MLive says: “Sure, the term "unique" is overused, but a mile from Lake Michigan at one of the area's oldest operating farms, you'll find something that really is unique. Cherry Point Farm & Market is home to the lavender labyrinth and herb garden. If you want to walk through the labyrinth during peak lavender season, head to the farm during the latter half of July or the early days of August. Of course, the farm is open April weekends and daily from May through October. Even if the lavender isn't in bloom, something will be popping up through the labyrinth and garden. While you are there, you can also shop for fruits, vegetables, flowers and herbs at the market. You'll definitely want to try the cherry turnovers. Yum!”
July 21, 2019
On a very sunny July afternoon, I hopped in my car, reusable grocery totes in hand, and headed north to Oceana County. I hadn’t been before, and the promise of a lavender farm and cherry turnovers was enticing.
The drive from Grand Rapids up to the farm was gorgeous; once I was off the highway I drove through every kind of agricultural field possible in Michigan. Cherry Point was tucked away down a shaded drive, on the corner of two roads. I parked my car, got my camera together, and walked across the road to the entrance.
The farm market was right up front, with stands of berries and berry jam. The labyrinth was a short walk away. Even though I visited during “peak lavender season,” there was hardly any lavender to be seen. I suppose the uncommon weather has thrown off the growing season everywhere for every crop. Even without the lavender though, the farm was still gorgeous and aromatic.
I started by walking through the labyrinth, and noticed that each section was themed: edible, stress relief, beverage, etc. Lots of herbs and native plants bursting out of their designated beds, covered in bumble bees and honey bees and hummingbirds.
There was some moisture trapped under the UV filter on my camera lens, which created a cool fogging effect on accident…
There were some photographers hanging out in the garden with massive telephoto lenses photographing the hummingbirds buzzing around, and many families walking through the labyrinth picking out plants they’d like to grow at home. I lazily strolled and popped leaves and flowers into my mouth, snacking on edible plants as I went. Nasturtiums, chives, and basil rolled over my taste buds, warm and juicy from sun and rain.
Once I had walked through the garden about three times, I felt satisfied and drifted over to the farm market. I walked through shelves of jams and jellies, maple syrup, baked goods, and Michigan-themed mementos. I filled my shopping bag with two quarts of perfectly ripe Michigan cherries, cherry-strawberry jelly, a pint of Michigan raspberries, a half pound of maple sugar, and a single cherry turnover.
I enjoyed the turnover right outside on a small patio. It appeared by the ingredients list to be vegan, shockingly.
I concluded my visit by snacking on some cherries and raspberries in the sun, and then loaded up my goodies into the car and headed south to Muskegon.
