We are located high on a ridge with beautiful views surrounding the farm. To the east the sun rises over our East Orchard and the Schoodic mountains; to the south stretches Frenchman’s Bay and the mountains of Mount Desert; to the west, the sun sets behind our West Orchard and the hills of Dedham & Bangor. We are located about 35 minutes from Bar Harbor and the Nova Scotia ferry, within sight are several beautiful lakes to enjoy water recreation and fishing. Nearby enjoy our lovely woods, or trails to hike the Schoodic Mountains. In the winter, there are ponds for ice-skating, snowmobile trails nearby, and bountiful opportunities for cross-country skiing.
The farmhouse dates back to about 1840 and the farm has been farmed for as long as anyone can remember. An Episcopal minister gave the name, originally Shalom Farm, back in the 1960’s. There is an old photograph of a painting on the barn of a rainbow and doves, the peace message of the era. When we found the farm, the old-timers in the community told us of the old name and we re-named it Shalom Orchard, to reflect the 1000+ apple orchard now established. We adopted the logo, “Peace with Nature”, as this is our commitment through our organic farming practices.
We are a certified organic farm and everything we grow or produce is according to organic standards. We primarily grow organic fruit – apples, blueberries, cherries and raspberries – for our wines or for wholesale or retail sale from the farm. We also grow vegetables for retail sale from our farm store. We raise chickens for eggs and meat, and we raise registered Rambouillet sheep for wool and meat.
We are committed to educating about organic farming and welcome school groups and tours. We participate in the Maine Organic Farmers and Gardeners apprenticeship program. We love to share our enthusiasm for what we do.
Spring to Fall, our tasting room is open daily from 12-5. Winter tastings are available by appointment.