The Best Lavender Farms near sonoma

Sonoma Valley is known for its wineries, but did you know that the rolling hills of the bay area are also home to a thriving lavender industry? The coastal climate and rich soil allow this mediterranean flower to flourish, and touring the local lavender fields is a fantastic add-on to any vacation.

From aromatherapy to skincare and even baking, lavender has a variety of applications and has earned a reputation as a plant with a hundred uses. Touring a local lavender farm gives you an up-close look at how lavender is grown, harvested, and used to create dozens of different products. 

Here’s our recommendations for the best lavender farms to visit while you’re in Sonoma.

Matanzas Creek Winery

First up we have the Matanzas Creek Winery. This place is a double-feature, offering delicious wines and gorgeous lavender fields. Imagine sipping on a glass of merlot or chardonnay while overlooking rows of blooming lavender; it’s as amazing as it sounds. Plus, every year they throw a Lavender Festival that's packed with fun activities, wine tastings, and a variety of lavender goodies to take home.

There’s more to Matanzas Creek Winery than just great views and wine tasting. They offer daily tours where you can learn all about how they grow their lavender and make their wine. You’ll see their sustainable farming practices in action, like organic pest control and clever water conservation methods. And don’t miss their gift shop, where you can pick up lavender-infused oils, lotions, and edible treats.

Here’s a recap:

• Wine and Lavender Combo: Enjoy delicious wines and stunning lavender gardens.
• Lavender Festival: Dive into lavender-themed activities and tastings.
• Unique Souvenirs: Grab some lavender oils or edible treats.

Araceli Farms

Next, we’re heading further out to Araceli Farms in Dixon and trust us, it’s worth the drive. Here you’ll be greeted with deep-colored lavender fields where you can pick your own bunches, do yoga among the blooms, or join a guided tour to learn about lavender farming. 

To top it off, Araceli Farms is all about education and sustainability. They host workshops and seminars that cover everything from the health benefits of lavender to cooking with it. Their onsite store is packed with goodies like lavender bath bombs, teas, and even culinary herbs. Everything they produce is organic, so you know you’re getting the best quality without any questionable chemicals.

What's neat about Araceli Farms:

• Organic Goodness: Everything is grown with sustainable practices.
• Fun Activities: U-pick events, yoga sessions, and guided tours galore.
• Hands-on Workshops: Make your own lavender wreaths or learn about essential oil distillation.

Bees N Blooms

Just a short drive from Sonoma is Bees N Blooms in Santa Rosa. Their commitment to sustaining the local ecosystem has allowed honeybees to thrive, creating richly-pollinated fields of high-quality lavender. They also feature a unique lavender labyrinth, a truly zen experience for those willing to get lost in the maze. 

Bees N Blooms is all about harmony with nature. They have a farm stand where you can buy fresh produce, flowers, and a variety of lavender products. They also offer beekeeping workshops that teach you how crucial bees are to our ecosystem. Stop by their native plant nursery on your way out if you want to bring home some local greenery.

Why you'll love it:

• Pollinator Paradise: Home to bees and butterflies, boosting biodiversity.
• Lavender Labyrinth: A peaceful walk that’s perfect for meditation.
• Eco-friendly Fun: Learn about sustainable farming and buy unique lavender-infused honey.

Monte-Bellaria di California

In Sebastopol, you'll find Monte-Bellaria di California, a family-owned operation that specializes in both lavender and olive oil. The name means "Beautiful Mountain of Air," and trust us, the breeze here smells amazing thanks to all that lavender.

Monte-Bellaria di California frequently hosts private tours and exclusive events where you can get a deep dive into how they grow their lavender and produce their artisanal products. Their farm store is also packed with goodies, from lavender-infused olive oils to balms and sachets. No matter what you’re interested in, you can expect a personal level of service in every detail.

Highlights include:

• Stunning Views: Breathtaking panoramic vistas and a serene environment.
• Insightful Tours: Learn all about lavender growing and oil distillation.
• Handcrafted Goodies: Shop for top-notch lavender products and olive oils.

Lavender Bee Farm

Last but not least, we’ll jet over to Lavender Bee Farm in Petaluma, a family-run farm that also places an emphasis on the localThe  pollinators. During the blooming season, you can tour the farm, learn about the bees’ vital role, and taste their incredible honey.

Lavender Bee Farm focuses on natural farming methods. They use bees for pollination, which means no chemical pesticides. You can participate in beekeeping demonstrations and taste a variety of honeys produced right on the farm.

Things to check out:

• Family Vibes: Enjoy the personal touch of a small, family-operated farm.
• Beekeeping Lessons: Discover the magic relationship between lavender and bees.
• Artisanal Treasures: Stock up on high-quality lavender oils, sachets, and honey.

Stay at The Gables Wine Country Inn

There you have it! Each of these lavender farms near Sonoma offer a mix of education, stunning sights, and lavender-infused goodness. Whether you’re sipping wine at Matanzas Creek Winery or learning about bees at the Lavender Bee Farm, each spot offers something special. Plan your visit and dive into the fragrant world of Sonoma’s lavender fields. 

While you’re here, don’t forget to book a stay at the Gables Wine Country Inn. Our historic property is a staple of the Sonoma Wine Scene, and we pride ourselves on making your visit as comfortable and memorable as possible. Choose from any of our 10 uniquely styled rooms, and embrace our community-leading commitment to sustainability.