Finding Serenity at Lavender Pond Farm in Killingworth
In an attempt to balance social distancing with venturing out, I dropped by Lavender Pond Farm last week. Chris and Denise Salafia reopened their 25 acre farm earlier this month. The timing is proving to be perfect as thanks to the hot, sunny weather the nearly 1000 lavender plants are approaching full bloom. The fields are dotted with small groups of people, thoughtfully distancing while clad in masks. A giant chess set, a calming labyrinth, working honey bees, and Vinyasa yoga on Saturdays are all in full swing. The gift shop is open to limited shoppers at a time but worth a wait to peruse the lavender-centric goods and live plants. Happy to spy favorite local jewelry designer, Susan Roberts’ jewels on display, too.
I took a lovely walk around the freshwater pond and marveled at their (new in 2018) authentic covered bridge. Built by Arnold Graton using 19th-century building techniques, this bridge is constructed with solid oak beams, lattice truss work and joined with solid wooden trunnels rather than nails or bolts. The Farm is now solar-powered by CT’s first Smartflower, a sculptural contraption of solar panels that opens and closes and follows the sun.
A private tour of the entire farm on a purple train will inform you all about lavender farming. Due to Covid-19 concerns, tours are only available for one family per train. $25 per family.
Open 7 days a week, 10am – 4pm.
318 Roast Meat Hill Rd, Killingworth
