Lavender Harvest

Lavender is more than a plant in Provence—it is the very soul of the region. With its rolling purple fields, intoxicating scent, and deep cultural roots, lavender has become one of Provence’s most enduring symbols. Every summer, hillsides and plateaux burst into color, inviting visitors and locals to take part in a centuries-old sensory experience.

Lavender from Provence, especially the Lavandula angustifolia species (often called "true lavender"), is renowned for its purity, richness in essential oils, and therapeutic potency. From health remedies and perfumery to sacred rituals and artisanal soap, lavender is woven into the identity of Southern France.

Lavender has been revered since ancient times. The Romans used lavender in their public baths, giving rise to its Latin name, lavare, meaning "to wash." Romans also burned lavender incense in homes and temples and used it to treat wounds, relieve anxiety, and freshen linens.

In the Middle Ages, monks cultivated lavender in medicinal gardens, while in the 17th century, it became popular in Provençal apothecaries. Lavender oils and balms were used as antiseptics, insect repellents, and headache relievers.

By the 18th and 19th centuries, lavender cultivation expanded significantly in Provence, particularly in regions like Sault, Valensole, and Plateau d'Albion. The region's unique microclimate and elevation produced high-quality essential oil, fueling the Grasse perfume industry and making Provence world-famous for its lavender.

Lavender thrives in the sun-soaked, rocky soils of Provence, especially in higher altitudes ranging from 600 to 1,500 meters. The hot, dry climate and calcareous terrain create the ideal growing conditions for the most fragrant varieties.

• Plateau de Valensole

• Sault and Mont Ventoux

• Drôme Provençale

Lavender is typically harvested from late June through early August, depending on altitude and weather. Farmers often use traditional sickles or modern harvesting machines. After harvest, flowers are quickly transported to distilleries, where steam distillation extracts the essential oil.

Provence also grows lavandin, a hybrid of true lavender and spike lavender, which produces more oil and is used for industrial and commercial purposes.

Lavender is prized for its aromatherapeutic and healing properties. Both the essential oil and hydrosol (floral water) are used in wellness, herbalism, and skincare.

• Calming & anti-anxiety: Reduces stress, promotes sleep

• Antiseptic & antibacterial: Cleans wounds, fights acne

• Anti-inflammatory: Soothes skin irritation and sunburn

• Pain relief: Eases muscle aches and joint stiffness

• Respiratory aid: Opens airways when inhaled or diffused

Lavender oil is frequently used in massage oils, pillow sprays, facial mists, bath salts, and body creams.

Lavender’s antibacterial, soothing, and aromatic qualities make it a favorite ingredient in natural soap and skincare. In Provence, triple-milled lavender soaps and handcrafted liquid soaps remain local treasures.

• Provides natural antibacterial cleansing

• Calms sensitive or irritated skin

• Pairs well with other botanicals like olive oil, shea butter, and honey

• Used in toners and creams for acne-prone or inflamed skin

• Lavender water balances skin pH and hydrates gently

• Lavender-infused oils and balms are perfect for dry or mature skin

Lavender holds deep symbolic meaning in Provence and across cultures:

• Purity & cleanliness: Used in Roman baths and spiritual rituals

• Calm & peace: Placed under pillows or used in meditation

• Love & devotion: In folklore, lavender bundles were given to loved ones

In France, lavender also represents rural pride, craftsmanship, and connection to the land. It is celebrated in lavender festivals each July and featured in countless Provençal crafts, textiles, and home fragrances.

• Fête de la Lavande in Sault (August 15)

• Lavender Fair in Valensole (early July)

• Distillery tours and open fields attract thousands of summer tourists

While lavender is widely tolerated, some individuals may experience sensitivities:

• Essential oil should be diluted before applying to the skin

• People with hay fever or plant allergies may react to fresh lavender

• Synthetic "lavender-scented" products can cause irritation

Look for pure, organic essential oil-based formulations and always conduct a patch test before use.

Lavender farming in Provence is facing both challenges and innovations:

• Climate change and rising temperatures affect yield

• Soil depletion and monoculture practices threaten biodiversity

• Organic farming practices are increasingly common

• Use of crop rotation and bee-friendly cultivation

• Many farms participate in eco-tourism and education programs

Local cooperatives and government initiatives are supporting sustainable agriculture to protect lavender's legacy for future generations.

Lavender's versatility extends beyond skincare:

• Home fragrance: Sachets, potpourri, candles

• Natural cleaning: Antimicrobial sprays and laundry additives

• Culinary use: Lavender honey, teas, and desserts

• Bugs & Bitey things: Renowned for deterring moths, pop a sachet or soap in your wardrobe. 

• Crafts: Dried bundles, wreaths, and soap molds

It’s a plant that transcends boundaries—botanical, cultural, and emotional.

From its ancient roots in Roman rituals to the sun-kissed hills of modern Provence, lavender remains a botanical icon. Revered for its scent, its symbolism, and its healing properties, lavender continues to inspire artisans, herbalists, and travellers alike.

Whether captured in a bottle of essential oil, a beautifully milled soap, or a peaceful Provençal landscape, lavender embodies the calm elegance and natural richness of the French countryside.

As you use lavender soap you’re not just cleansing your skin—you’re engaging in a centuries-old tradition of wellness, beauty, and connection to nature.