Bear Creek Farm

Acclaimed for its "Best Dahlias" by New York magazine, Bear Creek Farm is quickly becoming the premier flower farm in the Hudson Valley. Realizing nature's capacity to reduce stress and enhance overall wellness, the farm focuses on an innovative approach of integrating growing fields with living spaces. Each of the meadows and multiple growing areas has its own aesthetic. The recently renovated 120-year-old barn and grasses garden, now reconfigured as an event and performance venue, is a second-place winner in Westchester Home magazine and an HGTV "Faces of Design" finalist. The property invites you through an artful stone-pillared entrance along a long curving driveway framed by lilies, red maples, and river birches. The 150-year-old farmhouse is surrounded by impressive trees, including a 350-year-old sycamore, one of the largest in Dutchess County, dressed with an apron of spirea, as well as towering Norway spruces and unusual dawn redwoods. Wander among mature ninebark bushes framed by raspberry brambles, with an old trumpet vine and even older tractor- trailer converted to an oversized flower box. Meander along pathways among crabapple, pear, and katsura trees. There is a handmade stone grill and various pottery pieces from around the world. The natural pond, bordered by Little Wappingers Creek, is surrounded by willow bushes and has a grapevine arbor. It is also home to budding patches of milkweed to attract monarch butterflies. A new addition opposite the pond is a Mid-century Modern pool house. Of course surrounding everything are the flowers: hundreds of Japanese anemones, thousands of peonies, and acres and acres of dahlias. This eclectic property doesn't have a single description, but rather is filled with a wide range of delights and discoveries. Garden is partially accessible.