Lavender Fields of Provence 2022
Provence is well known for many amazing experiences, and top among them is the lavender fields. The lavender bloom season is relatively short, and easy to miss if you don’t get lucky. Mid-June is the start, and the blooms are harvested by end of July with some fields going into August. I feel exceptionally lucky to be here at this time and am happy to report that seeing these lavender fields is such a gift.
The more famous of all the Provence lavender fields are those to be found around the town of Valensole. I went there in the early evening to try to catch the changing light of the setting sun across the fields. The color changes based on the light, type of lavender, and the different fields that I got to play in which were 6 in all.
I took so many pictures, trying to catch that one that says it all. This first one is “the one” I had been hoping for. This lavender field which offers a stunning view onto the Alps beyond, with the angle of sun…they don’t even look real.
AND since by now you all know me well, I will most certainly post way more than just 1!!
Though there are several types of lavender in existence, only two types are grown in Provence, which are “fine lavender” and “lavandin.” Fine lavender is the ‘true’ lavender which grows naturally in the Mediterranean scrub, whereas lavandin is a cross between ‘fine lavender’ and ‘lavender aspic’ which is a wild variation of the plant.
Fine lavender is particularly special because it only grows in the region of Provence. Lavandin can be found all over the world. Lavandin is the most photogenic of the lavender grown in Provence as it is typically brighter in color and the blooms are fuller.
NOTE: These pictures were taken at 6 different fields, and in very different light as the sun was setting.
