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The Blue Gold of Provence
Here, in the South of France, you stroll peacefully through the fragrance of the lavender fields, as the gravel creaks under your feet. The sound of your steps, the buzzing bumblebees – barely anything else could interfere with celestial harmony.
Once you reach out to touch the lavender petals, it reaches towards you, too, touching tenderly, soothingly, your fingertips. Breath in – the pervading flower scent widens the lungs. Here, many years before, at that same place, has been roaming the fields, perhaps, the most beloved painter of them all – Vincent van Gogh.
The scent of violet and blue flowers is lowering your shoulders. Ancient Romans knew about lavender’s properties and used its essential oil for bathing. To this day, one can meet local farmers on their way, who, though working hard, still live their tranquil, unhurried life – here, in Provence.
Walking through lavender fields
How?
Today’s Province is quite welcoming towards tourists. Due to the place’s popularity, it has fantastically coordinated infrastructure: maps, guides, info-boards, buses, car rental services, hotels, and everything else. Moreover, people do speak English, so you’d never face any communication difficulties. Though, there are a few things you should know before the trip to the lavender fields. Those are: early closing shops and hot temperatures in the evening. With that being said, don’t forget to bring some food, water with you, and a hat to avoid sunstroke. Every lavender sea differs from one another. Therefore, if you are to see every shade, consider renting a car. In such a place, being independent and using a rented vehicle – just the thing for you.
When?
The best time to see the blooming fields is from the last week of June to the beginning of August. And it’s around mid-July, when fields are in their richest bloom.
Where?
Though you’ll find lavender fields here and there in Provence, here are the most famous and frequently photographed places.
The Valensole Plateau lavender fields
That’s the one you’ve probably seen on postcards, souvenirs, and maybe, even in movies. That area is the journey of itself, for the beauty falls deeply into your soul right along the way. Wheat fields, flaming sunflowers, souvenir shops, local fruit vendors, and the Verdon – one of the largest rivers in France. It is also worth mentioning the ancient church of Saint Blaise, which one should most definitely visit, too. Here, even small treats like lavender honey may conserve your memories, for it is itself made of purple flowers. For that, we shall appreciate the labor of the hard-working bees, flying over flowers from dusk ’till dawn, intensively extracting precious nectar. They receive some assistance from farmers, who collect honey, so you can take a piece of Provence with you.
Yes, there are quite a lot of bumblebees here – do not be afraid! They are much more interested in pollinating lavender than tourists passing by. Nevertheless, here, as it is similar to hiking, there are mosquitoes. We suggest you bring some additional clothes with you to wear after the photo shoot.
Luberon Valley lavender fields
If you’re looking for something slightly architectural, yet still wanting to enjoy the lavender – look no further, and you’ll get an evening to remember in Luberon Valley. Besides the lilac seas, you are going to have a chance to explore the old quaint streets and old scenic villages. Lavender fields lying between olive and vine fields waiting to be discovered. Those are just as gorgeous, vast and fragrant as other fields in Provence.
Sault Plateau lavender fields
The Sault village is looking up from the mountain range. It is constantly being guarded by a forest and a hilly valley on both sides. As you’re entering the village, the medieval authenticity reveals distant times majestically. Lavender fields stand almost side by side here, and therefore it is easier for a tourist to explore this area on foot: for instance, walking along the 5 km lavender ladder. It’s a perfect mountain view as well, mantled in greenery. Consider yourself a treasure hunter as you stumble upon an old stone hut.
Is there more?
Certainly!
For the guests of Provence, the various festivals take place here. One can not only learn plenty of curious things about collecting, conversion, tourism itself in the lavender fields of Provence, but also support local small businesses by buying lavender products. The place also attracts couples as well: imagine the atmosphere and aesthetics of the wedding ceremony here or making a marriage proposal!
