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When the lavender flowers in July and August, the valley below the little town presents one of the loveliest landscapes in France. It’s a tapestry of blue and purple, together with yellow broom, golden cereals and white rock. The town has an excellent Lavender Garden.

The Romanesque priory, dating from the 12th century, is the centrepiece of exceptional gardens which illustrate the history of Provence’s relationship with its plant life. They range from the Middle Ages to today and include a Garden of Aromatic Scents. Within the former priory, an exhibition tells the story of aromatic plants.

A history-based herb garden in the centre of town that again celebrates Provence’s age-old love of aromatic plants (see Jardin Botanique des Cordeliers, Digne-les-Bains).

Set around a Renaissance hotel are two gardens in one. First, the Magical Plant Garden, with plants prized in Provence for their healing properties. Secondly, the Alchemist’s Garden, which uses stones, water and plants to recreate symbols alchemists used in their search for the meaning of life.

Many of Provence’s aromatic plants are used in the perfume industry. This museum covers perfume’s 3,000-year history, from both practical and fashion angles. It includes exhibits from the Chanel fashion house and other designer names, plus Marie-Antoinette’s travelling kit and a greenhouse of exotic and regional plants. Perfumes are also available for sale (see Grasse).

The second lavender-growing expanse of Provence after Sault also bursts into colour in July and August. Waves of blue and purple roll away towards the Alps, flanking the road from Riez to Digne-les-Bains.

Digne is called “les Bains” (baths) because you can take the waters there. Alongside its medical treatments, the modernized thermal establishment provides a superbly relaxing aromatic plant treatment – Jacuzzi with essential oils followed by a massage.

Producers of herb-based liqueurs, including a pastis made with more than 50 plants (see Distilleries & Domaines de Provence).

The museum covers the story of lavender from field to distillery and beyond. There are 16thcentury copper stills and a video explaining distillation.

The farmstead specializes in herbs, aromatic plants and plants used for dyes. Discover the entire process.