Ranch Stays & Farm Tours
Farm Life: Bucolic Ranch Stays, Educational Day Tours, and Pastoral Event Spaces
With its world-class wineries, biodynamic ranches, organic dairy farms and even oyster aquaculture, the North Bay has become a premier destination for agritourism. Our area’s fantastic natural resources coupled with the expertise of those among us who have learned (sometimes over generations) to make the most of our land (and sea!) make for some pretty stellar farm experiences.
Ranch stays and farm tours are a boon to visitors and ranchers alike—the former for the unique perspective they acquire during farm visits and the latter for the added income and community that their visitors bring. For many of our small farmers, the cost of land and housing, climate change, and competition from industrial agriculture have contributed to an already challenging business environment. Agritourism has become a creative way to help farmers make ends meet while allowing their guests to witness firsthand what it takes to produce organic, sustainably-grown food and beverages.
Whether for education, recreation, celebration or simply relaxation, our local farms and ranches that welcome visitors have become some of our area’s most exciting destinations.
STEMPLE CREEK RANCH, TOMALES
HOME TO the Poncia family for four generations, Stemple Creek Ranch spans nearly a thousand rolling acres near the coastal town of Tomales. The family’s California roots were planted in 1897 when patriarch Angelo “Pa Nono” Poncia arrived in nearby Fallon on a steamer from his native Italy. Like many immigrants he found work in the local dairies, then applied his skills and savings to establish his own. Pa Nono’s dairy survived for three generations before transitioning to raising Angus cattle.
Since taking over 15 years ago, Poncia family member Loren and his wife, Lisa, have transformed the ranch. “We started the business under the premise that everything would be grass-fed and -finished, and that we’d sell as directly to consumers as possible,” says Lisa. “We rotationally graze our stock on open pasture from birth to harvest, [and] our animals never see a feedlot. Ever.”
The couple purchased the neighboring property and renovated the barn and two cabins while preserving their historic craftsmanship. Most recently, they renovated a 150-year-old farmhouse that belonged to Loren’s great-aunt, “Zia Loren.” In her honor they call the property Zia’s Farmhouse.
Just a few miles from the ocean, Zia’s Farmhouse (like all Stemple Creek’s lodging options) boasts views of the countryside that stretch for miles. Now fully restored, it features a chef’s kitchen, four bedrooms, four baths, and sleeps up to 10. The Schoolhouse, a smaller farmhouse on the property, is perfect for up to six guests, with two bedrooms, one-and-a-half baths, a full kitchen and beautiful garden. Rustic and cozy, The Cabin (aka the Love Shack) offers expansive views, a private deck with barbecue, kitchenette and cozy sleeping loft, with space for up to four. The Writer’s Cottage has gained a cult following for its sweet space and private outdoor shower, a creative oasis for one or two people.
In addition to private stays, Stemple Creek rents its event barn and sells its products on-site, making it tempting to order some grass-fed beef, lamb or pork, reserve an overnight stay, then grill it up fresh with your favorite vintage from a nearby winery.
BELTANE RANCH, SONOMA
SIX GENERATIONS of Sonoma Valley farmers have planted roots—and vines—in a fertile pocket of land along the western slope of the Mayacamas mountains known as Beltane Ranch. Renowned for its long history of strong female leadership and regenerative farming, Beltane Ranch is now recognized as an Agricultural Preserve. The ranch’s sustainably-farmed vineyard maximizes soil fertility by planting cover crops, using roving chickens to forage for pests, and deploying a flock of sheep (aka “wooly weeders”) to help fertilize the fields. Their stunning 105-acre property, along with their award-winning wines and warm hospitality, has made this ranch especially popular for both day trips and farm stays.
Beltane’s landmark inn features six beautifully appointed bedrooms, each with a private bathroom, signature linens and antique décor. Built in 1892, its manicured gardens with outdoor seating and wraparound terraces welcome guests each morning to breathtaking views of the property, along with a hearty breakfast chef-prepared with fresh, ranch-grown ingredients.
Whether you’re coming for the day or staying overnight, you can opt for a 4×4 tour of the farm, where you’ll learn more about the vineyard’s rich and remarkable history, the viticultural process and regenerative practices. You can meet and feed the grazing team and burros, then enjoy a wine tasting and even a chef-prepared wine-pairing meal board or alfresco dinner.
Custom-designed group events allow you to cater to your occasion and preferences. You can dine on the property or have a picnic prepared and enjoy a day out. The ranch is equipped with ceremony and reception sites, along with a full range of event services and exclusive use of the inn and gardens. Aptly de-scribed in The Telegraph as “bucolic bliss,” Beltane Ranch is a dreamy location for special events or an ideal place to simply sip and savor.
