Plateau de Sault (Lavender) - Image 1
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Sault Lavender Plateau

4.3
·156 reviews·Sault, France

Discover the wild beauty of the Sault Lavender Plateau, a less-crowded gem in Provence offering vast purple fields and charming hilltop villages.

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Early to Mid-July

Peak bloom for vibrant purple fields

CrowdMedium
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Plateau de Sault (Lavender) - Image 1

Sault Lavender Plateau

Best Time

Early to Mid-July

Peak bloom for vibrant purple fields

CrowdMedium

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Discover the wild beauty of the Sault Lavender Plateau, a less-crowded gem in Provence offering vast purple fields and charming hilltop villages.

4.3
(156 reviews)

"The Sault Lavender Plateau offers a more natural and less crowded experience than its famous counterparts."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚗 Drive for Discovery

Explore by car to find unharvested patches. Use Google Maps to navigate between blooming fields .

🐶 Leash Your Dog

Keep dogs on a leash due to guard dogs and passing vehicles on farmland .

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Vast Lavender Fields

Vast Lavender Fields

Plateau de Sault

Miles of rolling hills blanketed in fragrant purple lavender, creating an iconic Provençal landscape.

Charming Hilltop Villages

Charming Hilltop Villages

Aurel, Montbrun-les-bains

Explore picturesque villages perched on hillsides, offering stunning views and a taste of local life.

Vallon des Lavandes

Vallon des Lavandes

On the walking trail

A farm stand and distillery offering lavender products and a chance to learn about cultivation.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing is Everything for Peak Bloom

The Sault Lavender Plateau bursts into vibrant purple hues primarily in July. For the most breathtaking displays, aim for mid-July. Be aware that harvesting begins later in the month, so early July might offer more untouched fields, while late July could mean seeing some fields already cut.Reddit

Embrace the Scenic Drive

While there are walking trails, many visitors find the best way to experience the Sault Lavender Plateau is by car, allowing you to discover patches of blooming lavender that haven't been harvested.Reddit Plan for a leisurely drive to soak in the panoramic views and stop at charming villages like Aurel and Montbrun-les-bains.Instagram

Best Times

When
Early to Mid-July
Why
Peak bloom for vibrant purple fields
Crowd
Medium
When
Late July
Why
Harvesting in progress, unique views
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

The best fall festival in Southern California is back at 123 Farm with half a million lights around the entire lavender farm!💜✨ This is Lavender Nights and it make such a great date spot with live music, tractor rides, lavender food, and more😊 #lavenderfields #fallfestival #southerncalifornia #thingstodo #losangeles #orangecounty #sandiego #riverside #thingstodoinla #funactivities #lavenderfarm #...
@daniellabraggtravels
17.8K likes • 262K views

🚗 Drive for Discovery

Explore by car to find unharvested patches. Use Google Maps to navigate between blooming fields.Reddit

🐶 Leash Your Dog

Keep dogs on a leash due to guard dogs and passing vehicles on farmland.Reddit

Come with us to check out Lavender On The Lake in St. Cloud, Florida! ❤️⛵️ #WeddingTok #EngagedCouples #destinationwedding #MarriedByMariella #lavenderonthelake #stcloud #dayofcoordinator #walkthrough #floridavenue #floridabride
@marriedbymariella
2.7K likes • 104.6K views
Bonheur 🧡☀️ J’en rêvais depuis longtemps, et maintenant j’y suis… On débute notre road trip en van avec les champs de lavande du plateau de Sault. Une jolie découverte avec les villages perchés de Sault, le berceau de la lavande, Aurel, Montbrun-les-bains ou encore Mévouillon 🥰. Prochaine étape : Valensole 😀✌️ D’ailleurs, si tu as des conseils/recommandations, n’hésite surtout pas 😘 . . #lavander ...
cloetclem
1.5K likes • 44.7K views

🧺 Picnic with a View

Pack a picnic! There's a perfect spot with a bench after about 2.5 km on the walking trail.Reddit

📸 Photoshoot Ready

Sault is a prime spot for lavender photoshoots, especially outside the most popular Valensole Plateau.Instagram+1

Yes, you can still find lavender in France! 🇫🇷 Save these spots if you’re planning a lavender photoshoot: 💜 📍Terre Hugo, Aix-en-Provence 📍Plateau de Sault 📍Jardin des Tuileries, Paris 📍Abbaye Notre-Dame de Sénanque 📍Salon Frais, Petit Trianon, Versailles #visitfrance #francetravel #francetrip #lavenderfields #southoffrance #provencealpescotedazur #provence #parisguide #paristips #parisjetaime ...
judyparisguide
116 likes • 2.1K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚗 Drive for Discovery

Explore by car to find unharvested patches. Use Google Maps to navigate between blooming fields.Reddit

🐶 Leash Your Dog

Keep dogs on a leash due to guard dogs and passing vehicles on farmland.Reddit

🧺 Picnic with a View

Pack a picnic! There's a perfect spot with a bench after about 2.5 km on the walking trail.Reddit

📸 Photoshoot Ready

Sault is a prime spot for lavender photoshoots, especially outside the most popular Valensole Plateau.Instagram+1

🦋 Butterfly Haven

Visit during the day to see numerous butterflies fluttering among the lavender blooms.

