In a world where essential oils have become a staple in many households, have you ever wondered what goes into creating these potent extracts? The Flowers Picking and Essential Oil Distillation Workshop offers a unique chance to uncover the secrets behind high-quality oils. For €30.00 per person, you will embark on a 2.5-hour journey, exploring traditional distillation methods and getting hands-on experience with flower picking and distillation. But what makes this workshop truly special, and what treasures will participants take home at the end of the day?
Key Points
• In this 2.5-hour workshop, learn about flower picking and essential oil distillation with a guided tour of an artisanal distillery.
• Experience picking lavender flowers with traditional farmers and learn traditional techniques for optimal flower selection.
• Discover the art of steam still distillation and learn about temperature, pressure, and time balance for high-quality oils.
• Take home a souvenir bottle of extracted essential oil and hydrolate, and gain knowledge to experiment with new recipes and skincare routines.
• This workshop is suitable for adults and children over 10 years old, with a maximum of 20 participants for a personalized experience.
Workshop Overview and Pricing
This 2.5-hour workshop, priced at €30.00 per person, offers a unique experience that combines flower picking and essential oil distillation in a picturesque setting.
The workshop is available in French and English, and participants can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. The meeting point is easily accessible via Google Maps.
With a duration of 2.5 hours, this workshop provides an immersive experience that’s suitable for adults and children over 10 years old. Don’t forget to bring sunscreen and comfortable shoes!
The distillery is located 15 minutes from Arles and 20 minutes from Nîmes by car, or accessible via bus line Lio n°130.
Experience the Art of Distillation
Guided by an expert, participants explore the artisanal distillery to uncover the ancient secrets of steam distillation.
They’re introduced to the traditional still, where they learn about the art of extracting essential oils and hydrolates from organic plants.
As they observe the distillation process, they gain insight into the careful balance of temperature, pressure, and time required to produce high-quality oils.
The expert guide shares their knowledge of the different plants, their properties, and uses, answering any questions participants may have.
This hands-on experience allows participants to appreciate the craftsmanship involved in creating these valuable oils, and they get to take home their own extracted bottle as a souvenir.
What to Expect From the Tour
During this unique 2.5-hour experience, participants embark on a journey to discover the world of flowers picking and essential oil distillation.
They’ll learn about the uses of organic plants for food, cosmetics, and health, and get hands-on experience picking lavender flowers in the field with a traditional picker’s knife.
The distillation process is also demystified as they discover the secrets of steam still distillation.
As they extract their own organic essential oil and hydrolate, they’ll take home a souvenir bottle.
The guided tour is led by a live guide, ensuring a comprehensive and engaging experience.
The Cultivation of Aromatic Plants
Farmers in Provence carefully nurture aromatic plants, ensuring optimal growing conditions to coax out their unique flavors and fragrances.
They meticulously select and prepare the soil, taking into account the specific needs of each plant variety. Irrigation, pruning, and pest management are all carefully considered to promote healthy growth and prevent disease.
As the plants mature, farmers closely monitor their development, carefully timing the harvest to capture the peak of flavor and aroma.
This dedication to detail is essential for producing high-quality plants that will eventually become essential oils and hydrolates.
Hands-On Flower Picking and Distillation
As the carefully cultivated aromatic plants reach maturity, participants now get to experience the hands-on process of picking flowers in the field, a traditional practice that’s been passed down through generations of Provençal farmers.
Under the guidance of experienced farmers, participants learn the art of selecting and picking the perfect flowers for distillation.
This unique opportunity allows them to connect with nature and appreciate the effort that goes into creating high-quality essential oils.
Learn traditional flower picking techniques from experienced Provençal farmers.
Explore the field and select the perfect flowers for distillation.
Get hands-on experience with traditional pickers’ knives.
Discover the importance of timing and precision in flower picking.
Develop a deeper appreciation for the art of essential oil distillation.
Take-Home Treasures and Knowledge
Each participant takes home their very own bottle of extracted essential oil and hydrolat, a tangible keepsake from their immersive experience in the Provençal countryside.
This takeaway isn’t just a souvenir, but a symbol of their newfound knowledge and appreciation for the art of essential oil distillation.
They’ll have gained a deeper understanding of the cultivation of aromatic plants, traditional flower picking techniques, and the secrets of the distillation process.
With their extracted essential oil and hydrolat, participants can experiment with new recipes, skincare routines, and wellness practices.
They’ll cherish the memories of their hands-on experience and the knowledge they’ve acquired, long after the workshop is over.
Important Details to Keep in Mind
Twenty participants maximum are allowed in each workshop to ensure a personalized and interactive experience. This allows the instructors to provide individual attention and guidance throughout the session.
It’s essential to note that the workshop isn’t suitable for children under 10 years old. Participants should bring sunscreen and comfortable shoes to ensure a comfortable experience.
The distillery is located 15 minutes from Arles and 20 minutes from Nîmes by car, and bus line Lio n°130 is available.
Be prepared for a 2.5-hour workshop. Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. The workshop will be conducted in French and English.
Traditional picking of lavender flowers is part of the experience. You’ll get to take home your own extracted bottle of hydrolat and essential oil.
Review From Past Participants
Past participants have praised the workshop, with reviewers like GetYourGuide traveler and Brenda sharing their positive experiences.
They’ve given the workshop a 5-star rating, citing its interactive nature and good value for money.
Brenda, from France, appreciated the hands-on activity in the field and the nice souvenir they got to take home.
She also mentioned the thoughtful touches, such as the bottle of water and piece of cake provided during the tour.
The GetYourGuide traveler from Switzerland also verified their booking, showing that the workshop has been well-received by visitors from different countries.
Common questions
Are There Any Discounts Available for Groups or Students?
She wonders if group or student discounts are commonly offered for workshops. Unfortunately, the listed workshop details don’t mention any specific discounts, so it’s best to contact the organizer directly to inquire about potential promotions.
Can I Purchase Additional Essential Oils or Hydrolats on Site?
She can inquire about purchasing additional essential oils or hydrolats on site, but it’s unclear if they’ll be available. Workshop operators might offer them, so she should ask the guide or distillery staff during the tour.
Are the Distillation Equipment and Facilities Wheelchair Accessible?
She wonders if facilities are wheelchair accessible in general. Unfortunately, not all artisanal distilleries are equipped for wheelchair access. In this workshop, the distillery’s accessibility is not explicitly stated, so it’s best to inquire about accessibility before booking.
Can I Book a Private Workshop for a Special Occasion or Event?
She can book private workshops for special occasions or events, but it’s best to contact the organizer directly to discuss details and pricing. They might accommodate her request, depending on their availability and capabilities.
Are There Any Nearby Restaurants or Cafes for Lunch After the Tour?
She checks for nearby dining options, finding a few restaurants and cafes within a 20-minute drive. After the tour, she recommends heading to Arles or Nîmes for a wider range of lunch options.
Final Words
This Flowers Picking and Essential Oil Distillation Workshop offers a unique blend of education, hands-on experience, and connection with nature.
By the end of the 2.5-hour session, you will have gained insight into traditional distillation methods, picked and distilled their own flowers, and taken home a personalized souvenir.
With its engaging format and valuable takeaways, this workshop is an excellent choice for those seeking a distinctive and enriching experience.
