Fête de la lavande fine de Haute-provence

Thanks to its proximity to the world capital of perfume, and the quality of the fine lavender that was grown and harvested in large quantities, Barrême was an economic nerve center for the cultivation of this perfume plant. Local lavender (Lavandula Augustifolia), less camphoraceous than the lavandin grown on the famous Valensole plateau, was already highly sought-after by perfumers.
The “Lavande fine de Barrême” quality label is still recognized and used by some of the world’s leading perfume houses. It was in the 19th century, marked by the arrival of the railroads in the Alpes-de-Haute-Provence region, that fine lavender was transported directly to Grasse via the new railroad line. In the early 20th century, Grasse-based companies moved into the village to open distilleries and annexes to their factories. As soon as the ears of this pretty blue flower were harvested, they were distilled directly on site, producing an essential oil of unrivalled quality.
Despite an upturn in activity after the war, the distillery closed in 1972. Inspired by this beautiful story, this summer event organized by the “Lavande et Patrimoine” association has been attracting visitors from all over the region for the past 15 years.
It’s a great way to support the work of fine lavender growers in the surrounding villages, who continue to produce this high-quality product.