The summer had been unusually warm for Europe and France was no exception, especially southern France which normally is warmer than the northern part of the country. It does cool down in the evenings but this was our first stay without central air/ at least a fan. Besides comfort this also meant the lavender which normally would have been at its peak was a little farther along.
After a lovely lunch overlooking the Valley below, we investigated where the closest lavender field would be. The information center provided us with instructions of one specifically open for tourists. It was a good kilometer away and apparently not a big enough fare for the neighboring town's taxi to take us. So with a sketchy map in hand we decided to walk and it was HOT. Thank heavens for our water bottles!
We did get to see the countryside close up
Fields were dry but there was still lavender that hadn't been harvested.
And the aroma of lavender in the air increased the closer we got to our destination AP, a distillery, Aroma Plants.
We knew we were heading the right way.
There was also a little cafe with organic ice cream and juices with lavender flavored of course!
The tour was really interesting as we learned about the distillation process.
The essential oil floats to the top and is siphoned off.
It's understandable why these oils are so costly. It takes a lot of plant and labor to create the essential oil.
AP grows other herbs too but lavender is their main crop.
The walk back uphill actually went a lot quicker with us savoring the shady stretches and knowing a cold shower was awaiting back at the hotel!
My birthday's not over...TBC
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