Enjoy the change in the seasons during the fall months with a visit to one of several farms in North County. Take advantage of apples and other farm-fresh fruits and vegetables during your visit. You can also get a peek of the various animals that call these farms home and some unique additions that you may not expect to find!
Peacefield Boutique Orchard and Home Garden
Located on Wynola Road in Julian, the Peacefield Boutique Orchard and Home Garden is the perfect stop if you want to learn more about the origins of what ends up on your table.
Image: facebook.com/peacefieldorchard
Schedule a Grower-Led Orchard and Farm Tour and learn more about how apples and pears grow as well as how the soil is nurtured. When you take the tour you’ll be able to harvest, eat, and take home any produce that’s currently in season. While you’re there visit the chickens and turkeys that help with bug control. The orchard is also available for farm to table events as well as photo shoots and other events.
Apples and Art Orchards
If you’re looking for more than just apple picking then the Apples and Art Orchards located on Julian Orchards Drive in Julian needs to be part of your fall itinerary.
Image:http://www.applesandartorchards.com/
For only $12 you get to pick about five pounds of apples. The Apples and Art Orchard prides itself on having only pesticide-free apples. Here you not only get to pick apples, but get a tour of the orchard where you learn some interesting apple facts. Did you know the average American eats 45 pounds of apples every year? The owner of the orchard will share facts like that and many others during your 20 minute tour. When you’re done picking apples, go inside and make your very own apple cider! The owner prepares the hand-crank apple press and apples. Once you’re done, sample the sweet fruits of your labor. Be sure to call ahead to make a reservation.
Julian Mining Company
At the Julian Mining Company located on State Highway 48 in Julian, you can combine an afternoon of apple picking with gold panning and gem mining.
Image:www.facebook.com/JulianMining
It’s a unique combination that you’ll find only at the Julian Mining Company. Large groups and field trip classes can also go on an American History themed tour like a Civil War or Revolutionary War tour. There are also farm tours where you can learn about life on the farm. If you just want to pick your own fruit, you can do that as well and take advantage of what’s in season. There are activities for everyone in the family at the Julian Mining Company.
Summers Past Farms
From herbs to lavender to natural products, the >Summers Past Farms on Olde Highway 80 in Flinn Springs, offers something for everyone. Visit the herb gardens and also catch a glimpse of nature while you’re out there.
Image: facebook.com/summerspast
From butterflies to birds, you never know what will be waiting for you as you walk through the gardens. Tour the barn shoppe for a collection of home décor and products like homemade bath and skin products. You can also sign up for classes and workshops that are offered regularly. Relax and take in all the great views from the outdoor coffee bar as well. There is plenty to see and do during your visit to Summers Past Farms.
Apple Starr Orchard
Organic apples and pears are ripe for the picking at Apple Starr Orchard along Julian Orchard Drive in Julian.
The orchard is open every weekend from 10am-5pm for picking and you don’t need a reservation. Just take a ride and check out the dozens of apple and pear trees. While many of the branches are low for kids to pick their apples, picking poles are available for the higher branches. You can also bring along a wagon if you’d like. After you’re done picking your fruit, relax in one of the picnic areas. Remember to bring along chairs and blankets.
Make it a point to visit one or all of these farms during the fall season to see San Diego in all of its splendor.
