Escape to a Lavender Paradise Near Paris
If you're dreaming of a quick getaway, a chance to escape the city bustle and breathe in the fresh air of the countryside, then a lavender field in the southwest of Paris is a must-see. Still relatively untouched and less crowded, this spot boasts the same breathtaking purple scenery as the famous fields of southern France.
Location & Getting There
The lavender field is located in the Ferté-Villeneuil area, in the Eure-et-Loir region, about a 2-hour drive from Paris. For me, renting a car was the perfect choice, giving me the freedom to set my own pace and easily stop for photos along the way. The rolling green fields made for such a relaxing drive! If you don't want to drive, you can take a train from Paris to Châteaudun, then continue by taxi or rent a motorbike to reach Ferté-Villeneuil.
Best Time to Visit
Lavender typically begins to bloom in late June and is at its most vibrant in early to mid-July. I visited in the first week of July, and it was perfect timing – the fields were a sea of purple under a clear blue sky. Keep in mind that some areas may start harvesting in late July, so it's best to go earlier for the full experience.
Experiences & Photography
The best thing about this place is how open and peaceful it is. With fewer tourists, it's easy to find the perfect spot for taking photos without being crowded. I recommend going in the early morning or late afternoon – the light at those times is absolutely magical for pictures. Besides lavender, you'll also find fields of sunflowers and wheat scattered around, creating a variety of beautiful backdrops.
Food & Accommodation
The surrounding area is mostly countryside, with a few charming little family-run restaurants. I tried one near the old church – the apple tart and lavender tea were truly delicious, simple, and unforgettable. If you'd like to stay overnight, you can find homestays or farmhouses nearby, but remember to book in advance since options are limited.
Helpful Tips
- Bring a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen – the sun can be strong in the fields.
- You can buy local products like lavender essential oil or soap at the farms – the quality is excellent.
- Absolutely do not step on the flowers – respect nature and the farmers who grow them.
Overall Rating
Here's my breakdown of the experience:
- Scenery: 9/10 (natural and pure)
- Atmosphere: 10/10 (pleasant floral scent, completely relaxing)
- Services: 7/10 (mainly local, not overly commercialized)
- Photography: 10/10 (lots of great angles, uncrowded, ideal lighting)
