Secret Lands Farm - The Luxury of Handcrafted

Over Labour Day weekend, I had the pleasure of visiting Secret Lands Farm, a family-run sheep farm tucked away in the scenic hills of Grey County. Known for their small-batch, artisanal sheep dairy and meat products, Secret Lands is a working farm deeply rooted in both old-world European traditions and modern, sustainable farming practices.

We booked their farm tour with a charcuterie and cheese tasting, and it turned out to be one of the most memorable food experiences I’ve had.

Upon arrival, we were warmly welcomed by Sophie, one of the owners, who shared the inspiring story behind the farm. Originally from Russia, Sophie and her family immigrated to Toronto in 2007, where she worked in the fashion industry. A chance experience volunteering on a sheep farm, and a growing passion for fermented sheep milk products, eventually led her family to take a leap of faith. In 2013, they purchased this stunning 150-acre property in Grey County and began building what would become Secret Lands Farm.

Our tour started with a walk out to the pastures, where we met their sheep grazing on pesticide-free fields, along with their vigilant llama guardian keeping watch. Sophie explained how the clean air, fresh well water, and nutrient-rich grasses all contribute to the exceptional quality and taste of their products. She also shared that sheep milk may be easier to digest than cow’s milk for some people, and is naturally rich in vitamins, minerals, and healthy fats.

We continued our walk through the fields, where the freshly rolled hay bales were wrapped and fermenting- an important step to ensure nutritious winter feed for the flock. From there, we followed a quiet forest path to what Sophie calls the “most secret” spot on the farm: a tranquil private lake. We paused for a few moments on the dock, taking in the peaceful surroundings. It was the kind of place you could happily lose track of time.

The tour continued through their milking area, creamery, and aging room—my personal highlight. Sophie explained how their cheese and dairy products are made using kefir, a naturally fermented, unprocessed sheep milk rather than commercial cultures. This method not only sets their products apart in flavour and texture, but also boosts their probiotic content and health benefits.

We ended our visit in one of their newly built gazebos, where we sat down for a generous tasting. We sampled an incredible variety of their creations—everything from milk, yogurt, kefir, butter, and crème fraîche, to fresh, semi-hard and aged cheeses, lamb charcuterie, and even sheep-milk-based desserts. It was a true feast—and we still didn’t taste everything they offer.

When we visited, they were putting the finishing touches on a small on-site shop. We returned a few days later and left with an armful of delicious treasures: lamb shoulder, three cheeses, homemade gnudi, and a container of Sophie’s stollen gelato (which I’m still dreaming about).

Secret Lands Farm is more than a place—it’s a labour of love. From the land to the animals to the thoughtfully crafted products, everything reflects care, passion, and a commitment to quality. If you’re looking for a unique, delicious, and truly local food experience, this Grey County gem is well worth the trip and I highly recommend supporting this family-run business that is a labour of love for the owners. You can read more and follow them on their website, Facebook or Instagram.