A culinary getaway at TERRA Farm + Manor
When I got invited to visit TERRA Farm + Manor last September, I was thrilled. I’d worked with Chef James and his team on a property buyout for a corporate client who came back with nothing but rave reviews. Then right as I was packing my bags and getting excited, Hurricane Ida hit the Gulf Coast. The airport closed, I evacuated to Alabama, and it seemed like I had bigger things to focus on than a blue cheese soufflé. But somehow all of the pieces came together and I was able to get away for 4 epic nights with two of my SmartFlyer colleagues. So, TERRA holds a special place in my heart because it was a reprieve from an extremely stressful time in my life. But I’m confident that even if you’re not fleeing a hurricane you will fall in love with this farm and manor.
TERRA Farm + Manor is the perfect destination for food focused travelers and outdoor enthusiasts. Just 2.5 hours from the Phoenix airport, the Chef run property sprawls out over 100,000 acres, but still manages to feel warm, inviting, and maybe most important… private! Chef James and his team do an outstanding job of creating unforgettable experiences. From the welcome hay ride, to the multi-course meals, and cooking classes in the state of the art kitchen, spending time at TERRA is an indulgence in the best way possible. Come hungry, and be prepared for some of the best meals, scenery, and service that Arizona has to offer.
How to get there:
Fly in to Phoenix (PHX) airport, take the shuttle bus (SkyTrain connection is coming soon) to the rental car facility. After renting your car it’s a 2.5 hour drive to the property. On the way, make sure that you stop at Sunset Lookout. I stopped here for a champagne toast (don’t worry, I wasn’t driving) and it was the perfect break for views and bathrooms. Because TERRA can be a bit tricky to find, a staff member will meet you at the main road and escort you to the property.
Who it’s a good fit for:
Terra can be experienced either as a private group buyout or you can choose from scheduled experience weekends that have different areas of focus (think truffles, cooking by fire, and wine). I had a group of 9 clients at TERRA for a private buyout, and that’s when the personalization really kicks in! If perfecting your cooking skills is of the upmost importance, then definitely opt for one of the many curated weekends.
Don’t miss:
Filling out your pre-arrival questionnaire. You’ll be asked questions about your challenges and goals for cooking, and be honest! I shared that I wanted to master how to make a souffle and guess what I did at TERRA! The land that the property sits on is quite vast, you’ll have an initial hay ride tour, but take the opportunity to explore on your own, via bikes, walking, and (coming soon) golf carts. Schedule your off site activities (think a kayak tour with wine tasting at the end) in advance and bring your golf clubs as the property share privileges with StoneRidge Golf Course.
Reach out when you’re ready for a stay at TERRA Farm + Manor. I’ll share even more insights from my stay and will make sure that you get the VIP treatment that you deserve!