Flytographer: Andrea & Cyril in Provence
We are drooling over these dreamy lavender fields in the south of France. Because of the very short window for lavender season, it’s never too soon to start planning a trip to see it in person. We asked Flytographers Andrea and Cyril in Provence for the five things you need to know before visiting France during lavender season. Read on for their tips.
Flytographer: Andrea & Cyril in Provence
1. When to go
Lavender season begins around mid-June, but the absolute best time to catch the lavender in full bloom is between the last week of June and the first or second week of July. (This year, the local farmers cut everything during the first few days of July, so it’s really best to get there before the end of June, if possible.)
Flytographer: Andrea & Cyril in Provence
Flytographer: Andrea & Cyril in Provence
2. Where to go
Although you can find lavender fields in Gordes, Luberon and Mont Ventoux, the most beautiful region is the Plateau de Valensole because in addition to the lavender fields, you’ll be treated to a stunning mountain background and, of course, the gorgeous Verdon Gorge! The best lavender fields are in between the routes that surround Valensole, some of them hard to find and free from tourists.
Flytographer: Lucille in Provence
Flytographer: Andrea & Cyril in Provence
3. When to schedule a photo shoot
We highly recommend two times for scheduling a Flytographer shoot in France during lavender season: just after sunrise or just before sunset because direct sunlight affects the beautiful colour of the lavender and the gorgeous soft light at those times will perfectly complement the stunning lavender fields.
Flytographer: Andrea & Cyril in Provence
Flytographer: Andrea & Cyril in Provence
4. What to bring & what to wear
Every field has bees, insects and mosquitoes, so be prepared for the buzzing!
Don’t forget to protect yourself from the sun. Always carry sunscreen and sunglasses!
As far as what to wear, Andrea and Cyril recommend sticking with white or any other creamy soft colour so the contrast between the lavender, the sky and you will be extra dreamy.
Booking a longer shoot of at least 90 minutes is a good idea as you’ll then have time to see a typical Provencal town (with local guides, of course) in addition to spending some time in the lavender fields.
“You have so many little towns here that you won’t find in any other place. Between the architecture, animals, sky colours and the Verdon Canyon, it’s a MUST DO in your bucket list (and this is not because I live here, it’s because the first time I came here I fell in love with France because of this area, so peaceful and disconnected from the world).” – Andrea
Flytographer: Lucille in Provence
Flytographer: Andrea & Cyril in Provence
5. What else to do
If you come to the area, Andrea says you must taste the typical lavender ice cream, ratatouille and, of course, the rosé wine, which is the perfect summer sipper.
If you like nature, Verdon Gorge is the place to be! Visiting during the morning is recommended as you can avoid many of the tourist crowds. You can ride a pedal boat or electric boat inside the magnificent canyon and if you’re into more extreme sports, you can even paraglide or go for a hike!
Flytographer: Andrea & Cyril in Provence
Flytographer: Andrea & Cyril in Provence
