There’s something truly magical about a lavender field. The resplendent rows of colour and the delightful fragrance combine to create a feast for the senses. And luckily, you don’t have to go all the way to France to lose yourself in a lavender field. Victoria is full of wonderful lavender fields, gardens and farms. Generally speaking, these flowery destinations are perfect to visit during the warmer months, from mid-November to January. Be sure to check individual websites for their recommendations on the best time to visit.
1. Warratina Lavender Farm
This ten acre lavender farm is only an hour’s drive from Melbourne. Escape into the beautiful Yarra Valley, wander through the grounds, and grab a bite to eat from the Tea Room. There, you’ll try a freshly baked lavender scone and a refreshing lavender ice cream. Head into the drying shed for lavender talks and live demonstrations. After that, pop into the shop and purchase lavender goods to take home.
Dogs on leads are welcome to come along, and the farm does Dog Day events, featuring competitions, stalls and more. The next Dog Day will take place on Sunday March 26.
Meanwhile, the lavender season will run from mid November to mid January. The season will start with a bang, thanks to a Harvest Festival on November 19 and 20.
Find Warratina Lavender Farm at 105 Quayle Rd, Wandin North VIC 3139.
2. Lavandula Swiss Italian Farm
This gorgeous farm is just ten minutes north of Daylesford. Lose yourself in one hundred acres of European styled gardens, historic stone buildings and rows of beautiful lavender. Say hello to the farm animals, and take a tour to learn all about Lavandula’s history.
In the heart of the farm, you’ll discover La Trattoria Bar & Eatery, which serves up some delicious Mediterranean and lavender-inspired dishes. Nibble on lavender scones, try lavender and strawberry jam and more.
Lavandula Swiss Italian Farm is open Friday to Tuesday.
Discover Lavandula Swiss Italian Farm at 350 Hepburn-Newstead Rd, Shepherds Flat VIC 3461.
3. Sault Estate
While you’re in Daylesford, be sure to check out Sault. Named after a small township in France, Sault is a 100 acre property that has its own lake, acres of gardens and lavender fields, and a restaurant with seasonal, modern Australian cuisine.
The lavender fields bloom between November and March. During the summer flower season, visitors that don’t have a restaurant booking can access the gardens for $5 per person. There are limits to the number of people on the site.
You can also access the lavender and sunflower fields for professional photography sessions. These must be booked in advance, are subject to availability and cost $200 for one hour of access.
Of course, diners at the restaurant can access the gardens prior to and after their booking at no extra charge, as long as it’s not a professional photoshoot session.
Find Sault at 2349 Ballan-Daylesford Rd, Sailors Falls VIC 3461.
4. Red Hill Lavender Farm & Distillery
Whisk yourself away to the Mornington Peninsula and take a look at Red Hill Lavender Farm & Distillery. This commercial farm uses a hand-cultivated crop and traditional distillery process to create quality natural products, like botanical skin care and a culinary range.
The lavender fields are set high on a ridge at Red Hill, creating a magical and sensory landscape. The lavender fields are only open for visitors during the flowering season. Grab a bite to eat from the bakery at the top of the fields, settle down on a picnic rug and take in the sweeping views. The fields are closed for 2022, and will reopen in January 2023.
Check out Red Hill Lavender Farm & Distillery at 284 Main Creek Rd, Main Ridge VIC 3928.
5. Ashcombe Maze and Lavender Gardens
Drive out to the Mornington Peninsula and lose yourself in the spectacular mazes and gardens. Journey through the 40-year old hedge maze, then check out the Lavender Labyrinth. Over 4000 lavender plants were used to create the winding paths, all leading to a viewing platform above the lavender. Thanks to some careful plant selection and garden design, this garden has some lavender in flower all year round. There’s over 40 named varieties to discover, ranging from blue, mauve, pink, white and green.
Explore Ashcombe Maze and Lavender Gardens at 15 Red Hill-Shoreham Rd, Shoreham VIC 3916.
6. Narrawong Lavender
Journey along the Great Ocean Road, past Warrnambool and Port Fairy, and discover Narrawong Lavender. Operating since 1999, this farm harvests lavender by hand and produces a small range of practical products, such as artisan soap.
This farm operates from November to March. Visitors and small groups are welcome to make an appointment and come by on select days. The best time to visit and admire the flowers would be between November and February.
Check out Narrawong Lavender at 7811 Princes Hwy, Narrawong VIC 3285.
7. Lavender Hue
Looking for a relaxing getaway? This charming, riverside destination is a 20 minute drive from Bright. It includes a lavender farm, a Bed & Breakfast, tea rooms and a café. Relax and unwind in the B&B and feel as though you’re in a cosy mountain lodge. Look out over Ovens River, and admire the delightful cottage gardens. There’s plenty of quiet sitting areas for you to soak in the colours and fragrance of the lavender crop in summertime.
The tea rooms are currently closed until further notice, but when they’re open, you’ll nibble on fresh scones, homemade cakes and a selection of tea and coffee. During summer, you’ll also get to try their rich lavender ice cream.
Find Lavender Hue at 20 Great Alpine Rd, Harrietville VIC 3741.