About
Lavender flowers are beautiful, and the scent and oils are revered by health-conscious people worldwide. While one wouldn't think of Arizona as a place where lavender would flourish, Windy Hills Lavender Farm has proven otherwise.
The farm was founded in 1988 as the Red Hawk Ranch, and in 2009, they realized that their altitude of over 6,000 feet and soil were perfect for growing lavender.
With that knowledge, they embarked on the aromatic journey of cultivating the flower. The farm is a fragrant haven for lavender enthusiasts with an annual planting of 1,500 plants, including varieties like Grosso, Provence, Royal Velvet, Gros Bleu, Melissa, Edelweiss, and Hidcote.
To make the beauty more accessible, Windy Hills has also started planting lavender at their boutique in Heber. Now boasting around 2,500 plants, including new varieties like Gros Bleu and Melissa, the boutique invites visitors to enjoy lavender's beauty and sweet scent without trekking to the main farm.
Windy Hills Lavender Farm is the perfect destination for a unique boutique shopping experience and strolling through lavender-filled gardens. It will be an enchanting experience!
Fun Facts & Cool Features
The name for the farm originated during the first season when a wind storm uprooted the young plants. The family has since learned to grow under these conditions. Still, their titular name reminds them daily how Mother Nature can behave.
As a Certified Naturally Grown farm, Windy Hills is dedicated to sustainability. They implement eco-friendly farming methods, avoiding synthetic pesticides and fertilizers. Another remarkable fact is that they are "off the grid" and rely on solar panels for electricity.
The farm boasts an impressive array of lavender varieties, each with a unique aroma and characteristics. From the robust Grosso to the delicate Melissa (Pink Lavender) and the pristine Edelweiss (White Lavender), Windy Hills Lavender Farm is a lavender enthusiast's dream.
Take a guided tour to learn about each variety's qualities and uses. Or purchase Edelweiss and dance and sing snippets from The Sound of Music!
Beyond lavender, Windy Hills cultivates various herbs used in their infusions and teas. Explore the herbal gardens and discover the diverse array of scents and flavors that contribute to the farm's holistic offerings.
While the main lavender fields are a bit of a journey, a boutique in Heber offers a more accessible experience. Here, there are approximately 2,500 plants, including newer varieties like Gros Bleu and Melissa.
For those eager to delve deeper into the world of lavender, Windy Hills offers classes like understanding the art of lavender cultivation and creating lavender-infused products. Keep an eye on their schedule for upcoming courses during your visit.
When visiting the Rim Lakes area, ensure Windy Hills Lavender Farm is on your itinerary. This fragrant oasis and boutique will provide an experience that will linger in your senses long after you leave.
Getting There
Once you are in Heber-Overgaard, follow these steps:
- Head north on Highway 260 for approximately 10 miles.
- Turn left onto Stone Bridge Road.
- Continue straight until you reach the farm.
- Address: 3384 Stone Bridge Trail, Heber-Overgaard, AZ 85928.
Cost
Visiting is free, but tours and products come with a cost.
Local Tips
- They also host small weddings at their farm!
- Visit in the late spring or early summer for the full bloom of lavender.
- Wear comfortable shoes for a leisurely stroll through the lavender fields.
- Don't miss trying the lavender-infused products at the boutique; they make unique and memorable souvenirs.
- Check the weather before visiting, as the boutique's hours are weather permitting.