Provence in Bloom:A Guide to the Best Times to Visit

Summer in Provence is a vibrant season, characterized by long, warm days and the famous lavender fields in full bloom. This is the peak tourist season, so expect larger crowds, especially in the well-known lavender spots.

Lavender: Lavender, the iconic flower of Provence, is the image everyone conjures when dreaming of the south of France, though magnificent flowers bloom throughout the year. The star of the season, lavender, usually blooms from late June to August, with the peak in July. The areas around Sault, Valensole, and the Luberon are covered in shades of purple and are a must-visit for their iconic landscapes and the soothing scent of lavender in the air.

Here are some of the best places to see lavender fields in Provence:

1. Valensole Plateau: Perhaps the most iconic lavender destination in Provence, the Valensole Plateau is vast and offers endless rows of lavender that stretch as far as the eye can see. The area is dotted with picturesque farmhouses and sunflower fields, providing perfect photo opportunities.
2. Sault: Located at the base of Mont Ventoux, Sault is known as the “Lavender Capital” and offers a more elevated perspective of lavender fields, which cascade down the slopes of the surrounding hills. The area celebrates its lavender heritage with an annual festival around August 15th.
3. Luberon Valley: The Luberon, with its charming hilltop villages like Bonnieux, Gordes and Roussillon, offers a patchwork of lavender fields set against a backdrop of medieval villages and rugged landscapes.  The valley down below the village of Bonnieux heading towards Goult is a well-known spot for picture taking. The Claparèdes plateau between Bonnieux and Saignon is also known for its vibrant display.  Stop in and visit the Lavender Distillery in “Les Agnels” to learn about the distillation process.  The Abbaye de Senanque, a 12th-century Cistercian abbey near Gordes, is also particularly famous for its picturesque lavender fields.
4. Plateau d’Albion: This area, less crowded than Valensole, is known for its vast expanses of lavender. It’s ideal for those seeking tranquility away from the main tourist spots.
5. Coussoul de Simiane-la-Rotonde: This area is known for its wild lavender fields. Simiane-la-Rotonde itself is a picturesque village worth exploring.

When planning a visit to these areas, it’s a good idea to check local resources or contact local tourism offices for the exact timing of the lavender bloom, as it can vary slightly from year to year based on weather conditions. Also, consider exploring the region in the early morning or late afternoon when the light is most photogenic and the temperatures are cooler.