The Willamette Valley is home to more than half of the state's lavender farms and nurseries-and every July, farms and producers around the city and neighboring hills showcase peak blooms and a range of lavender-infused products along what's now known as the Newberg Lavender Trail.
The month-long Lavender Trail combines efforts of northern Willamette Valley farmers with two separate routes: one within downtown Newberg and the other in the hills just adjacent. In addition, the city is also host to the beloved Willamette Valley Lavender Festival & Plein Air Art Show on July 9 & 10 at the Chehalem Cultural Center.
You won't want to miss Newberg artisans, makers and chefs incorporating the purple herb into treats and local wares best enjoyed before or after a trip to the U-pick fields; that's why Taste Newberg has created a guide and map of the Newberg Lavender Trail, featuring more than 25 local businesses embracing lavender. Find the 2022 guide and explore what the trail has to offer this July.
Frolic through lavender fields and explore the plant at its source at one of two farms: Wayward Winds (17005 NE Courtney Road) and Chehalem Flats (17733 NE North Valley Road). Both offer U-pick and pre-cut options, along with an array of culinary treats and beauty products. The former has a small lavender maze for guests to wander through, and the latter offers figs later in July (along with U-pick veggies during fall harvest season).
From there, two of Newberg's best boutique accommodations are just a short drive away: The Allison Inn & Spa (2525 Allison Lane) and Chehalem Ridge Bed & Breakfast (28700 NE Mountain Top Road) both offer special, lavender-themed packages and additions that are especially fresh during the month of July. The Allison features lavender spa treatment and in-room lavender amenities while Chehalem Ridge's "Lavender Refresh" package greets guests with lavender shortbread cookies, lavender lemonade and a lavender bath sachet upon arrival.
Newberg's producers of lavender goods mostly have a storefront or share space in the city center. Start your day with a lavender-infused tea or espresso at Coffee Cat Coffeehouse (107 S College Street) or a rosemary-lavender scone at Coffee Cottage (808 E Hancock Street).
From there, peruse Little Lavender Shop & Pollinate Flowers (108 S College Street) for a range of infused bath and home products; they grow much of their lavender on a farm in Dundee, which is available to visit with an appointment. Check out the specials board at Good Company Cheese Bar and Bistro (602 E 1st Street), and pick up more lavender-scented goods (including preserves and syrups, offerings change based on availability) for a picnic lunch before heading out to your farm of choice.
Of course, there are plenty of sweet treats to round out the day-and many are within a short walking distance of each other. Cream Northwest (701 E 1st Street) has lavender sorbet and ice cream, Teeter Totter Sweets & Treats (510 East 1st Street) has lavender candies, and those looking to imbibe can enjoy a lavender cocktail at Ruddick/Wood (720 E 1st Street).
July is also a great time to explore wine country around Newberg along with the communities of Yamhill, Dayton and Dundee.
Be sure to check individual farm and store websites as operating hours vary and some pandemic restrictions are still in place.
