Embrace the restorative power of nature and rural tranquility with a unique farm stay experience. It's a well-established notion that immersion in natural surroundings and interaction with animals can profoundly benefit mental well-being, akin to Japanese forest bathing or the Dutch practice of 'cow hugging.' Imagine waking to vast flower fields and peaceful herds, all without the demands of tending to a farm yourself.
As summer gently fades into autumn, now is the opportune moment to secure a serene countryside escape. Airbnb showcases an abundance of pastoral havens throughout the United States, from the majestic Mission Mountains of Montana to the verdant Hudson Valley in New York. Consider a stay on a Blue Ridge Mountain farm in Virginia, where you might find solace among resident sheep, or spend enchanting evenings amidst olive groves in Joshua Tree as the sun sets. If such an experience calls to you, explore these premier Airbnb farm stays across the country, each carefully selected for their Superhost status, guest ratings, bespoke amenities, desirable location, captivating decor, and positive reviews.
In the heart of Crozet, Virginia, a charming cottage awaits at the foot of Shenandoah National Park. This two-bedroom retreat, nestled on a sprawling 400-acre Blue Ridge Mountain farm, is a favorite among travel editors. Mornings here are filled with the symphony of birds and the gentle hum of cicadas. Guests can interact with sheep and a pony named Sampson, and even encounter a herd of cows further up the hill. The essence of simple living is palpable, whether swinging in a hammock beneath ancient elm trees or enjoying a game of badminton. As one delighted guest noted, "I've never drank whiskey next to a fire alongside a sheep before, but I'd definitely like to do that again.”
Further west, in Ronan, Montana, a modern cabin offers unparalleled solitude. Surrounded by vast prairies and stunning mountains, where cattle outnumber people, this property is an ideal launchpad for exploring the nearby National Bison Range or Glacier National Park. After a day of exhilarating hikes, unwind in the private sauna and marvel at the breathtaking vistas of the Mission Mountains. As night falls, the firepit provides a perfect setting for stargazing, with previous visitors reporting sightings of shooting stars.
In New York’s picturesque Hudson Valley, specifically in Montgomery, a charming tiny home invites guests to partake in a variety of farm activities. From late July to September, visitors can pick their own bouquets from vibrant flower fields or observe goats, sheep, cows, and chickens. Fishing enthusiasts can enjoy the ponds, and after a day of outdoor adventures, an invigorating outdoor shower awaits. Evenings can be spent by an outdoor fire, roasting s'mores, or enjoying a movie under the stars with a projector. The quaint town of Montgomery, with its new pickleball courts, is just a three-minute drive away, and the Angry Orchard Cider House is a mere ten minutes distant.
For those who appreciate fine olive oil, a private five-acre estate in Joshua Tree, California, is an unmissable destination. This property boasts over a thousand flourishing olive trees and is just a 40-minute drive from Joshua Tree National Park. This two-bedroom sanctuary is perfect for unwinding after a day of hiking, whether with a refreshing dip in the stock tank pool or a friendly game of bocce ball. The fully equipped kitchen, generously supplied with the farm’s own olive oil, makes preparing meals a delight, best savored at the large picnic table nestled within the olive grove. The hosts go above and beyond, offering unique local experiences such as rock climbing, dune buggy rides, and donkey treks.
In Harrison, Arkansas, a storybook cottage nestled amidst meticulously maintained gardens in rural Boone County promises a tranquil escape. Its farmhouse-chic interiors, featuring post and beam ceilings, floral upholstery, and barn doors, evoke dreams of an idyllic prairie life. Spend your days reading outdoors, lulled by the soothing sounds of a garden waterfall, or take leisurely walks through the surrounding Oak Front Acres farm. Guests have delighted in encounters with Texas Longhorn cattle, chickens, and even curious horses peering into bedroom windows.
Finally, in Cashiers, North Carolina, the historic Heady Mountain Cabin, dating back to 1890, offers a peaceful sanctuary near Nantahala National Forest. The rustic wooden interiors, complemented by luxurious spa-quality linens and plush bathrobes, create an atmosphere of unparalleled comfort. Far from distractions, guests might find inspiration for watercolor painting in the dedicated workspace or forge connections with the resident horses, Bo and Fancy. A standout feature is the outdoor patio bathroom, boasting an open-air shower and a clawfoot soaking tub, perfect for an intimate connection with nature.
These curated farm stays provide more than just accommodation; they offer a chance to reset, recharge, and rediscover the simple pleasures of life. From the gentle rhythms of farm animals to the stunning natural backdrops, each location invites guests to slow down and savor moments of genuine connection with the land. Such journeys serve as a powerful reminder of the profound impact that natural environments can have on our well-being, fostering a deeper appreciation for the rural beauty of America.