Lavender farms and fields can be found in many places around the world. Search Instagram from the hashtag #lavender and you’ll discover millions of spectacular photos of endless purple. Viewing those sights in person is even more surreal, and some are even worth planning a trip around. These options, in particular, might just get you inspired to start packing now.
Provence, France
Provence is one of the world’s most famous spots for lavender. Visit from mid-June to mid-July and you’ll be mesmerized by the endless rows of purple that stretch as far as the eye can see. Visitors come from across the globe to witness this magical scene against a backdrop of nearly always bright blue skies, along with colorful sunsets. Valensole Plateau is the most famous in the area when it comes to lavender fields, and it’s also home to sunflower fields, turquoise lakes, impressive historical sites and charming villages. Valensole hosts an 11th-century St Blaise church, pastel-hued homes and places to sample lavender-laced delicacies.
Purple Haze Lavender Farm - Sequim, Washington
The Purple Haze Lavender Farm, as the name belies, boasts dazzling fields of lavender on Washington’s Olympic Peninsula near the north coast. It hosts more than 15,000 plants with over 50 varieties, along with a gift shop selling a wide range of lavender products. The varying hues of purple are absolutely magnificent and the setting also includes vibrant gardens, ponds and wetlands. Visitors can learn about America’s agricultural roots and how lavender is used in aromatherapy, perfumery, culinary, floral and landscaping and taste treats like lavender ice cream or a lavender mocha.
While you’re here, there are miles and miles of scenic hiking trails to explore nearby in Olympic National Park and along the coast in places like the Dungeness Recreation Area where you can walk the long sandy spit to the lighthouse.
Hvar Island, Croatia
On the Croatian island of Hvar, lavender grows wilds across the hillsides which are framed by the crystal-clear turquoise waters of the Adriatic and ancient, crumbling stone walls. The flowers bloom in early summer, with the harvest taking place in June, and a lavender festival is held around the last weekend of the month. The aroma of sweet lavender will be in the air, and there will be plenty of lavender items to buy for gifts and souvenirs in the markets. You might even be able to watch a lavender demonstration to learn how the products are made before enjoying the many delights of Hvar Town, including centuries-old medieval landmarks.
Bridestowe - Tasmania, Australia
Located in the north-east corner of Tasmania, Bridestowe is said to be the world’s largest commercial plantation of Lavandula angustifolia. A privately owned farm tucked among the dramatic mountain ranges and wild beaches, the first packet of French lavender seeds were planted here in 1921, and thanks to the soil and climate conditions that are similar to France’s famous lavender-growing region, the plants thrived. The fields at Bridestowe cover 260 spectacular acres, and from December through February every year they explode with color as row after row of lavender flowers stretch for nearly 120 miles. The farm uses its lavender to create many different products from lavender tea to soap and hand lotions, as well as tasty lavender and vanilla flavored ice cream.
Mayfield Lavender - Sutton, United Kingdom
Mayfield Lavender Farm sits on an original Victorian site situated on North Surrey Downs a short drive from central London. The 25-acre organic family-run farm features two varieties of English lavender with the flowers harvested and distilled to produce lavender oil. Wander through the field to enjoy the lovely scent and enjoy sipping lavender tea in the alfresco restaurant. The farm also hosts a lavender festival in mid-July, complete with a hog roast, tractor rides and dance performances.
Bulgaria
Bulgaria has long been known for its rose oil, but today, it’s also one of the world leaders in lavender production. Around mid-June to mid-July, the fields are likely to be in full bloom, spread throughout the country near Burgas, Nessebar, Tyulenovo, Kavarna, and many other areas. Enjoy the scent of lavender through the air and take the opportunity to capture gorgeous photos in the low light around dusk. During early summer, this region truly must be one of the most Instagrammable in the world.
Lavender Valley - Hood River, Oregon
Lavender Valley Farm sits beneath the shadows of two active volcanoes, Mount Adams and Mount Hood. The soil is especially rich and fertile, while the Hood River Valley boasts a unique micro-climate ideal for growing lavender. There are more than lavender plants that visitors can see in bloom from mid-June through July, as well as purchase fresh flowers, lavender essential oil, beauty products, lavender honey and more. The farm is free to wander through and you can even put together a lavender bouquet of your own to take home for a small price. While you’re here you can take a tour of the famous waterfalls in the Columbia River Gorge and enjoy world-renowned windsurfing and other water sports on the river.
Tomita Farm - Furano, Japan
Furano, Japan is famous for its flowers of all types, with its lavender fields attracting especially large numbers of visitors every summer when the plants are in full bloom. Most will start blooming toward the end of June, reaching their peak during the latter half of July, though some later flowering varieties can be seen in bloom through mid-August. Tomita Farm is one of the most popular, with its lavender and flower fields enjoying a backdrop of the Tokachi Mountains. It’s free to visit and offers cafes and shops selling a wide array of lavender related items.
