Meet the Makers
The Heart of the Hinterland Treasure Trail
Ready to uncover the creative heart of our region? The Hinterland Treasure Trail is powered by a community of passionate individuals and families who pour their hearts into their craft. From unique artisanal goods to homegrown delights and immersive farm experiences, these are the Makers – the artists, the growers, and the small business owners whose stories define the trail. Scroll down to see who you'll meet, learn their passions, and plan your journey to visit each hidden gem!
Honourable Makers
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Araluen Studio
Shae is a self-taught woodworker, a wife, and mother of five, living in the bushland of Paterson, NSW. Through Araluen Studio, she creates functional pieces using reclaimed timber and sustainably sourced hardwoods. Her practice blends lathe work, Arbortech shaping, and traditional carving techniques to breathe new life into bush wood and salvaged materials—often sourced from old bridges, sheds, and local structures. Each piece reflects a practical design sensibility and a deep connection to place.
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Blake's Gelato
Blake's Gelato is a small scale Gelato producer, seller & wholesaler based in the Hunter Valley Maitland.
The idea behind Blake's Gelato began in 2006 during a family holiday to Tuscany. In 2016 the passion developed into experimenting with different recipes and ingredients until 2023 when Blake's Gelato was created. After Nine years, Blake's Gelato aims to bring Authentic Italian Gelati to Maitland and the Hunter region with an emphasis on simple recipes and fresh ingredients.
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Ela Flora
Meet Ela Flora, where fresh blooms, dried florals and creative hands come together to bring nature’s beauty to life. Inspired by native Australian and South African blooms, each arrangement and bundle is thoughtfully curated, grown or sourced in the Hunter Valley and Port Stephens region.
Whether you’re looking for a one-of-a-kind bouquet, or a preserved piece of floral art - Ash has you covered.
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Farmhouse Forge
Farmhouse Forge exists to make cookware the old way - by hand at the anvil, in small batches. Every pan is built to be used hard, to cook over fire or on the stove, and to last long enough to be passed down through the generations. The forge stands against the throwaway culture of cheap imports and synthetic coatings. They believe Australians are waking up to the truth: PFAS and other non-stick chemicals don’t belong anywhere near the food we eat.
Rooted in local craft, Farmhouse Forge keeps it authentic - no shortcuts, no compromises. Just honest carbon steel, hand forged with care and made to serve a lifetime.
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FlashAsh Productions
Capture the magic of the season with Flashash Productions - Christmas Photo Sessions set amongst the Sunflowers.
Nestled among golden blooms, you and your loved ones will be joined by Santa & Mrs. Claus for a festive and unforgettable photo experience.
Perfect for families, couples, or even just the kids—these mini sessions are limited and book out fast. Don’t miss your chance to create holiday memories in a truly magical setting.
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Fosterton Retreat
Labyrinths are an ancient tool and Max has crafted beautiful, wooden, hand-held labyrinths (artworks themselves) plus 4 walking ones with different patterns and views.
Bronwyn has a love of nature and art that connects us to our natural surrounds, which shines through her artworks, but she also enjoys passing skills to others, even if they think they aren't creative. Both have worked with a variety of ages, from children up, helping each person have their own unique experience within these 2 areas
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FromLucieandMarco
Lucie and Marco are passionate ethical growers and fight hard against the injustices of the world. They grow chemical free food and flowers, using biodynamic principles at Shepherds Ground, Butterwick.
For this weekend, there will be a special offering of garlic plaiting workshopsfor beginners. Learn to plait your own freshly harvested garlic. Garlic will be sold per kg and we will then demonstrate how make your very own garlic plait creation. You can make as many as you would like (they make great Christmas gifts!).
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Gumnut Valley Alpacas
Gumnut Valley Alpacas is a boutique Alpaca farm in beautiful Butterwick. Steve and Marian enjoy connecting people of all ages with their friendly Alpacas, Nigerian Dwarf goats, Miniature donkeys, Silkie chickens and Sebastopol geese. They also rescue neglected and unwanted alpacas and run farm activities to assist with the ongoing costs of feed, husbandry and veterinary care before giving them a second chance of life through adoption.
