Where to See Lavender in Provence
The iconic lavender fields of Provence are concentrated in four main areas: around Valensole, the Abbaye Notre-Dame de Sénanque, the red-hued village of Roussillon, and the surroundings of Sault. A great starting point for exploring these fields is Avignon, located in the heart of Provence, from which you can expand outwards to discover these stunning sights.
Abbaye Notre-Dame de Sénanque
Blooming Period: Mid-June to Mid-July
The lavender here blooms slightly later than in other areas, with a subtle bluish hue. The entire abbey is tucked away in a tranquil valley, which also serves as the setting for the book An Italian Straw Hat. Many iconic images of lavender fields often feature the patch of lavender in front of the Sénanque Abbey, making it one of “the most beautiful valleys in France.” Most postcards of Provence’s lavender fields are taken here.
Tips:
1. Please maintain silence when visiting. While the lavender fields are free to view, entry into the fields is prohibited without permission.
2. Mornings offer self-guided tours for €7, while afternoons require guided tours. The church behind the abbey is free to visit.
Valensole
Blooming Period: Mid-June to Late July
Valensole is home to some of the largest lavender plantations in the world and has been a filming location for movies like Perfume, Lavender, and Dreams Link. This area might be considered one of the most picturesque lavender destinations. On the third Sunday of July, Valensole hosts its annual Lavender Festival, where the entire town is filled with the rich aroma of lavender and a festive atmosphere. Besides the lavender fields, Valensole is also known for its stunning sunflower fields.
Tips:
1. If you’re visiting Valensole as part of a tour or private car trip from Avignon, you’ll likely arrive near midday when the lighting can be harsh for photos. For the best shots, self-driving and arriving around 8-9 PM for sunset photos is recommended.
2. Valensole Tourist Office: Place des héros-de-la-résistance, 04210, Valensole
Phone: +33-0-4-9274-9002
Sault
Blooming Period: Mid-June to Mid-August
Sault is one of Europe’s largest lavender-producing areas and is often called the “Capital of Lavender.” This small town, located at an altitude of around 400 meters, has a population of just over 1,000 and is surrounded by a sea of lavender fields. The fields here are of the lavandin variety, located in rugged mountainous terrain. The high-altitude location offers a breathtaking view of undulating purple fields.
Saout Region
Blooming Period: Mid-July to Mid-August
The enchanting Saout region lies at the eastern end of Mont Ventoux. During summer, its incredible lavender fields are a sight to behold. Visiting during the Lavender Festival, usually held around August 15th, is highly recommended. Apart from the stunning lavender fields, don’t miss the locally crafted honey almond nougat, a delicacy handmade since 1887.
Château du Bois
Blooming Period: Late June to Mid-July
Located near Saint-Saturnin-lès-Apt, Château du Bois is home to an 80-hectare lavender estate. From late June to mid-July, during the lavender harvesting season, a 2-kilometer lavender path opens to visitors. The estate, situated in the Alpes-de-Haute-Provence, is known for its “true lavender,” famous for its enchanting aroma.
Simiane-la-Rotonde
Blooming Period: Mid-June to Mid-July
Simiane-la-Rotonde is a unique hilltop village featuring a 12th–13th-century round castle surrounded by expansive lavender fields. From the village, you can enjoy sweeping views of purple fields stretching endlessly into the horizon.
Roussillon, the “Red Village”
Blooming Period: Early June to Early July
Perched on ochre cliffs, Roussillon is a fairy-tale-like village with a romantic red hue. Selected as one of the “Most Beautiful Villages of France,” Roussillon is home to some of Provence’s earliest-blooming lavender fields. By mid-June, while other fields are still green, the lavender here starts to turn purple. Nearby, there’s an ice cream shop on the hillside parking lot selling lavender-flavored ice cream—a must-try treat!
With this guide, you’re all set to immerse yourself in Provence’s lavender wonderland. From stunning fields to charming villages, there’s no shortage of beauty to explore!