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Start your day with convenient pick-ups in Avignon, Aix-En-Provence, and Marseille, traveling comfortably in an air-conditioned vehicle.
Book Lavender Tours in Provence
Itinerary
TOTAL DURATION5 hours
MODE OF TRANSFERA/C Minivan
TimelineMap
Start point
Avignon Tourist Office
65 min by a/c minivan69 km
1. Sault
2. Local lavender producer
65 min by a/c minivan69 km
End point
Avignon Tourist Office
Your ending point would be same as your start point
TOTAL DURATION5 hours
MODE OF TRANSFERA/C Minivan
TimelineMap
Start point
Avignon Tourist Office
1. Lavender Fields
2. Roussillon
18 min by a/c minivan13 km
3. Gordes
9 min by a/c minivan4 km
4. Senanque Abbey
58 min by a/c minivan41 km
End point
Avignon Tourist Office
Your ending point would be same as your start point
TOTAL DURATION8 hours 30 minutes
MODE OF TRANSFERA/C Minivan
TimelineMap
Start point
Avignon Tourist Office
1. Provençal Markets
2. Sault
70 min by a/c minivan53 km
3. Luberon
50 min by a/c minivan31 km
4. Gordes
9 min by a/c minivan4.3 km
5. Senanque Abbey
54 min by a/c minivan41 km
End point
Avignon Tourist Office
Your ending point would be same as your start point
Enjoy a half-day or full-day guided tour to lavender fields, with round-trip transfers, and learn about the distillation process of lavender oil.
- Half-day out to: Provence's breathtaking lavender fields (Sault or Luberon), with round-trip minivan transfers from Avignon, a friendly English/French-speaking guide, photo stops at the best lavender spots, free time in local villages, tastings of local Provencal specialties, and a visit to a lavender producer during the distillation period to learn about the art of crafting lavender essential oils.
- You’ll get: Comfortable minivan transport, expert local guide, photo stops, tastings, and a behind-the-scenes look at lavender distillation.
- Lavender fields: Marvel at endless purple landscapes, perfect for unforgettable photos and soaking up the scent of summer, either at Sault or Luberon (depending on the bloom season).
- Provencal village visit: Depending on your lavender fields stop, explore the regions of Sault, and sample nougat made with local honey and almonds. Or, visit Roussillon and enjoy free time to stroll through the village, soaking in the warm ochre, red, and brown tones that give this picturesque Provençal gem its unique charm.
- Choose to embark on a full-day tour with a stop at Senanque Abbey and more time at Sault or Luberon, and enjoy the slow-travel and make the most of the region during lavender season.
Enjoy a half-day or full-day guided tour to lavender fields, with round-trip transfers, and learn about the distillation process of lavender oil.
- Half-day out to: Provence's breathtaking lavender fields (Sault or Luberon), with round-trip minivan transfers from Avignon, a friendly English/French-speaking guide, photo stops at the best lavender spots, free time in local villages, tastings of local Provencal specialties, and a visit to a lavender producer during the distillation period to learn about the art of crafting lavender essential oils.
- You’ll get: Comfortable minivan transport, expert local guide, photo stops, tastings, and a behind-the-scenes look at lavender distillation.
- Lavender fields: Marvel at endless purple landscapes, perfect for unforgettable photos and soaking up the scent of summer, either at Sault or Luberon (depending on the bloom season).
- Provencal village visit: Depending on your lavender fields stop, explore the regions of Sault, and sample nougat made with local honey and almonds. Or, visit Roussillon and enjoy free time to stroll through the village, soaking in the warm ochre, red, and brown tones that give this picturesque Provençal gem its unique charm.
- Choose to embark on a full-day tour with a stop at Senanque Abbey and more time at Sault or Luberon, and enjoy the slow-travel and make the most of the region during lavender season.
Inclusions
- Lavender fields half-day morning or afternoon tour (as per option selected)
- Round-trip transportation by an 8-seater air-conditioned minivan
- Expert English and French-speaking driver-guide
- Stop by a local producer
- Photo stops in the lavender fields
- Lavender fields full-day tour (as per option selected)
- Visit to the Senanque Abbey (as per option selected)
- This tour is restricted for children aged 3 and under.
