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All outings in the lavender fields
Provence: not to be missed
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Lavender flowers grow in the south of France and are used mainly to make essential oil. The “Huile essentielle de lavande de Haute-Provence” (lavender essential oil from Haute-Provence) has the Appellation d’Origine Protégée (protected designation of origin). However, the flowering show only lasts 2 months in the year, so you have to plan ahead to attend!
Where to see the lavender fields in Provence?
The Valensole plateau, the must-see
The lavender fields of the Valensole plateau are the most famous in Provence. This plateau, dedicated to the cultivation of cereals, olive trees and lavender, extends over 800 km² and offers a sumptuous panorama of the Provencal countryside. Not far away are the Verdon gorges, the largest canyon in Europe, with steep cliffs and turquoise water. Discover all of our excursions to the Valensole plateau.
The Claparèdes plateau in the Luberon
These lavender fields are located on beautiful country roads that wind between the various perched villages of Provence. The Abbey of Sénanque is not to be missed on a trip to this area. Excursions allow you to appreciate the beauty of the Luberon villages such as Gordes, with stops in the lavender fields.
The Albion plateau
Situated a little further north, it is around the perched village of Sault that the lavender fields stretch out. Several circuits in the lavender fields are proposed to discover the different villages and the surrounding fields.
Champ De LavandeBest time to see the lavender fields in flower
The best time to see the lavender in bloom is between mid-June and early August. Lavender is harvested around July 15th on the Valensole plateau. The lavender harvest is later in the northern areas of the Luberon and Drôme, until mid-August around Sault.
We advise you to contact the local tourist offices before going there to find out about the flowering of the fields. Don’t hesitate, book your excursion to the lavender fields and enjoy an unforgettable moment!
Frequently asked questions about lavender fields in Provence
- Where can you see lavender fields in Provence?
Although lavender can be found just about anywhere in Provence, the main growing areas include the Plateau de Valensole, the Plateau d’Albion, the Sault region and the area around Gordes. Visits and tours are organized during the flowering season.
- When are the lavender fields in bloom?
Flowering generally lasts from late June to early August, with a peak in July.
- What can you do around the lavender fields?
As well as visiting the fields, you can also discover local distilleries or visit dedicated museums, such as the Musée de la Lavande in Coustellet.
- What picturesque villages can you visit near the lavender fields?
Villages such as Gordes, Roussillon and Sault offer authentic charm and are located close to lavender fields.
- What's the difference between lavandin and true lavender?
True lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) and lavandin (Lavandula × intermedia) are both plants in the Lamiaceae family, but have several notable differences: Species and hybridization True lavender: A natural species, growing at altitude (above 800 m). Lavandin: A natural hybrid between true lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) and spike lavender (Lavandula latifolia). It is sterile and reproduces only by cuttings. Appearance True lavender: Small, compact spikes, light blue-violet in color. Lavandin: Longer stems and larger flowers, intense blue-purple color. Fragrance and aromatherapy use True lavender: Gentle, delicate fragrance, essential oil prized for its soothing and healing properties. Lavandin: More camphoraceous and powerful scent, essential oil often used in cosmetics and household products. Cultivation and yield True lavender: Less productive, more demanding in terms of altitude and drained soil. Lavandin: More resistant, grown in plains, offering a much higher yield of essential oil. True lavender is more refined and precious, while lavandin is more robust and productive, used more in the cosmetics and household products industries.