Where can you find the most beautiful lavender fields in France?
30 January, 2025
Seas of purple, a delightful aroma, and buzzing bees: the lavender fields of France are a true icon. These purple landscapes attract thousands of visitors every year, including many campers. Just like the tulip fields in the Netherlands, you can only find this purple beauty in certain regions, mainly in the south of the country. So, it’s a good idea to do some research before choosing your camping destination. Curious about where to find the most beautiful lavender fields in France? In this blog, I’ll list them for you!
Table of Contents
Summary: where can you find the most beautiful lavender fields in France?
The most beautiful lavender fields in France can be found in Provence, Drôme Provençale, Ardèche, and Verdon. Some of the most famous lavender fields include L’Abbaye Notre-Dame de Sénanque (Provence), Plateau de Valensole (Provence), Lubéron (Provence), Plateau de Sault (Provence), Grignan (Drôme Provençale), Ferrassières/Plateau d’Albion (Drôme Provençale), Saint-Remèze – Larnas – Bourg-Saint-Andéol (Ardèche), Moustiers-Sainte-Marie (Verdon), and Aiguines (Verdon).
The Provence
The Provence is the heartland of lavender cultivation. It is often considered the best region to visit lavender fields. The sunny weather, picturesque villages, and towns (such as Valensole, Sault, and Gordes) make the experience complete. In short, if you’re looking for a fantastic camping experience surrounded by lavender, this region definitely deserves a top spot on your list. Here are the four most beautiful lavender fields in Provence:
L’Abbaye Notre-Dame de Sénanque
An ancient abbey surrounded by dense lavender fields—how much more iconic can it get? A visit to this beautiful abbey is a must for anyone traveling to Provence. The Sénanque Abbey is an active monastery where monks cultivate lavender themselves. They do this to produce lavender oil. Additionally, the monks make cookies, honey, and olive oil, which you can purchase in the monastery shop.
The best time to visit the abbey is during the full bloom of the lavender, from late June to early August.
L’Abbaye Notre-Dame de Sénanque and its stunning lavender: an iconic part of Provence.
Plateau de Valensole
Vast lavender fields as far as the eye can see—this is what you’ll find at Plateau de Valensole. Located in the heart of Provence, this area is a favorite among photographers and nature lovers. Enjoy the breathtaking views and the serene atmosphere, especially in the early morning when the fields are still covered in mist.
Lubéron
The Lubéron region is known for its historic hilltop villages—ancient, elevated settlements overlooking the surroundings. What makes this area so special? The stunning lavender fields, which create a picturesque scene where the villages seem to emerge from the purple landscape. The region is also rich in history and culture, with local markets ensuring you’ll never have a dull moment.
Plateau de Sault (Lavender Trail)
A quieter option is the Lavender Trail in Plateau de Sault. Surrounded by Mont Ventoux and dotted with charming villages, this area is a fantastic camping destination. Take scenic hikes and bike rides through the fragrant fields, discover local lavender products (such as lavender honey and oils) at a market or farm, and end your day in cozy restaurants.
Campsites in Provence
Drôme Provençale
A hidden gem, Drôme Provençale is a sort of “outsider” of Provence due to its location right on the border with Rhône-Alpes. This picturesque region, with its rolling hills and villages like Grignan and Montélimar, offers breathtaking lavender fields that reach full bloom in the summer months. Historic castles, truffles, wine, and beautiful nature—this is what a camping holiday should be like. Here are the two most stunning lavender fields in this region:
Grignan
If you visit Drôme Provençale, make sure to stop by Grignan. This historic hilltop village, featuring a Renaissance-era castle, is surrounded by lavender fields. The castle can be seen from miles away, with the purple landscapes in the foreground. In short, an incredibly photogenic place well worth a visit!
The historic town of Grignan is surrounded by lavender fields.
Ferrassières (Plateau d’Albion)
The small village of Ferrassières, located on the Plateau d’Albion, is known for its annual lavender festivals. The Plateau d’Albion, nestled between the mountains of the Vaucluse and the Montagne de Lure, offers breathtaking views of the purple fields that bloom from June to August. This spot is less well-known, making it a great choice for campers looking for a quiet, secluded destination.
Ardèche
The Ardèche, a region often associated with its rugged nature and caves, is also home to beautiful lavender fields. These fields are mainly found around the villages of Saint-Remèze, Larnas, and Bourg-Saint-Andéol. So, if you’re looking for some variety during your active camping holiday in Ardèche, why not visit a lavender field?
Verdon
This region is best known for the Gorges du Verdon, a canyon often called the “Grand Canyon of Europe.” That means most campers come here for outdoor sports and adventure activities. But did you know that Verdon is also home to stunning lavender fields?
Moustiers-Sainte-Marie
In the heart of Verdon, above Lac de Sainte-Croix and nestled against an imposing mountainside, lies Moustiers-Sainte-Marie. This village is famous for its ceramics and is located near some vast lavender fields. You’ll find most of these fields to the west of the village.
Walking through a lavender field: fun for all ages.
Aiguines
This village, located on the shores of Lac de Sainte-Croix, is often overlooked by lavender enthusiasts. And that’s a shame because it offers stunning views of the rolling lavender fields set against the backdrop of the crystal-blue lake. If you’re on a camping trip in Verdon and looking for a great excursion, be sure to visit Aiguines!
Campsites in Ardèche
When do the lavender fields bloom in France?
Lavender only blooms for a few months each year. Typically, the fields start blooming between mid-June and late July/mid-August, depending on the weather.
If spring has been warmer or rainier, the bloom may start earlier. If you want to be sure to see the lavender fields in full bloom, plan your camping trip to France for the last days of June or the first weeks of July. At that time, most fields are in bloom, and you’ll also avoid the biggest crowds, which start arriving in mid-July.
Are there any lavender fields missing from this blog? Let us know in the comments!
Latest comments