Ontario Lavender Farms: Perfect for a Summer Adventure

Ontario Lavender Farms: Perfect for a Summer Adventure

Driving with the windows down, chances are you’ll smell it before you see it. Once that wave of lavender washes over, you’ll feel your shoulders drop and the tension release as you take a big, deep breath. It’s almost involuntary but that first, blissful moment is what will make you fall in love with these Ontario lavender farms. Between the sweet, calming scent, the vibrant flowers and the sheer beauty of the fields, visiting a lavender farm is the perfect summer adventure for all ages!

Ontario Lavender Farms

You might be surprised to discover just how many there are in the province! Check out this list so you can start planning your own adventure to some of these Ontario lavender farms. They’re listed in alphabetical order.

Ontario Lavender Bush Close Up on a Sunny Day :: I've Been Bit! Travel Blog

Apple Hill Lavender

Location: Norfolk County, Ontario [map]

This century-old family farm features rolling lavender fields amidst an apple orchard backdrop. Explore the gardens and lavender fields on the property and be sure to take a peek at the Carriage House Boutique. In the spring, stop by Apple Hill Lavender and pick up your own lavender plants to grow at home. Fields of purple will greet you during a summer visit while you’ll be welcomed by fresh apples in the fall. Open May to December Thursday through Sunday, visit them online for hours of operation.

Bonnieheath Estate Lavender and Winery

Location: Norfolk County, Ontario [map]

Just minutes away from Apple Hill Lavender you’ll find Bonnieheath Estate Lavender and Winery. Here you can enjoy an adult beverage or two as you explore the grounds. With lavender fields, prairie grass, vineyards and even a natural wetland, you’ll adore this little getaway. Keep an eye out for their yearly lavender festival too! It also makes a great pitstop if you’re on your way to Port Dover, home to one of Ontario’s awesome beaches. Bonnieheath is open year-round (check out their hours of operation online) but you’ll want to visit in June/July for their lavender experience.

Christel Lake Lavender

Location: Greenbank, Ontario [map]

Just an hour northeast of downtown Toronto you’ll find the perfect summer escape from the big city. Take in the views from their lavender fields as you explore around the spring-fed lake on the property. This is a perfect lavender destination for families as kids will have a ball on the children’s playset, swings and trampoline available for visitors to utilize. If you have a furry family member, dogs are welcome to tag along too! Open from the May long weekend until Labour Day weekend in September but be sure to check their hours of operation online before visiting.

Essentially Lavender

Location: Teeswater, Ontario [map]

Owners Bill and Cathy purchased this farm in Bruce County almost a decade ago. Settled back in 1869, it has since evolved to include horses, sheep, cattle and elk amongst the property’s rolling hills, pastures and woodlots. You might even spot Stockings, Essentially Lavender’s resident cat. Be sure to check out their gorgeous lavender labyrinth. Just follow the path slowly towards the centre and I guarantee any stress you may have had will melt away by the time you reach the middle! Open from the end of May until the beginning of September, take a look online for hours of operation.

Laveanne Lavender Fields

Location: Campbellcroft, Ontario [map]

These fields of lavender became a beacon of hope for Sabena and her husband after the 2008 market crash. With their farming livelihoods destroyed overnight, they looked to their son’s passion for lavender collecting to create the beauty you see now. Laveanne is home to over 10,000 plants across the four acres of purple blooms. While their lavender fields are open for the month of July, their shop is open year-round and offers various lavender products. Be sure to look at their hours of operation online before visiting.

Lindsay Walking Through the Ontario Lavender Farm Fields :: I've Been Bit! Travel Blog

Lavender-Blu

Location: Seagrave, Ontario [map]

The brainchild of owner Ludmila, Lavender-Blu has been more than just a lavender garden since it was established in 2007. While it offers a number of artisanal lavender products, Lavender-Blu also offers community-based activities and workshops to help teach the public about the lavender plant. On this three acre hobby farm, you’ll find a small orchard and vegetable garden, 40+ farm animals, a lavender artisan studio and over 3000 lavender plants along the shores of Lake Scugog. Offering lavender-based workshops all year, take a look at their website for full visiting details.

Lavender Hives

Location: Grand Bend, Ontario [map]

Located on the shores of Lake Huron in Southwestern Ontario, Lavender Hives is a working lavender and bee farm – which you probably guessed by the name! They have a small store which offers honey and honey-based products, culinary lavender and other lavender-based products. While they don’t have any official hours, they’re open most weekends in the summer months. Look out for signs on Highway 21 or give them a call at 226-926-2820.

Lochland Botanicals

Location: Milton, Ontario [map]

Less than an hour from Toronto, over 140 plant species are waiting for you to visit at Lochland Botanicals. Owners Diane and Steve have dedicated their livelihoods to working the land and preserving the goodness found in nature through their holistic products. Enjoying a picnic by the lavender fields sounds like the perfect way to enjoy these summer blooms. Or, you can wander as you search for their three secret villages. If you time your visit right (towards the end of July), you might catch their sunflowers during your visit too! Lochland Botanicals is open on weekends from June until September, though lavender is at its peak in July. Take a look online for hours of operation.

