A Second Chance At Provence
I knew I would make it here, I just didn’t know when…
A lesson in regret - I know exactly what it feels like. Regret is how I felt, 2 years ago, when I was half-way across the world in the French Riviera and couldn’t make it to the lavender fields in Provence because I could not drive a manual transmission rental car. I know! This was a bucket list moment, and missed the mark. It was still a amazing trip, but I never forgot that miss. As soon as I returned to America, I was plotting to get back to the South of France.
We don’t always get second chances in life- I know that well. So to make it back, two years later, and successfully make it to Provence is more than a dream come true. It was a blessing, in every sense. And I loved every moment…
The smell of this lavender - I will never forget it. I still remember how the air smelled, and how it tasted , if that makes sense. I knew I would love Provence, but I fell in love. Quickly. Despite it being the hottest temperature ever recorded in France while I was there, I could have stayed in these fields all day.
I was so excited driving up to Lavendes Angelvin because I could see that the fields were completely clear. I just KNEW that they would be filled with dozens of people, or more, but I guess the heat wave kept the other tourists away. I was so excited. Like, giddy excited. Even though we were riding by the fields, they still looked like part of a huge, painted canvas. I hurried into the fields and ran my hands over the blooms - the smell left on my hand was so intense - months later, I still remember it. Sweet, deep, herbal and so calming.
There is truly nothing like the lavender fields in Provence - my trip to the Keukenhoff gardens in Holland was close, but not the same at all. I took a moment, in the fields, and just reflected on how grateful I was to be there - second chance was the charm!
I have now crossed two floral bucket list items off of my list, and two remain - to tour the floral farms in South America and see the Cherry Blossoms in Japan. If you are in the South of France, visiting lavender country really is a MUST. And while you are in the region, check out the L’occitane factory store. If you are a fan of the brand, you can take a factory tour and shop from their full line if products. Well worth the detour!!
Have you ever traveled to the region? Or, are you planning to go in the near future? Drop me a comment below, and let me know - I would love to chat about other great places to visit in Provence!