Charming country stay: Discover sustainable life at Ferme Butte & Bine Farm

Laurie Weir

Ferme Butte & Bine Farm offers more than just a place to stay, it's a commitment to sustainable living and eco-friendly practices.

The charming 1812 farmhouse is located in Williamstown and offers a micro-bakery and farm stay, blending history, nature, and modern comforts, creating the perfect retreat for your next getaway.

Emeric and Sylviane, the dedicated owners of Ferme Butte & Bine Farm, bring many experiences and values.

Enjoy private suites with porch or patio entrances, ample parking, and access to complimentary bicycles and snowshoes for exploring the picturesque surroundings. The farm’s outdoor tables and fire pits provide ideal settings for gatherings and relaxation amidst nature’s beauty.

“During their stay, guests will experience different things based on the season and our availability during their stay,” Sylviane says. “We are an operating farm and micro-bakery, so we cannot always provide the same time commitment to all guests. In the low season, guests can sign up for intimate sourdough classes with Emeric and learn the ins and outs of sourdough over two days.”

Sylviane says they always strive to maintain a near-zero-waste experience for guests.

“We provide guests with local-made organic soap by Ground Soap, refill the shampoo and conditioner at the Local Fill refillery, provide our homegrown herbal tea, local coffee from Totem Roaster, teas from A Cup of Kindness, local and non-toxic linen sprays and bath bombs. We do not provide disposable items,” she explains.

Guests can wander the beautiful property, see the organically grown, regenerative market garden, see the chickens, and admire the original buildings and hedgerows of their 19th-century farmstead. Countless species of flora and fauna thrive here, which guests have observed over the years.

“When we have time, we bring guests to help collect the eggs or have them help in the garden. Our children are especially good at offering farm tours if they are around!”

MORE ABOUT YOUR STAY

ROOM 1 - Pet Friendly: Ideal for small families or couples travelling with pets, The Suite (Pet Friendly) accommodates two adults and one child. Featuring a queen bed, a kitchenette for preparing meals, and a private screened veranda overlooking the orchard, it offers a serene retreat. Pet-friendly amenities ensure furry companions are welcomed with care and comfort.

ROOM 2 - The Modern Room: Perfect for shorter stays, the modern room accommodates two adults and two children. With a double bed and a queen pull-out couch, it combines comfort with modern amenities. The spacious tile shower and expansive windows immerse guests in nature, creating a relaxing environment for families and couples alike.

Kickstart your day with a delicious homemade breakfast featuring the farm’s signature organic sourdough waffles or sourdough bread with homemade jams and local maple syrup. Accommodating various dietary preferences, including vegan options, ensures fresh, nourishing meals sourced directly from the farm.

“Our Raclette platter is quite popular in the colder months with our guests, featuring delicious raclette cheese from Glengarry Fine Cheese in nearby Lancaster,” Sylviane says. “In the summer, our grazing board is full of local products and fresh-picked produce and fruits from the gardens, including our sourdough goods, of course.” 

Guests can enhance the outdoor experience with curated picnic bags or platters, showcasing local delicacies, and farm-made breads. These offerings highlight the best of the farm’s organic produce and regional flavours.

“We believe in transparency and fostering meaningful connections with our guests. Questions and visits are encouraged, allowing us to share our farming journey and learn from each interaction,” they say. “Continuous improvement in our methods ensures we uphold our commitment to environmental stewardship and community engagement.”

MEET YOUR HOSTS

Emeric’s upbringing on Corsica's rugged coastline and Sylviane's childhood on a quaint farm in Sarsfield, Ont., combined with a decade in British Columbia, shaped their deep connection to organic, sustainable agriculture. Their journey from urban farming in Vancouver to settling near family in Ontario underscores their commitment to ethical farming practices.

Integral to the farm’s daily operations is Nathalie, Emeric’s mother, affectionately known as the "force tranquille." Her diligent work in tending to the land and nurturing the family's vision ensures Ferme Butte & Bine Farm thrives. Her presence underscores the farm’s familial atmosphere and commitment to sustainable stewardship.

At Ferme Butte & Bine Farm, the approach to gardening is rooted in regenerative, organic, and permaculture principles. While not certified organic, their methods reflect a dedication to sustainable agriculture. Visitors are welcome by appointment to witness the sustainable farming practices firsthand and enjoy the fruits of our labour.

 

We are committed to operating with minimal waste.

 

TRAVELLER TIPS

Connectivity: Embrace the opportunity to disconnect, and reconnect with nature during your stay at Ferme Butte & Bine Farm. While mobile reception may be limited, the serene setting encourages guests to unwind and enjoy the present.

Farm life: As a working family farm, guests are invited to observe seasonal activities in the market garden and witness the owners’ commitment to sustainable agriculture firsthand.

Meals and privacy: Guests enjoy privacy in their accommodations, with meals served directly to each room or for outdoor enjoyment.

What to pack: Embrace casual attire suitable for outdoor exploration, a favourite book for leisurely farmhouse moments, and a camera to capture scenic views and farm life. Don’t forget the bug spray for those summer stays.

Best time to visit: Spring and summer showcase vibrant landscapes and abundant harvests from the gardens. In the winter, there is quick access to kilometres of groomed cross-country and fat biking trails at Summerstown Trails. 

Market goodness: Check out local farmers and artisanal markets. People can find Ferme Butte & Bine Farm products when Sylviane and Emeric attend the market, at the farm window in winter (soon in the café) or at their self-serve farmstand at the end of the road.

What’s coming? “We have a really exciting project for the future! By the end of the summer, we will start the construction of our Farm Café, an expansion of our sourdough micro-bakery to a brick-and-mortar café local and travellers alike will be able to visit for the best coffee, pastries, and sourdough in SD&G! This new space will allow us to host more sourdough classes.”

How to get there: The farm is at 5857 Glen Brook Road, Williamstown. It’s five minutes from the 401, an hour from Ottawa, and an hour from Montreal. The farm provides both accessibility and seclusion.

WHAT’S CLOSE BY?

Escape to Ferme Butte & Bine Farm, where every stay supports sustainable farming practices and celebrates local, organic goodness. Book your stay today and discover the perfect blend of relaxation, adventure, and eco-friendly hospitality.

“We look forward to welcoming you to Ferme Butte & Bine Farm, where sustainable luxury and natural beauty converge for an unforgettable farm-to-table experience.”