In the small hamlet of Massarrat near L'Herm we arrived at "Lavande de L'Herm" which was a most pleasant surprise.
Suzie and Ian Dick arrived here some 23 years ago, purchased their property and have made this their home and have lived here permanently for the last 10 years.
We sat viewing the lavender fields while Suzie shared her passionate story of how they arrived here and started their "Lavender" business.
Suzie provided a very informative seminar about their own history and the history of lavender with some comic relief provided by her husband, Ian.
I will try not to give away too much information.
I believe everyone should come to "Lavande de L'Herm" and visit with Suzie and Ian and experience the "Tour and Tea".
Their focus is on the quality not quantity of the essential oils produced and last year they received three Silver medals for their products.
The two main types are Lavandula Angustifolia and Lavandin.
Lavandula Angustifolia
Lavandin
The difference between the two main types is the amount of camphor in each...there is more in the Lavandin.
www.lavenderalot.com
The oils can be used for most things, but the Lavandin oil should not be used in cooking or baking.
"Lavender oil is truly Nature's First Aid in a Bottle" ...
Quote by the owners.
No that isn't the "Batmobile" or a "Hotrod", it is actually a Japanese tea harvesting machine that has been modified for use in cutting the lavender.
While Ian demonstrated the distilling process of extracting the essential oils from the plants, we were served a traditional "English Cream Tea" in the 18th century barn.
Delicious cucumber sandwiches, scones with jam and cream and don't forget the lavender cookies!
La Petite Cabane ...where you can buy many artisanal products made from the extracted lavender oils created by Suzie and Ian.
Suzie also paints silk scarves and pillow covers.
While the women shopped, Monsieur Honey and a new friend relaxed.
The tour was also of much interest to the men.
So make a visit to "Lavande de L'Herm" a must do!
You won't be disappointed.
Lavande de L'Herm
Ian & Suzie Dick
Massarrat, 46150 L'Herm, France
Visit their website for more details of opening hours, etc. www. lavenderalot.com
What a great outing when you can sit in such beautiful surroundings while learning something new, meeting new people and enjoying a Traditional English Tea ... and then add some retail therapy at "La Petite Cabane"!
What more can you ask for?
Thank you Suzie and Ian!