Millefleurs

Location: Wellington, Ontario [map]

Nestled along the shores of Lake Ontario, Millefleurs focuses on coupling their love of lavender with sustainable practices. It is home to over 5000 lavender plants which includes six different species of both English and French lavender. With mead tastings, lavender ice cream and more, this should definitely be a stop if you’re enjoying an Ontario road trip through Prince Edward County! Millefleurs is open all year round but the hours vary so check online to ensure they’re open before visiting.

NEOB Lavender – Niagara Essential Oils & Blends

Location: Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario [map]

This lavender farm in Niagara is one of the larger lavender farms in Ontario. You can take tours of their facilities and learn how essential oils are made as well as roam the lavender fields. Take a peek at their aromatic greenhouse too! If you can’t visit the fields in Niagara-on-the-Lake, they do have three other locations in Elora, Oakville and Stratford where you can pick up some of their products. Lavender fields are open from the end of June until the final week of July but their boutique is open daily.

NEOB Lavender is located right across from the Hare Wine Co which I highly recommend visiting as well. In my opinion, it’s one of the best wineries in Niagara!

The Rolling Fields You'll Find on These Ontario Lavender Farms :: I've Been Bit! Travel Blog

Prince Edward County Lavender

Location: Hillier, Ontario [map]

It is said that where grapes grow, lavender grows, which is how owners Derek and Rolande came to establish their lavender farm in Hillier. Home to the annual Prince Edward County Lavender festival held in early July, the event is said to be like a personal Christmas for them! During peak lavender season from late June until early July, this Prince Edward County lavender farm is open daily for visitors to explore the fields. While chances are they will be open, take a look online before you leave to avoid disappointment!

Purple Hill Lavender Farm

Location: Creemore, Ontario [map]

While lavender itself is picturesque, the rolling views of the hills in Creemore combined with the gorgeous Victorian-style house on the property make Purple Hill Lavender Farm an absolute treat for the senses. This family-run lavender farm grew from the love of lavender coupled with the desire for a life outside in their favourite place on earth. There are three beautiful fields for visitors to frolic in along with a number of Muskoka chairs in picturesque locations throughout the property. All are painted purple of course! Pack a picnic, come as you are or get dolled up and enjoy the gorgeous lavender fields Friday through Sunday from the end of June until early August.

South Bay Fields Lavender Farm

Location: Collingwood, Ontario [map]

In the village of Nottawa located just outside of Collingwood, you’ll find this adorable family-run lavender farm. This is one of the few free Ontario lavender farms, making it accessible to everyone. I’d say this is a great reason to purchase some goodies from their open-air boutique to support them if you can! They also just added a small patch of sunflowers to their repertoire too! They’re normally open on weekends in July but be sure to confirm online before visiting.

South Bay Fields Lavender Farm is just 20 minutes north of Purple Hill so you can hit two lavender farms in one trip! You can easily turn your day trip into a weekend adventure with these other great spots in South Georgian Bay. I recommend checking out Scenic Caves Nature Adventures while you’re in the area as well.

Serenity Lavender Farm

Location: Harrow, Ontario [map]

You might not have heard of Serenity Lavender Farm but you’ll recognize the area if you’ve been to North 42 Degrees Estate Winery! The lavender farm was created as a brilliant addition to this already established winery in Essex County. You’ll find over 40 different varieties of lavender, making it one of the most varied collections in the province! The gift shop is open all year while lavender tours are only offered from May until October. Since you’re in the area, you might want to check out some of the other great things to do in Windsor and Essex County!

Steed & Company Lavender Farm

Location: Aylmer, Ontario [map]

This 45 acre horse farm is home to the premier grower of lavender in Elgin County. Nestled along steep valley slopes at the edge of the Carolinian forest, Steed & Company Lavender grows several varieties of English lavender. Visit during peak bloom (keep an eye out online as this changes from year to year!) and enjoy a true treat for the senses. They’re open Wednesday to Sunday from Mother’s Day through until Christmas, though the lavender fields are only in the summer.

Butterfly In The Lavender Bush :: I've Been Bit! Travel Blog

Stonewell Farm

Location: Erin, Ontario [map]

Admire the gorgeous lavender fields that surround the classic Ontario stone farmhouse built in 1872, complete with the original stone stable! With over 2500 lavender plants, this really is an adorable spot less than an hour from downtown Toronto. If you’re looking for a place to visit during the week, this is one of the few Ontario lavender farms that offer visits Monday through Friday and NOT on weekends! Tickets are limited and required to be purchased before arriving.

Terra Lavanda

Location: Vineland, Ontario [map]

Inspired by the lavender capital of the world in Provence, Terra Lavanda brings a taste of France to Niagara. Said to be the first lavender farm in the region, you’ll feel giddy exploring the long aisles of lavender. Visit Terra Lavanda from late June until early August so you can enjoy these beautiful flowers too. Since you’re in the heart of wine country, I recommend popping by a few of the local wineries in Vineland afterwards and make a day of it!

