My Photography & Travel Guide to Provence, France

Capturing the Lavender Fields

There’s a certain kind of light in Provence that feels almost mythical—soft, golden, and endlessly flattering. It’s the same light that drew Van Gogh to Arles and Cézanne to Aix, that spills across lavender fields in July and casts long shadows through olive groves in the Luberon. But you don’t have to be a painter to fall for it. For photographers and travelers alike, Provence offers a canvas of color and texture unlike anywhere else in France. Plus, the food in the south of France is simply amazing.

Lavender Fields of Provence

This is a place where time seems to stretch. Mornings begin with the slow bustle of open-air markets, afternoons drift past vineyards and ochre-hued villages, and evenings end with golden hour glowing on stone façades. I would definitely stop at every open-air market that you run into. You will buy incredibly delicious fresh cheese, wines, and the best produce.

Sunrise in Gordes

Provence, in the southeastern part of France, is renowned for its picturesque villages, rolling vineyards, and, most famously, its stunning lavender fields. Each summer, these fields burst into bloom, painting the landscape with hues of purple and attracting visitors from all over the globe.

In this guide, I’ll share some of my favorite places to stay, eat, and photograph across the region. Whether you’re coming for the lavender or the rosé, the Roman ruins or the Mediterranean light, Provence offers inspiration for everyone.

Where to Stay

The Luberon Valley is an ideal home base. It's central, stunning, and filled with some of the region’s most picturesque villages like Gordes, Roussillon, and Bonnieux. You’ll be perfectly positioned for scenic drives and early-morning shoots without the crowds. My personal preference is the beautiful village of Gordes perched on a hilltop.

Bastide de Gordes

Luxury Hotels:

• La Bastide de Gordes: A stunning hotel perched on a cliff with views for days, plus world-class service. This is my favorite hotel in the area.

• Villa La Coste: A contemporary luxury estate with art installations, vineyards, and Michelin-starred dining.

• Coquillade Provence Resort & Spa: Set among vineyards with elegant suites, a spa, and bike trails right outside your door.

Mid-Level Hotels:

1. Le Jas de Gordes: A charming Provençal stay just outside Gordes, with rustic-modern touches.

2. Domaine de Capelongue: Country chic with epic views and a farm-to-table restaurant.

3. Hôtel Les Bories & Spa: Peaceful, beautiful, and just minutes from Gordes with a spa and olive groves.

How Long Should I Stay?

At least 4–5 days to truly enjoy the villages, markets, and landscapes. If you're serious about photography, a full week lets you chase the light without stress.

Best Time of Year to Visit

• Mid-June to late July: Lavender fields are in full bloom (aim for Valensole Plateau around the first two weeks of July).

• September to early October: Harvest season—grapevines turn golden, and the crowds are gone.

• Spring (April–May) is also lovely with wildflowers and green hills.

Getting Around

To put it simply: you’ll need a car. The best photography spots are tucked away in the countryside or high up on winding village roads. Rent a small car with good handling for hill drives.

Uber/Bolt: Not available in most rural areas. In towns like Aix-en-Provence or Avignon, you’ll find local taxis, but for photography adventures, stick with your own wheels.

The Best Villages to Visit or Stay In

Here's a guide to the best towns and villages in Provence—a perfect mix of charm, beauty, and photography gold:

1. Gordes

Perched dramatically on a hilltop in the Luberon, Gordes is one of the most photographed villages in Provence. Stone buildings, cobbled alleys, and sweeping views make it magical, especially at sunset. Don’t miss the Abbaye de Sénanque surrounded by lavender in summer.

Photographer tip: Shoot Gordes from the lookout just outside town at golden hour.

2. Roussillon

This village glows in red, orange, and gold—thanks to the nearby ochre cliffs. It’s like walking through a pastel-colored dream. There’s a short hike through the Sentier des Ocres that's both easy and insanely photogenic.

Eat: Grab a drink in one of the cafés on the main square and just enjoy the color show.

3. Aix-en-Provence

The region’s cultural capital. Elegant boulevards, 17th-century mansions, markets every day of the week, and fountains everywhere. It’s walkable, lively, and packed with Cezanne’s legacy.

Market days: Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays are best for the full Provençal market experience.

4. Saint-Rémy-de-Provence

Van Gogh painted Starry Night here during his stay at the asylum. Today, it's a laid-back town filled with art galleries, olive groves, and Roman ruins (the nearby Glanum site is worth a stop). It’s also a great base for exploring the Alpilles region.

Stay: There are charming boutique hotels in nearby converted farmhouses.

Where & What to Eat

Here are the must-try Provençal dishes and specialties when you're traveling (or eating) in the South of France:

1. Ratatouille

This classic Provençal vegetable stew isn’t just a Pixar movie. It’s summer in a dish—zucchini, eggplant, peppers, onions, tomatoes, garlic, herbs. Served warm or cold, often with crusty bread or alongside grilled meat or fish.

2. Bouillabaisse

A rich fish stew from nearby Marseille, traditionally made with at least three kinds of fish, shellfish, saffron broth, and served with rouille (a garlicky aioli) and toasted bread. It’s a full experience—often served as a multi-course meal.

3. Tapenade

A savory olive spread made with black or green olives, capers, garlic, and anchovies. Served as an appetizer with bread or crudités. Every restaurant and grandmother has their own version.

