The honey route in Vaucluse
Between lavender fields and scrubland, the beekeepers of Vaucluse perpetuate their exceptional expertise, harvesting honey with unique flavours. Discover their apiaries, taste their liquid gold and indulge in the sweet treasures of the region, such as the famous nougat.
A gourmet getaway to be enjoyed without moderation.
The apiaries of the Enclave
A producer from the Enclave des Papes
Since the 1970s, the Gougne family has watched over more than 500 hives spread throughout the Enclave des Papes in Vaison-la-Romaine. Its geographical location is ideal for lavender honey production even if the bees also forage in the surrounding vineyards and olive groves.
Enter this producer’s shop and discover a large choice of beekeeping products: honey, royal jelly and pollen. It is a nice way to start the honey itinerary in Vaucluse.
La Miellerie des Butineuses (The Shop of Honey)
Discover the world of bees
Head to Saint-Saturnin-lès-Avignon to visit another essential shop in Vaucluse.
In addition to finding all the hive products, cosmetics and delicacies, La Miellerie des Butineuses offers a free visit to discover the world of bees and honey harvesting techniques. An observation hive, explanatory panels and an exhibition of old equipment will allow you to better understand how these insects live and how beekeepers work.
Miellerie du Grand Luberon
The last step of discovering honey in Vaucluse, Miellerie du Grand Luberon can be discovered on a hike or a visit to the villages of the south of the Luberon.
On the farm there is a vending machine for honey. Producers are often stationed by their hives which are a bit far away – they are said to be in transhumance. Next to this vending machine, you can find tasting pots and in summer a glass hive for observing the bees.
Honey producers in Vaucluse
Honey harvesting in Vaucluse
Nougats Silvain
Nougat, or how to combine honey and almonds
Honey has found an ideal means of expression with nougat. An unmissable delicacy from Vaucluse, this small white or black bar is prepared with egg whites, honey, sugar and almonds. Consumed throughout the year, it is also very popular at Christmas on the table of 13 desserts.
At Nougats Silvain, to ensure optimal quality of the nougat, almond trees are grown and bees are kept. This art can be discovered during a visit of around 45 minutes, during which the steps of nougat production are revealed.
In video
Discover Nougats Silvain in images.
Rent a hive
In Avignon, Marcel & Marie offer hive rental. The advantages?
Collecting your own honey
Protecting bees and biodiversity
Following the evolution of the hive through 2 visits per year