Imagine that it is June, the summer vacations have just started, and the sun is shining with its most stunning tints. The temptation to plan a weekend far from the city is becoming more and more intense due to the lengthy days and the increasing heat. Many of you are unaware that now is the ideal time to travel to the Provence Alpe Côte d'Azur region. This region, which is in the southern part of the French territory, has a wonderful temperature and is convenient to both the sea and the mountains, making it a great place for anybody who enjoys both.
Long walks in the highlands, historic medieval villages located on vast swaths of hilly terrain, and hidden coves all make up this beautiful region. From the end of June to the end of August, there is something even more unique and fascinating to see: the vast fields of lavender that are in bloom and fill the air with their sweet fragrance. There are several varieties, but lavender and lavandino are the two that are most common. The second, which has a noticeably bigger look and is more prevalent in the plains, is the one that is most common in this region and is the one from which fragrances and cosmetics items are made with. The first, which is little, is easier to locate in the mountains.
Several itineraries have been previously established and to which many visitors refer, but just one of them has been chosen for this article, focused on a stay of luxury and complete relaxation.
A great Relais & Chateaux that offers a wonderful stay to detach from the frantic daily life and get back in touch with nature can be found in the town of Mane, an hour from Aix en Provence and an hour and a half from Saint-Rémy de Provence (a vital region for lavender cultivation). You might explore the area and take in its beauty and wonder, such as the tiny stone-built town from the eleventh century, thanks to its proximity to the historic center. Just outside the center, you can admire two architectural pearls of inestimable value such as the priory of Salagon and the castle of Sauvan.
Due to the creation of the garden at the French Embassy, the latter in reality most recently received the designation in 2022 as a "Living Historical Monument" (still nearing completion). For historical reasons, they have really been abandoned and destroyed for years, and it is only now that the current owners seem to have noticed the previous magnificence. Even though it is a private residence (you may request it to organize private events), its depositaries welcome visitors and share these incredibly lovely places with them.
Even the hotel, which also is located on a hill close to the town of Mane, is an older building. It was a convent in 1600, but it has since received a thorough modernization while preserving its original medieval structure. There are tennis and golf courts, a swimming pool where you may cool down during the sweltering summer days, and a spa where "le Occitane" products are used.
In order to aid and support the local activity of farmers who cultivate it, this brand was established in 1976 in this region surrounded by lavender plantations (the primary scent of the brand that analyzes all the components according to aromatherapy). In order to guarantee the use of quality natural ingredients and a sustainable supply, they pay special attention to how their goods are made.
According to a statement from one of their partners, Jean Boenle, "Our firm specializes in the creation of premium lavender PDO" (Protected Designation of Origin - AOC). We purchase seeds that have been approved by the French Institute of Aromatic, Medicinal, and Aromatic Plants in order to produce this variety of lavender from seeds. In contrast to hybrid and clonal lavender which are developed from cuttings, we cultivate our plants. In order to transfer seedlings into our fields, we sow in greenhouses. We are quite sure about the source of our lavender.
Therefore, choosing to stay at the Relais would allow you to fully appreciate this product because not only would you be close and be able to see the source of the raw material with your own eyes, but you would also be testing it out on yourself to have a 360-degree experience.
By Giulia Garello
International University of Monaco
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