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
Warratina Lavender Farm is only an hour’s drive from Melbourne. Escape to this beautiful ten acre venue in the 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. The lavender season is on from November 20 to January 19, 2025. The season will kick off with celebrations, thanks to a Lavender Festival on November 9 and 10.
Meanwhile, 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 February 23, 2025.
📍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 adorable animals, and take a tour to learn all about the history of Lavandula Swiss Italian Farm.
In the heart of the farm, you’ll discover Maria’s Trattoria, which serves up some delicious Mediterranean and lavender-inspired dishes. Nibble on lavender scones, lavender cake and more.
It’s best to visit in January, when the lavender is at its peak. The venue is open every day except Wednesdays and Thursdays.
📍350 Hepburn-Newstead Rd, Shepherds Flat VIC 3461
3. Sault
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, or $350 for two hours. Photographers aren’t provided by the venue.
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.
📍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 27-acre 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 flower during the summer months and are free to enter. Grab a bite to eat from the cafe or vintage caravan, and try lavender-infused treats like lavender & honey ice cream. Charcuterie boards are also available. Dogs on a lead are welcome to come along.
The cafe is open from Thursday to Monday, from 10am to 4pm. The summer harvest is on from December 27 to January 27.
📍284 Main Creek Rd, Main Ridge VIC 3928
5. Ashcombe Maze & Gardens
Drive out to the Mornington Peninsula and lose yourself in the spectacular Ashcombe Maze & 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.
📍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.
The farm is generally open to the public from December to January, when the flowers are at their most beautiful. However, it’s always best to call along and make sure, particularly if you’re part of a larger group.
📍 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. Lavender Hue has a Bed & Breakfast within the farm, so that you can feel truly appreciate the blooms. The cosy accommodation provides blissful views of Ovens River and 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.
📍20 Great Alpine Rd, Harrietville VIC 3741