Nestled in fields and forest, creek and ponds, Thistledown Farm is a 20-acre organic farm on agricultural land reserve. Certified under the Canada/BC Environmental Farm program, and cited by the British Columbia Agricultural Council as one of two farms in the Province for our biodiversity practices, we are also proud members of The Land Conservancy as well as contributors to several non-profit conservation organizations.

Returning to Vancouver Island in 2004 we put our backs to it, and over our first five years planted thousands of cedar and fir in our ‘coastal Douglas-fir’ woodlands habitat. As well as working to restore the orchard and gardens our last five years, along with other ongoing agricultural efforts, have seen us completing renovations of a small barn into a new Guesthouse, and offering stays in our B&B suites.

We’re pleased that in restoring the grounds and buildings we’ve retained our roots as a working farm, and stayed true to the Island’s agricultural heritage. We’re looking for that delicate balance that reflects local ecosystem and community needs, while being a productive farm that provides good, healthy foods for Islanders and visitors alike.

As farmers we are truly land-rich, but darn if cash flows and crop costs don’t make us poor as the proverbial church mice at times. So we both work off-farm too …the land’s peace and tranquillity a reward in itself, it’s seasonal bounty a chance to share the fruits (& veggies) of our labour.

These notes and pictures offer a glimpse of our farm’s nature and attributes. We’d be happy to hear from you if you wish a bit more information, or feel inclined to book a stay and enjoy this wee slice of heaven on earth!