Deep in the purple

A few acres of lavender draws more than 5,000 visitors to Hillier farm

Row upon row of fragrant lavender was at its peak and people came in droves to smell, touch, taste and photograph the flowers. Last weekend was Prince Edward County Lavender’s fifth annual Lavender Festival. More than 5,000 enthusiasts attended over the two warm and sunny days and were treated to music, magic, food and clowns. Owners Derek Ryles and Rolande Leblanc, their employees and volunteers guided visitors through the tasting, crafts and production of lavender products.

“We are always at the mercy of nature and it was good to us this year,” said Leblanc