We can only imagine that someone suggested he try the home of a local farmer, who offered the visitor a bed for the night. The next morning, the visitor awoke to a hearty farm breakfast and, voila, the Vermont bed and breakfast industry was born.

In those days, most Vermont towns were farming communities. Life revolved around the change of the seasons and farm work that accompanied them. And while a farmer's work day typically stretched 16 hours or longer, there was always time for "visiting." Today there are fewer farms but the families on them work just as hard and are just as hospitable.

Vermont's farms have continued to open their doors to visitors for over 100 years.Your farm stay may include comfortable accommodations in a centuries-old farmhouse, followed by a big family-style breakfast of pancakes, home-grown hash browned potatoes and farm-fresh scrambled eggs. Afterward, you might be invited to help with the chores, giving you an opportunity to milk a cow or tend to the sheep. Or you might choose to pick your own apples or strawberries. In every event, you'll also be treated to some of the most beautiful scenery and friendly faces on the planet.

For a list of farms that take guests, please contact one of our 12 Regional Marketing Organizations, or visit www.vermontfarms.org .