For most of his adult life, Luke Sedgwick has been a world traveler, working in the tourism industry in some of the most stunning settings on the planet.
Whether diving into the Mediterranean Sea from a luxury yacht or heli-skiing in the Canadian Rockies, his role was to help his guests experience an adventure of a lifetime.
Now Sedgwick has brought his passion for outdoor adventure and first-class tourism experiences to his home in Oro-Medonte.
Sedgwick left his journeying lifestyle behind three years ago when he arrived back at Glen Oro Farm, where he grew up, with a dream and a mission.
Glen Oro Farm, which was first settled in the 1840s, has been in Sedgwick’s family since 1967 and is known as a premiere equestrian event centre. Under the leadership of Sedgwick’s mother, Leslie Saila, the farm breeds, boards, trains and competes horses, as well as hosting horse trials, schooling shows and training clinics.
The 200-acre farm is located in the heart of the rolling hills and forests of Oro-Medonte.
“I grew up running through the forests here,” said Sedgwick. “And after travelling the world, I realized how incredible this area is; all four seasons are awesome.”
Sedgwick also recognized that what he sometimes took for granted – enjoying the natural environment and simple pleasures of rural life – is what others are anxious to experience.
Sedgwick’s plan was to introduce tourism opportunities, including trail riding and overnight stays, at Glen Oro Farm. His idea was to create a “boutique” experience, something that was especially inspired by his employers at Great Canadian Heli-Skiing near Golden, B.C.
“What they were offering was a boutique-style of adventure tourism. They would customize their trips for each group, which consisted of a maximum of four skiers, along with a guide. It was pretty sweet. I saw just how much the clients enjoyed the experience.”
In fact, the heli-skiing business website describes its purpose as ‘facilitating people’s best days ever.’ “That’s what I’m trying to emulate,” said Sedgwick.
Sedgwick discovered that his idea fit well into the provincial “On-Farm Diversified Use” guidelines that allow traditional farming to diversify into secondary businesses. Agritourism was one of the accepted business opportunities. The Glen Oro Eco-Retreat was to become a reality.
In 2017, Sedgwick began the process of re-zoning, planning and building. He started out by restoring two historic cabins on the property for overnight visitors, furnishing them with repurposed farm equipment and antiques (since featured in Handmade Hotels, Home in Canada and Cottage Life).
“In turned out that almost everyone who stayed in the cabins asked about trail riding,” explained Sedgwick, “so we started offering guided rides.”
Glen Oro now offers custom trail rides, whether in small groups of friends and family, or individuals. “They’re really popular with couples,” added Sedgwick.
Recently, regional tourism organization, Orillia & Lake Country, said of the trail rides at Glen Oro, “This may be one of the coolest experiences in Orillia & Lake Country,” and added it to their “Top 5” tourism activities in the area.
Sedgwick’s Eco-Retreat plan continued with what has been one of the most exciting developments for Sedgwick – and for his guests – glamping accommodations (that is, glamorous camping).
It’s another part of his dream that was inspired by some of the more exotic locations Sedgwick experienced during his travels. One such experience was sleeping in a dome under the stars in Joshua Tree, California.
Sedgwick embarked on the project with his brother, Phil Saila, who helped with construction, along with a team of local contractors.
“We have been lucky to have so many incredible contractors working alongside us, many we’ve known since we were kids,” said Sedgwick. “Everyone involved has taken great pride in seeing the results of their months of hard work.”
This summer, the Glen Oro Eco-Retreat officially opened its brand new, custom-built Stargazer Domes and Explorer’s Tents. The six breathtaking structures are situated in the forest and are outfitted with king-size beds, indoor washrooms, cooking facilities and designer furniture.
“Being in the loft and gazing at the stars is stunning,” said Sedgwick about sleeping in the domes. “I can just imagine how incredible this is going to be for our guests in the winter, too.”
While the domes feature star-gazing opportunities, the glamping tents are designed to make guests feel like they’re on an adventure or mission of exploration, albeit with the modern comforts of home.
Since opening in August, Sedgwick says he has been receiving 5-star reviews with comments about how much guests enjoy escaping to enjoy the tranquility of being in the forests and meadows on the farm.
Sedgwick notes that getting the six units constructed in time for this summer was the biggest challenge he’s faced so far. He has also expanded his staff from one to five, which is a big change. But in spite of the challenges and long days, he doesn't intend to slow down.
Sedgwick and his team are promoting the farm as the perfect wedding venue. Future plans also include the construction of another eight overnight units, as well as a guest services building.
“We look forward to being a great showcase for the area and all its awesome opportunities,” said Sedgwick. “And to provide that ‘best day ever’ experience for all of our guests.”
As for his personal dream, Sedgwick says his goal for as long as he can remember has been to create a life you love living. “That’s pretty much what I’m doing right now, right here.”
To find out more about the new Glen Oro Eco-Retreat, visit: glenoro.com.
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