This invention relates to a process for preparing (±)-2-exo-(2-Methylbenzyloxy)-1-methyl-4-isopropyl-7-oxabicyclo[2.2.1]heptane of the formula (I), any one of its individual enantiomers or any non-racemic mixture thereof any one of its individual enantiomers or any non-racemic mixture thereof, comprising the steps of (a) reacting (±)-2-exo-hydroxy-1-methyl-4-isopropyl-7-oxabicyclo[2.2.1]heptane of the formula (II), any one of its individual enantiomers or any non-racemic mixture thereof (as defined in the description) with elemental sodium to form a sodium salt of the formula (III), any one of its individual enantiomers or any non-racemic mixture thereof (as defined in the description), and (b) reacting said sodium salt (III) with a 2-Methylbenzyl compound of the formula (IV) wherein X is a leaving group, wherein the steps (a) and (b) are conducted in the presence of at least one substantially anhydrous inert organic solvent.