Spring often begins subtly in Provence. Not with large fields of flowers or bustling markets, but with small signs in nature. One of these is the flowering of wild thyme.

At Domaine des Campeaux, this aromatic plant grows everywhere on the estate. On the hills, between the stones, and along the paths where the sun warms the earth early in the year.

Spread across approximately five hectares of nature, wild Provençal thyme grows here, a plant that has been part of the landscape and cuisine of southern France for centuries.

The first flowers of spring

The first small flowers appear in March.

It is a brief moment in the year when thyme is at its most refined. The flowers are small but intensely aromatic. That is precisely why they are harvested with care.

Not en masse, but with attention to the plant and the rhythm of nature.

Harvesting takes place on sunny days, when the scent of thyme is at its strongest. Then, that typical Provençal fragrance, reminiscent of the Mediterranean garrigue, spreads throughout the estate.

From wild thyme to liqueur

In Provence, we use these flowers to make thyme liqueur, which has become something of a tradition.

The flowers steep in mild alcohol for several weeks. During this time, they slowly release their aroma: spicy, warm, and slightly floral.

The mixture is then carefully filtered and lightly sweetened to create a pure and refined drink that fully preserves the character of wild thyme.

A taste of Provence

During the summer, this drink is a staple aperitif in Provence: la farigoule.

Some drink it chilled with a few ice cubes, others prefer it neat, so that all the aromas of the Provençal herbs come to the fore.

It is a simple drink, but at the same time a small reflection of the region.

Discover Provence from Domaine des Campeaux

At Domaine des Campeaux, you will stay in the heart of Provençal nature, where herbs such as thyme, lavender, and rosemary are a natural part of the landscape.