Events + Weekends in Eagle
Places To Go
The Weekends
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The sweet smell of tree ripened peaches and the sound of country conversation; just a couple memories of my recent visit the Williamson Orchards and Vineyards in Sunnyslope, a great fruit and wine grape growing region about thirty miles west of Eagle. A family owned and operated Orchard since the early 1900’s, and today run by brothers Roger and John Williamson and their families, Williamson Orchards has grown into almost 700 acres of fresh fruit and vegetables. They added a vineyard eight years ago, and they must have a natural talent as their wines have won many awards in the short time they have been in production. But the real treat in a visit to the fruit stand is getting to know the Williamsons; they can usually be found popping in and out of the fruit stand and wine tasting room throughout the day. I have yet to meet a friendlier bunch of fruit growers, and they are more than happy to share their fruit and vegetable expertise, along with a sample, with anyone who pays them a visit. From Royal Orange Apricots to Honeycrisp Apples, these guys know their fruit! Planning a Saturday trip, along with a picnic basket lunch, will be a treat for your family.
Where to go
Williamson Orchards and Vineyards is one of the most diverse orchard fruit stands in Sunnyslope. The majority of their fruits and vegetables are just hours from the tree, some of the freshest fruit in the valley. Their wines, available for tasting and purchase, are made from handpicked grapes and have won many awards.
Other attractions while you’re out that way include Ste. Chapelle Winery (www.stechapelle.com/208.453.7843), Koenig Winery and Distillery (www.koenigdistillery.com/208.455.8386), and Lizard Butte, the big hill before the highway takes a turn to the right (a fun hike if you are in the mood).
What you’ll see
The rolling hills of Sunnyslope were included in the Snake River Valley’s recent designation as an American Viticultural Area. Lake Lowell is just over the hill, East of Sunnyslope. Many of the backroads make for a great country drive where you’ll see lots of fruit trees and grape vines.
Where to Eat
Being sort of ‘out in the country’ there are not a lot of restaurants to choose from. I like to bring a picnic lunch for the family, then add some of my fresh fruit to our lunch.
What to Get
First, decide what you’d like to do with your fruit: can it, make a pie, or just eat it. Then ask the experts at the Orchard, they will point you in the right direction to get just the right fruit. Or you can access the Williamson’s Fruit Guide on their website at www.willorch.com.
Williamson Orchards & Vineyards
19692 Williamson Ln
Caldwell, ID 83607
Phone (208) 459-7333
www.willorch.com
Fruit Stand & Tasting Room Schedule
June through December
Monday - Friday 10am-6pm
Saturday 10am-4pm
Closed Sunday
