The Perfume and Candles of Provence

Does that sound romantic?

Actually, Ginger was away in Canada and Nutmeg was certain that he had zero interest in visiting the Provence perfume distillery le Musée des Arômes or the candle maker at the Ciergerie de l’abbaye des Prémontrés.

The aroma museum is located in the Provencal town of Gravason, in the old cellars (caves) of l’Abbaye de Saint Michel de Frigolet. The distillery at le Musée des Arômes has been in operation for twenty years and they pride themselves on quality, organic products. The old cellars have been converted and enclose a boutique, day spa, museum and even a small conference facility.

The permanent exhibition provides an overview of the distilling process, a collection of perfume bottles, distillery equipment, brochures and other related paraphernalia. There is a short film describing the process of extracting the precious, essential oil and scented water from the plants.  A process that is much the same as it was in ancient times, where cultivated flowers and herbs are either used fresh or dried, then water vapour steams the plant to create the essential oil and fragrant water.

Continue reading here for more information on why you might want to add these to your list of places to visit in Provence. Traditional Provencal plants are used at le Musée des Arômes to make perfumes and spa products (there is a day spa located onsite). You can visit the garden, which includes an explanation of the beneficial properties of each plant. Also, there is a small museum that is full of equipment and artifacts that were used at one time to make perfume.

Practical Information for Visitors:

Musée des Arômes et du Parfum (website)
Ancien Chemin d’Arles
13690 Graveson-en-Provence
Telephone: +33 (0)4 90 95 81 72
Open daily – check the website for seasonal changes in hours.

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).