The Lavendar in Provence is a dream experience of a lifetime for us. At 74, planning our final journey, our swan song, experienced traveling throughout Europe. We learned the lavender is harvested late July-August, so we understand savvy timing is imperative. Provence via Spokane flying into Lyon appears to make good sense. From there, after 4 nights stay in Avignon (?) we will travel by train to the international Garden Festival in Chaumont, Loire Valley before our stay in Paris. Welcoming insights and recommendations, including how far in advance should we arrange flight, trains including sleeper cars, lodging and event entrances. Flight prices look good now. In the past we have made arrangements a year and a half ahead. Hoping for end of July-Early September 2025 (France, Italy, Spain, Portugal,England, Scotland). Grateful. Wishing you wonder-filled journeys, Vicki
Posted by
Paris
7259 posts
We learned the lavender is harvested late July-August
Actually more like mid-July. Lots of blooms in late June/early July. The only blooms left in late July will be around Sault, and they are not as extensive as the famous ones further south and east.
I would pick Marseille airport as a port of entry over Lyon, because the drive from Lyon to Provence is a hassle in summer (busy highway).
Posted by
Corvallis OR
7118 posts
The thing to remember about lavender is that the harvest varies from area to area depending on altitude and that summer's weather. I was in Provence in early July several years ago and some fields, especially around Roussillon (where I stayed) were already being harvested when I was there from July 6-11. Other areas harvested later in July. Some towns or regions that have lavender festivals will keep some lavender growing well into the later part of August in order to make sure the festivals have lavender fields for the participants to enjoy. I think mid-July would be the best time to be sure to see some lavender. I used this website in planning my driving routes, mostly in the Luberbon and I saw lots of fields. I was lucky in that when I went some years ago you could see the fields at the Abbaye de Senanque quite easily. I was able to just park along side the road and walk a ways into the field. I understand that it's a bit different these days. Seeing (and smelling) the lavender fields in Provence remains one of my favorite memories of my 2 month trip through France and I'm sure you'll be happy to achieve your dream.
Posted by
179 posts
“The Lavendar in Provence is a dream experience of a lifetime for us.”
This was a dream of mine as well, so I wanted to make sure I didn’t miss it. We were in the Luberon Valley from 6/30-7/3 this year. The lavender was in full bloom and smelled heavenly! I can’t imagine that they were far from being harvested. I’m afraid if you wait till the end of July you will miss the peak of the blooms. As this was a priority of ours, I began trip planning with the dates for Provence, and planned the rest of the trip around that.