Petting Cows And Nordic Spa Therapy: A Visit To Highland Farms On Mt. Hood

By Guest Author: Molly Allen

It may not make much sense to plan a day that includes a farm tour and visit with fluffy cows topped off with a sauna spa experience before you leave — but in Oregon it does. You can do both in one visit to Highland Farms, located under an hour from Portland, in Brightwood.  

Highland Farms was once an overgrown property just minutes from the base of Mt. Hood until owner Connor McWilliams set out to transform it. Part of that goal was to welcome others to visit the space as well. He saw the potential of inviting others to enjoy the grounds with its natural spring-fed pond, old-growth trees and peaceful setting. Those lush five acres became Highland Farms, offering a variety of options for enjoying the destination.

I set out for my journey on a sunny morning to head to the farm with a friend, with a farm tour and spa booking on the agenda. While Highland Farms is a quiet respite for humans, it’s also a wonderful home to a group of friendly animals. My friend and I met our guide, Ellery, in the parking lot and we set out to the first pen. Things kicked off on a high note as we got to meet Bonnie Lass, a Scottish Highland Cow, with her week-old baby calf Maeve. Ellery began by sharing the story of Highland Farms and took us beyond the fence to be able to pet and say good morning to mama. From there, we went into the barn to see the chickens, guinea fowl and peacocks before meeting the rest of the cows on-site, including two calves a bit older named Maisie and Merida. Ellery grabbed a few brushes for us to pamper the other cows. Known for their shaggy hair, the gentle Highland Cows absolutely loved having their coats brushed while basking in the sun. 

Leaving the barn, we followed the forested trail covered in hazelnut shells to see the sheep. Ellery brought a bucket of hay for us to feed the group of Icelandic Sheep, including a baby lamb that was just over one month old. It was such a unique experience to be able to visit and really get to know the animals on a private tour, without feeling rushed. We learned so much about how they live their happy lives on the farm — the petting, brushing and feeding was just the cherry on top. 

Guests to Highland Farms have the opportunity to get up-close to these adorable Highland Cows.

Following the farm tour, Ellery took us up the hill to begin our private Nordic spa session. The spa area sits up on a platform deck amongst towering moss-covered trees. The way the sunlight filtered in through the trees was incredible, making for an idyllic environment to relax. Inside, there was room to change with towels and robes provided and a countertop space stocked with tea and essential oils. The wood-fired cedar sauna was of course the highlight, with its salt windows making for a beautiful and relaxing environment. With a steam sauna inside and a cold plunge on the deck, it offered the opportunity to cycle through hot and cold for contrast therapy at your own pace. I loved the privacy of the space tucked up into the forest. 

Relax in the steam sauna and then take a cold plunge.

The farm tour and spa visit were two separate experiences booked back-to-back, as we wanted to make a full morning out of our visit. However, it is possible to just book one or the other. The farm also offers overnight accommodations with the option to book a glamping experience in either a decked-out tent or renovated Airstream trailer, stay the night in the barn cottage with its own cedar hot tub, or book the whole farm for a large group gathering. Highland Farms also hosts weddings. There are so many ways to visit and enjoy the setting of this forested farm — I can’t wait to go back soon to visit and see baby calf Maeve when she’s all grown up.