July is the time to enjoy the glorious sight and perfume of Lavender in Provence. France Monthly's monthly email newsletter has tons of info on touring the lavender routes of Provence, with advice on routes to follow, places to stay - and background on this emblematic herb.
For a map of the Lavender routes see www.routes-lavande.com. Also on the site you can download (télécharger) a brochure in English on the routes and places to visit.
However, beware that the Vaulcuse déartement on how to cope with the summer heat - recommeding everyone, especially the elderly, to keep their houses cool, spend several hours a day in a cool environment, and drink plenty of water!
If you cannot get to France to see the Lavender, you could instead see an impressive display of lavenders in the UK at Wolds Way Lavender just off the A64 east of Malton on the way towards Scarborough. They also have installed a still, so you may be able to se something of the distillation process which produces the essential oil from the lavender flowers.
Comments
If in Provence, seeing the lavender fields is a must! Some friends and I just returned from the region and while the lavender was not yet in full bloom the aroma and sight were pretty wonderful. Just like the photos, it is an overwhelming thing of beauty. The lavender is a plant and has its rough edges like any other... but the sight of these seemingly perfect rows drifting along the landscape make for a lovely memory. The scent is just as wonderful. But it's not just about lavender... when seeking out the lavender fields you are sure to pass sunflowers, poppies and vines.
Posted by: Ami French | July 2, 2006 2:55 PM
Came across you on Technorati. Useful material, indeed, for the francophiles. I will refer the Lavender material, if I may, but give you credit. Stay in touch!
Posted by: roger | August 28, 2006 8:37 AM