The Farm, a unique hotel on Eleuthera Island in the Bahamas, offers a deeply immersive experience rooted in sustainability and farm-to-table living. It is situated on a fully operational farm, with much of the food served at the hotel sourced directly from its gardens and from local waters. The property runs entirely on solar power, underscoring its commitment to eco-friendly practices. Its location provides convenient access to the beach, the airport, and the neighboring island of Harbour Island via ferry.
Getting There and Around
Reaching The Farm is a straightforward process, usually beginning with a flight into North Eleuthera Airport. From the airport, a car ride of about 13 minutes will bring you to the hotel. I’ve found that coordinating transfers with the hotel’s concierge is often the easiest approach, especially after a long flight. They can arrange your transportation from the airport, and also help with car rentals if you wish to explore more of Eleuthera.
For venturing to nearby islands, the ferry service is a key part of getting around. A short ferry ride connects you to Harbour Island, known for its charming shops and restaurants. I always make sure to ask about the ferry schedule in advance. Once you’re on Eleuthera, getting to the beach is also very easy; it’s just a short walk away. Exploring the immediate surroundings is best done on foot or by bike, especially given the tranquil nature of the property.
About The Farm
The Farm is more than just a hotel; it’s an agricultural oasis designed to reconnect guests with the land. Founder Ben Simmons envisioned a place where visitors could not only stay but also learn about sustainable living and the bounty of the Caribbean. The property itself is an active farm, established in 2018, that initially supplied produce and eggs to Simmons’ other properties, including The Other Side Hotel and a wedding business. The decision to build a hotel directly on the farm was a natural extension, aimed at broadening the reach of his sustainable initiative and increasing Bahamian-owned tourism.
The farm boasts extensive gardens featuring over 200 beds of vegetables and herbs, alongside a flock of about 70 chickens that provide fresh eggs daily. The architectural style of the cottages is inspired by a South African winery, blending rustic charm with tropical elegance. This design philosophy cultivates a sense of natural beauty and comfort. The entire operation is powered by solar energy, demonstrating a strong commitment to environmental responsibility. This focus on sustainability shapes every aspect of the guest experience, from the food they eat to the power that runs their accommodations.
Where to Stay
Accommodation at The Farm consists of 12 charming cottages scattered throughout the property, nestled among the gardens. There are two main types of cottages: eight larger ones, measuring 1,024 square feet, and four smaller ones, at 540 square feet. The larger cottages are ideal for those seeking more space and amenities, featuring king-sized beds, spacious verandas, and an open-plan layout. The smaller cottages offer flexibility with either a king-sized bed or two twin beds.
I’ve found that the design of these cottages is quite thoughtful. They incorporate elements that emphasize a connection with nature, such as wide verandas perfect for enjoying the tropical breeze. Inside, you’ll find comfortable furnishings, Wi-Fi, air conditioning, and modern conveniences like a Nespresso machine and a waterfall shower. The inspiration from the South African winery is evident in the gentle curves of the rooflines, adding a unique aesthetic. Each cottage is designed to provide a sense of luxurious simplicity, embodying the idea that living close to nature can be both rugged and deeply enriching.
What to Eat and Drink
Food is central to the experience at The Farm, with a strong emphasis on ingredients sourced directly from the property and the surrounding ocean. The complimentary breakfast offered to guests includes a delightful array of fresh fruits, vegetables, yogurt, and coffee. For a more substantial start to the day, the menu features various egg dishes, with the eggs being as fresh as they come, collected daily from the on-site hen house.
Dining for lunch and dinner is a reservation-only affair, prioritizing guests staying at the resort. The menus are entirely plant-based and seafood-focused, showcasing the day’s catch and the freshest produce from the gardens, with no meat served. This commitment to local and seasonal ingredients means the culinary offerings are always vibrant and flavorful. I often notice how the freshness of the ingredients truly shines through in every dish, making each meal a celebration of the land and sea.
What dining options are available nearby?