What Travellers Say

4.3
(156 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about the stunning beauty and fragrant aroma of the Sault Lavender Plateau, often describing it as a quintessential Provençal experience. The vast, rolling fields offer a picturesque escape, with many appreciating the more natural and less crowded atmosphere compared to other lavender hotspots. Some note that the best experience involves driving to find blooming patches, as harvesting can affect trails.

"Country walking trail with one farm stand (lavender products, drinks) and one distillery/farm (Vallon des Lavandes) en route. Lots of butterflies. 2025 mid July we saw wheat, hay, and lavender. Some of it is on the road, some is on tractor trails."

Olivia

"I can only agree with the other reviewers: great walk through the lavender fields of Provence. It took us about 1.5 hours for 5.5 km. You can park your car in the car park and come back later. The only thing is that there is only one bench on the trail (after about 2.5 km). But this view is perfect for a well-deserved picnic."

Manuel

"Beautiful fields and beautiful views. A lot of the crop was lost this year in the lower elevations due to heat but the higher elevations stayed cool enough."

T. “Dragon” K.

What People Like

Breathtaking lavender fields
Fragrant aroma
Peaceful atmosphere

What People Dislike

Limited amenities on trails
Harvesting can impact views

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Sault Lavender Plateau is best accessed by car. It's located in the Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur region of southeastern France. Many visitors drive from nearby cities like Avignon or Aix-en-Provence. Consider a road trip to explore the region, including charming villages like Aurel and Montbrun-les-bains.Instagram

Public transportation options directly to the heart of the lavender fields are limited. Buses may serve the town of Sault itself, but exploring the plateau typically requires a car. Renting a car is highly recommended for flexibility.Reddit

There are designated car parks available, especially near the start of walking trails or in the town of Sault. Some visitors also find roadside parking, but be mindful of local regulations and ensure you're not blocking access.Reddit

Yes, cycling is a popular option for exploring the region, especially for those on a road trip focused on scenic routes. The plateau offers beautiful cycling loops, and there are cyclist-friendly cafes in the area [^R].

Driving is the most efficient way to cover ground and discover different patches of lavender. For a more immersive experience, consider combining driving with short walks on designated trails or country roads.Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, visiting the Sault Lavender Plateau itself is free. The vast fields are open to the public. However, if you plan to visit specific distilleries or farms that offer tours or sell products, there might be associated costs.Reddit

The lavender fields are natural landscapes and do not have set opening hours. They are accessible at any time, though visiting during daylight hours is recommended for the best experience and safety.Reddit

The walking trails through or near the lavender fields are generally free to access. Enjoy the natural beauty without any admission charges.Reddit

While not as common as in some other tourist spots, some local operators or farms might offer guided tours, especially during peak season. It's best to check with local tourist information centers or specific farms like Vallon des Lavandes for availability.Reddit

It is generally discouraged to pick lavender from the fields, as they are often private property or cultivated for harvest. Respect the crops and enjoy them visually.Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The 'golden hours' – shortly after sunrise and before sunset – offer the most beautiful light for photographing the lavender fields. Midday sun can be harsh, but it's still possible to capture stunning shots.Instagram

The entire plateau offers incredible photo opportunities. Look for areas where the fields meet the sky or are framed by charming villages. Driving around allows you to find unique perspectives away from crowds.Instagram

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expanse of the fields, while a telephoto lens can isolate details or compress the landscape. A polarizing filter can enhance the purple hues and reduce glare.Instagram

Drone regulations can be strict in France. Always check local rules and obtain necessary permissions before flying a drone. Respect private property and avoid disturbing wildlife or other visitors.Instagram

Light, airy clothing in complementary colors (whites, blues, or even contrasting yellows) works well. Consider a hat and sunglasses for comfort during long photo sessions.Instagram

🎫 🚶 Onsite Experience

Yes, there are walking trails that wind through or near the lavender fields. One popular trail is about 5.5 km long and takes around 1.5 hours to complete.Reddit

Amenities are minimal. There's a farm stand and distillery (Vallon des Lavandes) along one trail, and a bench for resting after about 2.5 km. It's advisable to bring your own water and snacks.Reddit

The terrain can vary. Some parts are on roads or tractor trails, while others might be uneven. The walking trail is generally manageable, but be prepared for some inclines.Reddit

The lavender fields are a haven for butterflies, which are abundant during the day. You might also encounter other insects and birds.Reddit

Dogs are allowed on the trails but must be kept on a leash due to guard dogs on farms and passing vehicles.Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

The town of Sault offers several restaurants and cafes. For a more rustic experience, you can find farm stands selling lavender products, drinks, and local snacks along the routes.Reddit

Look for lavender-infused products like honey, ice cream, soaps, and essential oils. Local Provençal cuisine, featuring fresh herbs and produce, is also a must-try.

