Lavender in the Drôme

Lavender: A plant with a thousand virtues

Lavender is a plant resource which has been used for centuries due to its many properties. These are to be found in the essential oil, soap, beauty products and even in the kitchen. Two main lavender varieties are to be found in the Drôme: ‘lavande fine’ (Lavandula Vera – true lavender) and lavandin.

‘Lavande Fine’

This is the most precious variety, grown at altitude, often at over 800 metres. Its perfume is more intense and its essential oil is much sought after for its relaxing properties. It is also known for its antiseptic and wound healing virtues. It is often found in the mountains of the Vercors and the Baronnies.

Lavandin

Lavandin is a natural hybrid of ‘lavande fine’ and another variety, ‘lavande aspic’ (Lavandula Latifolia). It is found at lower altitudes which makes it easier to grow. Its perfume is a little less refined, but it is often found in household products and cosmetics.

Uses of Lavender

Lavander is often used through the distillation of its essential oil, which has relaxing qualities. It can also be used to heal minor wounds and lend a fragrance to the air. It is also used in clothes washing products, creams and soaps. Lavender is one of the natural treasures of the Drôme, which lives to the rhythm of its harvesting and processing.

Flowering season by geographical area

Lavander does not flower everywhere in the Drôme at the same time. It varies according to the altitude and climate. Here are the main areas where you can admire lavender in full flower and also the best times to witness the spectacle.

• Baronnies Provençales

In this mountainous area in the East of the Drôme, it is mainly ‘lavande fine’ that is grown. Flowering begins in late June and carries on until late July. This is an excellent area to go for walks in and discover magnificent violet landscapes, especially around villages such as Buis-les-Baronnies or Montbrun-les-Bains.

Flowering season: from late June to late July.

• The Plateau de Valensole (Just outside the Drôme)

Although situated in the Alpes-de-Haute-Provence, this plateau is very close to the Drôme and is well known for its huge lavender fields. Flowering starts in Mid-June and visitors come in droves to see these landscapes which are so redolent of Provence.

Flowering season: mid-June to mid-July.

• La Drôme Provençale

Situated in the south of the Drôme, this region is reputed for its lavandin fields, which flower in mid-June. Villages and towns such as Grignan, Nyons or Dieulefit feature magnificent landscapes with entire hillsides covered in lavender.

Flowering season: mid-June to mid-July.

• The Diois

The Diois, an area situated near the mountains of the Vercors, is also known for its lavender fields. Flowering begins at the end of June and lasts until mid-July, creating a superb violet scene. Marignac is an iconic place from which to admire these fields in full flower.

Flowering season: late June to mid-July.

Disover the ‘routes de la lavande’

An all-embracing fragrance; blue and violet monochrome shades; the discovery of a time honoured tradition: this means you are of course on the lavender road.

Drôme valley, Diois and Buëch

At the gates of the ‘Parc Naturel Régional du Vercors’, you can set out in search of mountain lavender, often far away from towns and off the main roads. All along the Drôme river and passing hilltop villages on the way, you will find passionate lavender producers jealously conserving rare lavender varieties. Others think up recipes to stimulate your taste buds or offer modern aromatherapy advice.

From Drôme Provençale to the Vaucluse

With the Mont Ventoux in your sights, the itinerary follows minor roads through huge expanses of lavandin production, in the heart of an outstanding area. From Montélimar nougat to Nyons olive oil, you will also have the opportunity to try the ‘Enclave des Papes’ wines (in moderation of course) or admire the renowned château at Grignan, surrounded by its lavender fields.

From the Baronnies Provençales to the Buëch

Bordering 4 départements, the Baronnies is a mountainous area with a strong sense of identity, marked by its emblem: lavender. From Vaison-la-Romaine to Sisteron, lavender is all around you, in all its forms and with all its uses, from the living plants, carefully cultivated on the hillsides, to house insulation, not to mention « mondée » (blanched) flowers, bouquets and of course essential oil.

En route