The orchard was planted by the Witty family in the late 1860’s. Apple trees planted along the park trails spanning from Witty’s lagoon to the beach were all part of the larger farm before that portion of the land was donated to the park.

Our orchard is one of a few along the Metchosin coast which survived the razing of apple orchards across North America during Prohibition from 1917 – 1921. After prohibition ended, the faster growing hops replaced apples, and beer became the dominant drink. Apples grown since that time are selected more as eating apples with a premium placed on durability and looks, and don’t match the old variants for cider and apple juice quality.

About 40 apple trees remain today and are heritage varieties including King, Transparent, Vanderpool and Wealthy but with many unknowns even to local apple experts. Together though, the blend is excellent for cider production.

Although some of our fruit tree varieties are unknown, it is said that one of our pear trees is a Winter Nelis and possibly the oldest pear tree in BC

In the fall, the farm begins harvesting the heritage apples and pressing them for fresh juice. If you visit in the fall, you will see the 100-year-old refurbished wooden apple press in action. The juice used in our drinks is UV pasteurized and packaged at juicing facilities in the Victoria area. Our yield is about 250 litres of juice from 1,000 pounds of apples. Through the winter you can sip the hot apple cider along with many other farm-made drinks.

Today the orchard is a popular gathering place for families to enjoy seasonal events throughout the year and is a highly sought after venue for summer weddings.