Global Agritourism Strategies to Boost Your Aussie Farm Business
Hello, fellow agri-enthusiasts! Whether you're knee-deep in cattle or up to your elbows in grapevines, there's no denying the charm and potential of agritourism. With its growing popularity worldwide, let's take a leaf out of some international playbooks and see how we can adapt these strategies here in regional Australia.
Here are three of the best agritourism strategies from around the globe that can give your Australian farm a fresh boost.
1. Italy’s Agritourismo: A Taste of La Dolce Vita
Italy’s agritourismo is the gold standard of farm-based tourism. Tourists flock to the picturesque countryside to stay in farmhouses, enjoy home-cooked meals, and participate in farm activities. Imagine your guests picking olives, crushing grapes, or even making pasta from scratch.
Example: In Tuscany, Fattoria di Corsignano offers guests a hands-on wine-making experience. You could easily adapt this by offering a "Make Your Own Wine" weekend where visitors get to stomp grapes and take home their personalized bottle. Cheers to that! 🍷
2. Japan’s Farm Stays: Embracing Tradition and Modernity
In Japan, agritourism blends traditional farming with modern experiences. Visitors enjoy activities like rice planting, harvesting, and tea ceremonies. This fusion of old and new offers a unique cultural experience.
Example: At Asuka Village, tourists participate in traditional rice planting and learn about ancient farming techniques. For your farm, consider setting up seasonal events where guests can help with the harvest or learn to prepare traditional Australian bush tucker. They’ll leave with dirty hands and happy hearts!
3. USA’s Farm-to-Table Movement: From Soil to Supper
The farm-to-table movement in the USA emphasizes fresh, local, and sustainable food. Agritourism businesses offer tours that end in a meal made with ingredients straight from the farm. It's a culinary journey that appeals to foodies everywhere.
Example: Blue Hill at Stone Barns in New York offers farm tours followed by a gourmet meal at their on-site restaurant. You could invite visitors to a tour of your veggie patches, followed by a hearty meal showcasing your farm's produce. Remember, nothing tastes better than food made with love and local ingredients.
By incorporating these tried-and-true strategies, you can create an unforgettable agritourism experience that keeps guests coming back for more.
Ready to turn your farm into a global destination? Let’s get growing! 🌱
Join Susan's network on Linked In where she writes about tourism trends, shares industry information and publishes articles. Many agritourism business growth strategies are covered in more detailed in Susan's book Booked Out! How to Start and Grow A Successful Regional Tourism Business.
