UNDER GREAT EXPANSES of sky, the rolling green hills lead to the lair where the lavender lives.
Here, ladies in long dresses seem to float among the rows of purple and white, young children frolic in the fields and men stoop to pet the plants, releasing their warm aroma.
It is the picture of sweet serenity in a soothing setting.
“People are welcome to wander. You can spend the whole day and spend nothing,” said David Allen, co-owner of Lavenlair Farm.
Owners David and Diane Allen at Lavenlair Farm.
The Essence of Enchantment
On 80 acres in Washington County, David and Diane Allen are enthusiastic about sharing the treasure of tranquility they’ve created.
“Coming here is like taking a trip to Provence without the passport,” said Diane.
Their lavender farm features 5,000 plants; 32 varieties of lavender and 14 varieties of mint. Long heralded for its calming scent, photographers and other artists also love the look of the land.
“Georgia O’Keefe would love it here, Monet - anybody who deals with flowers and color,” said David.
Do Great Good
The neighbor’s cows take solace in the shade, watching visitors picnic, navigate the “Laverinth” (a 100 ft. labyrinth) and picking their own lavender bouquets (prices start at $5 for a small bundle).
Energy efficiency is essential on the farm, which runs on a combination of solar and geothermal electricity. Hosting tours beginning every hour for $10/person. David shares the whole story of the farm, including a brief history of the stone farmhouse built in 1820 and the 1807 Baptist church on the property.
The Allens are happy to answer questions on the care and propagation of the plants, their harvesting and production.Cornell Cooperative Extension has been investigating the plants’ hardiness, yields and best practices for a report to be published for others who can benefit from the Allen’s successful growing techniques.
“They have a great setup here. People come to see the lavender, dress nice and have a picnic. It’s a great example for other farmers about how to add diversity to their own farms,” said Aine Hardaker, temporary agricultural assistant for the agriculture and horticulture team.
Peace, Love & Lavender
A small shop on Lavenlair Farm sells an amazing assortment of lavender-infused items, beauty products, favors and foods including a delightful and refreshing lavender lemonade sold for $2/cup to benefit National Coalition Against Domestic Violence.
“You’ve picked a bouquet, now drink a bouquet,” said Diane.
Lavenlair Farm products are also available at Saratoga’s Sunday Farmers’ Market, Impressions of Saratoga and at several restaurants and breweries in the region.
“We make, or have a hand in all of them,” said David.
The Allens recommend you continue your adventure into lavender country with a trip to Battle Hill Brewing Co. for lunch and their lavender wheat beer.
Enjoy hors d’ouvres and a 4-course lavender-infused dinner prepared by [forged] Restaurant chefs on the farm on July 22. For tickets go to www.forgedlavenlairdinner.brownpapertickets.com
Lavenlair Farm is located at 437 Deweys Bridge Road in Whitehall. For more information go to www.lavenlairfarm.com.
