March 2026: Field to Table at Windy Hill: A Tennessee Valley Experience

Every month, dear reader, we get to bring you some really fun and unique experiences from the greater Tennessee Valley region. We’ve visited coffee shops, explored downtown Sevierville, walked around Powell, sampled baked goods, toured Bush’s Baked Beans, and even stopped by a festival or two. Each month we say we have a special treat for you—and we do. But this month, reader, we did something extra special: we visited Windy Hill Farm and Preserve in Loudon.

We first heard about Windy Hill while researching local conservation efforts. We liked what we saw and wanted to learn more so we could share what’s happening in our region.

Windy Hill is well known for its conservation work, preserving some 650 acres of land and transforming it into an inclusive resort. A major focus of the preserve is restoring natural quail habitat. The team has taken great care to reestablish native grasses and release quail each year. They offer guided hunts as well as an introductory session for those new to quail hunting. We signed up for the intro session to get the full Windy Hill experience.

The day begins with breakfast in the renowned farm-to-table dining room, aptly named Wilder. Guests, hunters, and guides gather at 8 a.m. to enjoy a farm breakfast together. We had eggs (fresh from the farm), sausage, and pancakes, along with orange juice and coffee service, though there were other choices as well.

After breakfast, it’s time to head to the clay target stand for practice shooting. If you’ve never shot clays before, we highly recommend it—it’s a great way to get comfortable holding and operating a shotgun. After a few rounds and some discussion on proper stance, field navigation, and firearm safety, we headed to the kennels to retrieve our dogs: Otis, the German Shorthaired Pointer who would point the birds, and Josie, an English Cocker Spaniel who would flush and retrieve.

Before setting off, we toured the gardens and visited the chickens, goats, and pigs. Then we began our walk around the property in search of birds. Our guide, Zach, was patient and knowledgeable about all things farming and preservation. As the farm manager, he works closely with the dogs and livestock and has helped implement several preservation efforts on the property. He was kind, encouraging, and clearly passionate about the work being done there.

If hunting isn’t your thing, that’s perfectly okay. Windy Hill is more than a quail hunting preserve. Wilder is a truly seasonal, farm-to-table restaurant with a menu that changes throughout the year, featuring sustainably sourced food and as many locally procured ingredients as possible. Beyond dining, they host seasonal activities—from live music and celebrations to beekeeping classes, soap-making instruction, and everything in between.

Their next big event is the Changing of the Season, held April 17–19. If you enjoy farm tours, seasonal food, and fireside s’mores, this event is for you. Be sure to check their website and social media pages on Instagram and Facebook for all the details.

As part of our visit, I had the pleasure of sitting down with owner Steven Brewington for a bit of Windy Hill history. The farm began as a cattle operation and hunting lodge before transitioning into a hunting preserve with lodging in 2022. Steven and his dedicated staff have created an atmosphere that feels elevated and relaxed all at once. We truly enjoyed our time there.

Lunch was included in our hunting package, and all hunters gathered back at Wilder for a sit-down meal from the seasonal lunch menu. We ordered the redfish sandwich with homemade sweet potato chips. In full honesty, we were so busy talking and enjoying the post-hunt atmosphere that we neglected to photograph the beautifully plated meal until we got home. We apologize for that oversight—we were simply having too nice a time. And we would be remiss if we didn’t mention the amazing iced coffee and iced gingersnap latte handed to us as we left.

From the moment we pulled up and received a warm welcome to the moment we drove away, everyone at the farm was friendly and inviting. We shared breakfast with Zach and later enjoyed an after-lunch conversation with Steven, Marlee (Director of Hospitality), and Ben, the chef extraordinaire. We learned not only about the history and operations of the farm but also about the culture behind the preserve. There’s something special about being welcomed into a place and made to feel at home.

We highly recommend attending an event, planning a stay, or simply going for dinner. You won’t be disappointed. And that’s a wrap on our full day at Windy Hill Farm and Preserve in Loudon. From farm-to-table meals at Wilder, to walking the preserve with Otis and Josie, to learning about the conservation efforts and seasonal events, this place truly has something for everyone. There’s so much more we could share, but the best way to experience it is to visit yourself. You can also find Windy Hill Farm and Preserve on Facebook and Instagram.

Planning a trip? Start your day with breakfast at Wilder, explore the gardens and preserve, and don’t miss out on their seasonal activities—from hunting experiences to live music and hands-on classes. Share your experience with us by tagging @destinationtnvalley on Instagram—we’re always on the lookout for new spots to feature in our Tennessee Valley Guide series.

About the Author:

Kristin creates immersive farm-to-table experiences through The Farmstead by Chicken Librarian (ChickenLibrarian.com),  reconnecting people to the rhythms of the land. Her work centers on seasonal gatherings, thoughtful craft, and a slower, more intentional approach to living well. Each curated experience invites guests to slow down, engage deeply with local ingredients and farm life, and savor the beauty of connection, community, and a well-set table.