Gumnut Valley offers Picnics with Alpacas, Farm Feeding Tours, Animal Feeding sessions, Paint & Sip with Alpacas, Alpaca Workshops.
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Happy Ever After
Happy Ever After Coffee Co. began with one woman’s dream to build a simple, meaningful life on a little farm in Clarence Town. When Tina Belle’s career in veterinary medicine was cut short by health challenges, she poured her love for animals, nature and people into creating a place where the community could connect over great coffee and kindness.
What started as a few hens and an idea grew into Crazy Chick Café a warm, ever-changing space serving locally roasted coffee, organic teas, homemade treats and showcasing local makers. Here, you’ll always find good coffee, genuine smiles, and a reminder that even the toughest roads can lead somewhere beautiful.
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Hunter Valley Sunflowers
UPDATE: SUNFLOWERS ARE NOT GOING TO BE READY FOR THE WEEKEND OF 6&7. Follow HV Sunflowers to keep updated on their opening date. APOLOGIES TO ALL.
Professional Christmas photos with Santa and Mrs Claus available in a small patch
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In Our Hands Family Farm
This permaculture farm grows food sustainably, raises resilient kids, fosters futures and builds strong local systems. Jacqui is gradually transforming 8 acres into a rich, diverse ecosystem. The FarmGate (open daily) provides all kinds of goodies produced on-site. Regular workshops to inspire all.
Especially for the treasure trail, a new community garden has been built allowing participants to enjoy the growth and have a conversation about sustainable gardening methods.
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Magic Starfish Tie Dye
Bringing colour, joy and creativity to the day, Magic Starfish will be selling a vibrant collection of hand-dyed items and tie dye kits. Each piece is lovingly crafted in Paterson village. For a fun, creative experience, take home a tie dye kit. Other creative craft items include beeswax candle kits, beautiful wool fleece and hand dyed rainbow wool fleece.
Experience rolling your own beeswax candle on the day!
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Permaculture in the Paddock
Join Liz for an inspiring wander through her thriving permaculture property in the lush Fosterton Valley. These guided tours invite you to explore the interconnected systems that make a sustainable farm come alive - from abundant gardens and thriving orchards to healthy soil.
As you stroll through the paddocks, Liz shares her deep knowledge of permaculture design, natural cycles, and regenerative practises. You’ll discover how every element — vegetables, trees, water and wildlife — works together in harmony, leaving you inspired to create abundance in your own backyard.
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Rosewood & Fig
Rosewood & Fig is a small, unique flower farm nestled in the hills of Duns Creek, where seed and sunlight come together to grow beautiful, seasonal blooms. Using organic, permaculture-based methods, they nurture the bees, the flowers and you — inviting visitors to slow down, unwind and connect with nature’s rhythm.
Browse freshly picked seasonal bouquets, dried flower posies, and handmade Christmas wreaths and decorations crafted from farm-grown blooms. You’ll also find locally sourced beeswax candles - a perfect blend of creativity and country calm.
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The Coffee Cubby
We serve up freshly made coffee including Espressos, velvety lattes, bold long blacks, creamy cappuccinos and indulgent mochas. For those who prefer something chilled, our iced coffees and old fashioned milkshakes are perfect for those warm sunny days.
Pair your drink with a selection of sweet and savoury bites. We have flaky croissants, buttery banana bread, hearty toasties and locally made muffins and slices. We also offer gluten free options. As a special offering, especially for the Treasure Trail, we will be cooking up a good country style breakfast of Bacon & Eggs. The perfect way to start your adventure!
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The Dirty Gardener
Step into a garden lover’s paradise created by Tracee in Woodville. With lush greenery, creative pots, natives, veggie seedlings, indoor plants and a quirky selection of gifts, this friendly nursery offers something special for every corner of your home or garden.
Bring the family along for a relaxed visit: the nursery features a sand-pit play area, a memorable farm-animal experience and a coffee van to keep you comfy while you browse. Pack a picnic and stay a while — Tracee welcomes you to make a day of it, whether you’re digging into your next garden project or simply soaking up the nature-filled atmosphere.
