Experience lavender season in full bloom in Provence
Provence in June offers a unique experience, with early summer bringing long, serene evenings in the peaceful Provencal villages. The region's renowned lavender fields are in full bloom, transforming the landscape and providing a picture-perfect backdrop for exploring the sights and local culture. With the lavender fields in full bloom, is June the best time to visit Provence? Today, we want to give you an insight into what to expect when visiting the region in June. We'll cover the average weather, must-visit local events, and what makes June distinct compared to the other summer months.
The weather in June
In June, Provence offers mild weather and extended daylight hours, making it ideal for outdoor activities. The average temperature ranges from 20 to 28 degrees Celsius, providing a comfortable climate without the intense heat of mid-summer. The later sunsets give you ample time to explore, dine, and enjoy the outdoors well into the evening. Whether you're cycling through vineyards, hiking in the mountains, or strolling through a local market, the extra hours of daylight mean you can fit more and more into your time here. June also sees fewer crowds compared to the peak months of July and August, offering a more relaxed and intimate experience. Many visitors prefer visiting Provence in June for this reason alone.
What to pack
Lightweight clothing made from breathable fabrics like cotton and linen will keep you comfortable as you wander through lavender fields or browse bustling markets. Comfortable walking shoes are essential, whether you are trekking through the countryside or navigating cobblestone streets in charming villages. For the evening, we recommend packing a light jacket or sweater to keep you warm as the temperatures cool down.
What is special about June in Provence?
June welcomes the arrival of Provence's most spectacular natural display, as the countryside comes alive with lavender. The lavender fields are at their peak during June and July, transforming the landscape. This is the perfect time to visit the iconic fields in Valensole, Sault, and The Luberon Valley, where you can take guided tours to learn about lavender cultivation and its uses. Give our ‘Lavender season in Provence’ article a read for more detailed information about visiting Provence during lavender season.
June in Provence is not just about lavender. Wildflowers also blanket the region, adding splashes of contrasting colour to the meadows and hillsides. Poppies, sunflowers, and other native blooms create a stunning juxtaposition against the purples of the lavender and greens of the hills.
In June, the vineyards in Provence also benefit from the early summer sunshine. Exploring these vineyards is not only an opportunity to appreciate nature but also to understand the agricultural heritage that shapes the local culture.
Local events and festivals
In June, the region becomes alive with events and festivals that celebrate the rich heritage, arts and culture. From the Fête de la Musique to early exhibitions of Les Rencontres d’Arles, there is always something to see and do in June.
Provence transforms into a giant open air music festival on the twentyfirst June every year. This nationwide celebration of music transforms towns and villages into open-air concert venues with the events spilling out from the bars and restaurants onto the streets. Locals invite you to wander around the towns and soak up the atmosphere then join in the festivities throughout the evening. All concerts are free to the public. The festival usually starts at around midday and carries on into the early hours of the morning, definitely an event in the summer calendar that is not to be missed.
Les Feux de la Saint-Jean
If you are visiting Provence at the end of June, you can join in the celebrations of Les Feux de la Saint-Jean, a festival marking the arrival of summer. From Aix-en-Provence to Cassis, and through Les Baux-de-Provence, this event lights up the region with huge bonfires, lively dancing, and live music filling the streets. The festival celebrates the summer solstice and the arrival of the beautiful season. For the adventurous amongst us, the tradition includes jumping over the bonfire embers, believed to protect the harvest from summer storms. This event is open to all ages, making it a perfect family outing.
Check out our article on ‘Lavender Festivals’ in Provence. Many of these festivals take place in June and are a must-visit for lavender enthusiasts visiting the region at this time.
Fresh local produce to enjoy
Provence is known for its variety of markets. In June, the markets are particularly colourful, brimming with fresh fruits, vegetables, and of course, lavender products. You can find a full list of our favourite markets to visit in Provence here.
As the warm weather settles in before the summer season kicks off, both locals and visitors flock to enjoy the colourful fruits and fresh fish available in Provence. Get ready to savour juicy tomatoes bursting with flavour. Following the red theme, sweet strawberries and cherries are also at their peak, making them perfect for June desserts enjoyed on outdoor terraces in the evenings.
June is flea market season, and rumour has it that Provence transforms into a bargain hunter’s paradise at this time. Provence hosts an array of antique fairs and open-air flea markets right at your fingertips. In the village of Isle-sur-la-Sorgue in Luberon, three hundred antique dealers line the water's edge, making it one of our favourite spots. As you explore the treasures, remember to keep your suitcase in mind. Will you find the perfect piece for your collection, and more importantly, will it fit?
If that’s not enough to persuade you to book your June getaway for you and your family, we don’t know what will. Enjoy your stay and we look forward to welcoming you to Provence.
A bientôt,
The Provence Holiday's Team
