When to See the Lavender Fields in Provence
Sooo…you want to know when to see the lavender fields in Provence? Well, I won’t keep you in suspense: I’ll tell you right here in the opening paragraph ~ then we’ll dig into everything else you need to know below! If you’re visiting Provence specifically to see the lavender fields, then you’ll want to visit between the end of June to the beginning of August. But lavender is usually at its peak in early July. Keep reading for more photos of the lavender fields & tips on where to stay…
Best Time to See Lavender in Provence = Late June thru early August, but peak bloom is typically in early July! Sunflowers bloom in July AND August…
Sunset over the lavender fields in Valensole, France.
Quick Facts About Lavender Fields
- Closest Airports to Provence = The closest international airports to Provence are Marseilles-Provence (1 hour) & Nice-Cote d’Azur (2 hours). There’s also a regional airport in Avignon.
- When to See the Lavender Fields in Provence = Lavender can bloom anytime from mid-June to mid-August, depending on rainfall & location. But July is typically peak season.
- Best Towns to Stay in for Lavender Viewing = Valensole, Gordes, Sault, & Digne.
- Best Way to Get Around Provence = Rent a car at the Marseilles-Provence Airport, or in Provence. Check for special deals on rental cars in France here.
Best Places to See Lavender in Provence
On the map below, you’ll find a few major “hubs” for lavender-viewing in Provence. Because of how large this area is, I HIGHLY recommend renting a car for your visit. It’s the best way to get around, & to find hidden, lesser-known lavender & sunflower fields.
- Valensole: Meaning “Valley of the Sun,” this picturesque, medieval town is one of the top places to see the lavender fields, as its “Plateau of Valensole” is the largest lavender-growing area in France. Peak Bloom: Mid-June to mid-August, depending on rainfall. Lavender Festival in Valensole: Held the 3rd Sunday of July.
- Gordes: The town of Gordes is home to two important lavender landmarks, the Museum of Lavender & Semanque Abbey, a working monastery known for its iconic lavender fields.
- Sault: Near Sault, you can hike the “Lavender Trail,” which lets you traipse through the countryside amidst a sea of purple. Later Blooms: Early July to mid-August.
- Semanque Abbey, a present-day, working monastery in Gordes, France, is one of the most famous (& busy) places to see lavender in Provence.
Valensole
Senanque Abbey in Gordes
Sault (Later Blooms)
Museum of Lavender
Digne
Photos of the Lavender Fields in Provence
Lavender as far as the eye can wander…
Rows upon rows…
Try & stay until sunset if you can. Photo taken in Valensole, France.
Where to Stay in Provence
There’s no shortage of gorgeous hotels in Provence. During lavender season, they’re on the pricier side ~ but I’ve found some great options that feel like a splurge without killing your budget.
If you want to stay by Valensole, try staying at the refined La Bastide Saint Georges Hotel & Spa ($244+/night). Enjoy breakfast on the terrace, or a relaxing massage at this lovely boutique hotel, set in the heart of lavender country.
Refined elegance is the feel at La Bastide Saint Georges.
Just outside of Gordes & Semanque Abbey, is the beautiful Airelles Gordes ($204+/night). This lavish, five-star spa hotel was featured on the popular Netflix show, “Emily in Paris,” with Emily dining on their stunning outdoor patio. Set on a hill, most rooms have gorgeous valley views ~ as does their outdoor pool & restaurant.
Airelles Gordes La Bastide.
When to See the Lavender Fields in Provence
I hope this guide helps you plan a wonderful getaway in the South of France. Know that if you’re in Valensole, you’re very close to the “French Grand Canyon” ~ the stunning Gorge du Verdon. It’s definitely worth the detour!
xoxo Noelia
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My friend and I were just talking about the lavender fields in France, and wondering when they bloomed – so perfect timing with this article! The photos are so lovely too. If we want to visit the lavender fields AND the Gorge du Verdon, is renting a car the only way to do this? Thanks!
Hi Simone! It may not be the ONLY way to do it (you could probably figure out bus schedules??), but I definitely think renting a car in this region is by FAR the BEST way to do it. It will give you so much more flexibility & the ability to see EXactly what you want. Hope that helps! xoxo Noelia