Lavender is a flower that whips up images of purple rows in Provence, France. You can now add Chandler, Arizona to your list. The Lavender Farm at Chateau de Vie is founded by Shelly Goodman. The property itself was built in 1984 but looks as though it comes from the Victorian era with its brick facade, Queen Anne style architecture, and spires. The property requires quite a bit of love and its preservation and restoration is at the heart of what Goodman does.
In order to raise funds to protect this charming estate, they settled on growing lavender. It is the only lavender farm in all of Maricopa County and they grow French, Spanish, English, and hybrid varieties. The lavender oversees the lake, while citrus trees border the vast property. Inside their shop are products all made with lavender, citrus, rose, and more grown or produced on site. There are oils, soaps, seasonings, and even lavender infused sodas. There are classes as well including candle making, cookie decorating, and soap making.
The farm was opened in Fall of 2023 and you can visit Thursdays through Saturdays from 9am-3pm. Not only can you walk the grounds and shop for all things lavender, but you can learn about the history and tour the 15,000 square foot mansion. Day and night tours are available to walk you through a maze of lavishly decorated rooms with an incredible eye for detail from the murals to the wood carvings, and even a hidden door or two.
To catch sight of the blooms you can visit sometime in the Spring and Fall, right before harvest. However, there is enough here to visit any time of year for a great day out and a touch of lavender. www.thelavenderfarms.com