Exploring the lavender region of France is like dipping your entire life into an aromatherapy bath...

...drinking in the heady scent of lavender and rosewater with every breath heightens senses and deepens relaxation. Thriving on a high plateau between mountain and sea, this specialized region produces most of France’s lavender and is country blessed with sweet dreams and perfumed days.

DO SEE TASTE

Visit impossibly charming villages, including Gordes, recently nominated my favorite village in France. Frolic thigh high in fields of lavender stretching to a horizon fringed with purple mountains. Make an evening pilgrimage to the high alter of lavender; the 12th century Abbey Senaque. Stop at roadside stands selling local lavender honey, lavender meringue and summer fruits. Learn the art of perfumery at an artisanal distillery practicing traditional techniques of extraction and blending.

when to go

Lavender begins to bloom around the summer solstice, middle to late June, and is harvested end of July to mid August. Exact times vary from year to year, depending on weather, altitude and rainfall. Best bet for maximum bloom is first week of July.

where to stay

Travellur recommends finding a comfortable villa for a week or two just outside one of the many picturesque villages. Rentals in the town proper can be noisy during peak summer months and the tiny streets congested with day tripper traffic. If you’ve only got a few days or prefer hotels, stay in a Relais & Chateaux for an authentic experience with style. We love the Couvent de Minimes, a 17th century convent turned boutique hotel with Michelin star cuisine. Situated halfway between the fields of Valensole and the higher lavender plateau of Sault, it makes an excellent base for exploring the region.

we got this

Travellur can help you avoid summer crowds, guide you to the best villages, book the cutest villa in the right location and the pin-point the most photogenic fields. Having personal local knowledge makes all the difference and saves you time and money. You’ll walk and talk with local family producers making the real deal instead of ending up in a tourist trap selling synthetic oils.

Contact us for a free consultation about your Lavenderland itinerary and rest assured that Travellur delivers the best rates at villas and preferred accommodations such as the Couvent de Minimes.