teas,find out how you can get there. Find out from the
mushrooms, dyeshosts if they can offer you a pick up or drop off
Other Activities at the Farmservice.
Besides enjoying activities at the farm, your hosts2. You may wish to note if there are any
may offer a drive around the farm with a visit torestrictions on pets.
view the animals reared. Your host may also bring3. Not all farmstays are suitable for children. Do
you for a farm walk. Some hosts are likely tofind out their child policy.
organize sidetrips for you, guided tours or other4. Take note of the types of animals reared at
fun activities such as scuba diving, trekking, forestthe farm if your kids are likely to be sensitive to
walks etc. There are also hosts who are keen tosome animals.
conduct workshops on fun with wool or other5. Find out if there are special activities for the
simple crafts with materials gathered around thekids.
farm.6. Some farmstays do offer long stay or child
Accommodationdiscounts.
Depending on the farm, you may be entitled to7. Don't forget to bring a little gift to thank your
fully self-contained cottages where you can cookhosts for their warm and kind hospitality.
your own meals, while others include a heartyHave a blessed and wonderful vacation.