Bellegarde, nestled in the picturesque Provençal countryside, is home to a unique lavender harvesting and distillation workshop. For just $32.01 per person, visitors can enjoy the captivating world of this fragrant plant, learning from experts the art of proper harvesting techniques and the intriguing process of essential oil extraction. Whether you’re a lavender enthusiast or simply seeking a memorable experience, this workshop promises to transport you to the heart of the Nîmes region.
Key Points
- A lavender harvesting and distillation workshop in Bellegarde, Nîmes, France, priced at $32.01 per person for up to 20 travelers.
- The workshop takes place at a venue called "un MAS en PROVENCE Distillerie d’huiles essentielles BIO & Cosmétique en Occitanie" and requires participants to arrive 5 minutes prior to the 9:30 am start time.
- Participants will be provided with cutting tools and protective gloves, and caps/hats are available for purchase on-site for €6.
- The workshop is suitable for participants with a moderate fitness level and is not wheelchair accessible, although service animals are allowed.
- Participants will engage in hands-on lavender harvesting, learn proper harvesting techniques, and have the opportunity to learn about the distillation process and uses of essential oil.
Workshop Overview
The Lavender Harvesting and Distillation Workshop in Bellegarde, Nîmes, France offers participants the chance to experience the traditional process of harvesting and distilling lavender.
Priced from $32.01 per person, the workshop accommodates up to 20 travelers. Cutting tools and protective gloves are provided, and caps/hats are available for purchase on-site. Drinks can also be purchased.
The workshop takes place at un MAS en PROVENCE Distillerie, with arrival required 5 minutes before the 9:30 am start time. The activity isn’t wheelchair accessible, but service animals are allowed.
A moderate fitness level is required, and it’s unsuitable for children under 10.
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Location and Meeting Point
The workshop takes place at un MAS en PROVENCE Distillerie d’huiles essentielles BIO & Cosmétique en Occitanie, located in Bellegarde, Nîmes, France.
This is the meeting point where you will arrive 5 minutes before the 9:30 am start time. The address is Le Mas Neuf – Avenue du Félibrige, 30127 Bellegarde, France.
At the end of the workshop, you will return to the same meeting point.
The venue isn’t wheelchair accessible, but service animals are allowed. Participants should have a moderate level of physical fitness, as the workshop isn’t suitable for children under 10 years old.
Inclusions and Amenities
As part of the lavender harvesting workshop, cutting tools and protective gloves are provided to participants.
A cap or hat is also available for purchase on-site for €6. Drinks can be purchased at the distillery, allowing travelers to stay hydrated throughout the experience.
Participants can purchase a cap or hat for €6 and stay hydrated with drinks available at the distillery.
The workshop ensures participants have the necessary equipment and resources to engage safely and comfortably in the lavender harvesting and distillation activities.
This comprehensive set of inclusions enhances the overall experience, enabling travelers to fully enjoy the workshop without needing to worry about sourcing additional supplies.
Participant Requirements
Participants need to meet certain requirements to join the lavender harvesting workshop. The activity isn’t wheelchair accessible, but service animals are allowed.
A moderate physical fitness level is required, as the workshop isn’t suitable for children under 10 years old. Participants should expect:
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Navigating uneven terrain and slopes
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Bending, reaching, and handling lavender plants
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Potential exposure to sun, wind, and insects
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Using basic gardening tools like pruning shears
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Standing for extended periods during the workshop
Following these guidelines ensures everyone has a safe and enjoyable lavender harvesting experience.
Lavender Harvesting Experience
Participants can expect a hands-on and immersive lavender harvesting experience at the workshop. Under the guidance of local experts, they’ll venture into the fragrant lavender fields, learn proper harvesting techniques, and hand-pick the vibrant purple blooms.
The fresh-cut lavender will then be bundled and prepared for distillation. Participants will also have the opportunity to learn about the distillation process and the various uses of lavender essential oil.
Throughout the workshop, attendees will be surrounded by the sights, scents, and tranquility of the Provençal countryside, creating a truly memorable and authentic experience.
Lavender Distillation Process
After harvesting the fresh lavender blooms, you will witness the captivating distillation process. The aromatic essential oil is extracted through steam distillation:
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Lavender sprigs are carefully loaded into the distillation apparatus.
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Water is added, and the mixture is slowly heated.
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Steam rises, carrying the volatile lavender compounds.
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The steam condenses, and the essential oil is separated from the water.
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The pure, golden lavender oil is collected, ready to be bottled and taken home as a memento of the experience.
Cancellation Policy
Travelers can take advantage of the free cancellation policy up to 24 hours before the experience starts, allowing for flexibility in their plans. This ensures participants can make last-minute changes without penalty.
Plus, the workshop offers a "Reserve now and pay later" option, further accommodating travelers’ schedules and budgets. With a maximum of 20 participants, the intimate size of the group allows for a personalized experience, while the moderate physical fitness requirement ensures all attendees can fully engage in the lavender harvesting and distillation activities.
The hassle-free cancellation policy makes this workshop an attractive option for nature enthusiasts.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Own Harvesting Tools?
According to the workshop overview, cutting tools and protective gloves are provided. However, participants are not permitted to bring their own harvesting tools. The workshop provides the necessary equipment for the lavender harvesting and distillation activities.
Is There an Option to Purchase Lavender Products On-Site?
Yes, there are lavender products available for purchase on-site. The workshop overview indicates that drinks are available for purchase, and a cap/hat can be purchased for €6.
Are There Any Dietary Restrictions for the Drinks Available?
The workshop overview doesn’t mention any dietary restrictions for the drinks available on-site. So, it’s likely that a variety of standard drink options will be offered without specific dietary limitations.
Can I Extend the Workshop Duration for an Additional Fee?
Yes, you can extend the workshop duration for an additional fee. The workshop overview doesn’t provide details on extended duration options, so you’d need to contact the organizers to inquire about availability and pricing for any extended workshop sessions.
Is There a Guided Tour of the Lavender Fields Before the Workshop?
Yes, the workshop includes a guided tour of the lavender fields before the hands-on harvesting and distillation activities. This gives participants a chance to learn about the local lavender cultivation and production processes.
The Sum Up
The Lavender Harvesting and Distillation Workshop in Bellegarde, Nîmes, offers an immersive experience to learn about the art of lavender cultivation and distillation. With a moderate fitness level requirement, participants can expect to engage in hands-on activities and explore the various uses of the fragrant essential oil. The workshop provides the necessary tools and an opportunity to discover the picturesque Provençal countryside.
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