New York Habitat Blog

Watching grass grow has never been as breathtaking as in the South of France in late summer.  From mid July through August, for as far as the eye can see, fields of lavender are in full bloom.  It’s a feast for the senses, and New York Habitat can put you right in the middle of it all.

South of France Lavander Fields photo

Mentioned in the ancient Song of Solomon as nard, lavender got its current name from the Romans, who used it in the bath and thus called it after a form of the verb lavare, to wash. Today we are still familiar with bath products, potpourri and essential oils infused with the heavenly scent of lavender; European homeopaths are no stranger to its healing properties as well, particularly for burns and inflammation.

But leave it to the French to create a wide range of uses for the hardy flower, mostly culinary in nature. While in Provence don’t be surprised if you find lavender popping up in tea, sugar, honey, candy, pastries, cheese and even chocolate!

While there are organized lavender tours throughout the South of France, nothing quite beats the experience of driving along a dusty country road and happening upon an explosion of color that seems like it was placed there just for you.  And while we might be partial, renting a car also affords you the opportunity to really get away from it all to a true French country retreat.

A 2-bedroom vacation rental in Lauris, Provence Luberon (PR-380) has been recently renovated and redecorated by its owner. It’s light, airy and perfect for summer, with its pool and extensive outdoor facilities. And its acres of surrounding countryside ensure privacy and blissful quiet! You can practically smell the lavender from here.

South of France Villa: 5-bedroom rental in Gordes - Luberon - Provence (PR-766) Photo

A 4-bedroom vacation rental accommodaiton in Lacoste, Provence Luberon (PR-564) puts you in the heart of the Parc Régional du Luberon, a prime lavender area and a hiker’s dream. And with all that room, it’s the ideal setting for a multi-family getaway with outdoor barbecues, all-day pool parties - and, yes, a wifi Internet connection!

If a more modern flair is your style, round up the gang and head to this 5-bedroom villa rental in Gordes, Provence Luberon (PR-766).  It has all the amenities, a sleek elegance and plenty of room to chill out and admire the art inside - or the miles of beautiful views outside.

You may have seen photos, but pictures simply do not do justice to the natural phenomenon of lavender fields in full bloom. Do you have a favorite lavender product you’d love to find at its source? Tell us about it in the comments!

1. The AP’art International Contemporary Art Festival comes to the South of France
2. South of France Travel Deals: Provence, the French Riviera, Alps and Marseille
3. The pleasures of Southern France’s Côtes de Provence Wine Region
4. Exploring the South of France’s Côtes du Rhône Wine Country
5. Experiencing Provence the imperial way on the Route Napoléon

This entry was posted on Monday, April 6th, 2009 in South of France Attractions.

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