The present invention relates to a method for separating an optically active hydroxy cineole derivatives by lixiviation and crystallization and enantiomerically pure optically active hydroxy cineole derivatives of purity greater than 99.5% that have been prepared by this process. The present invention further relates to use of the desired enantiomer having enantiomeric excess of at least 99.5% ee as prepared according to the present invention, for the synthesis of enantiomerically pure 7-oxabicyclo[2.2.1]heptane derivatives.