Furnace Falls Farm Retreat
Wendy Banks, Owner
www.furnacefallsfarm.com
504 Old Briar Hill Road, Lyndhurst ON, K0E 1N0
613-928-2477
Tell us about yourself! Hobbies? Fun facts? How did you get started?
I am a proud sixth-generation farmer who was born and raised in this area. I have always had a passion for the agriculture industry and our community. I started selling sweet corn when I was just five years old, and I have gone from the young dreamer at Wendy's WigWam to the mature woman who is the face of Wendy's Country Market today. The store, which is located just outside of Lyndhurst, is an old-fashioned country market filled with food from over 70 area producers. It is from this business that my desire to start Furnace Falls Farm was born.
I wanted to share my love of farm life, and farm fresh food with even more people by operating a farm retreat and event location. You could say that my hobbies and work co-exist because I love what I do and I do what I love! My love for farm fresh food and flowers is evident to all that know me. Our greenhouse not only makes it possible to grow plants to sell, but it also allows me to have extensive vegetable and flower gardens at Furnace Falls Farm.
A lesser known fact about me might be that my husband Rick and I were married the year of the infamous ice storm on January 1st out in the woods with our dog sled team. Interestingly, we have now created a space for others to come and celebrate their special events in the countryside.
Define your business in your own words.
Here at Furnace Falls Farm, we welcome you to a country retreat. Guests are invited to stay and experience a relaxing farm retreat in one of the newly renovated private rooms, each fully equipped with a luxurious ensuite. The stay itself is only part of the offering, our talented Chefs provide a chance for guests to dine on first-class farm-fresh cuisine. If that isn't enough, we also offer regular suppers, cooking classes, and special Sunday Brunches. The entire house is available as a package which makes it a perfect solution for hosting your event such as a women's weekend, writer's workshop, health and wellness retreat, quilting bee, scrapbook social, yoga weekend and so much more. Our barn is now equipped for holding large weddings and receptions with complete catering available. Furnace Falls Farm is the perfect location to connect with family and friends while experiencing farm to fork.
What business achievement are you most proud of?
I have been fortunate enough to receive many business accolades over the years, but I have to say I am most proud of growing up on a family farm that is multigenerational. My hope is that Furnace Falls Farm will help carry forward the future generations of our family by keeping Agri-tourism alive and well in the community I have spent a lifetime serving.
Why did you choose Leeds and the Thousand Islands to start your business?
Leeds and the Thousand Islands is the perfect area for a business such as ours to take root. With an abundance of fertile land for fresh farm produce and the numerous attractions for visitors to see, we feel we are an Agri-tourism hot spot. Thankfully, the Township in all of its foresight, introduced a new Agri-tourism bylaw helping to make this business possible. We are centrally located to a number of lakes for those who wish to try boating or paddling while staying at the farm. We also have the benefit of providing a relaxing retreat for those looking for an escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.
What words would you use to describe Leeds and the Thousand Islands?
This area is a nature lovers paradise with the beauty of the many lakes and the tranquility of the countryside. The surrounding area is home to a wide array of artisans, local shop owners and businesses that think outside the box. Many small communities hold the hidden gems within and deserve to be included on your travel itinerary.
Provide a message to your future guests!
We welcome you to our beautiful relaxing retreat with the warmth and friendliness of century-old hospitality.
Furnace Falls Farm Retreat described in one word:
Welcoming