The museum houses a rare 1892 copper alembic still specifically designed for on-site lavender distillation.
True lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) only grows at altitudes above 800 meters, unlike the hybrid lavandin found in lower valley fields.
The Lincelé family, who founded the museum, operates the Le Château du Bois lavender estate.
Distillation requires approximately 100 kilograms of flowering lavender stalks to produce just one liter of essential oil.
The collection includes vintage bottles and labels tracing the history of French pharmacy and perfumery commerce.
The Musée de la Lavande Luberon is a specialized museum dedicated to the cultivation, history, and distillation of true lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) in Provence. Located in the heart of the Luberon Regional Natural Park, the museum features a significant collection of 19th-century copper alembics used for essential oil extraction. Visitors can view the technical process of steam distillation and learn about the botanical differences between true lavender and lavandin. The site functions as a center for research and education on the plant's traditional medicinal and cosmetic applications. Exhibits include historical farming equipment and archival documentation detailing the evolution of regional lavender production. The museum is privately owned by the Lincelé family, who have been active in lavender production since the 19th century.
The blooming lavender garden adjacent to the museum entrance, particularly during the golden hour.
Participate in the live distillation demonstrations offered during the summer harvest season.
Check the museum's botanical garden, which showcases various lavender species growing side-by-side for easy identification.
Use the provided educational materials to distinguish between the therapeutic properties of true lavender versus commercial hybrid varieties.
Do not confuse the cultivated rows of lavandin (the darker purple, uniform fields) with the more delicate and lighter-colored true lavender.
Open daily throughout the year except for a short period during the winter break in January.
