Dungeness Spit, originally uploaded by Blue~Canoe.
It is time to anticipate the loveliness of the Olympic Peninsula during autumn. Dungeness Spit is incredible any time of year, under blue skies or enshrouded in fog and mist.
Touch of Lavender, originally uploaded by EL@Seattle.
As summer draws to a close, the sun is still shining in Sequim and there is still lavender in bloom. Take time to stop by one of the many lavender farms in and around Sequim while you are visiting the Olympic Peninsula in Northwest Washington.
ROARRRRRRRRRRRRRR, originally uploaded by shesnuckinfuts.
There is nothing quite like a trip to the Olympic Game Farm in Sequim, on the Olympic Peninsula. It is a ride back in time, in a way, and a ride into a different world. This family business has been in operation for more than forty years. Over half of that time it worked exclusively with the entertainment industry, particularly Walt Disney Studios. Do you recall “The Grizzly Adams Series”? How about “The Incredible Journey”? The Olympic Game Farm supplied the animals for these and other productions.
Today visitors will find Kodiak Bears like the one pictured above, along with zebra, rhinoceros and over 20 other incredible species. The Driving Tour of the game farm is a great way to see all of these animals; kids and adults are always thrilled by the experience. Walking tours are also fun, especially when you stop by the Historic Studio Barn and the petting area.
In addition to the wildlife, the game farm is located in a beautiful part of Sequim, between Highway 101 and the Straits of Juan de Fuca. Views of the Olympic Mountains are spectacular. Be sure to climb the viewing tower not far from the entrance of the game farm, and if time allows, bring a picnic to enjoy there.
Although the lavender festival has come and gone here in Sequim, it does not mean that the nice times to visit the Lavender farms has ended.
Jardin du Soleil is a wonderful farm out towards the Dungeness Area of Sequim. A certified organic farm, the owners also make a certified organic oil through a state-of-the-art distillation process there at the farm. The result is delicious lavender soap, high quality gifts like candles and even lavender for the cooking!
The farm is still open for the rest of August, and you can stop in to hand-pick your own lavender, or just meander the ten fragrant acres. They also sell products at the farm, like lavender sachets and other bath and body products.
The farm is decorated with Victorian-style fountains and sitting areas, so that if you want to bring a picnic lunch or a book to enjoy after you hand select a bouquet of lavender to bring home, you can just relax in the herb garden for a while.
Jardin du Soliel Lavender Farm in Sequim WA
Along with all of the products they make at the farm, they also sell bulk dried lavender. So if you want to make some products at home on your own, or if you are crafty and want to use our organic lavender to make gifts for your friends and family, you buy a whole bunch of the stuff to fill your car with pungent herbs! Lavender buds also make a wonderful alternative at a wedding to rice or confetti.
There are hundreds of ways to use lavender. The owners have great ideas and are happy to share them if you ask.
Spoon Creek Falls, curtesy of Olympic Peninsula Visitor Bureau
When you are in the Pacific Northwest, Sequim is a great place to be during the summer. It is usually sunny and warm, but not too warm. There are great restaurants, many lodging options, and fantastic views; in short, it is a good spot to use as a base while exploring the greater Olympic Peninsula.
The Olympic Peninsula Waterfall Trail is a relatively new creation. Well, the waterfalls aren’t new, but considering them as part of a larger system is. There are a number of waterfalls close to Sequim, making them ideal for a day trip or two. Start your day with a hearty breakfast, perhaps at the Oak Table, and then load up with picnic supplies. A stop at Bell Street Bakery is a good place to start, and Sunny Farms has great cheeses, fruits and drinks.
Madison Creek Falls, by the entrance to the Olympic National Park near Port Angeles, is wheelchair accessible and stunning. To see Wolf Creek Falls along the Elwa River requires a short but steep hike of less than half-a-mile, but those who are up for it will not be disappointed. Marymere Falls near Lake Crescent drop almost 90 feet down, and nearby stairs provide great views of the top portion of the falls.
There are many more waterfalls on the Olympic Peninsula – over 20 – and each one is worth visiting. You’ll certainly work up an appetite (even with the picnic), and be ready to dine at Alder Street Bistro or Cedar Creek when you return to your home base in Sequim.