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Lavender Fields of Provence

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

Agriculture

Weather…

The lavender fields of Provence are an iconic symbol of Southern France, defining the landscape during the summer months with their intense purple colors and scents. The primary cultivation areas are located on the Valensole Plateau, in the Luberon, and around the village of Sault. Lavender has been grown in the region for centuries, originally for medicinal purposes and later as a vital raw material for the perfume industry in Grasse. A distinction is made between true lavender (Lavandula angustifolia), which grows at higher altitudes, and hybrid lavender (lavandin), which is more productive and thrives at lower elevations. The blooming season begins in mid-June and lasts until the harvest in August, depending on the location. These fields not only attract tourists but also form a crucial part of the local economy, producing goods like lavender honey, essential oils, and soaps. The Cistercian Abbey of Notre-Dame de Sénanque, surrounded by blooming lavender, remains one of the world's most famous photographic motifs.

Location: Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur, France
Top sights: Pont Roman 1698 · Église Notre-Dame-du-Thor · Château d'Oraison
Nearby: Forcalquier (12 km)

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg °C	1	2	5	9	13	18	21	21	16	11	6	2
Rain mm	49	45	52	56	66	44	25	31	53	84	102	69

📋 Practical info

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What is this place?

The lavender fields of Provence are among the most mesmerizing agricultural landscapes in the world, shaping the image of southern France. They are a symbol of the region and attract numerous visitors each year to admire the blooming fields.

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Visiting

The fields are freely accessible from public roads and can be explored at any time on foot or by bike. Some growers open their plantations during blooming season for guided tours and photo sessions.

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Where to view it

The most famous viewpoints are on the hills of the Plateau de Valensole, where endless purple rows stretch to the horizon. The villages of the Luberon region also offer spectacular panoramas.

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Local products

In addition to dried lavender and essential oil, lavender honey, soaps, and cosmetics are offered. Local farm shops also sell lavender liqueur and culinary products infused with lavender.

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Active season

The main blooming season is from mid-June to mid-July, when the fields are in full glory and the scent fills the air. Harvest takes place in July and August, when the lavender heads are cut.

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Nearby

Combine the lavender fields with visits to Provencal villages such as Gordes, Roussillon, or Ménerbes. The Verdon Gorge and the vineyards of Côtes de Provence are also good additions.

Geography

Coordinates

43.93300, 5.92300

Facts

The Valensole Plateau covers 800 square kilometers
Harvest usually takes place between July 15 and August 15
Provence produces about 80% of the world's lavender oil
True lavender only grows at altitudes above 600 meters
Sault hosts a major lavender festival every August 15
Lavender honey is known for its light color and creamy texture

Explore nearby

Notable places around

📍Oraison2 km · SExplore →

📍Forcalquier12 km · WExplore →

Valensole Plateau12 km · SEExplore →

📍Manosque16 km · SWExplore →

📍Château-Arnoux-Saint-Auban19 km · NExplore →

Moustiers-Sainte-Marie26 km · EExplore →

Mont Lure26 km · NWExplore →

Lac de Sainte-Croix27 km · SEExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

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Overnight stops

Vehicle

Only stops with (optional): 💧 Water ♻️ Disposal 🔌 Power 🚻 Toilets 🚿 Shower

Sights in the town Lavender Fields of Provence (5)

Pont Roman 1698

Roman bridge from 1698 in Provence, a historic crossing over a river.

Église Notre-Dame-du-Thor

Church in Alpes-de-Haute-Provence, France, with Romanesque origins.

Château d'Oraison🏰 castle

Castle in France, a Renaissance château located in the Provence region.

Escalier en bois sculpté

Carved wooden staircase in Provence, a piece of local craftsmanship.

Église Sainte-Agathe

Church in Alpes-de-Haute-Provence, France, a rural-style place of worship.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

When exactly does the lavender bloom?

The peak bloom is from late June to mid-July, before the harvest begins.

Where can I find the most beautiful fields?

The Plateau de Valensole and the region around Sault are famous for their endless purple fields.

Can I enter the fields for photos?

Please stay at the edges, do not trample the plants, and do not pick anything.

Should I expect many insects?

Yes, bees love lavender. Be careful if you are allergic to stings.

Are there museums on the subject?

The Musée de la Lavande in Coustellet explains everything about distillation and cultivation.

Lavender Fields of Provence: where is it located?

Lavender Fields of Provence is located in Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur, France.

Lavender Fields of Provence: what is there to see?

Highlights include Pont Roman 1698, Église Notre-Dame-du-Thor, Château d'Oraison.

Lavender Fields of Provence: when is the best time to visit?

The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.

Lavender Fields of Provence: why is it worth visiting?

The lavender fields of Provence are an iconic symbol of Southern France, defining the landscape during the summer months with their intense purple colors and scents.

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