Revolve Farms: stay and discover the power of simple pleasures

Claire Cole and Matt England are living their dream at Revolve Farms. The property near Lombardy feels magical the moment you drive up the laneway; history is intertwined with a slower pace, conscious thoughtfulness, and unique natural elements highlighted in every aspect of the accommodations and dining experience.

That’s Revolve Farms at the core: a property shaped by homesteaders and dreamers alike which exudes a feeling of calm and nurturing - both of the land and of the people who stay there.

Claire and Matt now welcome guests to the historic property to embrace the peacefulness found in the gardens and the connection that can be forged in sharing meals together. It’s a dream that has carefully come to reality for the couple after years of learning, experiencing, and working hard to build the life they coveted. 

Getting there…

After meeting while working in the restaurant industry in Toronto, the pair travelled together, gaining knowledge about natural building and permaculture principles while experiencing different cultures. Spending several years in Central America, they worked at an eco-hostel in Guatemala which ended up fueling their current lifestyle. “We were inspired by communal dining, unique accommodations and the feeling of a nature retreat,” Claire said.

When they returned to Canada, they lived in Ottawa until Covid forced them to pivot in the best way: they left the city to work and live at Ironwood Organics in Athens. “There we were mentored by Mary and Chris and inspired by their commitment to environmental practices, growing healthful grains and milling organic flour while stewarding a beautiful farm,” she said, adding that they fell in love with growing food with health and sustainability in mind and then sharing it with families.

They soon started looking at local properties so they could create unique experiences to enjoy nature and farm-to-table dining. They happened upon the farm in Rideau Lakes, and although the grounds and home needed a lot of work, they saw the potential to create accommodations and gardens. “We found our current property and were blown away by the buildings and natural elements and an indescribable feeling that this place was special,” she said. Fast forward two years of learning and building and they welcomed their first guests.

Envision yourself here

The property is surrounded by lush forest, and there is an immediate feeling of calm and wonder when exploring the grounds. “The heritage barn, original log cabin, and stone buildings create a sense of history, and the whole property has a magical cottage feel,” Claire said. “The gardens we have created and expanded host native species and heirloom varieties which we care for organically, always with the health of the environment and our guests top of mind.”

Nestled into the land is the log cabin, built in the mid-1800s, which has been renovated to add modern comforts while maintaining heritage details and preserving the simplicity of the farmhouse. With a private entrance, cozy living room, two queen bedrooms and a spa-inspired bathroom, guests are free to roam the expansive grounds and gardens to observe how food grows, as well as the little creatures and pollinators who are an integral part of the ecosystem. 

“All the spaces have been curated thoughtfully with relaxation, play and coziness in mind, Claire said. “Many of the items are thrifted or restored and we feel this adds to the charm and belief that every item has a story. We hope our guests feel recharged, inspired by nature and a sense of joy in the small wonders of this place.”

For an added, unforgettable touch, a farm fresh breakfast is offered with every stay as well as an option for dinner featuring produce from the farm and other local producers. “We wish for guests to feel cared for while they are here, and these meal offerings are another way for people to connect with each other and leave the details to us,” she said. 

In the kitchen

Revolve Farms offers private dining experiences which involve Matt, who is a Le Cordon Bleu trained chef, transforming ingredients from the farm into elevated and approachable dishes. Groups of eight to 20 people can be hosted in the stunning timber-framed event space which feels like a 5-star dining experience but still casual with attention to detail.

“Food is a love language and we treat it that way when we grow, harvest, prepare and ultimately present a plate to our guests,” Claire said. “Matt’s passion and creativity are easily observed through every dish.”

By highlighting seasonal and local ingredients, they hope to connect people to the food, farmers and incredible abundance of this place. While they are happy to work with guests on creating a custom menu, typically the menu is unknown when the guests arrive to add to the experience and excitement!

Welcoming workshops

Revolve Farms also hosts a variety of workshops throughout the year, including yoga, wellness retreats, flower bouquet and wreath making, with plans to expand these offerings in years to come. The calling card of an event at Revolve Farms is the personal touch, with it being obvious that Claire and Matt truly love connecting with guests in their space.

“We chose this place, this lifestyle and this business because we wanted to attune to the

rhythms of nature and take care of our health, in all senses of the word,” she said. Having worked in fast-paced, stressful jobs, it was important to them to create space for slowing down, Claire said. “We try to make informed decisions on products we use and put a lot of effort and care into building things that will last.” 

Daily tasks such as collecting colourful eggs from their free range chickens or harvesting vegetables and preserving them for winter enjoyment are small moments that build into a life of thoughtful consumption, Claire said, noting that a mindset of curiosity and care of the individual can do a lot to improve the earth and their place in it.

“This business is and will continue to be an evolving project as new connections form and

inspiration arrives,” Claire said. “It’s a true reflection of our values, creative vision and desire to live close to nature - and we’re having a lot of fun along the way.”

Find Revolve Farms near Lombardy, at Revolve Farms online or by connecting on socials; FB @RevolveFarms or on Instagram @revolvefarms.ca.