Agriculture-South – Vermont Tourism Network

Since 1837, the waters, fields, and restorative qualities of Retreat Farm have been a source of restoration, knowledge, recreation, and innovation.

The scenic Farm is located in the heart of Brattleboro and is a principal gateway to the Green Mountain state for travelers from New England and metropolitan New York.

Retreat Farm is working to revitalize the Farm, restore its forests, soils, waters, and historic structures. This summer, Retreat Farm’s expansive outdoor campus and trails will be transformed into a public park for you to explore.

Viewable from many angles, Carlos the Ox along with the farm’s entertaining cast of goats, sheep, pigs, and chickens will take center stage in the park as they rotationally graze on pastures around the property.

Retreat Farm is also home to the nine-mile Retreat Trails network and Meadows waterway, which offers year-round outdoor recreation. The Woodlands Interpretive Trail, along with the Retreat Trails network will be updated with new wayfinding signage so you can easily and safely enjoy the wooded area. Young families can enjoy the Storybook Walk on Little Lamb Loop with a new story every few weeks.

In Farmhouse Square, new interpretive signs will highlight the history of the Farm, along with an arts pathway inside the hall of the North Barn, and outdoor sculpture.

Throughout the summer, a new poetry trail and labyrinth with native wildflowers are planned to be installed to help set your soul at ease.

We will also be using Retreat Farm’s agricultural lands to grow over 6,000 pounds of field crops and raise 2,000 pounds pastured poultry and pork to share with people in need. In collaboration with Wild Carrot Farm and other local farms, we are distributing food through our Emergency Food Pantry, a new “Pay What You Can’ Farmstand, and through food donations to the Vermont Foodbank and Foodworks.