Over the weekend we were camping at Memorial Park, a beautiful redwood grove just inland a short jog from the coast near Pescadero, California, so it was by chance that we happened by the absolutely lovely u-pick dahlia farm, The Pescadero Flowery. This was like a dream come true for me because dahlias are my favorite flower, and to wander the rows containing 75 varieties of organically grown dahlias, some with blooms the size of a dinner plate, was pure bliss for this girl.

If you ever find yourself visiting the central coast (and you are a flower lover like me) be sure to make time for a stop by this lovely flower farm and treat yourself to a few blooms, or a lovely card, seed packet, or art print, which are sold in the little white 'potting shed'. Pescadero is a quirky, artsy town that is fun to explore anyway...the fact that the Flowery opened this spring is just icing on the cake as far as I'm concerned! 

I wouldn't have even noticed the flower farm if it weren't for my sweet hubby (oh, he knows me well!) who spotted it across the back fence of our favorite spot to eat when passing through town, the Pescadero Country Store (which serves amazing pizza from a wood fired oven), where we were savoring the last bites of their homemade ice cream. I'm so glad we didn't miss it! 

The Flowery also offers hands-on local workshops, including making flower crowns, DIY bridal flowers, hand-held bouquets, wreaths, garlands, and more. I'm already looking ahead on my calendar to see when I can squeeze in a dedicated trip to whip up some crafty flower goodness!

The little ally leading to the flower farm is a pleasure to browse, with funky little shops selling handmade pottery and soaps, up-cycled clothes, and other treasures you never knew you needed. I managed to come away empty-handed (this time...) but my inspiration well was completely refilled, and I left feeling energized and excited. I hope this little peek into my road trip adventure sparked your creativity as well, and if you ever find yourself in Pescadero, be sure to check out The Pescadero Flowery!

all photos: Laura Gaskill