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The Gump Farm
On this warm, family-run working farm, Maddi, Jeremy and their four enthusiastic children share daily life in full swing: tending bees, gathering fresh eggs, managing cattle and harvesting seasonal produce. Their hands-on approach shines through as visitors are welcomed into real farm routines and genuine rural rhythms.
Children can pat the friendly animals, explore a playful garden space and even take home a seedling or packet of seeds. Meanwhile, the family’s own fresh-milk and honey production underscores the simple joy of staying close to the land.
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Tocal Homestead & Farm Tours
Set on a sprawling 2,200-hectare estate in the Paterson Valley of NSW, Tocal Agricultural College offers a living classroom where students learn modern farming — from beef and dairy production to sheep, stock-horses and bees.
Just across the ridge stands the heritage-listed Tocal Homestead, a fine colonial-era property overlooking lagoon and river, whose restored buildings tell the story of farming in Australia’s past. Visitors can explore its historic farm complex, and witness how land, architecture and education converge at this unique rural landmark.
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Tranquil Vale Vinyard
Nestled on a peaceful bend of the Hunter River, Tranquil Vale is a boutique 25-acre vineyard producing estate-grown Semillon, Chardonnay and Shiraz. This family-run gem offers warm hospitality and an authentic taste of the Hunter.
Join them for an intimate tasting experience - sample small-batch wines, enjoy Connie’s famed sourdough, and chat with the vintner to discover the craft and care behind every bottle. A true celebration of family, flavour and the land that sustains them.
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Anteaox
Anteaox is an Australian polyphenol-rich tea, formulated in the Hunter Valley. Developed to merge botanical tradition with measurable science, Anteaox uses natural ingredients that have been validated through in-vitro antioxidant testing. Each blend is engineered to deliver quantifiable antioxidant activity, supporting the body’s natural resilience to oxidative stress as part of everyday wellbeing. Precision-crafted, scientifically measured, and fuelled by nature.
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Ballimore Farms
Located in the picturesque Seaham, our family-owned farm is where tradition, innovation, and a passion for quality come together to create something truly special. From our herd of happy dairy goats and Jersey cows to your table, we’re dedicated to producing the freshest, most delicious sweet cheeses and gelato you’ll ever taste.
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Blackwood Apothecary
Sarah is an incredibly talented naturopath, who bring constant smiles, laughter, and warm, good-natured energy!
She has a true gift for holding space for her clients, making them feel truly heard, and empowering them with knowledge about their health.
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Carinya Downs
Led by Crissy and Mick, Carinya Downs is family-run, 25-acre permaculture farm in Lochinvar that’s transforming a once overgrazed property into a thriving, biodiverse ecosystem.
Learn how the farm translates produce into their line of Native Inspired products — from honey and bush tucker preserves to handcrafted beeswax and infused goods.
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Cinderella Arrivals
Cinderella Arrivals is Leeanne's labour of love for a uniquely beautiful, exquisite & magical experience. Her love of the rare all-black, heavy dutch horse (Friesian) drives Cinderella's Arrivals, with her vision to see a team of 8 or 10 Friesian horses up in front of her custom Black Pumpkin Carriage. Every carriage ride booking helps her bring these gorgeous horses back to life and see this ambitious dream become a reality!
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Committed Coffee Co
Based in East Maitland, this local cold brew company is all about smooth strength and focus in every sip. Their Cold Brew Concentrate is crafted for quality, flavour, and that perfect caffeine kick — whether poured over ice, blended with milk, or used in creative recipes. Keep your edge sharp and your energy steady with every brew.
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Eagleton Dairy Goats
Meet the adorable stars of Eagleton Dairy Goats! Come cuddle and feed playful baby goats, watch a fascinating goat-milking demonstration, and learn all about the health benefits of fresh goat’s milk. Brett shares his passion for these gentle animals and the goodness they provide — a wholesome, hands-on experience for all ages!
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Earth Wear
Hayley, based in Seaham, crafts delicate polymer-clay earrings inspired by floral shapes and natural motifs for her home business Earth Wear. Each pair blends colour, texture and handmade charm, offering a playful yet elegant accessory that connects you with the beauty of the garden—right from your ears.
