Lavender fields in Turkey – where to look for them, how to get there, when lavender blooms and how much it costs, where to stay near the fields.
Seeing blooming lavender fields while on vacation in Turkey is something almost no one expects. I advise you to plan this wonderful trip if you are on the Antalya coast in late June – early July, when lavender is in bloom in Turkey.
We included this location during our Turkey Road Trip – it was convenient to fly to Antalya, rent a car, and in two hours find yourself among incredibly beautiful lavender fields.
Where to find lavender in Turkey
Located in Isparta, Turkey – 120 km from Antalya, a tiny village called Kuyucak is gradually attracting visitors with its lush lavender fields. Isparta is located in the southwestern part of Turkey, between Pamukkale and Antalya.
Located in the Lake District of Turkey, Kuyucak is still a little-known destination for travelers.
Where does lavender come from in Turkey?
Interestingly, the local lavender is very different in terms of the size of the bushes from all those I saw in France, Moldova, Ukraine and even the Czech Republic. It is simply gigantic here – the bushes were as tall as me. But its origin turned out to be French.
One of the farmers who grows roses brought several stalks of lavender from France, about 20 pieces. At first, they had very few plantations. And then the villagers began to plant lavender more and more. And now this place has become an Instagram-tourist – in addition to earning money on rose and lavender oil, locals earn money from tourists who come to look and take pictures in lavender.
Here you can also buy lavender products, have lunch in local restaurants and, if you wish, see the sunrise or sunset in the fields – spend the night in hotels that are saturated with the aroma and color of roses.
When does lavender bloom in Turkey?
Lavender begins to bloom in early June, but the peak of flowering is the beginning of July, ending in mid-July, when the lavender harvest is harvested.
We were in these places on July 5 – all the bushes were already blooming, it was very beautiful!
How to get lavender in Turkey
The best way is to rent a car and arrive there at a convenient day and time for you. We did this at Antalya airport, booking a car in advance on the Rentalcars.com aggregator. Here you can compare offers from different rental companies and choose a car according to your own needs.
I advise to read: Car rental in Turkey – review and own experience of choosing a rental company
- Antalya – Lavender Fields: 2.5 hours by car
- Pamukkale to lavender fields: 2 hours by car
An alternative is to take a tour to the lavender fields. This is of course, not as convenient, but if you do not drive, this option will also be pleasant. If you buy a tour, most likely it will be combined with a trip to Pamukkale.
What to do in the lavender fields
Lavender fields are located on a high hill at the foot of the Taurus Mountains. With the advent of Instagram, locals decided to attract tourists with insta-locations.
The fields have all the props for a romantic photo: a swing, bicycles, windows painted purple, frames in the shape of hearts of lovers. Interestingly, entrance to such locations is free. Tourists are simply invited to come in, and if they like something, then buy their products from the merchants.
We arrived just at noon – not the best time for photography. But since this place was (almost) on the way to Pamukkale. At that time there were few tourists, we could safely take a few nice photos.
The lavender bushes in Kuyucak are simply gigantic – huge balls almost human-sized. Planted in rows, but with a lot of space between the bushes. You can take photos in the style of – I’m on a picnic. Of course, I didn’t bring any props with me, but I grabbed my dress.
And along the fields there are cafes with terraces where you can drink tea and have a delicious meal.
How much does it cost to visit lavender in Turkey?
Interestingly, entrance to such locations is free. Tourists are simply invited to come in, and if they like something, they can buy their products from the merchants. And I think it’s worth doing this to support the locals who are trying their best for tourists.
In addition, lavender soap or lavender pillows are quite inexpensive.
If you need props for a photo shoot – lavender wreaths, lavender bouquets – they can also be purchased in local shops.
And you can also try lavender lemonade and ice cream – they are also delicious here.
Where to stay near the lavender fields of Turkey
Aliya Konak – Köy Evi ve Lezzetleri≫ – This is a really nice guesthouse run by a lovely family. It is located in the countryside so you get an authentic experience and there are many lavender farms around. The owners offer delicious breakfast and dinner.
Useful articles and links:
- Hotels in Cappadocia – with the best views of hot air balloons
- Cappadocia – how to fly in a hot air balloon
- Patara Beach – instructions for independent travelers
- Pamukkale, Turkey – what to do in two days
Recommendations for organizing a trip to the Lycian coast of Turkey
Rent a car – I highly recommend it, because without it, you will spend a lot of time waiting or adjusting your plans to public transportation. You can find the best option for a rental company on the aggregator Rentalcars.com – Here you can find a budget option and read reviews about rental companies.
Book your accommodation in advance – remember that in Turkey Booking.com is banned in Turkey, so it’s best to do it at home. Or use a VPN while in Turkey.
Do not neglect health insurance – on the EKTA you can buy insurance without leaving your home.
