In Kampot, pepper plantations are a popular attraction, famous for producing some of the world’s highest-quality pepper. Kampot pepper has been cultivated in this region for centuries and holds a Geographical Indication (GI) status, much like Champagne from France. Here are some notable plantations where visitors can explore Kampot pepper’s rich history and production methods:
- La Plantation
La Plantation is one of the largest and most renowned pepper plantations in Kampot, offering a comprehensive tour that covers the entire process of growing, harvesting, and drying Kampot pepper. This plantation is known for its sustainable farming practices and offers a variety of pepper products, including black, white, red, and green pepper, as well as unique infused peppers. Visitors can tour the farm, learn about pepper production, and taste different types of pepper. They also offer cooking classes, a café with local dishes, and scenic views of the surrounding countryside.
- Sothy’s Pepper Farm
Sothy’s Pepper Farm is a smaller, family-run plantation that offers an intimate experience of Kampot pepper farming. They provide free guided tours that explain the cultivation process and different varieties of pepper. The farm focuses on traditional organic practices and emphasizes the quality of each peppercorn. This plantation is also known for its relaxed, hands-on experience and the opportunity to speak directly with the farmers about their craft.
- Bo Tree Farm
Bo Tree Farm is an organic pepper farm that follows environmentally-friendly practices. They grow high-quality Kampot pepper and produce some unique pepper-related products, such as pepper-infused chocolate and pepper jams. The farm offers guided tours, including tastings of their various products. Bo Tree Farm has a lovely café and a shop where visitors can purchase pepper and other spices.
- The Vine Retreat and Pepper Farm
This farm combines eco-tourism and pepper cultivation, offering visitors a tranquil retreat setting along with tours of their organic pepper plantation. The Vine Retreat features a guesthouse, so visitors can stay overnight and experience rural Cambodian life. Besides pepper, they also grow a range of herbs and vegetables, making it a great place to explore sustainable farming practices in the region.
- Starling Farm
Starling Farm is a certified organic pepper plantation producing Kampot pepper of various varieties. They focus on sustainable and ethical farming and offer tours where visitors can learn about the organic pepper production process. The farm also has a small shop where visitors can buy their products. Starling Farm is known for its serene environment and informative guides who share interesting details about Kampot pepper’s history and the farm’s practices.
Each plantation offers a unique experience, from large-scale farms like La Plantation to more intimate, family-run ones like Sothy’s. Visiting these plantations provides not only insight into pepper production but also the chance to experience Kampot’s beautiful countryside.