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Erringhi Stone Farm
Sue and Graham’s Farm is a 2 acre permaculture holding built on rocky, hard-won soil — land once logged and later grazed, it’s now being slowly restored through composting, regeneration and careful planting. They grow bush tucker, medicinal plants & fruit. Sue also shares her bush medicine knowledge through workshops grounded in culture, respect and connection to Country.
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Fairleigh Fleece
Sandra and Alan supply wool direct from the sheep to the maker. Specialising in natural coloured wool from contented Merino sheep at Glen Oak. The wool is beautiful to handle with a long staple and will suit spinners, felters and artisans. The wide range of colours includes chocolate, caramel, coffee, fawn, cream, silver, charcoal, cocoa and white. This raw wool can be spun straight from the fleece as it is clean and has no prickles!
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Heather's Honey
Heather is passionate about local honey. Her business offers raw honey, beeswax and honeycomb. See some beekeeping action, with her famous beekeeping demonstrations offered regularly, get inside the beezebo, roll a candle with the kids, spot the queen, plus bee races for the kids!
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Hick's Homegrown
A local gem on the farmgate trail, Hick’s Homegrown is all about fresh, farm-grown goodness and community spirit. Drop by to meet Amanda, spy the garden just over the fence, and pick up seasonal vegetables, homemade tallow products, homegrown flowers and a few gifts. Friendly, welcoming, and rooted in local care — Hick’s Homegrown is where your food comes with a story.
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Jessica from In Our Hands Family Farm
Jessica is 10 years old and can’t wait to be part of the action! With a big smile and plenty of enthusiasm, she’ll be running her very own lemonade stand for the day, squeezing and serving fresh, homemade lemonade. Come say hello, grab a cool drink, and support this Junior Hand in her first farmgate adventure!
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John Wright
A local legend, John’s veggies, honey and hay are a long standing farmgate in the area. John also carries on a long standing tradition of broom making, using his very own millet, grown specifically for the purpose. Sourdough bread is also available on weekends as well as hay!
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Junior Herbalist Club
Our young herbalists have been busy learning the magic of plants and now they’re ready to share their creations with you! From soothing balms and bath blends to herbal teas and tinctures, each item cares for you and the natural world. Come along and support these inspiring young makers as they share what they’ve learnt with a whole lot of heart.
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Mabejay's Crafties
MArk is a very talented wood turner who consistently wins competitions for his beautiful work. All his sales go toward Cancer Council. BEv has been making pottery for some time, but still gets a thrill to see how it comes out of the kiln. JAnice makes the most beautifully crocheted bags featuring the sunflowers. Her other passion is growing succulents, either fancy or ready to plant at home.
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Mythical Ink
Mythical Ink has been spreading art, joy and happiness in the Hunter Valley and Newcastle for 21 years. Providing face painting and live performance for events, birthday parties and theatre, Mythical Ink's Head Creature, Elizabeth Smyth, has bachelor's degrees in Drama, English literature and Classical Music and speaks basic Mandarin Chinese. Art so good, it's Mythical.
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Paint Sip & Giggle
Get ready for a splash of paint, a sip of something lovely, and a whole lot of laughter! Paint, Sip & Giggle invites you to an informal, joy-filled creative session where no experience is needed—just your curiosity and sense of play. Bring your favourite drink, make new friends, and let’s turn blank canvases into colourful stories together.
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Pan's Forest
Pan’s Forest is a third-generation family farm in Woodville, lovingly tended by Lisa, Mus and their two young daughters. Together they care for happy, free-roaming hens that produce rich, flavourful open-range eggs, and raise cattle on lush pastures to create pure, 100% grass-fed beef tallow products. It’s wholesome, hands-on farming, straight from a family who lives it every day.
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Paterson Bolwarra Scout Group
Fuel your adventure with a classic Sausage Sizzle proudly run by the East Maitland Scout Group! Grab a sizzling snag straight off the barbecue, served with a smile by local Scouts. Every bite helps support youth programs that build confidence, skills, and community spirit. Simple, delicious, and for a great cause - don’t miss it!
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Penny's Pony Rides
Penny's Ponies, run by Steph, offers joyful pony rides for children in a friendly, safe farm-based setting. With gentle, well-trained ponies and a warm welcome, it’s the perfect way for little ones to meet equine friends and experience a touch of farmyard magic.
