If you’re planning a trip to the South of France, visiting the lavender fields of Provence needs to be on your itinerary. Seeing rows of bright purple lavender stretching across the countryside is one of the most beautiful experiences in Provence.
I took a tour of the lavender fields and realized that there are a few things you should know before you go. From choosing the best time of day to visit to figuring out what to wear, these tips will help you make the most of your experience.
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When to Visit the Lavender Fields of Provence
The lavender season in Provence is relatively short, so timing your visit is important. The exact blooming period can change each year depending on the weather and location, but lavender is generally in bloom during the summer months.
If you want to see the fields at their most vibrant, consider visiting around late June through early July. Many fields are harvested in July, but some will be harvested in August.
Go for a Sunset Tour
The most important piece of advice I can give you is to sign up for a sunset tour.
The color of the fields is much more vibrant in the evening, and you get to watch the color change as the sun gets lower in the sky. The warm evening light makes the purple lavender fields even more beautiful.
Another benefit is the temperature. Provence can get extremely hot during the summer, so visiting in the evening means you’re not walking around the fields during the hottest part of the day.
A sunset tour is also a great option if you’re hoping to take photos. The golden-hour light creates beautiful scenery and gives you plenty of opportunities for pictures.
How to Visit the Lavender Fields of Provence
You don’t necessarily need to rent a car to see the lavender fields. One of the easiest options is to take an organized tour.
Tours to the lavender fields are available from both Aix-en-Provence and Marseille.
I stayed in both locations during my trip, but took my tour from Aix-en-Provence.
A guided tour can be convenient because you don’t have to worry about figuring out which fields are blooming or navigating the roads. Plus my guided tour had special access to a private field.
Depending on the tour you choose, you may visit several lavender fields and villages or sunflower fields.
What to Wear to the Lavender Fields
The lavender fields may look dreamy in photos, but the ground can be much rougher than you might expect.
The fields are very rocky and dusty, so I recommend wearing comfortable, closed-toed shoes rather than sandals. You’ll be walking over very uneven ground.
Comfortable sneakers are a much better choice than sandals or flip-flops.
Lightweight clothing is also a good idea because temperatures can be high, especially earlier in the day.
Be Prepared for Dust
If you’re walking through the fields, your legs and arms can quickly get covered in dust. I recommend bringing a small package of wipes with you so you can clean off before getting back on your tour bus or heading to your next destination.
Watch Out for Bugs
Since you’re surrounded by flowers and plants, you’ll encounter plenty of insects. Bees and spiders are common in the fields.
Bees are naturally attracted to the lavender, so be mindful when walking through the rows. If you’re someone who gets bothered by insects, bringing insect repellent isn’t a bad idea.
You don’t need to be afraid of the bugs, but it’s worth knowing what to expect before you arrive.
Don't Forget Your Camera
The lavender fields are one of those places where you’ll want to have your camera ready. The golden light from sunset makes for especially stunning photos.
If you’re looking for a beginner camera, I love the Canon R50.
Is Visiting the Lavender Fields of Provence Worth It?
If you’re visiting the South of France during late June or early July, then you definitely need to add the lavender fields of Provence to your itinerary. Even if you don’t have a car, it is easy to travel to Aix-en-Provence or Marseille by train and take a tour while you’re there.
The views at sunset were unreal and one of my most treasured travel memories.
Make sure to check out how I got a round-trip flight to the South of France for $270.