You might already know about Harrison’s remarkable hot springs, or that the region is rich in sasquatch lore. And of course hot springs and sasquatches are among our favourite things ever, but more important to the foodist is this: the District of Kent is home to chocolate infused with lavender, authentic handmade brie, and over 20 varieties of garlic (including the I’ll-make-a-believer-of-you Russian Red).

This area is a reasonable drive from Metro Vancouver, so you might be tempted to do it in a day, however we strongly recommend staying overnight. There’s a lot to see, do and taste here, so give yourself time to explore these winding country roads and beautiful farms in the spirit of slow.

Cheese-lovers should prioritize a stop at Farm House Natural Cheeses. The shop sells an enticing range of rich and creamy cow and goat milk cheeses, made by hand on the premises. With brie, camembert, gouda, cheddar, chevre and more, there’s a remarkable cheese to complete every picnic. 5634 McCallum Road, Agassiz, 604-796-8741 

At nearby Limbert Mountain Farm you’ll find over 75 varieties of herbs, including marvelous scented geraniums that herbalist Trudie Bouchard recommends for lining cake pans. As well as potted herbs, tomato plants, and fresh garlic, the farm shop sells dried herbal teas, herb-infused chocolates, and gourmet pestos. The kitchen is open for lunch and afternoon tea on weekends and holiday Mondays. 5493 Limbert Road, Agassiz, 604-796-2619

The quirky Back Porch specializes in an unlikely combination of house-roasted coffee, garlic, eggs, artisan pottery, and antiques. This gorgeous, peaceful property is well worth a visit. 6116 Golf Road, Agassiz, 604-796-9871.

Follow Highway 7 all the way to Harrison Mills and discover Kilby, an historic site, farm and café. In the 1920s it was a thriving town; now it’s a fascinating trip through time. The museum includes a restored 1906 general store, and the farm’s baby animals will win the hearts of most kids and many grown-ups. Food at the Harrison River Restaurant is made from scratch: roasted chicken sandwiches on house-made fresh bread, lemonade squeezed by hand, and pies that are famous throughout the region. Turkey dinners, served at Thanksgiving and Christmas, feature the farm’s own birds and cranberry sauce—at just $15 it’s an amazing deal. Understandably, they tend to book up, so if the idea of an old-fashioned holiday meal appeals, we suggest reserving soon. 215 Kilby Road, Harrison Mills, 604-796-9576

The town of Harrison Hot Springs enjoys views of the lake backed by dramatic mountains, and makes a breathtaking place to spend the night. But before settling down to dreams of cheese, chocolate and herbs, you’ll probably want dinner, and Ravens on the Beach offers contemporary cuisine with a good selection of BC wines and OceanWise seafood. The menu changes seasonally, but if you get the chance, try their crisp-battered fish and chips or the wonderfully garlicky, mushroomy pasta. 160 Esplanade, Harrison Hot Springs, 604-796-8717

We can’t imagine a more delightful way to explore this area than taking part in the Slow Food Cycle Tour each August. Those who did it last year have not stopped talking about it. www.slowfoodvancouver.com