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From the Hills and Vales of Loudoun ...
l Blooming Hill Lavender Farm & Gift Shop Often referred to as a hidden gem in Loudoun County , Blooming Hill Lavender Farm & Gift Shop is located in the historic hamlet of Philomont . Owned by Cyndie & Peter Rinek , this ornamental farm boasts a collection of 1000 lavender plants in almost one hundred varieties . The gift shop features homegrown , gathered and handmade lavender products , garden décor and specializes in lavender plants , lavender-infused artisan tea blends , and six different flavors of lavender ice cream . Customers can also find prints from original oil paintings of western Loudoun County towns painted by Peter , an accomplished artist . The shop and grounds are open Fridays and Saturdays , 10-5 or by appointment , April through December . www . bloominghillva . com l butterfly Hill farm store A charming wayside stop in the Virginia wine country , Butterfly Hill Farm Store strives to educate everyone about the wonderful fiber of alpaca ! Owners Gerry and Catie Dutcher originally opened the shop to market products made from the super-soft fleece of their herd of 32 alpacas . They carry yarn , fashion accessories and baby items all created from the shorn fiber of these charming animals as well as creations from other talented local artisans . On weekends , visit with some of their friendly herd and enjoy homemade pastries and fresh coffee while you peruse their fine selection of locally produced goods . Veteran owned business . www . facebook . com / ButterflyHillFarmStore
l school hill garden and tiny acre farm
Nestled on the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains School Hill Garden is a 6th generation family farm that grows fresh produce year round and raises beef , pork , chicken , duck , and turkeys . Come spring , they are busy growing and selling bedding plants such as heirloom tomatoes , peppers , herbs , flowers and more . The newest treat from their weekly cornucopia of fresh baked goods is biscotti , available in almond , espresso chocolate chip and white chocolate chip espresso . You ’ ll love their truly local homemade jams , jellies and pickles , too ! www . facebook . com / SchoolHillGarden wander I fall • winter 2020 41