Private forest wellness retreats near Ottawa
200 Acres · Almonte, Ontario
The Farm
More Than a
Backdrop
Stardew Valley Farm is a 200-acre working farm and forest property in the Mississippi River valley, 25 minutes from Ottawa. The retreats sit within the property — not beside it. When you step outside your door, you're already in the forest.
The land has been farmed for over 150 years. The old barn still stands at the edge of the meadow. The trails wind through mixed forest and across open meadow fields. Wildlife — deer, turkeys, groundhogs, foxes — move through the property year-round.
The property is shaped by its seasons more than most. Winter turns the forest white and silent. Spring brings mud, birdsong, and vivid green almost overnight. Summer evenings stretch past 9pm. Fall fills the hardwoods with amber and rust. Each season is worth experiencing — and each one changes what the farm feels like to be in.
On the Property
The Trails
The Meadow Loop
~1.2 kmEasy · Flat · Mowed grass
A flat, easy loop through open meadow. The ground is level and the path is mowed — the most accessible walk on the property. Especially peaceful in early morning or evening light when wildlife is most active.
The Forest Loop
~2.4 kmModerate · Former riding trails · Some uneven ground
A longer trail following the property's original horse-riding paths through mixed forest. The terrain is modest but more varied than the meadow route — expect some uneven ground and tree roots. A dedicated picnic area is planned along this loop.
The Wetland Loop
Coming 2026Under development — not yet open
This trail is currently under development and is not yet open to guests. When complete, it will pass through wetter ground and more varied terrain — the most adventurous route on the property, with a narrower, more natural feel.
All trails are open year-round and free to use. They are not maintained in winter — expect snow, ice, and uneven ground from December through March. Snowshoes are recommended in winter but are not provided; please bring your own.
The Wildlife
Who Shares the Land
The farm is home to deer, wild turkeys, groundhogs, foxes, and a wide variety of birds. Wildlife sightings are common across all seasons — and always a welcome part of the stay.
Silence & Steam
Winter transforms the farm into a monochrome world of white. The forest trails disappear under a foot of snow, wild turkeys move in small flocks through the cedar stands, and the only sound is the creak of frozen branches. Your cedar hot tub steams against the cold air — the contrast between icy stillness and warm water is the whole point.
Peak season: December – March · Best for: hot tub soaks, snowshoeing (bring your own), stargazing
Mud Season & New Growth
Spring arrives slowly in Almonte. The snow retreats in patches, the fields turn from brown to vivid green almost overnight, and the farm comes alive with birdsong. Wild turkeys return to the open meadows, and the forest trails soften underfoot. It's the quietest season for guests — and the most intimate.
Peak season: April – May · Best for: birdwatching, wildflower walks, early morning quiet
Fawns & Long Evenings
Summer evenings stretch past 9pm. Deer families — does with spotted fawns — graze under the old apple trees at dusk. The forest canopy is full and green, the trails are dry and easy to walk, and the hot tub becomes a place to cool down after a warm afternoon rather than warm up against the cold. Fireflies appear in late June.
Peak season: June – August · Best for: evening walks, wildlife watching, outdoor dining
Frost & Colour
The first frost arrives in October, coating the branches in white crystals before the sun burns them off. The hardwood forest turns amber and rust. The old barn — a landmark on the property since the 1800s — stands against the mist. Fall is the most photogenic season on the farm, and the one that fills the calendar fastest.
Peak season: September – November · Best for: foliage, photography, cozy evenings
Stay in the
Forest
Two private retreats with cedar hot tubs, set within the farm. Book directly for the best availability.
Looking Ahead
The Land Ahead
The farm is still growing. A few things in the works for guests who want to stay tuned.
Stay in the loop
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