Highland Hills Farm

High in the rolling hills outside of Sylva, Highland Hills Farm is a welcome escape from day-to-day schedules, inviting you to commune in the peaceful presence of Scotland’s “Grande Old Breed.”  Owners and Jackson County natives, Shelby and Matthew Ridley, are first-generation farmers committed to creating a welcoming environment where visitors learn more about the Scottish Highland breed while having a uniquely fun experience.

Although the couple purchased the farm in 2023, Shelby admits that she had previously purchased two cows in hopes of soon finding the perfect property to begin living out her lifelong dream of owning cattle. The manicured pastures of present-day Highland Hills Farm started with hard labor and a clear vision of what could be, given the investment of time, money, and sweat equity.  As 2020 graduates of Western Carolina University, the young couple ventured into their married life while the world grappled with the uncertainties brought on by COVID-19. With Matthew beginning his career as a local mortgage broker, Shelby considered her options, eventually embracing the idea of establishing her own business.  As an independent dog groomer, Shelby’s schedule, although busy, allows her the freedom and flexibility to maintain the daily tasks of her beloved farm. Matthew, in turn, provides consistent support, working side-by-side with her as a devoted farm hand.  Together, they are curating a one-of-a-kind venue with creative possibilities.

With new fencing safeguarding the 11-acre pastureland, a menagerie of farm animals wanders the hilly terrain, eagerly awaiting treats and attention from the Ridleys and their frequent guests. From Peeka the farm dog to the adorable Lionhead bunnies in the barn, the frolicking baby goats, the friendly donkey, and the energetic flock of chickens, visitors will discover that Highland Hills Farm is country life at its best.  At the center of this picture-perfect scene are seven majestic Scottish Highland cows gently grazing across the property.  “The beauty of the breed will stop you at first, but as one of the oldest-known breeds of cattle, there is more to them than what is visible,” Shelby asserts as she shares what drew her to this specific breed.  Originating in Scotland’s rugged hills, Highland cattle are known to be docile but hardy, which made them ideal imports for America’s western cattlemen in the late 1890s.  Highland cattle are considered premium, with beef products lower in fat and cholesterol, adding to their value on the market.  The Ridleys are dedicated to the well-being of their herd, raising them primarily as “pasture pets,” as evidenced by their names, which were inspired by well-known movie characters, such as Shrek, Donkey, and Thelma & Louise.

Open to the public by appointment only, Highland Hills Farm offers Jackson County residents, travelers, and tourists opportunities to meet these “characters” by scheduling personalized farm tours, attending specialized monthly activities, or planning custom events at Highland Hills Farm.  The Ridleys collaborate with local artists to offer one of the most popular options, “Painting with the Cows,” which features an opportunity to brush and feed the cattle while honing your artistic skills.  A recent addition to Highland Hills Farm is “Coffee with the Cows,” which provides guests with the amenity of a coffee bar while they stroll around the farm, interacting with the animals. Highland Hills Farm partners with local photographer Blair Dawn Photography for seasonal photography sessions, such as “Christmas with the Cows” and “Easter on the Farm,” but the Ridleys also allow guests to schedule professional photoshoots with photographers of their choice to capture special moments, such as birthdays, graduations, or family gatherings.  Schools and organizations looking to provide students with a hands-on, engaging field trip experience can schedule a farm tour with educational stations and an interactive petting “zoo.”

Having established the basics of their farm, the Ridleys now look to the future with plans to add an on-site short-term rental cottage and a gift shop featuring various locally sourced products.  Shelby Ridley’s dream is now a reality, and she generously shares her dreamland with the community, opening the barn doors of Highland Hills Farm with Southern hospitality, which aptly matches the personality of the Scottish Highland breed known for its good-natured approachability.  To plan your next adventure and learn more about their latest offerings, follow the farm’s socials and contact Shelby Ridley via their website at www.highlandhillsfarmllc.com. Spoiler alert:  Peeka, the always-friendly farm dog, may request a tummy rub at the end of your visit.