- This tour is restricted for wheelchair users and pregnant women.
- The lavender field you visit is decided on the day of the tour, depending on the bloom season. You shall visit the Procenval village based on the lavender field that you visit.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Itinerary
TOTAL DURATION4 hours
MODE OF TRANSFERA/C Minivan
TimelineMap
Start point
Tourism Office of Aix en Provence
50 min by a/c minivan69 km
1. Valensole
Things to do
Photo stops
Local producer visit
End point
Tourism Office of Aix en Provence
Your ending point would be same as your start point
TOTAL DURATION9 hours
MODE OF TRANSFERA/C Minivan
TimelineMap
Start point
Tourism Office of Aix en Provence
1. Valensole
Things to do
Photo Stops
Local Producer Visit
2. Moustiers-Sainte-Marie
7 min by a/c minivan7 km
3. Pont de Galetas
4. Sainte-Croix
End point
Tourism Office of Aix en Provence
Your ending point would be same as your start point
TOTAL DURATION9 hours
MODE OF TRANSFERA/C Minivan
TimelineMap
Start point
Tourism Office of Aix en Provence
Passes By
Luberon Regional Natural Park
1. Saignon
2. Sault
3. Gordes
End point
Tourism Office of Aix en Provence
Your ending point would be same as your start point
Experience Provence’s iconic lavender fields with expert guides and a lavender producer visit, including round-trip transfers.
Half-day out to: The breathtaking Valensole Plateau or Sault, with round-trip minivan transfers from Aix-en-Provence, a friendly local guide, and stops at the most photogenic lavender fields. Enjoy insightful commentary on the region’s “blue gold” and meet a passionate local producer to learn about lavender’s harvest, distillation, and products. Choose the afternoon tour for a different light and atmosphere in the lavender fields.
You’ll get: Guided minivan tour, expert commentary, photo stops, visit with a local lavender producer, and small group size (max 8).
Lavender fields: Marvel at endless waves of blooming lavender, perfect for unforgettable photos at Sault or Valensole, depending on the bloom season (June to August).
Local Producer Visit: Explore a local lavender farm to gain insight into how lavender is grown, harvested, and distilled, while discovering the diverse range of products crafted from this fragrant plant.
Upgrades: Opt for a full-day tour and make a stop at Sainte Croix Lake for some photo opportunities. If you visit Valensole lavender fields, you will get to explore Moustiers-Sainte-Marie's charming streets, make a stop at Pont de Galetas, and Sainte Croix Lake. If you visit Sault, pass by the Luberon Regional National Park, stop at Saignon, and after your lavender fields visit, head to Gordes for some breathtaking views.
Experience Provence’s iconic lavender fields with expert guides and a lavender producer visit, including round-trip transfers.
Half-day out to: The breathtaking Valensole Plateau or Sault, with round-trip minivan transfers from Aix-en-Provence, a friendly local guide, and stops at the most photogenic lavender fields. Enjoy insightful commentary on the region’s “blue gold” and meet a passionate local producer to learn about lavender’s harvest, distillation, and products. Choose the afternoon tour for a different light and atmosphere in the lavender fields.
You’ll get: Guided minivan tour, expert commentary, photo stops, visit with a local lavender producer, and small group size (max 8).
Lavender fields: Marvel at endless waves of blooming lavender, perfect for unforgettable photos at Sault or Valensole, depending on the bloom season (June to August).
Local Producer Visit: Explore a local lavender farm to gain insight into how lavender is grown, harvested, and distilled, while discovering the diverse range of products crafted from this fragrant plant.
Upgrades: Opt for a full-day tour and make a stop at Sainte Croix Lake for some photo opportunities. If you visit Valensole lavender fields, you will get to explore Moustiers-Sainte-Marie's charming streets, make a stop at Pont de Galetas, and Sainte Croix Lake. If you visit Sault, pass by the Luberon Regional National Park, stop at Saignon, and after your lavender fields visit, head to Gordes for some breathtaking views.
