A few weeks back I had a really fun opportunity to tour a couple places in my hometown with a few other bloggers. I grew up in Langley, and you’d think I’d know of the places we went to, nope not the case. We only checked out Krause for the first time this year. I was really excited when Tourism Langley asked if I would join them for a tour along Historic Otter 248th Trail. We were off to three different places along the trail Krause Berry Farms, JD Farms, and Kensington Prairie Farm.
First stop was at Krause. This place has already become a must go to location for my family, so I was really excited to go back here and learn a bit more about it. We were taken on a tour around the farm grounds in their tractor train. We were put to work picking berries in a competition to see who could pick the most in 3 minutes. Little did I know that I would be prepared for this thanks to our recent trip there in the rain to get berries. I ended up having an overflowing container, and I got to bring home a strawberry shortcake for my hubby. If you haven’t been, you need to check out the bakery you will want to bring home everything you see. We also got to experience what their winery is like, while I do not drink wine I know the others all really enjoyed what was offered there. They have some really unique berry wines. What I really enjoyed was their roasted corn pizza. I would never think to put corn on a pizza, but this tasted amazing and was a great treat for us to enjoy at lunch time. I know I will be back with my family, I am really looking forward to visiting once the Christmas season rolls around.
Next up was JD Farms, and oh how I wish I knew of this place when we were looking for a turkey for Christmas dinner last year. The turkeys raised here are fed a natural diet of grain, vitamins and minerals without any antibiotics or animal by-products. All of these were things were were trying to find in a turkey last year, but we were having no luck. I now know where I will be going this year! Their store is full of all sorts of food items, and even ones from other local businesses along the trail. I loved seeing how all these businesses support one another and share their products. 
Our last stop took us a bit further into Langley to Kensington Prairie Farm, which is the acreage farm that is home to Huacaya alpacas, and Polled Hereford cattle. You will also find high-quality alpaca products, artisan honey, and small assortment of farm-based food products. The owners have only been farming for 10 years, and started raising alpacas after a friend suggested it. I loved seeing the alpacas up close, little did I know what was in store for us around the corner. In some cultures these animals are raised specifically as a meat source. Much like there some of the ones on this farm are used for the same thing. We were given the opportunity to sample some alpaca meat products. I was apprehensive at first but decided to go for it and I tried a meatball and a breakfast sausage. The meat is very lean, and really needs sauces to help give flavour. While I can now say I have tried alpaca, I don’t think I will be adding it to the menu any time soon. I do love many of the alpaca wool apparel products that are available in the little store. The farm owners are currently working on building a larger store front to provide more space for their customers. If you are looking for a unique, warm gift for someone this winter check out this place. You will love the soft scarves, and warm sweaters.
It was a really fun day getting to be a tourist in my own hometown. I know now of a few other businesses in the area along the trail that I am hoping to check out, and I have added more places for where I can shop for local items. Have any of you ever taken the time to check out local businesses in your own town? Did you find a hidden gem?