Bayfield Lavender Farm | Door County

Bayfield Lavender Farm is a serene and charming family-owned lavender farm located just outside the village of Bayfield, Ontario, Canada. Founded in 2017 by Gemma James Smith, the farm began as a modest endeavor with a small planting of Grosso lavender and has grown steadily into a nearly one-acre cultivated field featuring several varieties of lavender and a diverse range of complementary plants and animals.

Location and Setting

The farm is situated at 77881 Porter's Hill Line, in a rural countryside setting just a short drive from Bayfield’s quaint historic downtown. Its tranquil environment offers visitors a peaceful retreat surrounded by vibrant lavender fields, native wildflowers, and pastoral farmland.

Lavender Cultivation

The farm specializes in three primary varieties of lavender: Grosso, Hidcote, and Melissa. Each variety blooms at different times between mid-June and early August, ensuring a prolonged season of fragrant blossoms. The fields are carefully tended using sustainable and organic methods, with a focus on preserving soil health, supporting pollinators such as bees and butterflies, and minimizing chemical inputs.

The visual appeal of the lavender rows is enhanced by the farm’s layout, which allows visitors to walk among the plants and enjoy the sensory experience of sight, scent, and touch. This hands-on aspect encourages guests to learn about lavender’s growing cycle, harvest techniques, and traditional uses.

Visitor Experience

Bayfield Lavender Farm offers free admission, although donations are welcomed to support the farm’s maintenance and operations. The farm is wheelchair accessible with some natural uneven terrain, and there are accessible restrooms on-site.

Visitors can explore the fields at leisure and interact with the farm’s resident animals, including goats, chickens, and ducks, which add to the rustic farm atmosphere. The presence of these animals also reflects the farm’s integrated approach to agriculture, where animals help with natural pest control and soil fertilization.

Products and Workshops

The farm produces a variety of handcrafted lavender-based products, all made on-site with the farm’s own lavender and other natural ingredients. These include:

Lavender Body Lotion: Nourishing and aromatic, designed for skin hydration and relaxation.

Herbal Healing Salve: A soothing balm crafted for minor cuts, burns, and skin irritations.

Face & Body Mist: A refreshing spray that hydrates and uplifts with the scent of lavender.

Bath & Massage Oils: Essential oil blends for therapeutic bathing and massage.

Culinary Lavender: Edible lavender buds and products for cooking and baking.

These products are available for purchase at the farm’s on-site shop during visiting hours, and also through an online store for year-round access.

In addition to retail, Bayfield Lavender Farm hosts a variety of events and workshops that enhance visitor engagement and community involvement:

Evening Picnics: Organized gatherings in the lavender fields where guests can relax and enjoy the ambiance during sunset.

Sound Baths: Meditative sessions using soothing sounds and vibrations, set in the calming environment of the lavender fields.

Art Classes: Creative workshops inspired by the natural surroundings, ranging from painting to crafts.

Breathwork Sessions: Guided exercises focused on breath control and mindfulness to promote relaxation and well-being.

Photography and Special Events

The farm’s picturesque landscape, especially during peak bloom, makes it a favored location for professional photo shoots, including portraits, weddings, and nature photography. Visitors often take advantage of the vibrant lavender backdrop for personal photos.

Sustainability and Community Focus

Bayfield Lavender Farm is committed to sustainable agriculture and environmental stewardship. It fosters biodiversity through habitat preservation and encourages pollinator health. The farm also serves as a local community hub, participating in Bayfield-area events and supporting regional tourism.

Seasonal Visiting Information

Open Season: Typically from mid-June through early August, coinciding with the lavender bloom.

Hours: Open Thursday through Sunday, 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Admission: Free, with suggested donations to support farm operations.

Accessibility: Mostly wheelchair accessible with some natural terrain considerations.

Bayfield Lavender Farm provides an immersive and sensory-rich experience blending agriculture, wellness, and community. It offers visitors the chance to connect with nature, learn about lavender farming, participate in unique workshops, and purchase high-quality lavender products-all within a peaceful, rustic setting just outside Bayfield’s charming village center. The farm is a peaceful retreat for those seeking relaxation, inspiration, or simply a beautiful natural environment to enjoy.