In the past week, we’ve discovered two new and beautiful areas within a half an hour drive from our home, that we otherwise totally forgot existed. I think that often, we look for adventures and travel experiences elsewhere, forgetting that there can be some amazing gems much closer to home than we ever imagined.
Sparta, Ontario
Last year, we took a chance and on a whim, went visiting Sparta, Ontario. It’s a cute town not far from us. We had such a blast! It’s the perfect day trip location if you live in or are visiting southwestern Ontario. There’s lots to see for young and old alike, and we ran into elderly couples, young couples, families and middle-aged groups. It’s home to a gorgeous lavender farm, some cute boutique and shops, and the most incredible and creative enchanted forest. It’s such a sweet spot, I can’t help but share.
The main thing that drew us in initially last year was lavender. Ahh, lavender. After recently visiting this local lavender farm in Sparta, Ontario, I’ve decided that my new life goal is to one day own a farm full of lavender. How relaxed would you feel, all the time? Lavender is most definitely my favourite scent. Along with diffusing essential oils, I use it regularly in a spray bottle mixed with water (it makes an awesome calm-down spray for kids), in cleaning recipes and in baths.
We visited Steed Lavender Co last year for their annual fairy festival. However, we haven’t yet visited when the lavender is in full bloom. Until this year. It is UNREAL. Check it out.
Oh, and did I mention they make lavender ice cream sandwiches? No? Well, they do. And yes, they are out-of-this-world delicious.
After spending an hour at the farm, we moseyed along to Winter Wheat. What exactly is Winter Wheat? It’s kind of hard to describe, but think: the most whimsical and unique garden store and forest experience you can imagine. I remember going here as a child with my grandmother but I had almost forgotten about this enchanted place. Set back in the country, you enter by driving up a long road, spotting unique clocks and other fun features hidden in the forest, which surrounds the location. It’s full of whimsical scenes and characters and you can easily spend a good hour here exploring all the fun.
The tall pine and spruce trees are tranquil on their own, but the unexpected unique fixtures throughout the forest are what make this place so special. Carvings, recycled scenes made of wood, metal and found objects, and just simple fun scenes captivate people of all ages. It’s seriously awesome.
This is what you see upon entering the forest at Winter Wheat after parking.
And inside this magical forest…a penguin playing the piano. Of course.
With Bette Midler’s Beaches theme song belting out, of all things. This boy loved it and danced for quite a while:)
And more unique and fun fixtures..
How can you not love this place? We will definitely be back, that’s for sure!
Sparta, Ontario is such a sweet little town, perfect for day-tripping. Stop by Steed Lavender, go have some lunch and wander along Sparta’s main street, then continue on to Winter Wheat for more fun. I promise you won’t be disappointed.
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