Inclusions
- Lavender fields half-day morning or afternoon tour (as per option selected)
- Round-trip transportation in an 8-seater air-conditioned minivan
- Expert English and French-speaking driver-guide
- Stop by a local producer
- Photo stops in the lavender fields
- Lavender fields full-day tour (as per option selected)
- Visit Pont de Galetas, Moustiers-Sainte-Marie, and Sainte Croix Lake (as per option selected)
- Visit Gordes (as per option selected)
- It is recommended to wear comfortable shoes as this experience involves a fair amount of walking.
- Due to venue restrictions, pets cannot tag along for this experience.
- A minimum of 2 participants is required for a tour. If the count is not met, the tour might get cancelled.
- Safety is a priority so this experience is restricted for guests under the age of 3 years.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Itinerary
TOTAL DURATION9 hours
MODE OF TRANSFERA/C Minivan
TimelineMap
Start point
Marseille
1. Valensole
Things to do
Photo Stops
Lavender Producer Visit
2. Moustiers-Ste-Marie
3. Verdon River
End point
Marseille
Your ending point would be same as your start point
Journey through Provence’s iconic lavender fields, charming villages, and historic abbeys on a full-day guided tour with round-trip transfers.
- Full day out to: Provence’s lavender heartland, with round-trip minivan transfers from Marseille, a friendly English/French-speaking guide, and a thoughtfully planned itinerary. Enjoy free time in Provençal villages, visits to lavender shops, a stop at a local lavender producer during distillation, and photo opportunities in the most scenic fields. Lunch (at your own cost) is at your leisure with recommendations for local specialties.
- You’ll get: Guided minivan transport, expert commentary, visits to Sault, Moustiers-Ste-Marie and photo stops at Valensole Plateau, Verdon River and lavender fields.
- Lavender fields: At Sault, explore the “capital of lavender,” browse local shops, and sample Provençal treats like nougat and lavender ice cream. Depending on the bloom season (June to August), you could instead be taken to Valensole, where you can soak in a stunning tapestry of purple hues, set against the backdrop of rolling hills and golden wheat.
- Moustiers-Ste-Marie: Later, continue to Moustiers-Ste-Marie, a village nestled in limestone cliffs, renowned for its earthenware workshops.
Journey through Provence’s iconic lavender fields, charming villages, and historic abbeys on a full-day guided tour with round-trip transfers.
- Full day out to: Provence’s lavender heartland, with round-trip minivan transfers from Marseille, a friendly English/French-speaking guide, and a thoughtfully planned itinerary. Enjoy free time in Provençal villages, visits to lavender shops, a stop at a local lavender producer during distillation, and photo opportunities in the most scenic fields. Lunch (at your own cost) is at your leisure with recommendations for local specialties.
- You’ll get: Guided minivan transport, expert commentary, visits to Sault, Moustiers-Ste-Marie and photo stops at Valensole Plateau, Verdon River and lavender fields.
- Lavender fields: At Sault, explore the “capital of lavender,” browse local shops, and sample Provençal treats like nougat and lavender ice cream. Depending on the bloom season (June to August), you could instead be taken to Valensole, where you can soak in a stunning tapestry of purple hues, set against the backdrop of rolling hills and golden wheat.
- Moustiers-Ste-Marie: Later, continue to Moustiers-Ste-Marie, a village nestled in limestone cliffs, renowned for its earthenware workshops.
Inclusions
- Full-day tour to Provence's lavender fields
- Expert French or English-speaking driver-guide
- Round-trip transportation by an 8-seater air-conditioned minivan
- Stop by a local producer
- Photo stops in the lavender fields
- Due to venue restrictions, pets cannot tag along for this experience.
- Safety is a priority, so this experience is restricted for guests under the age of 3 years.
- The lavender field you visit is decided on the day of the tour, depending on the bloom season. You shall visit the Procenval village based on the lavender field that you visit.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
ProvenceLavender Tours
What are your ticket options?
From Avignon
Departing from Avignon, you have two enchanting options to experience Provence's iconic lavender fields: Sault and the Luberon region. You can choose to embark on a half-day tour or a full-day tour, which includes a visit to the Sénanque Abbey and Gordes.
