Simiane-la-Rotonde

This wonderful perched village that seems abandoned in winter becomes incredibly lively during the lavender season. In fact, from the end of June to mid-August, this characteristic village of the Alpes-de-Haute-Provence becomes an open-air garden with all the lavender, lavandin and aromatic herbs invading the heart of the village, its medieval castle and its famous Rotunda.

Perched at an altitude of 650 m above the plain between Mont Ventoux, the Luberon and the Montagne de Lure, Simiane-la-Rotonde is the heart of the lavender and lavandin production area, which covers 20,000 hectares and supplies 90% of the world’s lavender production.

The village has a rich history and you will discover splendid architectural elements dating back to the Middle Ages and the castle of the Simiane-Agoult family, of which only the mysterious 12th-century rotunda remains today, dominating the village from its hilltop. Recently renovated, it hosts every summer festival of early music.

Taking a stroll around the streets of the village, one can admire sa beautiful façades, delicately carved doors and windows. Gardens and terraces have been built around some of the alleys and allow you to enjoy the beautiful view of the blue lavender fields. You will appreciate its charm with its huge expanses of blue blossom that, as evening falls, releases all its fragrance on starry summer nights.

Travel Tips

• A walk among the lavender fields.
• A visit to the castle and the rotunda.
• Distillation andaromatherapy at the château to discover all the secrets of lavender and its processing (included in the château entrance fee).
• Abbaye de Valsaintes.