(EMAILWIRE.COM, March 23, 2011 ) PORT ANGELES, Wash.- WashingtonÂ’s Olympic Peninsula has gained attention for its exquisite natural beauty and as the setting for famous novels, including the recently published West of Here. What many travelers may not know, is one of the peninsulaÂ’s hidden gems is its culinary bounty. The same microclimates and rich soils which helped to create stunning rainforests also shape a growing viticulture region, extensive organic and sustainable farms, prosperous dairies and creameries, and world-famous lavender farms. Fishermen around the peninsula have also implemented sustainable fishing and shell fishing techniques- leading to the availability of amazing local seafood.
During the warmer months the peninsula enjoys numerous festivals and fetes to celebrate their bounty and Olympic Coastal Cuisine. No matter the month something delicious is waiting to be tasted. April brings Northwest Wine and Cheese tours, while in July fragrant fields of lavender come center stage during the annual Sequim Lavender Festival. Other food and farm festivals include the Dungeness Crab and Seafood Festival, the Red Wine and Chocolate events, the Oyster Festival, and Harvest Wine Tour.
If not visiting during a festival try one of the suggested itineraries on the Olympic Culinary LoopÂ’s website. Travelers can visit organic farms, learn how to make homemade cider, try a wine tasting or two, and of course enjoy plenty of local foods. There are many ways to work up an appetite on the peninsula from scuba diving and kayaking to mountain biking and rainforest trekking.
Media Contact: Amy Shadell, 970-568-7423, Amy@adventuremedianews.com, www.olympicpeninsula.org. Photos available. Click here to view Olympic Peninsula Visitor Bureau media kit.