Sault:
- Distance & duration: Approximately 1 to 1.5 hours by car (around 70–80 km).
- Highlights: The area is less crowded, providing a tranquil experience. Visitors can also explore local lavender farms and distilleries.
Luberon:
- Distance & duration: Approximately 1.5 to 2 hours by car (around 60–80 km).
- Highlights: The Luberon region boasts picturesque villages like Gordes and Roussillon. Notable sites include the Sénanque Abbey, a 12th-century monastery nestled among lavender fields, which are covered in a full-day tour.
Tours from Avignon
From Aix-en-Provence
Traveling from Aix-en-Provence to the renowned lavender fields of Valensole and Sault offers two distinct experiences, each showcasing the enchanting beauty of Provence.
Valensole Plateau
- Distance & duration: Approximately 75 km, about 1 to 1.5 hours by car.
- Highlights: On a full-day tour, wander through the charming streets of Moustiers-Sainte-Marie, famous for its fine ceramics and stunning views set beneath towering cliffs. Take in stunning views at Pont de Galetas, where the Verdon Gorge meets Lac de Sainte-Croix.
Sault
- Distance & duration: Approximately 85 km, around 1 hour and 20 minutes by car.
- Highlights: You can enjoy walking trails like the "Chemin des Lavandes," a 4-km loop through blooming fields, and explore local shops offering lavender-based products. Additionally, on a full-day tour, discover the quiet charm of Saignon and the iconic hilltop beauty of Gordes.
Tours from Aix-en-Provence
From Marseille
Traveling from Marseille to the lavender fields of Valensole or Sault offers two distinct yet equally captivating experiences in Provence.
Valensole Plateau
- Distance & duration: Approximately 100–120 km, about 1.5 hours by car, depending on traffic.
- Highlights: You can explore local distilleries, such as Terraroma, to learn about lavender oil production. Explore the charming village of Moustiers-Sainte-Marie, perched beneath cliffs, and enjoy the turquoise beauty of the nearby Verdon River and its dramatic gorge.
Sault
- Distance & duration: Approximately 130 km, around 2 to 2.5 hours by car.
- Highlights: Visit the stunning Sénanque Abbey, nestled among lavender fields, and explore the nearby hilltop village of Gordes, one of the most beautiful in Provence.
Tours from Marseille
Why go on a guided day-trip to the lavender fields
What to see & do on your Provence lavender fields day trip tour
Timely pick-up and air-conditioned transport
Your Provence lavender fields day trip starting points
From Aix-en-Provence
Tours from Aix-en-Provence offer shorter travel times and focus on nearby lavender fields like Valensole Plateau, often including local village visits. These tours typically last half to full day, providing a relaxed pace with options for guided walks and photo stops.
Eat
- La Moda is a brassiere-style eatery serving traditional French cuisine with a modern twist. Try out their sushi and oysters (during the season), and build-your-own Chirashi bowls.
Stay
- Luxury stay: Hôtel Le Pigonnet 5 étoiles, La Maison D'Aix, and Hotel de France Aix-en-Provence
- Economical stay: Hôtel de l'Arbois, Hotel Paul, and Hotel le Mozart
- Budget stay: Premiere Classe Salon De Provence, Adonis, and Résidence Aixoise
From Avignon
Starting from Avignon, tours cover a broader area, including Valensole and Sault, with longer durations to accommodate multiple stops and cultural highlights. These tours often combine lavender fields with historic sites, offering a comprehensive Provence experience.
Eat
- Restaurant Le Violette, within the private museum, Lambert Collection of Contemporary Art, serves globally-influenced dishes at reasonable prices.
Stay
- Luxury stay: Novotel Avignon Nord, Hotel Cloitre Saint Louis, and Hotel d'Europe
- Economical stay: Hôtel Central Avignon, Hôtel Kyriad, and Hôtel Cristol
- Budget stay: Fasthôtel Avignon Nord,Hotel Mignon, and Hôtel Les Corps Saints
From Marsellie
Tours departing from Marseille tend to focus more on the southern parts of Provence, making them ideal for visitors staying along the coast. They offer a convenient and immersive way to experience the iconic lavender landscapes without the need for long transfers. Many include local produce tastings or chances to shop for lavender products direct from growers.
