Inside the Distillerie des 4 Vallées: Lavender, Stills, and Drôme Traditions
Walk behind the scenes at a nearly century-old distillery in the Drôme and learn how lavender becomes essential oil. This 1.5–2.5 hour guided visit combines fieldwork, distillation demos, and a hands-on olfactory workshop—ideal for culture-minded outdoor travelers.
The Experience
Before You Go
Visit in bloom season
Late June to mid-July offers the most dramatic lavender fields and the most active distillation schedule.
Bring water and shade
Tours are partly outdoors and the Drôme sun can be strong; carry water and a brimmed hat for comfort.
Combine with a bike ride
Certified Accueil Vélo, the distillery has secure parking and e‑charging—consider biking from Die for a scenic approach.
Budget for purchases
The producers’ shop stocks over 300 local items; bring a tote and expect to sample before you buy.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Short walk to a nearby viewpoint that frames lavender rows against the Vercors escarpment
- •Producer’s tasting table where small-batch hydrosols and culinary syrups are rotated seasonally
Wildlife
- •European honeybee (abundant in fields)
- •Common kestrel hunting over open slopes
Conservation Note
The distillery emphasizes local sourcing and low-impact cultivation; visitors are encouraged to stay on paths to protect soil and pollinator habitat.
Founded in 1930, the Distillerie des 4 Vallées grew from small-scale family distillation to a regional reference, preserving historic copper stills alongside modern equipment.
What to Bring
Reusable water bottleEssential
Staying hydrated is important during outdoor portions in warm months.
Sun hat and sunscreenEssential
Open fields and reflective plant surfaces increase sun exposure during the bloom season.
Comfortable walking shoesEssential
Paths and gravel areas around fields and drying sheds benefit from stable footwear.
Small tote or daypack
Useful for carrying purchases from the producers’ shop and any samples you collect.
Common Questions
How long is the tour?
Guided visits run about 90 minutes; you can extend your time by another 30–60 minutes to browse fields and the museum area.
Is the distillery wheelchair accessible?
Yes—paths and the main visit areas are wheelchair and stroller accessible; contact the distillery for specific assistance needs.
Can I purchase essential oils on site?
Yes—the producers’ shop sells the distillery’s oils, floral waters, cosmetics, and over 300 regional artisan products.
When is lavender harvest and distillation season?
Peak flowering and harvest is typically late June through mid-July; distillation activity increases then but varies with altitude and weather.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
1.5–2.5 hours
Location
Chamaloc, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; involves short walks across fields and flat factory areas
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