From Avignon: Half Day Lavender Tour to Sault

Explore the Scenic Lavender Fields in Provence from Avignon

The From Avignon: Half Day Lavender Tour to Sault offers a captivating glimpse into Provence’s most iconic landscape. Starting from Avignon, this 5-hour tour takes you through breathtaking lavender fields in bloom, with plenty of photo opportunities along the way. The tour is priced affordably and features small group sizes, making for a more personalized experience.

What truly makes this tour appealing is the combination of scenic drives, visits to the village of Sault, and the chance to learn about lavender from local experts. Although some reviews note that the tour might vary depending on the blooming season, the overall experience remains enriching, especially for those interested in Provence’s lavender culture.

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Key Points

• Duration: 5 hours from meeting point to drop-off.
• Starting point: In front of Avignon’s Tourist Information Center at 41 cours Jean Jaurès.
• Main stops: Scenic drives, lavender fields, and the charming village of Sault.
• Highlights: Photo stops, exploring local lavender shops, and learning about lavender distillation.
• Group size: Limited to 8 participants for a more intimate experience.
• Language: Tours are conducted in English and French, with live guides.

Meeting Point and Transportation from Avignon

The tour departs from in front of the Tourist Information Center in Avignon, at 43.944984436035156, 4.805769443511963. Travelers meet at 9 Avenue Marechal de Lattre de Tassigny or 41 Cr Jean Jaurès—with options for convenient pickup. The transport is by comfortable van, providing a 75-minute drive to the lavender fields that are the tour’s central focus.

The van ride offers relaxed scenery as you head north of Avignon, passing through Provençal landscapes and leading toward the highest mountain in Provence, Le Mont Ventoux. The drive is designed to balance travel time with ample time at the stops, making sure you don’t spend too long in transit.

Experience the Lavender Fields and Photo Opportunities

A main feature of the tour is visiting the lavender fields in bloom. There are two photo stops, with the first lasting 45 minutes and the second 30 minutes. These stops are perfect for capturing pictures of the vibrant purple landscapes and appreciating the vastness of Provençal lavender.

Travelers can expect to see lavender in various stages of bloom, depending on the blooming season. Guides are knowledgeable about the best spots for photos and will suggest picturesque angles. The tour emphasizes the visual beauty of the fields, making it an ideal outing for photography enthusiasts.

Discover the Village of Sault, Lavender Capital

The village of Sault serves as the tour’s highlight for many. You’ll have about an hour of free time to explore the town’s enchanting streets, local shops, and lavender products. Sault is known as the capital of lavender, and its streets are filled with aromas and sights that embody Provence’s lavender culture.

During your time in Sault, consider sampling some regional specialties like lavender-infused nougat, honey, and almonds. The village also offers a charming setting with rustic cafes and artisan shops, perfect for picking up souvenirs.

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Learning About Lavender Distillation and Usage

A notable aspect of this tour is visiting a lavender producer during distillation season. Here, guides explain how lavender essential oil is made, providing insight into the distillation process and how lavender is used in aromatherapy and personal care products.

While the tour’s itinerary mentions that the program can be modified based on the blooming stage, visitors can generally expect to see lavender being distilled if visiting during the right season. This behind-the-scenes look offers a practical understanding of lavender’s journey from field to product.

Pacing, Timing, and Physical Considerations

The itinerary includes two main drives of about 75 minutes each and a total of approximately 75 minutes of stop time. The photo stops combined are about 1 hour and 15 minutes, giving ample opportunity to enjoy and photograph the landscape.

Comfortable footwear, sunglasses, sun hats, and sunscreen are recommended given the Provençal sun and outdoor nature of the stops. The tour is not suitable for children under 4 or those with mobility impairments, as walking and standing are involved.

The Guides and Personal Experience

Based on multiple reviews, guides like Yanis and Soléne are praised for their knowledge, friendly manner, and ability to share interesting details about lavender and Provençal culture. Many reviews highlight guide Romane as especially knowledgeable and personable.

Travelers appreciate that the guides explain the history and uses of lavender, making the experience both educational and engaging. The group size being limited to 8 participants ensures that the guides can offer personalized attention and answer questions comfortably.

Practical Aspects: Booking, Cancellation, and Flexibility

The tour offers free cancellation if canceled up to 24 hours in advance, providing peace of mind for flexible planning. You can reserve your spot now and pay later, ideal for travelers with changing schedules. The small group size and live guides in English and French make for an enjoyable, intimate experience.

Limitations and Considerations

Some reviews mention that the actual lavender bloom can vary, and not all stops may feature fully bloomed lavender depending on the season. In some cases, the distillery might not be operating, which could limit the learning experience about lavender oil production.

Plus, the duration means there is limited time in Sault, so those wanting a more in-depth exploration might prefer a full-day tour. Still, this half-day option is ideal for a quick escape into Provençal scenery.

Final Thoughts on the Lavender Tour from Avignon

This half-day tour presents an excellent opportunity to see Provence’s iconic lavender fields and visit the charming town of Sault. The combination of scenic drives, photo stops, and local lavender products makes it a beautiful, educational outing.

The small group size and knowledgeable guides enhance the experience, making it suitable for those seeking a relaxed, personalized tour. While the seasonality of lavender bloom can influence what’s visible, the overall experience remains rewarding.

Travelers who enjoy photography, nature, and regional culture will find this tour well worth the investment. It offers a taste of Provence’s lavender heritage without a long day on the road, making it ideal for a half-day escape from Avignon.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour from start to finish?
The tour lasts approximately 5 hours, including drives, stops, and free time in Sault.

Where does the tour start and end?
It starts in front of the Tourist Information Center at 41 cours Jean Jaurès in Avignon and ends at the same location.

What should I bring?
It’s recommended to bring comfortable shoes, sunglasses, sun hat, sunscreen, and water.

Is the tour suitable for children?
It is not suitable for children under 4 years or those with mobility impairments.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, full refund is available if canceled up to 24 hours before the tour.

Will I see actual lavender blooming?
Yes, if visiting during the blooming season, you will see lavender in full bloom at the fields.

Are guides available in multiple languages?
Yes, guides speak English and French, providing live commentary throughout the tour.

How many people are in a group?
The small group is limited to 8 participants, ensuring a more personal experience.

What if the lavender is not in bloom?
The tour may be modified depending on the blooming stage, but visits to Sault and lavender-related activities typically still occur.

Is the lavender distillation process explained?
Yes, during the visit to the lavender producer, guides explain how lavender essential oil is made and used.

This From Avignon: Half Day Lavender Tour to Sault offers a beautiful, accessible way to experience Provence’s lavender fields and local village charm in just a few hours, with the chance to capture stunning photos and learn about lavender from knowledgeable guides.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby