Simiane-la-Rotonde, a perched village

This wonderful perched village, which in winter seems abandoned, becomes incredibly lively during the lavender period. In fact, from the end of June to mid-August this characteristic village of the Alpes-de-Haute-Provence, becomes an open-air garden with all the lavender, lavandin and aromatic herbs that invade the heart of the village, its medieval castle and its famous Rotunda. Perched at an altitude of 650 m above the plain between Mount Ventoux, the Luberon and the Montagne de Lure, Simiane-la-Rotonde is the heart of the lavender and lavandin production area, which covers 20,000 hectares and supplies 90% of the world's lavender production. The village has a rich history and you will discover splendid architectural elements dating back to the Middle Ages and the castle of the Simiane-Agoult family of which only the mysterious rotunda of the 12th century, which dominates the village from the top of its hill, remains today. Recently renovated, it hosts every summer festival of ancient music. Walking around the streets of the village, you can admire beautiful facades, delicately carved doors and windows. Gardens and terraces have been built around some alleys and allow you to enjoy the beautiful view of the blue lavender fields. You will appreciate its charm with its huge blue blooming expanses which, at nightfall, releases all its scent on starry summer nights.