Summer on San Juan Island, the Pelindaba Lavender Farm

Stroll through any field of lavender and one thing is certain: the lavender’s scent will conjure up all kinds of personal memories. Such is the way of this amazingly versatile plant. But its unique scent is only one of many properties. A visit to the Pelindaba Lavender Farm on San Juan Island will uncover a host of others.

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Since its initial plantings in 1999, the Lavender Farm has become a world-class provider of handcrafted lavender products, as well as an on-site distiller of essential oils. Include the growing of lavender plants to the highest environmental standards possible, and you can understand why the Farm has won so many prestigious awards over the years.

The Gatehouse gift store is a great place to start your visit. This is where the versatility of this extraordinary plant becomes so evident. You’ll find more than 240 lavender based products for the home, for personal care and therapy. Lavender products for pets, lavender candles and even lavender jewelry – all handcrafted on-site.

With its vision firmly fixed on the community, Pelindaba also invites local artists, sculptors and photographers to exhibit their work around the farm. Guided and self-guided tours are also held along with workshops, talks and demonstrations. Be certain to visit the lavender essential oil distillery and nursery, where plants are available for purchase. Even try a lavender based snack.

A major highlight on the Farm’s calendar is The San Juan Island Lavender Festival held over the 3rd weekend in July. This is where all senses and plants combine to give visitors the ultimate experience in idyllic surroundings, with crafting, demonstrations and tours. Picnic lunches are available all day, and why not round things off with a lavender iced tea and coffee or lavender ice cream. Opening from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. it’s a great day out for all the family with free parking and admission.

It’s easy to see why the Pelindaba Lavender Farm became a nominee for “Best Public Garden in the Northwest”. Their vision, from the start, was simple: to protect and nurture a peaceful valley on San Juan Island. And by protecting and nurturing it, turn it into something sustainable as well as a place of beauty. There’s no denying their success. The word ‘Pelindaba’ is of Zulu origin and a reflection of founder Stephen Robin’s South African heritage. It means “Place of Great Gatherings”. The name seems very appropriate. For full details, visit www.pelindabalavender.com.

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