Provence Lavender Route
Every June, Provence turns purple. Vast fields of lavender stretch across the plateaus of the Vaucluse, the Drôme, and the Alpes-de-Haute-Provence — parallel rows of vibrant colour humming with bees, scenting the air for kilometres. The
The Lavender Calendar
| Month | What's Happening |
|---|---|
| June 15–30 | First blooms at lower altitudes; Sénanque Abbey peak |
| July 1–15 | Full bloom everywhere; Valensole at peak |
| July 15–31 | Harvest begins — dramatic cutting; lavender bales appear |
| August 1–15 | Higher altitude bloom (Sault); Fête de la Lavande Aug 15 |
| August 15+ | Season ends — fields stubbled, distilleries working |
Practical Tips
- Photography: Early morning (before 9 AM) and golden hour (after 6 PM) give the best light; midday is harsh
- Stay off the fields: Lavender fields are private farmland. Many farmers allow photography from the edges, but respect boundaries
- Distillery visits: Arrange in advance; many are family-run and open by appointment only
- Buy direct: Lavender essential oil, soaps, and honey are cheaper at farm shops than at tourist markets