Must-Visit Stops During Your Tour of Washington County's Fiber Farms
Would you love to get out of Saratoga and go on a scenic adventure through the countryside? Right next door to the Spa City is Washington County, a region renowned for its rolling hills, beautiful landscapes, farms, and fiber industry.
During the annual Washington County Fiber Tour in April, a variety of the county's farms open their doors to people who would like to meet the fiber-producing animals and learn how the industry operates. This event is a great opportunity to discover what fiber is all about.
Or, if you're unable to attend the weekend-long tour, consider making your own! Not only is a self-guided fiber tour fun for the whole family, but as you drive from farm to farm, you'll find plenty of great restaurants, shops, and local hotspots to visit along the way.
Please Note: We recommend contacting the fiber farms you'd like to visit ahead of time to ensure they will be open and welcoming people during your planned tour date.
Experience a Day in the Life at Fiber Farms in Southern Washington County
A large number of fiber farms and businesses are located in southern Washington County. 2023 Fiber Tour participants include Alpacas of Haven Hill, 4 E's Farm, Battenkill Fibers Carding and Spinning Mill, Wedding Hill Farm, LLC, Eagle Eye Lane, and Caer Luna Farm.
Visitors can learn about different aspects of the fiber industry at each location, and meet the warm, woolly animals who produce it. Along the way, don't miss out on the following eateries and shops.
The Country Peddler Shoppes: Search for One-of-a-Kind Gifts
Discover a fine collection of distinctive gifts, specialty foods, cool ornaments, and more at The Country Peddler Shoppes in Greenwich. The store features gifts for people young and old, and free coffee and fudge samples are available every day. There is truly something for everyone, so make sure you swing by while on your fiber tour.
Greenwich House of Pizza: Feast on a Few Slices
Step inside the Greenwich House of Pizza and prepare for a delicious and hearty meal. This family-run pizzeria has been making mouthwatering food since 1974, and they use only the freshest and finest ingredients. Check out their selection of pizzas, subs, salads, dinners, and specials, and pick an item that appeals to you.
Betterbee: You Won't Bee-lieve What's in Stock
Dedicated to providing quality products and outstanding customer service, Betterbee is a Greenwich honey farm that attracts beekeepers, crafters, and gift shoppers from all over. Their farm store is open Monday through Saturday and offers a large assortment of items, such as Betterbee hand creams, local honey, honey straws, honey candy, and beeswax candles. You can even shop for candle making supplies, beekeeping books, and more.
Greenwich Village Cafe: Fulfill Your Breakfast Food Cravings
Whether you're in the mood for breakfast or lunch, Greenwich Village Cafe & Bakery is the place to be in southern Washington County. The cafe makes scrumptious breakfast items in the morning, and a wide range of specialty sandwiches, wraps, and burgers for lunch. Enjoy a meal before heading off to the next fiber farm on your list.
Find Fantastic Fiber Products & Farms in Central Washington County
As you tour Washington County, you'll eventually reach the Town of Salem in the central region. This year, some Salem area farms participating in the 2023 Fiber Tour include Fiber Kingdom and Quarry Ridge Alpacas.
If you're planning to spend a few hours in Salem on your fiber tour, then take advantage of your time there by visiting a local restaurant or shop. Relax and rest up before continuing on your fiber-filled adventure.
Battenkill Valley Creamery: Farm Fresh, Homemade Ice Cream
Satisfy your sweet tooth with an easy drive to Battenkill Valley Creamery in Salem, a family dairy farm and creamery store offering some of the best tasting ice cream around. You can enjoy premium soft serve ice cream, custom sundaes, and special creations like Mint Magic and Chocolate Explosion. The creamery also sells fresh milk and products from surrounding farms and businesses, from Mapleland Farms to Argyle Cheese Farmer.
Gardenworks Farm: Explore a Barn That's Brimming with Color
Each spring during the Washington County Fiber Tour, Gardenworks Farm in Salem blooms as annuals and perennials fill their greenhouse, and their barn store gets stocked with wonderful new gifts and products. They are a third generation family farm that specializes in a variety of crops, plants, and flowers. You can also visit them in summer, fall, and winter for more items and activities.
Steininger's: Try a Tempting Croissant Sandwich
Located in the heart of Salem, Steininger's is a family-run cafe that specializes in homemade soups, a variety of entrees, and freshly-baked croissant sandwiches. The restaurant is inside a historic 150-year-old brick building and features both a dining area and a European-style chocolate shop.
After getting a bite to eat, browse the great selection of fine handmade chocolates and indulge in some sweet treats. They offer Chambord Truffles, Hazelnut Gianduja, Grand Marnier Truffles, and more.
Pizza World: Baking Flavorful Pizzas for Over 20 Years
Head over to Pizza World in Salem and sink your teeth into a delicious pizza for lunch. This locally-owned pizza place has been in business for over 20 years, and your satisfaction is their goal. Custom pizzas are available, as well as specialty pies such as Buffalo Chicken and Hawaiian. Other options include calzones, cold subs, burgers, and wings.
Meet the Friendly Farm Animals of Northern Washington County
Dancing Ewe Farm in Granville, Dandy Gander Farm in North Granville, and Simple Pleasures Farm in Hebron await in northern Washington County. During your trip to these communities, you'll find multiple places offering a tasty lunch, a quick snack, or unique products.
The Gold Trout: A Unique, Mettawee Valley Mercantile
While you're in the Granville area, consider exploring the town and seeing the local sights. The downtown area is walkable and home to a variety of hotspots, such as Slate Town Brewing, The Pember, and The Gold Trout, a popular lifestyle boutique and gift shop.
What makes The Gold Trout special is their large collection of hand-picked products, which includes locally-sourced, organic, and eco-friendly items. Browse seasonal decor, home and garden pieces, jewelry, and much more.
Schoony's Country Market: Serving Up Your Deli Favorites
Need a sandwich or snack to take with you on the road? Schoony's Country Market in Granville has what you're looking for. You can order subs, sandwiches, fried foods, pizza, and more from their full-service deli, or pick up a couple items in their grocery section. You won't be disappointed with a trip to this family-owned and operated shop.
Scarlotta’s Car Hop: Enjoy a Classic Car Hop Experience
Scarlotta’s Car Hop in Granville allows you to enjoy great food and ice cream without having to leave the comforts of your car. From shrimp and clam baskets to wraps, quesadillas, burgers, and pizza, there are plenty of menu items to choose from at the car hop. They even have deep fried veggies like batter dipped mushrooms and broccoli & cheese poppers.
In addition to their lunch and dinner food, Scarlotta’s has a full ice cream menu featuring over 20 soft serve flavors, milk shakes, flurries, and sundaes.
Ready to explore the region? Map out your fiber tour and experience the best of Washington County!