As summer season begins in earnest within the South of France, the fields of Provence flip a relatively fetching shade of – properly, lavender. Lavender season on this rustically stunning nook of the nation, away from the sweltering Côte d’Azur and its glitzty seaside cities, is Europe’s reply to Japan’s sakura mania or Amsterdam’s tulips. Photographers and nature fans will wind across the area’s curving roads in quest of probably the most vibrant fields. There are, after all, some locations the place you are all however assured to discover some stunning blooms in the event you go to at the best time. But do not be afraid to go a bit off-piste, both – a few of the prettiest fields are those you occur throughout on the facet of the highway, unmarked on Google Maps. Here, we reply probably the most remark questions on Provence’s lavender fields, and share a handful of our favourites for these planning their personal journey. And for inspiration on the place to keep for a wonderfully Provençal pitstop, take a look at our edit of the best hotels in Provence.
When is lavender season in Provence?
Peak lavender season within the South of France tends to fall from late June by way of to mid-July – though ever-increasing spring temperatures may end up in some fields blooming earlier than anticipated nowadays, so in the event you’re visiting sooner than you may historically see lavender, hold your eyes peeled.
When is lavender harvested in Provence?
Harvesting begins in mid-July within the lower-altitude areas, and continues by way of to August within the higher-altitude areas. By the center of August, the lavender fields within the Luberon, Sault and Valensole Plateau can have been harvested.