Every year, from June to August, the blooming of lavender fields is highly anticipated, and everyone looks forward to witnessing this spectacular display. In Provence, the lavender season runs from May to early August, transforming the region into a sea of purple. Ready to explore the iconic landscapes of southern France? Here are six of the best spots to enjoy breathtaking views of lavender in bloom in Provence!
The Chemin des Lavandes in Sault
A Stroll Amongst Blue Gold
The Chemin des Lavandes (Lavender Road) in Sault offers a delightful blend of a scenic walk and a chance to discover a blooming lavender field near a picturesque village. It’s a quintessential experience of Provence, letting you immerse yourself in the essence of the region. This 4-kilometer walking loop takes you through beautiful Provencal landscapes and is perfect for all ages—a leisurely 1-hour and 40-minute walk that’s ideal for families. Interpretive signs along the trail provide insights into lavender’s botany, cultivation, and distillation as you traverse the largest true lavender production area in Europe. For the more adventurous, explore the Plateau de Sault by bike on a 33-kilometer circuit to experience Provence on a grander scale. Other lavender highlights in the Vaucluse include fields near the Pont Saint-Bénezet bridge in Avignon, the lavender fields of Enclave des Papes, and the aromatic Provencal products from Aroma’plantes in Sault.
The landscapes are especially beautiful from late June to early July.
The Valensole Plateau
A Mythically Picturesque Landscape
The Valensole Plateau is the iconic “postcard” of Provence’s lavender fields. As the warm weather arrives, the plateau fills with the delicate scent of lavender. Fields of lavender and wheat stretch across more than 800 square kilometers, displaying shades of blue and gold that change with the sun’s movement across the sky. To capture the most stunning views, avoid the midday sun and opt for softer light in the morning or late afternoon. With 300 days of sunshine each year, Provence is a prime location for this flower, which was first introduced to France by the Phocaeans. Stroll along blooming lavender fields, but remember to respect the owners and bees by not picking the flowers.
You can book a guided tour or explore the countryside around Valensole independently, admiring the postcard-worthy views of the lavender fields in bloom. Stop by local producers to purchase dried lavender, essential oils, cosmetics, and other lavender-based products.
Terre Ugo in Aix-en-Provence
Lavender, a Family Tradition
Wondering what to visit in Provence? Head to Terre Ugo to discover the touching story of a Provencal lavender farm. Founded by Ugo, the grandfather, this family-run farm produces organic hybrid lavender, and it has grown into a 3-hectare agrotourism site with over 30,000 lavender plants.
The cozy family home welcomes you to learn about lavender through unique workshops where you can create herbal teas or lavender sachets and watch distillation demonstrations. Enjoy the on-site shop, lounge in deckchairs, play boules, and explore the art center. During summer, you can also join in for aperitifs and other friendly gatherings.
Experience an unforgettable sensory journey near Aix-en-Provence!
Un Mas en Provence in Bellegarde
From Flower to Cosmetics
For an offbeat experience in Provence, visit Un Mas en Provence, a unique concept envisioned by Gaël Briez, a farmer’s son and grandson. This farm invites you to explore the cultivation and production of lavender on a 3-hectare property dedicated to aromatic plants, including lavender. During the guided tour, Gaël will walk you through every stage of the production process, highlighting his organic farming practices guided by lunar cycles. Before you leave, make sure to visit the shop, where you’ll find a variety of cosmetics, essential oils, and bouquets—all made with lavender.
And don’t miss the opportunity for a gourmet break in Banon, renowned for its delicious goat cheese!
On the Route de la Lavande from Manosque
Exploring Village by Village
The Route de la Lavande is the perfect way to see lavender on a grand scale. Drive through the picturesque Pays de Forcalquier and visit charming Provencal villages like Montlaux, Banon, and Simiane-la-Rotonde. As you meander through small country roads, keep an eye out for lavender fields, which can sometimes be hidden but are worth the effort to find. These blue-gold plains stretch endlessly, providing a stunning and fragrant escape. Capture the breathtaking scene of hilltop villages seemingly floating above the lavender fields.
Lavender in the Luberon Valley
Apt Countryside Tour
The Pays d’Apt in the heart of the Luberon is home to numerous lavender producers. Take the scenic road to Buoux, where you can stop at the Agnels distillery near Claparèdes. Here, you can learn about the art of distilling lavender and enjoy the beauty of the surrounding fields.
Two other must-see lavender spots lie between Cavaillon and Apt:
- In Gordes, the Cistercian Abbey of Sénanque is surrounded by lavender fields, offering a stunning backdrop for photos.
- In Cabrières-d’Avignon, the Lavender Museum Luberon reveals all the secrets of this iconic Provencal plant and is a must-visit on any lavender road trip.
The Lavender Season in Provence
Several varieties of lavender are cultivated in southern France, including fine lavender, aspic lavender, and lavandin. The flowering season varies based on geography and altitude:
- On the Valensole Plateau, flowering begins in mid-June and lasts about a month.
- Near Sault, the season starts in July and extends into August.
- Around Avignon, Comtat Venaissin, and near Aix-en-Provence, early July is the best time to admire the lavender fields.
The start of the lavender season can fluctuate each year, depending on weather conditions such as rainfall and temperature.
