Fire Destroys an Olive Grove in Provence

As in many parts of the world, hot summer months in Provence bring an increased risk of forest fires.

Fire in the Olives

If we ever needed a reminder that all it takes is a spark, our friends at Les Pastras lost 180 olive trees to a grass fire on July 8th. Dry conditions, a bit of wind, and a spark from a weed trimmer was all that it took to ignite a small grass fire. Local firefighters responded quickly, controlling the blaze and limiting the damage.

Luckily for the Pepins, the fire did not impact the main house and other buildings. The balance of the olive grove, the grapevines, beehives, fruit trees and truffle oaks were all spared as well. However, the loss of 180 highly productive olive trees is impactful to Les Pastras production. The event was also sad as Johann Pepin planted each tree with the help of his wife Lisa and his now-deceased grandfather, from whom he inherited the property. Read the Les Pastras newsletter announcement here.

How can you help?

Les Pastras is an organic farm near Cadenet in the Luberon. Purchase some of the delicious culinary products. The list is below, and please email pepin@lespastras.com to place an order.

Book a truffle hunt or order some truffle products. Read Les Pastras Gourmet Pursuits Unearthing Truffles for more background on the delightful owners.

Inquire about the annual old school grape stomps at Les Pastras.

Ask about the Les Pastras adopt a tree program.

Image Credits: All photos were provided by and published with the permission of Les Pastras

Carolyne Kauser-Abbott

With her camera and laptop close at hand, Carolyne has traded in her business suits for the world of freelance writing and blogging. Her first airplane ride at six months of age was her introduction to the exciting world of travel.

While in Provence, Carolyne can be found hiking with friends, riding the hills around the Alpilles or tackling Mont Ventoux. Her attachment to the region resonates in Perfectly Provence this digital magazine that she launched in 2014. This website is an opportunity to explore the best of the Mediterranean lifestyle (food & wine, places to stay, expat stories, books on the region, travel tips, real estate tips and more), through our contributors' articles.

Carolyne writes a food and travel blog Ginger and Nutmeg. Carolyne’s freelance articles can be found in Global Living Magazine, Avenue Magazine and City Palate (Published Travel Articles).