Eat
- Fuxia Marseille is an Italian restaurant specializing in pasta and pizzas, serving a wholesome meal on a shaded terrace.
Stay
- Luxury stay: New Hotel Of Marseille, New Hotel Le Quai, anf Hôtel Maison Montgrand
- Economical stay: Comfort Aparthotel Marseille Prado, B&B HOTEL Marseille Centre La Joliette, and Vertigo Hostel
- Budget stay: Camping Garlaban, The People Hostel, and hotelF1 Marseille Est La Valentine
The different lavender fields you may visit
Valensole Lavender Fields
- Location: Western side of Provence, near the town of Valensole.
- Bloom time: Late June to mid-July (earlier than Sault).
- Landscape: Vast, open plateau with endless rows of lavender stretching for kilometers.
- Atmosphere: Most iconic and photogenic, but also the most crowded and touristy.
- Extras: Often paired with sunflower fields, great for photography.
- Accessibility: Easy to reach by car, lots of popular photo stops and distilleries nearby.
Sault Lavender Fields
- Location: Eastern Provence, at a higher elevation (around 800m).
- Bloom time: Mid to late July, often lasting into early August (blooms later due to altitude).
- Landscape: More rugged and natural, surrounded by forests and mountains.
- Atmosphere: Quieter and less crowded than Valensole; a bit more peaceful and authentic.
- Extras: Close to Mont Ventoux, great for combining with hikes or scenic drives.
- Accessibility: Slightly more remote; ideal for those looking to escape the crowds.
Luberon Lavender Fields
- Location: Central Provence, near hilltop villages like Gordes, Roussillon, and Bonnieux.
- Bloom time: Early July to mid-July, varies slightly by elevation.
- Landscape: Smaller, more scattered fields nestled around quaint villages and vineyards.
- Atmosphere: Charming and cultural, offering a blend of natural beauty and Provençal lifestyle.
- Extras: Perfect for combining with visits to markets, wineries, and historic sites.
- Accessibility: Easily included in broader Provence itineraries; popular with travelers seeking variety.
Plan Your Visit
Timings
Best time to visit
Directions
Rules & guidelines
Facilities & services
Tips
- General opening hours: The lavender fields in Provence are outdoors and accessible year-round, but the best viewing and visiting times align with the blooming season.
- Lavender blooming season: Typically from late June to early August, with peak bloom in mid-July. Exact timing varies slightly each year depending on the weather.
- Time to spend: Allocate 1.5 to 3 hours to explore the fields, take photos, and enjoy the scenery. Some visitors combine visits with nearby villages or markets, extending the day.
- Closure days: As outdoor natural sites, the fields do not close, but some private farms or visitor centers may have specific opening hours or days off—check individual farm schedules.
- Special notes: Some farms host lavender festivals or guided tours during peak season, which may have specific timings and require advance booking.
- Weekdays vs. Weekends: Visit on weekdays, especially early mornings (8am to 10am) or late afternoons (4pm to 6pm) to avoid crowds and enjoy softer light for photography.
- Peak season: Mid-July is the peak bloom period and busiest time. Expect more visitors and higher prices for tours and accommodations.
- Low season: Late June and early August offer fewer crowds but slightly less vibrant blooms.
- Weather considerations: Summer in Provence is warm and dry, perfect for outdoor visits. Early morning visits help avoid midday heat.
- Special events: The Valensole Lavender Festival (usually mid-July) is a vibrant cultural experience but attracts large crowds.
- By car: Driving is the most flexible way to explore the lavender fields. From Aix-en-Provence, it’s about a 45-minute drive (approx. 50 km) to the Valensole Plateau, the most famous lavender area. Parking is generally available near major farms and viewpoints.
- By public transport: Limited direct public transport options. From Aix-en-Provence or Avignon, take regional buses towards Valensole or Manosque, then a short taxi or bike ride to the fields. Check local bus schedules in advance.
