How To Visit the Lavender Fields in Provence
With purple flowers carpeting gently sloping hills as far as the eye can see, the lavender fields in Provence bloom each year and draw admirers from across the world. Here are some options for seeing the best of Provence’s blossoming lavender.
1. When to Go
The lavender in Provence blossoms from the end of June to early August, when it’s harvested. To catch the flowers in bloom and enjoy the beautiful scenery to the fullest, early July is usually the best time to go.
2. Where to Go
The historic Provençal villages of Gordes and Roussillon—in the Luberon region—are two of the best places from which to admire the lavender fields. Surrounded by rows of waving lavender plants, medieval Sénanque Abbey is as picturesque as it gets, and the fertile hills of the Valensole Plateau showcase the region’s beauty to perfection. Enjoy the scent of lavender on the air as you explore Valensole village, browse market stalls selling perfumes and essential oils in Aix-en-Provence, and visit the Lavender Museum in Coustellet to learn more about the traditions of lavender-farming in Provence.
3. How to Go
Avignon, Marseille, and Monaco are popular bases from which to enjoy Provence’s lavender tours. Bus tours depart regularly, taking travelers to the local sites of interest. Full-day tours typically include a tour guide, a stop for lunch, and roundtrip transportation.
More ways to explore Provence