4. Salade Niçoise

Done properly, it’s a thing of beauty: tomatoes, anchovies or tuna, hard-boiled eggs, olives, green beans, and no cooked potatoes (despite what people outside France may tell you). A perfect lunch dish.

5. Rosé Wine

More a lifestyle than a drink in Provence. Light, dry, and perfect with basically anything you eat in the region. Try a bottle from Château d’Esclans or a local vineyard in the Luberon or Côtes de Provence.

Here are a few of our favorite restaurants:

1. La Coquillade – A Michelin-starred restaurant offering gourmet dishes and stunning vineyard views. Website

2. Le Mas Tourteron – A charming restaurant in Gordes serving delicious Provençal cuisine. Website

3. Auberge La Fenière – A farm-to-table restaurant in Cadenet, known for its creative and flavorful dishes. Website

4. L'Oustalet – Located in Gigondas, this restaurant offers a refined dining experience with local wines. Website

5. Chez Serge – A popular spot in Carpentras, known for its truffle dishes and friendly atmosphere. Website

Coffee Shops:

1. Café de France – A classic French café in L'Isle-sur-la-Sorgue, perfect for a morning coffee. Website

2. Le Petit Café – A cozy spot in Oppède, ideal for a relaxing coffee break. Website

Gordes from the Lookout Point

Photography Gear to Bring

• Camera: Canon EOS R5 or Nikon Z7 II for high-resolution images.

• Lenses:

  • Wide-angle (16-35mm) for capturing expansive fields and landscapes.

  • Standard zoom (24-70mm) for versatile shooting.

  • Macro lens (100mm) for close-up shots of the lavender and other details.

• Tripod: Essential for stability, especially during low-light conditions.

• Filters: Polarizing filters to enhance colors and reduce reflections, ND filters for long exposures.

Photography Locations in Provence

The lavender fields of Provence are pure magic—rolling waves of purple under the summer sun, buzzing with bees and humming with the scent of heaven. They usually bloom from late June to early August, peaking in early to mid-July, depending on the region and weather. Here are the best places to see (and photograph) lavender fields in Provence:

1. Valensole Plateau

Best for iconic wide-open lavender landscapes
This is the superstar of Provence lavender photography. Endless rows of lavender stretch across the plateau, often with a lonely stone farmhouse or solitary tree to anchor your shot. It’s the kind of place that makes you stop the car every five minutes.

• Best towns to base yourself: Valensole, Manosque, Riez

• When to go: First two weeks of July

• Photography tip: Sunrise and sunset are unbeatable here—bring a wide-angle lens and watch for the bees.

2. Sault

Best for a peaceful, less-crowded experience
Sault sits at a higher elevation than Valensole, so lavender blooms a bit later here (mid to late July). The fields are more scattered, with dramatic views of Mont Ventoux in the distance. Great for hiking or biking between fields.

• Best base: The village of Sault

• Highlight: The Lavender Festival on August 15 is full of charm, local food, and music.

3. Abbey of Sénanque (near Gordes)

Best for a postcard-perfect photos
An ancient stone abbey surrounded by lavender fields—this might be the most famous single shot in Provence. It’s small but stunning. Morning light is best, and they don’t allow you to walk into the fields here (which helps preserve the setting).

• Nearest village: Gordes

• Photography tip: A 70–200mm lens works beautifully to compress the field and Abbey in one frame.

4. Luberon Region (Bonnieux, Lacoste, Roussillon)

Best for combining lavender with hilltop villages
You’ll find scattered fields around this region, especially near Bonnieux and Apt. Not as dense or dramatic as Valensole, but paired with ochre cliffs, vineyards, and stone villages, it’s still an incredibly scenic area.

• Bonus: You can photograph lavender fields with hilltop villages in the background for something different.

5. Gordes –A hilltop village offering panoramic views and charming streets.

Best for combining lavender with hilltop villages
You’ll find scattered fields around this region, especially near Bonnieux and Apt. Not as dense or dramatic as Valensole, but paired with ochre cliffs, vineyards, and stone villages, it’s still an incredibly scenic area.

Gordes

5. Saint-Rémy-de-Provence –Known for its historic sites and beautiful landscapes.

Best for combining lavender with hilltop villages
While not a primary lavender-growing hub, you'll still spot small lavender fields just outside town, especially on country roads leading to Les Baux-de-Provence or toward Eygalières.

• Bonus: You can photograph lavender fields with hilltop villages in the background for something different.

Special Festivals and Holidays

• Lavender Festivals (late June–early August): Held in towns like Valensole and Sault—expect local food, music, and photo ops galore.

• Fête de la Transhumance (May in Saint-Rémy): Watch shepherds parade their flocks through town—perfect for storytelling shots.

• Wine Harvest Festivals (September): Celebrate the vendange season with grape-stomping and rustic feasts.

The Endless Lavender Fields

Conclusion

Provence isn’t just a destination—it’s a feeling. With its symphony of color, scent, and sound, it draws you in and slows your steps. For photographers, it’s a masterclass in natural light and authentic beauty. For travelers, it’s a place where time stretches long and lazy under a southern sun.

So grab your camera, your curiosity, and maybe a fresh croissant—and go chase the light.

If you enjoyed this guide to Provence, you can check out my other Photography and Travel Guides at this link.
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