STRAUS HOME RANCH, MARSHALL
IN THE TINY town of Marshall is a property that dreams are made of: a 160-year-old farmhouse with wraparound veranda and climbing roses, red-painted barns, a romantic garden and 166 acres of organic pastures, all surrounded by the beautiful waters of Tomales Bay. It’s no wonder that Straus Home Ranch has become such a popular spot for special events and weekend getaways.
The dairy was purchased by the Straus family in 1941 when parents Bill and Ellen Straus fell in love with the property despite having never even milked a cow. The farm came with 23 Jersey cows, which they named after family and friends.
Siblings Michael, Vivien and Miriam co-own the original ranch, while both dairy and Straus Family Creamery are operated separately by the Straus’ eldest son, Albert, at other locations. At the Home Ranch, guests can experience a walking tour of the farm, learning more about its background and history as well as conservation efforts that have helped to preserve this very special region.
“It’s not just a pretty place,” says Michael. “This area is very special, and so many visionary people have stepped up to protect it throughout the years. We’re all standing on the shoulders of giants.”
In addition to the farmhouse, which can comfortably accommodate up to 10 guests and includes a spacious kitchen, dining table for 12, and pastoral views, the ranch includes a fully renovated historic barn that’s ideal for events.
Vivien Straus also created the now-popular California Cheese Trail, a comprehensive directory of all things cheese. If you enjoy artisanal cheeses, you can pick up a Cheese Trail map at the ranch, or check CheeseTrail.org for suggested driving tours and opportunities to explore nearby cheesemakers for tastings and picnics.
COW TRACK RANCH, NICASIO
COW TRACK Ranch rests on a lush, 500-acre property that sweeps from the floor of the Nicasio Valley to steep slopes overlooking the rolling hills of West Marin. Liz Daniels, a native San Franciscan and former horse trainer, and her husband, Bruce Daniels, a veterinarian, purchased the property in 1986 and raised their daughter Melissa there.
Since her parents ‘ passing in recent years, Melissa has become the sole proprietor of the ranch, managing the cattle, the land and the properties. “I vaccinate my cattle, build fences, maintain the water systems. I do it all. Luckily, I had a dad who taught me all about the cattle, while Mom taught me all about the produce. I’m fortunate to have had such good teachers. I wouldn’t be here without them.”
The Daniels family has always loved sharing their passion for agriculture. “Even before farmstays were a thing, my dad would take people out to feed the cows. My mom would teach them how to plant seeds in the field.” These days you can enjoy the opportunity to stay at one of two top-rated guest houses and also cook up a delicious meal with their homegrown beef and pasture-raised eggs.
Crafted from recycled barn wood with hardwood floors throughout, the rustic Bunk House is furnished for homey comfort for up to five guests and offers glimpses of the Black Angus and Texas Longhorn cattle that graze free-range nearby. The bright, cozy Guest House is perfect for two, with a spacious master bedroom, wraparound porch and expansive views of the ranch.
Cow Track’s Reception Barn features a versatile open interior and a built-in stage for entertainment, along with a fully equipped catering kitchen in the adjacent space. With its tastefully appointed collection of antique gold mirrors, crystal chandeliers and bistro lighting, the bam transforms into a celebratory oasis for milestone celebrations.
“We believe in a full-circle experience for our guests—from lodging to cuisine. Our simple wish is to have the next generation get involved, learn the many wonderful things about ranching, and leave with a full heart—with memories to share.”
HEIDRUN MEADERY, POINT REYES STATION
Long considered the drink of kings, mead is the world’s oldest alcoholic beverage, and Heidrun Meadery has played a significant role in its resurgence throughout the Bay Area. Founder Gordon Hull, a geologist-turned-brewer, began crafting sparkling wines from honey in 1995 and has since expanded his one-man enterprise into a thriving business in Point Reyes Station.
Each Saturday, the Meadery offers private tours, including an opportunity to explore the bee forage farmscape, observe honeybees actively harvesting flower nectar and sample the distinctive flavors of single-varietal meads with a guided tasting flight. For a more hands-on visit, sign up for Heidrun’s flower-to-flute Bee Experienced tour led by Heidrun’s resident beekeepers. After donning a beekeeping suit, you’ll learn how to pull honey-laden frames from the hive and even extract a jar of honey to take with you. Afterwards, you’ll learn how to make honey into mead, then relax with an expert-led mead tasting. Reservations are required for both tours.