Yes, picnicking is a popular activity. There are designated spots, and the scenic views make for a memorable dining experience. Remember to pack out all your trash.Reddit

During peak season, you might find temporary stalls selling local produce and lavender-themed items. The Vallon des Lavandes farm stand is a notable stop.Reddit

Sault has a range of options from casual cafes to more traditional restaurants, offering local Provençal dishes and often featuring lavender-inspired treats.

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Sault Lavender Plateau offers a unique sensory experience for families. The vibrant purple fields are visually captivating for children, and the abundance of butterflies can be a source of great excitement.Reddit While the main attraction is the scenery, consider packing plenty of snacks and drinks, as amenities on the walking trails are limited.Reddit A picnic amidst the lavender fields can be a memorable family activity. Ensure children stay close and follow any posted signs, especially regarding farm animals or private property.Reddit

📸 Photographers & Content Creators

Sault is a dream destination for photographers seeking that iconic lavender shot. While Valensole is more famous, Sault offers a wilder, less crowded alternative with stunning landscapes.Instagram The 'golden hours' around sunrise and sunset provide the best light for capturing the fields' beauty.Instagram Wide-angle lenses are perfect for sweeping vistas, while telephoto lenses can isolate details. Don't forget a polarizing filter to enhance the colors. Be mindful of private property and potential harvesting activities when planning your shots.InstagramReddit

🚗 Road Trippers & Cyclists

The Sault Lavender Plateau is an ideal stop for road trippers and cyclists exploring Provence. The scenic drives offer breathtaking views, and the region is known for its cycling loops and cyclist-friendly cafes [^R]. Renting a car provides the flexibility to explore at your own pace and discover hidden gems. For cyclists, the plateau offers a challenging yet rewarding experience with stunning natural beauty as your backdrop [^R].

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Heart of Lavender Cultivation

The Sault Lavender Plateau, also known as the Plateau d'Albion, is a significant region for lavender cultivation in France. It sits at the crossroads of Vaucluse, Alpes-de-Haute-Provence, and Drôme, making it a unique geographical and agricultural hub.Instagram Unlike the more widely known Valensole Plateau, Sault is often described as having a wilder, more natural charm, with fields that are less manicured and more integrated into the landscape.Instagram This area is considered the 'lavender balcony of Provence' due to its elevated position and stunning panoramic views.Instagram

The lavender season here is a spectacle of vibrant purple, attracting visitors from around the globe. While the peak bloom is typically in mid-July, the exact timing can vary based on weather conditions. It's important to note that harvesting begins later in the month, so planning your visit for earlier in July might offer the most complete and untouched fields.Reddit The plateau is characterized by its rolling hills, dotted with charming hilltop villages like Aurel and Montbrun-les-bains, which add to the picturesque scenery.Instagram

Beyond the visual feast, the Sault region offers a sensory experience. The air is thick with the distinct, calming aroma of lavender, and the fields are alive with the buzzing of bees and the fluttering of countless butterflies.Reddit Visitors can explore via car, discovering hidden patches of blooming lavender, or opt for walking trails that offer a more intimate connection with the landscape. The Vallon des Lavandes distillery and farm stand is a popular stop for those interested in learning about lavender products and enjoying local refreshments.Reddit

Experiencing the Plateau: Trails and Drives

Exploring the Sault Lavender Plateau offers a dual approach: scenic drives and immersive walks. Many visitors opt for a car-based exploration, which allows them to cover more ground and discover various patches of lavender that might not be immediately visible from a single viewpoint.Reddit This method is particularly effective as harvesting schedules can differ across the plateau, meaning some areas might be in full bloom while others have already been cut.Reddit Driving also provides easy access to the charming surrounding villages like Aurel and Montbrun-les-bains, offering a glimpse into traditional Provençal life.Instagram

For those who prefer a more grounded experience, walking trails are available. A notable trail is approximately 5.5 km long and can take about 1.5 hours to complete, offering a more intimate encounter with the lavender fields and the surrounding nature.Reddit These trails are often on country roads or tractor paths, providing a rustic feel. While amenities are sparse, with only one bench and a farm stand/distillery along a popular route, the views are considered perfect for a well-deserved picnic.Reddit It's advisable to bring your own provisions, including water, as services are limited once you venture onto the trails.Reddit

Regardless of your chosen method, remember that the plateau is an active agricultural area. Signs may indicate the presence of guard dogs on farmland, and vehicles do pass through. Therefore, keeping dogs on a leash is a crucial safety precaution.Reddit The experience is enhanced by the abundance of butterflies that are drawn to the lavender, adding a dynamic element to the visual landscape.Reddit

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