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Raymond Terrace Men's Shed
The Raymond Terrace Men’s Shed is a community of skilled locals who come together to share knowledge, friendship and craftsmanship. Their pop-up stall features beautifully handcrafted wooden items — each piece made with care, reclaimed timber where possible, and plenty of character. By supporting their stall, you’re helping fund men’s health, connection and purpose in the community, one project at a time.
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River Roast
James has been involved in the coffee industry for 30 years so he understands a thing or two about brewing at home so take advantage of this opportunity to extract some coffee info from him - whether you have an espresso maker or a french press you'll be brewing like a pro in no time.
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Rock Frog Grange
Rock Frog Grange is a peaceful rural haven in Clarencetown, where small-scale farming, creativity and slow living come together. With a focus on seasonal produce, handmade goods and gentle land stewardship, the Grange offers a warm welcome to visitors seeking fresh food, country hospitality and a closer connection to nature. A place where frogs sing, gardens grow, and life moves at a kinder pace.
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Serendipity Coffee
A vintage caravan on the move, Serendipity Coffee Van brings freshly brewed joy wherever it sets up. Serving coffees and refreshments straight from the van, this mobile café brings warmth, flavour and good company to your day. Pop by for a freshly made brew, a friendly chat, and a little serendipity in your cup.
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Shelby the Collective
A local resident of Seaham, Shelby has a passion for style and jewellery. She creates unique pieces that are sure to delight you and your loved ones.
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Spiral Sisters
Gather beneath the old ironbarks for an afternoon of weaving, story-sharing and connection. Sitting in a circle of stones, we’ll use natural fibres and found materials to create something beautiful. Bring your hands, your heart and a willingness to slow down — the rhythm of weaving invites calm, creativity and conversation beneath the scent of eucalyptus.
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The Cosmos Co.
The Cosmos Cabin is a beautiful and private, sustainably hand built space, surrounded by nature, situated just ten minutes from Maitland, on Purple Pear Permaculture and Biodynamic Farm.
The property has been carefully tended to and nurtured over the past decades by its owners, and this is very much felt when being there.
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The Jaffle Van
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The Pickled Patch
Based in Medowie, Kellie from The Pickled Patch brings her passion for permaculture and fungi to life through engaging workshops. A passionate educator, she teaches people how to grow edible and medicinal mushrooms at home using simple, sustainable methods. Her sessions blend practical skills with a love of nature, inspiring others to cultivate nourishment and resilience.
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Three Muscats Fibre Farm
Discover the artistry of fibre at Three Muscats Fibre Farm, home of Australian textile and fibre artist Rebecca Muscat. Explore locally grown, botanically dyed yarns, handmade textiles, DIY kits, fibre supplies, and aromatherapy products. Rebecca will demonstrate spinning, weaving, and hands-on felting, inviting crafters and curious visitors to experience colour, craftsmanship, and authentic farm-to-fibre creativity.
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Wildler Farm
At Wildler Farm Eggs in Nelson’s Plains, Anne and her happy hens produce colourful, pasture-raised rainbow eggs full of flavour and vitality. Alongside the eggs, you’ll find her wholesome seed bread and homemade relish — simple, nourishing foods made with care. It’s honest, small-scale farming at its best, celebrating freshness, colour and the joy of good food.
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WholeFood Family
Wholefood Family is the creation of Jane Jenkinson — passionate fermenter, educator and advocate for gut health. Since launching her Kvassaria in 2018, Jane has shared handcrafted, wild-fermented tonics and small-batch goods made with love. Rooted in creativity and respect for natural foods, Wholefood Family invites you to explore fermentation as a path to everyday nourishment.
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Wine Country Lavender
At Wine Country Lavender, Karen and her family cultivate premium medicinal, culinary, fragrance and cosmetic-grade lavender on their 21 acre Hunter Valley estate. From planting to steam-distilling, each step is rooted in sustainability and a deep respect for the land. Visitors are invited to explore the fields, sample handcrafted skincare and wellness products, and savour the calming world of lavender. Karen’s commitment to quality and agritourism offers a serene escape — where nature and nurture meet.
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