Blossoms and Bouquets: A Lavender Love Affair in Sequim, Washington
/Nestled in the sun-drenched valley of the Dungeness River, Sequim (pronounced "skwim"), Washington, is a quaint little town known as America's Provence. This lavender lover’s paradise boasts some of the most beautifully fragrant fields of purple blooms in the country, leading to its celebrated status as the "Lavender Capital of North America".
Visiting Sequim is like stepping into an Impressionist painting, where rolling lavender fields extend to the horizon, gently caressed by the Pacific breezes. I'm thrilled to share my experience exploring the top three lavender farms in the area, each with its unique charm, adding to the delightful tapestry of Sequim's lavender landscape.
1. Purple Haze Lavender Farm
Our first stop, the Purple Haze Lavender Farm, is an organically-certified wonderland that offers a whimsical introduction to Sequim's lavender legacy. You can wander through the vibrantly hued fields, pluck your own bouquet of lavender, and even taste lavender-infused ice cream! Don't forget to explore their on-site gift shop, where an array of lavender products, from essential oils to culinary treats, offers a tangible piece of this experience to take home.
2. Jardin du Soleil
Next on our journey is Jardin du Soleil, a sustainably-run farm with meticulously maintained fields. The farm is a vision in purple during the peak season, presenting an irresistible opportunity for photography enthusiasts. Their garden labyrinth offers a unique sensory experience, with lavender-scented breezes accompanying your every step. Post your labyrinth adventure, swing by their boutique store, stocked with artisanal lavender soaps, lotions, and their renowned lavender honey.
3. Victor's Lavender
Last but not least is Victor's Lavender, a charming family-owned farm. This farm is unique for its nursery and propagation greenhouse, where visitors can learn about the farm's lavender cultivation process and even purchase plants for their gardens. Victor, the farm's owner, is often available to share stories and provide insights into the enchanting world of lavender farming.
Beyond the delightful exploration of lavender farms, Sequim offers a wealth of additional experiences.
Dungeness Spit
While in the area, don't miss the Dungeness Spit, the longest natural sand spit in the U.S., leading to a historic lighthouse. This wildlife refuge is a haven for bird watchers, and a lovely spot for a beach picnic or a quiet, scenic hike.
Olympic Game Farm
If you're traveling with family, a visit to the Olympic Game Farm is a must. Kids and adults alike will be thrilled to see the resident animals - from bears to bison - in this drive-through wildlife exhibit.
Downtown Sequim
Lastly, take a leisurely stroll around downtown Sequim. This charming town center is dotted with art galleries, boutique shops, and restaurants offering locally-sourced Pacific Northwest fare. Try Alder Wood Bistro for their delicious wood-fired pizzas, and finish off with a cup of locally-roasted coffee at Rainshadow Café.
A visit to Sequim, Washington, is a journey into a world where nature's palette crafts scenes of stunning beauty, and the air is perfumed with the scent of lavender. It's a place that feels a world away, offering an idyllic retreat from the rush of everyday life. As I reflect on my travels, I'm reminded of a line by the poet, Rumi, which beautifully encapsulates my Sequim experience: "Let the beauty of what you love be what you do." In Sequim, it's evident that the town