The narrow strait connecting Lake Michigan to Green Bay has for generations been known by the ominous moniker, Death’s Door Passage.
Fear not. The short trip is generally uneventful and the destination is worth the risk, for across the channel lies a sight rarely seen in the upper Midwest. A thirty-minute ferry ride from the eastern tip of the Door County peninsula brings visitors to Washington Island. From the ferry terminal, a short drive to the center of the island reveals the destination, Fragrant Isle Lavender Farm, a heavenly dreamscape of one of nature’s most treasured blossoms.
Lavender has been cultivated for hundreds of years and its many homeopathic and cosmetic uses can be traced back to the ancient Greeks and Romans. It is thought to reduce anxiety, increase relaxation, promote better sleep, and possess anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties. Most of all, it simply smells wonderful. The fragrance is captured in dozens of products, many of which are available for purchase at the Fragrant Isle shop.
Fragrant Isle Farm is the culmination of a dream of Martine Anderson and her husband Edgar. Martine longed for the beautiful fields of fragrant lavender she recalled from childhood in her native Provence region of France. Retirement brought the couple to Washington Island where they learned that the climate and soil conditions were well-suited to growing lavender. A hobby garden grew into a small farm, which led to a larger operation producing lavender for dozens of products. The farm boasts more than 30,000 plants of 48 different varieties of lavender. The business has expanded to include a shop and cafe featuring products and culinary delights made from their own crop. If you visit, allow plenty of time to stroll through the ornamental garden and relax with a light lunch followed by lavender-scented pastries. You’ll leave feeling refreshed and carry the heavenly aroma with you.
