Hidden amidst the lush landscapes of Penang Island lies a haven for durian enthusiasts and nature lovers alike—the Green Acres Ecotourism Durian Farm. With its serene ambiance, sustainable practices, and a plethora of durian varieties, this idyllic farm offers a unique and immersive experience for those seeking to indulge in the flavors of the “King of Fruits” while immersing themselves in the beauty of nature. Join us as we embark on a delightful journey through the Green Acres Ecotourism Durian Farm. Our guides were Eric and Kim, owners of Green Acres for the past 14 years.
A Sustainable Oasis
Green Acres stands as a testament to sustainable agriculture and ecotourism. The farm employs organic farming practices, ensuring the cultivation of durian without the use of harmful pesticides or chemical fertilizers. This commitment to preserving the environment creates a haven where visitors can savor the fruits of nature in their purest form. The farm itself looks very much like jungle – with a plethora of trees, bushes and plants interspersed among the durian trees. Many of the durian trees are 50+ years old, standing tall above the forest and heavy with durians. Walking along the paths you need to be on the lookout for falling/fallen durians. We heard two fall, landing with a loud thud as they fell from over 50 feet.
Eric, an ex-English teacher, is very knowledgeable about his farm and is clearly excited to be able to share his information with us. We learn that durians varieties are grafted, not grown from seeds. This insures the exact strain. The reason is that you cannot know the parentage from a seed, which means planting the seed will not guarantee the variety.
Durian Varieties Galore
Penang is renowned for its diverse range of durian varieties, and Green Acres is no exception. As you tour the farm, you’ll encounter a treasure trove of durian trees, each bearing its own unique fruit. From the creamy and aromatic Musang King to the bittersweet and buttery Red Prawn, the farm offers an opportunity to explore and sample a delightful assortment of durian flavors.
Many of the trees on the farm are kampung trees, unbranded, waiting to be discovered. We learned that the branded varieties are created from grafts from a kampung tree which won the yearly durian tasting award – and thus gets the honor of a brand (e.g. D14, Musang King, etc.) Eric always takes his best unbranded durians to the contest and if they win, he will get to brand it, and then sell the graftings. We tasted one of his best trees and it could be the next winner.
Durian Orchard Tour
Immerse yourself in the beauty of the durian orchard as you embark on a guided tour. Learn about the fascinating life cycle of the durian tree, from its delicate blossoms to the development of its spiky fruits. Eric and Kim share their knowledge about durian cultivation, harvesting techniques, and the meticulous process of selecting the ripest and most flavorful durians. Along the walk through the forest, you learn about the many herbs and plants growing in the understory, their uses and even get to taste some. We saw mangosteens, rambutans, and nutmeg trees which we picked and ate. And we heard engaging stories from Eric about the land, the naming of Green Acres, and the history of the region.
Durian Tasting Experience
No visit to Green Acres is complete without indulging in a delectable durian tasting session. Eric and Kim had collected maybe 15 durians the morning of our tour. Situated in a tranquil setting, you’ll have the opportunity to sample a variety of durians, each bursting with its unique combination of flavors and textures. These were arranged on a table in an outdoor pavilion which we sat in after our tour.
One by one Eric identified the durian, opened it and gave each of our small group a couple of durian seeds to try. He had curated the experience, going from milder flavors to the strongest. We ended with Red Prawn variety, which many consider to be the best. I personally found that one of the early durians, from an unbranded 100 year-old tree, was the best – creamy custard texture, good flavor but not overwhelming, and more sweet with only a tiny bitterness. There were so many durians that several members of our group had to stop feasting half-way through. To the true durian lover though, there is no stopping – but we did skip our next meal. For an in-depth discussion of eating durians, check out our post on Eating Durians.
Beyond Durian
Green Acres Ecotourism Durian Farm offers more than just durian delights. Take a leisurely stroll through the serene surroundings, marvel at the verdant landscapes, and learn about the importance of biodiversity in preserving the delicate balance of nature. Engage in farm activities, such as fruit picking or exploring the on-site gardens filled with other tropical fruits and herbs. Green Acres also offers a homestay opportunity for additional adventures.
Conclusion
For durian enthusiasts and nature aficionados, a visit to the Green Acres Ecotourism Durian Farm on Penang Island is a must. Indulge in the flavors of the world-famous durian while immersing yourself in the beauty of a sustainable and eco-friendly farming environment. Take a break from the bustling city and reconnect with nature, gaining a deeper appreciation for the delicious fruits it provides. The Green Acres farm is a tranquil escape that promises an unforgettable experience for those seeking a unique and immersive adventure on Penang Island. To find out more and reserve your tour click here.