FOOD & FARM TOURS, MARIN & SONOMA COUNTIES
FROM OLIVE OIL and goat-milk cheese to organic wines and small-batch spirits, Food & Farm Tours bring guests to the source not only to sample locally grown and produced specialties, but also to experience the flourishing sustainable and regenerative agricultural scene in the North Bay.
“By taking a tour with us, you are contributing to the preservation of the local agrarian economy,” says owner Alexandra Fox, a third-generation San Franciscan.
They offer public tours ideal for individuals and groups of up to eight. Their most popular, Flavors of Point Reyes, includes tastings at a variety of farms, fresh-baked pastries, a seafood-style lunch, champagne-style honey wine and more. Another popular tour, especially during the springtime baby animal season, is the Cheese Lover’s Tour. You’ll visit private dairies, learn directly from the cheesemakers, cuddle the animals and, of course, sample a variety of award-winning cheeses, along with local charcuterie, woodfired baguettes, seasonal fruit and honey wine.
Food & Farm Tours offers customized tours, too, and will work with you to arrange a day trip to remember—a feast for both the palate and the spirit.
HOG ISLAND OYSTERS, MARSHALl
SINCE PLANTING their first oyster seed in Tomales Bay in 1983, Hog Island Oyster Co. has become one of the premier producers of certified sustainable shellfish, harvesting over five million oysters and Manila clams each year. While you can enjoy fresh oysters at their popular Bay Area restaurants, you’ll gain a far deeper appreciation by booking a tour at their oyster farm in Marshall on the bank of Tomales Bay.
The Classic Farm Tour lasts about 75 minutes and shares the essentials of how oysters are farmed, the marine environment in which they grow and gives a hands-on demonstration on how to safely shuck and taste an oyster. Afterwards, plan lunch at The Boat Oyster Bar or Tony’s Seafood to enjoy some more fresh oysters (reservations required).
The 3-hour Whole Hog Experience takes a deeper dive into oyster aquaculture. Not only will you observe how oysters are farmed, you’ll also observe how Hog Island uses sustainable aquaculture techniques to raise their shellfish. After learning to shuck oysters like a pro (with tools you get to take home), you’ll discover the subtle differences in flavors through an oyster tasting.
REDWOOD HILL FARM, SEBASTOPOL
WHAT BEGAN AS a 4-H project blossomed into one of the country’s most beloved yogurt brands when Redwood Hill Farm founder Jennifer Bice started raising and showing goats on her family’s Sebastopol dairy farm. More than 50 years later, Bice still over-sees the daily operation of her farm—the first Certified Humane<sup>® </sup>goat dairy in the United States.
The summer months are a wonderful time to visit. Available by advance reservation only, farm tours last 1½ hours and are usually guided by one of the farm’s family members. You can focus on the adorable babies on “kid cuddle days,” learn how to milk a goat and/or explore the sustainable farm, which includes tracking solar arrays, rainwater catchment and regenerative farming.
Home to about 80 milking goats, Redwood Hill Farm also features an olive grove producing extra virgin olive oil, fruit orchards, a field producing unique cut flowers, vegetable gardens and a flock of laying chickens—lots to see! Spend a day on the farm with these personable and capricious dairy goats to support this pioneering farm.
POINT REYES FARMSTEAD CHEESE CO, POINT REYES STATION
WHEN BOB AND DEAN Giacomini first purchased their dairy farm in 1959, their goal was to sell the very best milk to the local creamery. However, after 30 successful years in the business, their herd had grown to over 500 cows, which created too much stress on the land’s natural resources. With the help of their four daughters, they transitioned into cheesemaking starting with their first wheels of Original Blue, California’s only classic-style blue cheese. They’ve since expanded their award-winning collection of cheeses to include Toma, Bay Blue, Gouda and Quinta among others.
The Fork, the Creamery’s on-site culinary and education center, offers guests an incredible dining experience while learning about sustainable farming and artisan cheesemaking. Reserve a seat for brunch or dinner, both served family style and made with fresh, locally-sourced ingredients. Or, you can attend a Cheese Lovers Tasting, which includes a plentiful cheeseboard with a collection of housemade accompaniments.
For the full experience, reserve the Cheese Lovers Tasting with Walking Farm Tour to learn firsthand about the dairy’s history, meet the on-site herd, and then enjoy an abundant cheese board hosted by your personal cheese concierge, along with a delicious assortment of kitchen bites. For an added fee, they will provide a seasonal chef’s lunch, all made from locally-sourced, seasonal ingredients. Private events for both personal and corporate patrons are also available.
If your time is limited and you want to simply stop by, visit Point Reyes Farmstead Creamery’s on-site shop for some takeaway goodies.