Terre Bleu Lavender Farm

Location: Campbellville, Ontario [map]

Inspired by a lavender farm visit in Quebec, owners Ian and Isabelle Baird decided to leave Toronto to create their own little oasis. Almost a decade ago, they planted their first 10,000 lavender plants and opened to the public three years later. Now, Terre Bleu is the largest lavender farm in Ontario with over 50,000 lavender plants spread across 160+ acres. Walk through their big yellow door, swing on their giant swing and leave your worries behind you as you explore the rows of natural beauty! Times can vary so visit Terre Bleu online to confirm they’re open to visitors.

The Giving Place

Location: Mt Albert, Ontario [map]

The land continuously gives in a number of ways, hence why “The Giving Place” is the perfect name for this beautiful piece of land. Head to the adorable town of Mt Albert where you’ll find this all-natural, pesticide-free family farm. Over 2000 lavender plants were planted just a few years ago in 2018 with visitors being welcomed just last year! Even though they’re newcomers to the Ontario lavender world, the passion for the land shows in everything they do. Visiting times are limited in the summer months to be sure to visit their Facebook page before planning your trip.

The Lavender Farm

Location: Ayr, Ontario [map]

The Gillies family have had this farm for generations since 1882. While it was originally a working farm with hogs and cattle, it has since transformed into an adorable lavender farm. With varieties like Grosso, Munstead, Violet Intrigue and more, you’ll love spending a day enjoying the incredible lavender fields. If you’re looking to tie the knot in a quaint, adorable venue, The Lavender Farm is a great option. Hours of operation can vary so take a look online before visiting.

Rolling Hills of Ontario Lavender Plants :: I've Been Bit! Travel Blog

What to Expect When Visiting

Each lavender farm will be different, however this will give you a general idea of what to expect when visiting an Ontario lavender farm as of right now.

Plan Your Visit for July

While lavender season can vary, July is your best month to plan a visit. Lavender can start blooming as early as June and continue into August, but July is said to be the peak month based on my research.

Book a Ticket in Advance

Sorry spur of the moment travellers, you’ll need to plan a little in advance! Most lavender farms will require you have a ticket for a specified day, with some even specifying an exact time frame. You’ll want to buy a ticket in order to avoid disappointment! Prices range from $5-$10 on average.

Weekends Will Be Busy

As with any travel destination, Saturdays and Sundays will be busier than a midweek visit. However, some Ontario lavender farms are not open during the week. In this case, you’ll have to take your chances but opting to visit as early as possible or just before closing can help you avoid big crowds.

No Washrooms

You’ll want to use the facilities ahead of time as many Ontario lavender farms will not have washrooms available for visitors. Luckily most are close to a number of adorable Ontario small towns so you can enjoy a lovely visit. Take a look and see what restaurants are close by and support the local economy!

Wooden Label In Front of Ontario Lavender Plant :: I've Been Bit! Travel Blog

Why Visit a Lavender Farm?

There are so many reasons to visit a lavender farm in Ontario! Besides the obvious draw of the picturesque fields of purple flowers, lavender has a number of health benefits.

The name lavender is derived from the Latin word lavare, meaning “to wash” in English. It has antifungal as well as antibacterial qualities. Using lavender essential oil can help wounds heal faster, reduce irritation and pain in bug bites, help treat various skin conditions like acne or psoriasis and much more. Lavender’s calming scent naturally helps reduce anxiety as well as relaxes the nerves which can aid in the treatment of headaches, depression and emotional stress. Knowing this, it won’t be surprising to hear it helps lower heart rate and blood pressure, making it a common recommendation to help battle insomnia!

Take all of these perks and couple that with a girls day out, an adorable date idea or a family picnic and I think you’ve got the recipe for a fantastic adventure!

Lindsay and Steph Walking Through An Ontario Lavender Farm :: I've Been Bit! Travel Blog

Ready to Visit Some Lavender Farms in Ontario?

If you’re wondering “are there any lavender farms near me?” then you’ll want to take a look at this fantastic map of “The Purple Road”. Here you’ll find a number of lavender-oriented destinations from farms to boutiques to wedding venues. Otherwise, take a look at the map of Ontario lavender farms below and get planning your own adventure!

It’s not uncommon to see lavender influenced items in boutique shops (like Weir’s Lane Lavender Farm & Apiary) across the province, but sometimes you’re looking for something a little more special. I also can sympathize with those of you who may not want to visit a lavender field in the dead of summer. That July sun can be a scorcher!

If you’re looking for something a little cooler, I’d suggest a perfect night’s sleep at a bed and breakfast in a lavender field at Casa Rusticana. Located in Grey County, it’s the perfect spot to visit a few lavender farms while enjoying some of the adventures the area has to offer like great hiking and cycling trails, waterfall chasing, and more. If Casa Rusticana is booked for when you’d like to visit, check out these other hotels in the area so you can still enjoy a lavender-filled weekend.

Is there a lavender farm you’ve visited or an experience you’ve had that isn’t on this list? Don’t hesitate to let me know either by email or in a comment below!

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