The most spectacular lavender fields in Spain
Guadalajara has a special hue in July, when its lavender fields in Brihuega turn a vibrant mauve, offering a spectacle that rivals the famed lavender fields of Provence, France. This is the most treasured gem of the province, located just an hour from Madrid.
Millions of purple flowers are harvested and distilled to extract their essence, which becomes part of the world’s most exclusive perfumes. In Brihuega, they have been carefully tending these plants for over 75 years, using their extensive experience and knowledge. With nearly 1,000 hectares of plantations, this Castilian-Manchegan town has become one of the world’s largest producers of lavender and a magical destination that attracts more and more visitors each year.
Lavender is an aromatic, perennial plant that blooms in early summer with purple, spike-shaped flowers. These flowers produce an essential oil that can be extracted in special distilleries and is used not only in cosmetics for perfumes and creams but also for medicinal purposes (it is soothing and antibacterial) and culinary uses (sweets, ice cream, etc.).
When to visit
The best time to visit the fields is in July to see the lavender of Brihuega in full bloom and enjoy its special fragrance. It is during this time that various events centered around this aromatic plant are held.
To confirm when the fields are in full bloom, you can contact the Brihuega Tourist Office.
Lavender Festival
The Lavender Festival is the most popular event of all. It started as a gathering of friends and families in the violet fields of Brihuega to celebrate the lavender harvest. Since 2015, it has evolved into a popular event featuring sunset concerts by top artists, who perform in the fields before an audience dressed in white, seated in wooden chairs along the flower-filled rows, following the natural contours of the fields.
After the concerts, visitors can enjoy a meal from the food trucks set up on-site. The purple fields, the sunset, and the best music combine to create an unforgettable sensory experience.
Visiting the Fields
For those who prefer to learn about the cultivation of the plant in-depth, there are guided tours, both private and official. The latter are organized by the Brihuega Town Hall through the Tourist Office.
The best time to visit is undoubtedly during the flowering season, in July, depending on the weather conditions of each year. The optimal times to appreciate their beauty are at dawn and dusk.
The lavender fields can also be visited independently, without a guide, as they are open fields with well-marked locations and access points. However, access is subject to basic rules that emphasize respect for the environment and private property, with signs marking the accessible areas to avoid invading marked zones and damaging the plants.