Explore the Lavender fields in Provence

If traveling to Provence during July and August this year, you will be blessed with blooming Lavender fields and a bonus extravaganza in the guise of the 2024 Summer Olympics or Paris 2024 – scheduled to take place from 26 July to 11 August 2024 in France, with Paris as the main host city and 16 other cities spread across metropolitan France.

For water sports fans, there will be competitions in disciplines such as windsurfing, sailing, rowing and kayaking in Marseille. Between 28 July and 8 August; and when done watching sports, you can take a trip to Provence [about an hour’s drive].

Lavender in Provence

If you mention Provence, a region in the Southeastern part of France, the first image that conjures up is the timeless beauty of purple lavender fields that stretch as far as the eye can see. The first lavender plant was imported from Persia, and today, the upper reaches of Provence are filled with lavender fields. The aforementioned lavender fields are a major source of flowers used in the extraction of fragrant oils, beauty products and perfumes.

When and where to see Lavender fields?

Lavender flowers bloom in Summer, starting from the last week of June until mid-August. People flock to visit lavender fields during the entire month of July.

Though there are many lavender flower viewing spots, the best viewing area is at Plateau de Valensole. The lavender fields at this spot cover more than 1,000 square kilometers. Also featured within the area is a beautiful blue lake for great photo opportunities. More importantly, it is close to the city of Moustiers-Sainte-Marie, which is famous for its renowned Lavender honey products.

For those who like flower fields with old residential buildings and churches as a backdrop, we recommend visiting Luberon – known for its rustic ancient villages such as Gordes, Lacoste, and Bonnieux. And do not forget to visit Sénanque Abbey, an old church that has a luscious lavender field in front of its property.

Summer market in Provence

The charm of traditional markets in Provence is that it boasts local products that cannot be found in any other region. The cities within the region have different opening days for their respective markets. You will not miss the unique attractions of any markets by shopping at the local markets every day from Monday to Sunday.

Common finds there include fresh fruits and vegetables, freshly baked bread, gourmet cheeses and lavender products. Other great products are perfume, essential oils, soap, fresh or dried lavender bouquets and fresh olive oil. The local markets open from 9.00 – 12:30 during Summer and into early Fall.

Five markets that you do not want to miss!

• Aix en Provence, the former capital of Provence [The market is held every Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday]

• Avignon, a World Heritage City that was once the center of Catholicism [The market is held every Tuesday, Thursday and Sunday]

• Gordes, the most beautiful village in Southern France [The market is held every Tuesday]

• Sault, the home of the Lavender Trail [The market is held every Wednesday]

• L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue, the city for vintage lovers [The market is held every Sunday].

Plan to go to Provence this summer? Let’s fly to Paris with Thai Airways! or fly to Marseille. Thai Airways, in cooperation with Star Alliance partner provide daily flight from Bangkok to Marseille via Istanbul.