While The Farm itself offers an exceptional dining experience focused on its own produce, its proximity to other establishments provides variety. Guests can easily take a short five-minute walk to The Other Side hotel, where beachside dining is available. One evening, I enjoyed a delicious mac-and-cheese and ribs combo there. For a broader culinary exploration, the concierge can arrange a ferry and golf cart to visit Harbour Island, which is about a 10-minute boat ride away. On Harbour Island, I highly recommend trying the Pink Mermaid at Coral Sands, an Italian seafood restaurant with a lovely ocean view, offering a different flavor of island cuisine.
These nearby options ensure that even with The Farm’s distinct culinary focus, guests have ample opportunities to explore different tastes and ambiances. Whether you prefer to stay immersed in the farm’s sustainable ethos or venture out for a change of scenery, the convenience of these locations makes it easy to enjoy a diverse range of dining experiences. It’s this blend of on-site freshness and accessible variety that makes dining on Eleuthera truly special.
Things to Do
The Farm provides a tranquil environment perfect for relaxation and gentle activity. The centerpiece of the outdoor space is a beautiful swimming pool, ideal for cooling off, getting in some morning laps, or simply lounging by the water with a book. Much of the appeal of The Farm lies in its slow pace, encouraging guests to unwind and soak in the peaceful atmosphere.
For those seeking a bit more engagement, there are outdoor ping-pong and billiard tables, as well as a rustic-chic gym. A short walk takes you to the private beach at The Other Side, where you can enjoy sunset paddleboarding. The resort also offers complimentary snorkeling excursions to a nearby coral reef, where you might encounter sea turtles, colorful fish, and even octopuses in the clear, shallow waters. It’s these simple, nature-focused activities that create memorable moments.
What are the spa and family offerings?
Currently, The Farm does not have a dedicated spa facility, but plans are in place to add a deluxe spa hut with a cold-plunge pool by 2026. In the meantime, guests can book in-room or poolside massages for a relaxing experience. The hotel is also very welcoming to families, with several offerings designed to engage younger visitors and their parents. The Sunday Brunch, a communal family-style event held under the Yellow Elder trees, is particularly popular with larger groups and children.
The cottages are well-suited for family vacations or reunions, providing comfortable and private accommodations. Founder Ben Simmons is passionate about educating the younger generation on the importance of growing food, both for personal health and environmental well-being. Children have the opportunity to participate in farm activities, such as feeding the chickens or picking tomatoes, often with assistance from the friendly head groundskeeper. These experiences foster a deeper connection to the farm and its sustainable practices.
Sustainability at The Farm
Sustainability is the foundational principle behind The Farm’s existence. The entire property operates on 100% solar power, harnessing energy from both the sun and potentially the ground. This commitment extends to reducing waste; the kitchen uses plastic sparingly, and the property features numerous compost stations to manage organic materials. All vegetables are grown using organic methods, free from weed killers and toxins, ensuring the highest quality produce for guests and minimal environmental impact.
The integration of solar panels is particularly innovative. Beyond powering the facilities, they also provide shade for the chickens, whose waste then enriches the soil for the plant beds. The panels also protect the hydroponic and propagation stations, making the system highly efficient. The Farm is dedicated to living off the fertile Bahamian land and plans to expand its cultivation, potentially adding citrus trees and a farm stand. The goal is not only to be a model of sustainable tourism but also to inspire other hotels in the Caribbean to adopt similar eco-friendly practices.
Making the Most of Your Visit
Given The Farm’s intimate, boutique size, it’s worth noting that it doesn’t currently participate in major credit card reward programs. However, booking your stay, especially during the low season, can offer excellent value, with the smaller cottages starting at a reasonable nightly rate. The tranquil atmosphere and focus on nature encourage a relaxed pace, so I always advise guests to allow ample time to simply be present and enjoy the surroundings. Don’t rush from one activity to the next; instead, embrace the opportunity to connect with the natural environment and the farm’s ethos.
This destination is perfect for those seeking an authentic and immersive travel experience. By prioritizing sustainability and local sourcing, The Farm offers a unique glimpse into island life that goes beyond the typical resort stay. It’s a place where you can slow down, enjoy fresh, delicious food, and appreciate the beauty of living in harmony with nature. Consider engaging with the staff about the farm’s operations or simply spending time in the gardens; these seemingly simple actions can greatly enhance your understanding and enjoyment of the property.