The Ultimate Provence Lavender Guide (Part 3)

As the French poet Romain Rolland said, “The French are romantic because they have Provence.” Visiting Provence lets you embrace its leisurely lifestyle. Here, there’s none of the stress of big cities, nor the noise of bustling crowds and traffic. Stroll through picturesque villages, admire breathtaking lavender fields, and spend a whole afternoon savoring a coffee or glass of wine.

Where to Stay When Visiting Lavender Fields?

1. Avignon – The Top Choice

Avignon is the ideal base for exploring the lavender fields and Provence. It offers convenient access to local tours, vibrant city life, and the famous Avignon Theater Festival in summer. However, hotels in Avignon are often booked far in advance, so be sure to plan early.

2. Alternative Cities to Stay

If you can’t find accommodation in Avignon, consider these nearby cities:

• Marseille and Aix-en-Provence: These are close to the lavender fields, offering good value and diverse options. For lavender-focused trips, either city is an excellent choice.

• Nice: Perfect for combining lavender viewing with a visit to the French Riviera. It’s well-connected and close to other coastal towns, making it a convenient and scenic choice.

Suggested Itineraries

1-Day Mini Tour

Route: Avignon → Fontaine-de-Vaucluse → Gordes → Sénanque Abbey → Lavender Museum → Avignon

This condensed itinerary combines lavender fields with charming Provençal villages, perfect for travelers with limited time.

4-5 Day Classic Route

• Day 1: Paris → Avignon → Fontaine-de-Vaucluse → Gordes → Avignon

• Day 2: Avignon → Valensole → Sainte-Croix Lake → Cannes → Nice

• Day 3: Nice → Èze Village → Monaco → Nice

• Day 4: Nice → Saint-Raphaël → Saint-Tropez → Arles → Nîmes

• Day 5: Nîmes → Paris

This route lets you experience Provence’s iconic lavender fields, sunflower fields, picturesque villages, and the stunning French Riviera. It’s a relaxed itinerary that’s perfect for first-time visitors to the region.

7-Day In-Depth Exploration

• Day 1: Paris → Southern France Villages → Avignon

• Day 2: Valensole → Verdon Gorge → Cannes → Nice

• Day 3: Nice → Èze → Monaco → Fréjus

• Day 4: Fréjus → Saint-Raphaël → Saint-Tropez → Arles → Nîmes

• Day 5: Nîmes → Saint-Rémy-de-Provence → Annecy

• Day 6: Annecy → Geneva → Dijon

• Day 7: Dijon → Paris

This route combines the best of Provence and the French Riviera, with highlights like lavender fields, charming towns (Gordes and Roussillon), the Verdon Gorge, and cultural landmarks. It also takes you to other classic French destinations, such as Annecy and Burgundy, making it a comprehensive option for those looking to immerse themselves in French beauty and culture.

Flexible Add-ons for Extended Trips

For travelers with more time, consider extending your trip to include:

• Roussillon (“Ochre Village”): A picturesque red-hued village with early-blooming lavender fields.

• Manosque: Visit the L’Occitane en Provence factory to learn about lavender-based products.

• Grasse (“Perfume Town”): Discover a unique lavender-inspired experience in this fragrance capital.

• Côte d’Azur to Italy: Travel along the French Riviera and explore Italian towns just across the border.

Practical Tips

• Early Booking: Popular cities like Avignon and Nice sell out fast during peak lavender season, so secure your accommodation in advance.

• Transportation: A car is the most flexible way to explore Provence and the Riviera, especially for reaching lavender fields and smaller towns.

• Pack Smart: Provence summers are hot, with significant day-night temperature swings. Bring sunscreen, light clothing, and a jacket for cooler evenings.

This guide provides a comprehensive overview to help you plan your perfect lavender-filled adventure in Provence!