- By tour: For the most convenient Provence lavender fields experience from Paris, choose a guided day trip that includes round-trip transport, expert commentary, and visits to multiple lavender sites like Valensole and Sault, perfect for travelers seeking a hassle-free and immersive tour.
- Photography: Allowed and encouraged; please respect private property boundaries and do not trample plants.
- Prohibited items: Avoid bringing large bags or food into private farm visitor centers unless specified.
- Pets: Usually not allowed in fields or visitor centers for safety and preservation reasons.
- Smoking: Prohibited in fields due to fire risk.
- Drone use: Restricted in some areas; it would be best to check local regulations.
- Parking: Available at major farms and visitor centers, usually free or with a small fee.
- Restrooms: Limited in fields; available at visitor centers and nearby towns.
- Wheelchair accessibility: Visitor centers and some farm shops are wheelchair accessible; fields themselves may be uneven and challenging.
- Souvenir shops: Many farms offer lavender products, essential oils, and souvenirs.
- A lightweight scarf or dress in white or bright colors contrasts beautifully with the lavender fields—and makes for stunning photos.
- It’s tempting, but stepping between lavender rows can damage plants and attract bees—stay on paths or ask permission at private farms.
- Many products are made from lavandin, a hybrid that looks similar but is less aromatic. Ask vendors for “lavande fine” or “Lavandula angustifolia” if you want true lavender.
- Stop at a local market beforehand for cheese, bread, and fruit, and enjoy a Provençal picnic overlooking the fields—many farms allow you to sit nearby.
- The scent of lavender is strong, especially under the summer sun. If you're sensitive to strong aromas, bring water, a hat, and consider shorter visits.
Frequently asked questions about Provence Lavender fields tours
When is the best time to visit the lavender fields in Provence, France?
The best time to visit Provence lavender fields is from late June to early August, with peak bloom typically in mid-July. Visiting early in the morning or late afternoon helps avoid crowds and captures the fields in the best natural light.
Can I visit the lavender fields independently without a tour?
Absolutely! Many fields are accessible by car, and some have designated parking areas. However, guided tours provide added value with expert insights, transportation, and curated itineraries to maximize your experience.
Are the lavender fields wheelchair accessible?
Accessibility varies by location. Some fields and visitor centers offer wheelchair access, but the terrain in many fields can be uneven. It’s best to check with specific tour operators or field sites for detailed accessibility information.
What facilities are available at the lavender fields?
Facilities vary but often include restrooms, small cafes or refreshment stands, souvenir shops selling lavender products, and shaded rest areas. Some larger fields near Valensole have visitor centers with additional amenities.
Are there any special events or festivals related to lavender in Provence?
Yes, the Valensole Lavender Festival is a popular annual event celebrating the bloom season with local crafts, food, music, and cultural activities. It’s a lively way to experience the region’s lavender heritage.
How long does a typical lavender field tour last?
Tours can range from 2 to 8 hours depending on the itinerary. Half-day tours focus on key fields and nearby villages, while full-day tours may include multiple stops and additional experiences like distillery visits.
How do the guided tours enhance the lavender field experience?
Guided tours provide expert knowledge about lavender cultivation, history, and uses. They often include transportation, skip-the-line access, and visits to exclusive spots not easily accessible independently.
What is the historical significance of lavender in Provence?
Lavender has been cultivated in Provence for centuries, valued for its fragrance, medicinal properties, and role in local culture. It symbolizes the region’s agricultural heritage and is integral to its identity.
Are there any nearby attractions to combine with a lavender field visit?
Yes, visitors often combine lavender tours with stops in picturesque villages like Gordes or Roussillon, visits to lavender distilleries, or exploring the Luberon Regional Park for hiking and sightseeing.
Can I visit the lavender fields outside the blooming season?
Yes, but the fields will not have the iconic purple blooms. Off-season visits offer a quieter experience and insight into lavender farming cycles but lack the vibrant visual appeal.
What is the difference between Valensole and Sault lavender fields?
Valensole features vast, flat fields ideal for panoramic views and photography, while Sault offers a more mountainous terrain with smaller, terraced fields. Both provide unique landscapes and experiences.