Lavender fields
Have you ever fallen in love with a place you have yet to visit? Did you have a vivid vision of how it would look and smell and how you would even dress for? Did you know, for as long as you could remember, that it was your must-see destination?
And when you finally went to visit, did your dream come true? This is my dream of Provence in southeastern France.
I had dreamed of going to Provence for a long time. I was fascinated with pictures of lavender fields and the passionate vibe of the southeastern region of France. I had everything planned in my head for years.
Transport – How do we get around?
You’ll need to drive. Although there are buses that run throughout the region their hours are incredibly limited and it’s near impossible to do this trip without a car.
How to see see Lavender fields in Provence… Not easy but I will however, tell you WHERE, WHEN and HOW you can see lavender fields in France.
Some things are worth the trouble and this is one of them.
Where to see lavender fields in the south of France?
The world’s biggest and most famous lavender fields: Valensole
Those fields are so endless the horizon is tainted in purple. You’ll find the most extended lavender lines in the world, and the highest number of acres covered in flowers. This is indeed a photographer’s dream… so much that it’s also Provence’s most touristy spot at the end of June when we reach peak bloom. It will be hard to take a shot without having a considerable amount of people in it; I visit in the middle of July, so I was lucky.
Abbaye de Senanque
This is a symbol of Provence appearing on book covers, postcards, and travel guides. The beautifully sited abbey is surrounded by a sea of lavender. Founded in 1148, today it is home of Cistercian monks. Visit in the morning for the best light. The primary field is fenced, but you can still get a great picture. Walk up to the stone wall and look over it.
Not worthy the drive your not allowed to take a picture with the lavenders since is a monastery you can only see and taking from far.
When should I go to see the lavender fields of Provence?
First things first. The lavender fields are only viewable from late June to mid-late July. If you go outside of this time you won’t see masses of fields lovely purple lavender. In June it’ll start to bloom but still be green and by late July or early August it’s harvested.
Despite all the warnings, I did not find Provence to be very expensive, but I only spent on food and Car.
For the purpose of making things easy, there are two types of places to see lavender fields; public fields and privately owned fields. Which ever type of field you choose (unless stated otherwise) do not pick, destroy or step on the lavender. The lavender is for a lot of farmers their lively hood. So it’s not cool to mess it up and destroy it.
True travelers aim to leave a place the same or better than how they found it, please be respectful!
Sunflower fields
If you happen to pass them, they are also a great little find and a perfect photo background.
