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The
blades of an antique windmill whir in the breeze as visitors stroll
among blooms and fragrant plants in the Star Garden, the largest
herbal display at the Fredericksburg Herb Farm.
Though
the city's busy Main Street is only six blocks away, the pace is
considerably slower at the Hill Country farm, a complex of five
herb gardens, a restaurant, an apothecary, and a bed-and-breakfast
cottage.
"One
lady told me that as soon as she got out of her car, she immediately
felt at ease," co-owner William Varney says, "That's what
we're trying to do — create a tranquil, peaceful environment
where people can learn about herbs."...
...At
the Fredericksburg Herb Farm, most visitors first head for the stone
cabin, built by immigrant Henry Lehne in the 1990's.
Inside,
wooden floors creak as shoppers peruse shelves and tables lined
with toiletries, perfumes, herbal teas, vinegars and mustards, honeys,
essential oils, potpourris, soaps and seasonings, all made on site
at the farm.
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Of
their more than 600 products, the Varneys are proudest of one
— the visually stunning Edible Flowers Vinegar, which won
an outstanding-condiment award at the 1991 International Fancy
Food and Confection Show in New York.
After
winning the award, Sylvia developed a new product line called
Edible Flower Preserves.
In
a restaurant adjoining the house, visitors can sample more of
the farm's homegrown herbs and spices. The lunch menu features
soups, sandwiches, and salads... Candlelight dinners served Friday and Saturday nights
offer such entrees as sautéed barbecued shrimp ...
...The
Ichthus Garden, planted in the Christian shape of a fish is in
front of the Herb Haus, the Varney's bed-and-breakfast cottage.
Inside the white frame house, dozens of herbal bouquets hang from
the bedroom ceiling.
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In
the morning, a continental breakfast features herbal cuisine, such
as homemade herb breads, sweet herb and spice butter, jams, fresh
fruits, juice and coffee or tea, all garnished with edible flowers.
Guests are also treated to a complimentary carafe of wine.
...visitors
can buy potted herbs, such as thyme, rosemary and oregano, and a
variety of mints. Nearby, therapy at the Quiet Haus, and aromatherapeutic
day spa, give massages in rooms scented with the farm's essential
oils.
...Poet's
House filled with herbal candles (made on site), gardening accessories
and books, included the Varneys' two titles — Along the Garden
Path and Herbs: Growing and Using the Plants of Romance.
Not
to be missed is the Secret Garden, another herbal display tucked
behind a country-style, two-story building that houses the farm's
warehouse and mail order facilities...
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