We will be in Provence soon and are planning on visiting the Sault area on July 16. I’ve heard there’s an early bloom this year, and I’m a little concerned about an early harvest (ok, a lot concerned!). Does anyone know of a lavender tracker or some such thing that would help us know when harvest is taking place or where to find fields? We could move up our visit by a couple of days if necessary. Thank you!
Posted by
USA
403 posts
We were in Provence the first two weeks of June, stayed in Goult and visited areas around there. Quite a few fields in full bloom then…
Posted by
Paris
7312 posts
The lavender around Sault, and especially around nearby Ferrassieres, is harvested late - end July / early August in a 'normal' year (several weeks later than around Goult)- so I think you're good, even this year.
But maybe ask the local tourism office?
https://www.ventouxprovence.fr/en/reportages/office-de-tourisme/sault-tourism.html
Posted by
South Bay Area
94 posts
Our BnB host suggested the Valensole Plateau when we in Provence late June a few years ago. Some of the fields are probably peaking around this time. Enjoy!
https://www.lelongweekend.com/valensole-lavender-fields-lavender-route-in-provence/
“ Every year anticipation builds as the lavender fields of Provence start to gain their telltale purple glow. From around mid-June to mid-August the region is awash with the sight and smell of lavender – it’s truly a spectacle not to be missed.
Among the best lavender fields in Provence are those in the Valensole Plateau. It’s here you’ll find endless stretches of fragrant rows peppered by stone huts and token trees.”
Posted by
Paris
7312 posts
The Valensole plateau has great fields indeed, but they don't get harvested any later than the ones around Sault (elevation is lower in Valensole), and the drive from Sault to Valensole takes maybe 90 minutes one-way on some mediocre roads, so in the OP's case I would stick with the fields around Sault! Ferrassières is surrounded by a sea of purple when the lavender blooms.
Posted by
2 posts
I dream of going there during the lavender blossom.
Posted by
OP
northville
24 posts
Thank you all so much! I contacted the Sault tourism office and learned that although the harvest is starting next week, it lasts for four weeks, so there should still be plenty to see!
Posted by
21 posts
Hi Mindy,
The best time to visit the lavender for Sault is mid-July to mid-August.I would say you are v visiting at the prefect time.My colleague is currently in Sault for the same and she has witnessed some really pretty blooms.Just a suggestion you can also visit the lavender distillery Arôma Plantes (a small museum about lavender). Another thing to remember beware of the bees, though they don't hurt as they are way more interested in lavender (but still be careful).
Have a great trip.
Posted by
Reno, NV, USA
2556 posts
Mindy,
The fields of sunflowers are also beautiful in Provence. Such a pretty time of year to be there