Nothing quite
prepares you for the beauty of Provence in summer. If the sunshine and blue
skies over dramatic hills, glittering beaches and endearing little village
houses do not convince you, a visit to a Provence lavender field will.
Lavender
blooms between June and August and harvesting begins in mid July. Early July is
the most reliable time to see the lavender at its best but the exact time
depends on which region you visit.
The Plateau de
Valensole, north of Antibes and the Plateau de Sault, north-east of Avignon,
are the two main areas for lavender. High above the warmer coastline the
Plateau de Valensole is the largest lavender area. Good places to explore the
lavender and nearby Gorge du Verdon from include Moustiers Sainte Marie and
Riez. Sault offers a good base to explore the Plateau de Sault from.
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| Lavender field near Bonnieux, Provence, France |
There are many
other pockets of lavender dotted across Provence to be enjoyed. The most
photographed lies before l’Abbaye de Senanque, just to the north of Gordes. There
are many others, including some small fields near Bonnieux and Apt, which can
conveniently be enjoyed between visits to the nearby villages. The best way to visit
the lavender areas is to hire a car and drive yourself as public transport is
sparse.
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| L'Abbaye de Senanque, near Gordes, Provence, France |
Provencal
lavender is not only celebrated by visitors to the region, Lavender fetes showcasing
lavender take place around the region in July and August. Products made from
lavender include cut lavender, lavender oil, soap, honey, and scented sachets,
and are widely available throughout Provence.
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| Lavender at Bonnieux market, Provence, France |
The distinct scent
and true colour of Provence are immediately apparent from the edge of a
lavender field. Seeing the lavender is an essential part of any visit to
Provence and one not to be missed.
