Wakefield Alpacas
In the movie One Hundred and One Dalmatians one of the puppies remarks about Cruella DeVil “She’s gonna make coats out of us” and it’s all very sad and ominous, but when this comment is applied to alpacas, it’s a happy thing because the alpacas don’t have to die, and people get to have coats. More importantly they offer wheelchair accessible tours (please call in advance for availability) and you can visit the Country Alpaca Store.
http://www.wakefieldalpacas.com/
4265 Sunrise Road, Duncan. (250) 748-1769.
Hazelwood Herb Farm
They have over 450 kinds of herbs. I didn’t even know there were that many herbs. You’re invited to wander through the gardens, purchase plants in the seedling house, and shop for bath products, specialty vinegars, chutneys, mustards, teas and lots more. Group classes in soap making, gardening, skin care and cooking are also available.
13576 Adshead Rd, Ladysmith. (250) 245-8007.
Fairburn Farm. (Heritage Farm)
North America’s only herd of genuine River Buffalo, and after that scuffle with the government it’s apparent why. Anyway, everyone is saying that Buffalo mozzarella is wonderful. So, check it out.
www.fairburnfarm.bc.ca
3310 Jackson Rd, Duncan. (250) 746-4637.
Dragonfly Dreaming
Dragonfly Dreaming grows organic lavender and herbs, and then makes its own (ethical) beauty line. So do a farm tour, see how the stuff is made or book a session and have a personalized natural perfume made for you.
Cobble Hill. (250) 743-8036.
Westcott Farm (Heritage Farm)
Who can turn down Black Welsh Mountain Sheep with long tails and blue tongues? Probably no one, except maybe vegetarians. Get your sheepskins, woolly things, and organic meats of all kinds (sausage, mutton, pies, wild turkey) here.
6691 Westcott Road , Duncan. (250) 748-5698.
Providence Farm (Heritage Farm)
“A therapeutic community” for individuals facing barriers to education and employment due to mental health problems, developmental disabilities and head injuries. They also produce wonderful vegetables, fruits, eggs and plants. Check out the store, walk around the rose garden, taste some produce, or volunteer.
1843 Tzouhalem Rd, Duncan. (250) 746-4204.
Code’s Corner Emu Farm
The emu meat is tasty and healthy and organic. Also there are skin care products made from emu oil, which I was once advised by a construction worker make your whole body feel like a baby’s bum (if that’s appealing to you). Better than that, emus are really cool looking. Tours can be made with an appointment. students and seniors: $3, adults: $5, and children under ten are free.
746-1593. 5816 Menzies Road, Duncan.
Stonefield Farm
Naturally raised beef, turkey, pork, lamb, chicken and eggs. Also try the gourmet salad greens, lettuce, bush beans, herbs and edible flowers like the ones my great aunt used to make me eat as a child.
(250) 743-3861 1114 Deerwood Place. Mill Bay.
Hilary’s Fine Cheeses & Cheese Point Farm
When I was in Asia, and there was no readily available cheese, I used to dream about a place like this. Good cheese, all kinds.
1282 Cherry Point Road , Cowichan Bay. (250) 715-0563.
The Asparagus Farm
They cut fresh asparagus every single day.
(250)743-5073. 1550 Robson Lane. Cobble Hill