Traveling to France in August. after spending a few days in Paris we will take the train to Avignon. Spend time touring this area and then head to Luberon. How many days to you feel we should leave to explore just the hill towns.
Is it possible that the Lavender might still be in bloom is Sault around August 8-16?
Posted by
Panguitch, Utah
2707 posts
Assuming you have a car, you easily spend 7 to 10 days exploring this region. The Michelin Green Guides have driving itineraries which can help you plan.
Posted by
755 posts
So much depends on the weather for the lavender. The traditional Fête des Lavandes takes place in Sault on August 15 this year. So there will be some lavender, even if the big bloom is fading, and most of the fields are harvested.
A lavender cutting competition is scheduled, Also, the stills will be at work, distilling the essence.
Posted by
OP
54 posts
Barbara,
Thank you for your reply. It would be lovely to see !
Posted by
OP
54 posts
Coming from Paris would you suggest taking the train from Paris to Orange and renting a car there and driving to Sault and the down into Luberon or taking the train to Avignon.
Posted by
755 posts
There is so much to see in the Avignon and Luberon areas—so your original idea of picking up the car in Avignon is wise. 8 to 9 days is not a lot of time for touring, particularly in the August heat. An afternoon spent under an olive tree, with the chant of the cicadas (possibly with a pool nearby) may tempt you...and this is definitely part of the Provençal experience in August.
I’ve been to Sault twice, once for the charming parade at the Fête des Lavandes. Other than the Festival, IMHO there are many prettier hill towns that you will see in Provence. You can easily day trip from the Luberon to Sault. Once you are in the Luberon area you can also inquire locally where there might still be lavender in bloom.
Posted by
OP
54 posts
Thanks Barbara, I will stick with my original idea.