Lavender picking & distillation between NîmesArles

Explore Lavender Picking & Distillation in South of France

This 2.5-hour tour offers a hands-on experience of lavender harvesting and organic plant distillation in the scenic South of France. Starting from a location approximately 15 minutes from Arles and 20 minutes from Nîmes, the activity combines traditional farming practices with artisanal extraction methods. The tour is suitable for those interested in aromatic plants, natural oils, and Provençal culture, though it’s important to note that children under 10 years are not accommodated.

Participants get the chance to pick lavender flowers using a traditional sickle, guided by Gaël, the farmer. After harvesting, you’ll visit an artisanal distillery where you will assist in the steam distillation process to produce your own organic essential oil and hydrolate. This experience balances practical skills with educational insights into aromatic plant cultivation and uses in food, cosmetics, and health.

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Key Points

• Hands-on lavender harvesting with traditional sickles in a Provence field.
• Visit to an artisanal distillery to see the steam still in action.
• Create your own organic essential oil and floral water.
• Duration of 2.5 hours makes it a concise yet enriching experience.
• Guided tour in French and English offers clear explanations.
• Includes tips on plant uses for food, cosmetics, and health.

Discover the Provençal Lavender Fields

The tour starts in the lavender fields of Bellegarde, where guides teach you about aromatic plant cultivation and the specific characteristics of lavender flowers. The traditional picking process involves using a sickle, which is explained step by step by Gaël, ensuring you learn the proper technique. This part of the activity is designed to be interactive and educational, giving you a real feel for Provençal farming traditions.

The fields are not just a beautiful backdrop but also a vital part of understanding how lavender is grown and harvested. You get to see the organic plants that are used later for distillation, making this a practical introduction to Provence’s aromatic farming.

The Artisanal Distillery Experience

After harvesting, you join the distillery, just a short drive away, where the steam still stands ready for action. You get to put your flowers into the still, simulating the traditional extraction process. The guide explains all the secrets of steam distillation, a method used for centuries to produce pure essential oils.

This process results in your own bottle of organic essential oil and hydrolate—the floral water with aromatic properties. It’s an engaging, hands-on activity where you participate directly in the extraction process, providing a tangible connection to the craft of natural perfumery.

What You Can Expect at the Distillery

At the distillery, the focus is on showing how steam distillation works with steam stills. The process involves placing plants into a vase where the steam extracts the essential oils. You’ll see the vapor condense, and the oil separates from the water, which you will collect in your own bottle.

Participants learn about the various perfumes and uses of organic plants, emphasizing their application in cosmetics, food, and health. The experience aims to give a comprehensive understanding of how natural oils are produced and used.

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Practical Details for Participants

This tour is designed for flexibility with options like free cancellation if canceled 24 hours in advance. You can reserve your spot now and pay later, which helps keep your travel plans adaptable. The activity takes about 2.5 hours, making it easy to include in a day of sightseeing or Provence exploration.

Participants should bring sunscreen and comfortable shoes to navigate the fields and distillery comfortably. The location is easily accessible by car, and public transport options include bus line Lio n°130, which stops in Bellegarde, roughly a 30-minute walk from the distillery.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour

This experience is ideal for curious travelers who enjoy hands-on activities and learning about natural products. It suits those with an interest in aromatic plants, traditional farming, or organic cosmetics. Since children under 10 are not suitable, it’s better for adults and older children looking for an educational, sensory experience.

The price point of €150 reflects the activity’s inclusion of both harvesting and distillation, as well as the personalized creation of essential oil. Guests receive a fleshy souvenir—their own essential oil and floral water—plus a feminine touch like water and cake during the experience.

How This Tour Compares to Similar Experiences

This tour is offered by un MAS en PROVENCE and is comparable to other Provence-based lavender and distillation activities. For those seeking a more hands-on, educational experience with a focus on organic plants and traditional methods, this activity delivers on that promise.

Additional similar experiences are accessible via online platforms, offering options for DIY plant cosmetics or lavender-themed workshops, but this tour’s unique feature is the combination of harvest and distillation within a short, manageable timeframe.

The Sum Up: Authentic and Practical Provence Lavender Experience

This lavender picking and distillation tour provides an authentic look at Provençal aromatic plant cultivation and natural essential oil production. It’s a well-balanced activity, blending practical skills with educational insights into organic farming and perfumery.

The interactive nature, hands-on distillation process, and chance to create your own essential oil make it a memorable experience. Its moderate duration suits travelers who want a meaningful activity without a full-day commitment.

While it’s not suitable for children under 10, adults or families with older children will find it enriching and fun. The accessible location and flexible booking options add to its appeal, especially for those interested in authentic Provençal crafts and natural products.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour?
Participants pick lavender flowers, visit an artisanal distillery, and produce their own organic essential oil and hydrolate.

How long does the experience last?
The activity lasts approximately 2.5 hours.

Do I need to bring anything?
Yes, sunscreen and comfortable shoes are recommended for the outdoor and distillery parts of the tour.

Where is the tour located?
The tour is 15 minutes from Arles and 20 minutes from Nîmes by car. Public transport options include bus line Lio n°130.

Is the tour suitable for children?
No, it is not suitable for children under 10 years.

Can I cancel or modify my booking?
Yes, free cancellation is available if done 24 hours in advance, and you can reserve now and pay later for flexibility.

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