Wexford Lavender Farm, the county’s newest tourist attraction was officially opened recently by RTE Broadcaster, Joe Duffy. Located in lovely rolling countryside near Inch in North Wexford, the unique facility set on a working farm is the brainchild of owners Moira & Cary Hart is set to become one of the top tourist attractions in the area.
The project resulted from a feasibility study grant aided by Wexford Local Development in 2012 to examine the viability of the development of Wexford Lavender Farm as a new tourism/educational enterprise. The study carried out by Wexford based consultants, Ennis & Co examined best practice in setting up the business and included detailed financial projections and costings as well as linkages with Failte Ireland and other tourist attractions in the area. The study identified that visitor experiences that meet a desire to enjoy, learn and be informed, are successful models well established in tourism offerings in Ireland and internationally.
Based on successful UK models, the Hart’s have developed an educational tourism attraction utilising the facilities on the farm. A two acre lavender field forms the basis of Wexford Lavender Farm where visitors can enjoy the setting, learn about the plant and view the harvesting and distillery process to extract the essential oils. Unusual lavender plants are grown and sold, while the farm will also process and sell high quality lavender oils and associated lavender products directly to domestic and overseas markets.
The Hart’s tastefully converted outbuildings of traditional stone construction in a courtyard setting and now offer a range of facilities to include a working distillery unit for tours, plant sales, a first class “Purple Haze”café & children’s play area.
The venue also utilises a wooded area to the rear of the farm for woodland walks of various lengths, which also have potential to link with existing looped walks in the nearby village of Kilanerin.
Speaking at the official opening, Tom Bermingham of Wexford Local Development (WLD) outlined how WLD were delighted to provide capital and marketing grant assistance to what he considered “a welcome and unique addition to the tourism infrastructure of Wexford and the South East region”.
Also speaking at the opening, Minister of State and Government Chief Whip, Mr Paul Kehoe, TD congratulated the Hart’s on developing “an absolutely wonderful facility”.
Mr Pat Rath, Chairperson of WLD paid tribute to the Hart’s for their vision and determination to bring this lovely project to fruition.
The business will cater for:
- Families and individuals seeking a natural and rural authentic experience.
- Gardening enthusiasts & Groups.
- School tours.
- Active Retirement Groups.
- Domestic visitors and holidaymakers to the South Dublin, Co. Wicklow and Co Wexford areas.
- Overseas tourists coming to the region.
For more information, visit www.wexfordlavenderfarm.com