Welsh Lavender, near Builth Wells
The cheerful yellow daffodil is proudly emblematic of the Welsh nation, but, come summer, swathes of lavender plants adorn the hillside at Welsh Lavender just outside Builth Wells.
The first lavender farm in Wales was created by chance thanks to Canadian-born Nancy Durham, a former television war correspondent, who began by planting a lavender hedge in 2003.
The initial modest project, you could say, grew from there.
Fast forward almost 20 years and visitors are welcome to enjoy a wander through the lavender fields, admiring spectacular far-reaching views from over 1,000 feet in the glorious Welsh hills.
Rather than just making a day of it, why not come and stay in fine glamping style in a cleverly converted removals truck, formerly used as a storage shed by a local shepherd.
Fitted with all mod-cons, including a king-sized bed, the double doors open out on to your own deck, offering a perfect spot for breakfast or a sundowner whilst drinking in the stunning views down the valley.
There’s even a wild swimming pond if you fancy a refreshing dip. The pond is open to day visitors as well, so don’t forget your cossie!
Visitors can enjoy refreshments on-site, and in the farm shop you’ll discover an array of fragrant lavender body care products, most of which are vegan friendly.
Sample their award-winning lavender oil infused dark chocolate bar – perfect for snacking whilst homeward bound after a day well spent in glorious surroundings.
Welsh Lavender Ltd., Cefnperfedd Uchaf, Maesmynis, Builth Wells, Powys, Wales LD2 3HU; Tel: 01982 552467; www.welshlavender.com.
● Lavenders are members of the Lamiaceae or mint family. The word lavender comes from the Latin “lavare” meaning “to wash”.
● The plant was prized for its antiseptic qualities, proving an essential item in a Roman first aid kit. Lavender was also used to fragrance clothes and added to hot baths to aid relaxation and to ease aches and pains.
● It’s said Elizabeth I was a fan of lavender to mask pungent odours in those insanitary times. It’s also documented that she was fond of steeping lavender in hot water as a fragrant, healthy beverage.
● The lavender farmer typically needs to harvest the crop on a sunny day when the flowers are fully open. The crop is usually harvested late July or early August depending on the variety grown and the vagaries of the British weather!
● Once harvested, lavender is traditionally distilled in copper or stainless steel stills and heated gently by steam to release the intensely fragrant essential oils.
● There are many varieties of lavender to choose from for your own garden plot or a decorative pot.
● The most popular are hardy English lavenders, known as Lavandula Angustifolia. French lavenders, Lavandula Stoechas, are another favourite. Hybrid lavenders such as Grosso, which can grow to 36 inches, are worth a look, too.