intoxicating meanders among endless lavender fields in bloom
We offer this very special experience only once a year in a two week window in July to take full advantage of the short lavender flowering season. Walk in Provence's best lavender regions, all with their own distinctive character, among blooming lavender as far as you can see.
Hike around the vales and hills of Sault, the main center of lavender production. Wander the expansive Plateau d'Albion's vast fields of lavender. Explore the intimate, lavender splashed pre-alpine valleys beyond Buis les Baronnies. Discover Simiane la Rotonde's impeccably preserved 12th century keep and its lavender lab. Indulge your senses: sight, scent, and the busy buzzing of bees. Taste lavender honey with Banon's famed goat cheese wrapped in grape leaves to stay moist. All products lavender, too.
Use this itinerary, custom designed for a client, to inspire yours. Start on any day. Walk for as many days as you like. On your own time, at your own pace.
| Day 1 Arrival and Transfer to the Pays de Sault | |
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Transfer on arrival to Sault, Provence's premiere lavender village, perched on a ridge overlooking endless fields of lavender on a high plateau just east of Mt Ventoux. Check into your B&B and explore the village. It is welcoming of visitors, but is also a refreshingly authentic, working agricultural center with lots of local atmosphere - and the best nougat shop in Provence. |
| Day 2 Sault Valley Circular Walk Distance: 8 miles Difficulty: Easy |
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Walk right down from the village into lavender fields of such beauty that they have been designated a UN World Heritage Site. Walk along the valley floor immersed in lavender, with expansive views of the surrounding mountains. Hike to the tiny, sleepy, charming village of Aurel. On the way back stop at a lavender still to see the furnaces and distillery at work. |
| Day 3 Plateau d'Albion Distance: 10 miles Difficulty: Easy to Moderate |
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On the high ground to the east of Sault is the vast, wind-swept plateau of Albion and immense fields of lavender that stretch to the horizon. Experience an exceptional sense of tranquility and solitude, even for Provence, on your walk today. Discover lavender further afield on a post-walk scenic drive and visit the lavender center in Simiane la Rotonde's perfectly preserved 12th century keep. |
| Day 4 Lavender Trails of the Drome Provencale Distance: 8 miles Difficulty: Moderate |
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Head north today into the deep, narrow valleys amid the Drome's rugged mountains where much of the land is so tough to farm that only the hearty lavender thrives. Walk in lovely pre-alpine scenery where the valleys and the hills around you are splashed with patches of lavender. Watch the hand harvest in progress and set a slow pace on this magical trail. |
| Day 5 Departure from Provence | |
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A final indulgence in lavender honey with your breakfast croissants and coffee before you pack your honey jars and head for home. |
5 days, 4 nights
Northern Vaucluse, Drome Provencale
best time April to October
Walks
three walks, easy to
moderate,
up to 10 miles per day,
shorter and longer options;
comprehensive self-guidance
package; in-person briefing
Where You'll Stay
Classic: charming B&Bs
and small family run hotels
Superior: high end B&Bs
and superior hotels
Deluxe: top country house hotels
Mix choices if you prefer
Field Support
In-person briefing on arrival; English speaking background support throughout the trip; optional GPS support
Pricing
(per person double occupancy)
Classic: from $970
Superior: from $1,180
Deluxe: inquire
indicative prices - actual quotes
may vary; mixing accom. choices also varies price
single supplement - inquire
Included
• all accommodation
• all baggage transfers
• all breakfasts
• briefing on arrival
• comprehensive Trip Kit including all official IGN maps, Trail Guides, and other guidance material
• any transportation except
for transfers if indicated
• meals/picnics other than breakfasts
• any form of insurance