Chaque summer, the sunny hills of the Provençal Baronnies are filled with the sweet fragrance of linden in bloom. This region, between the Drôme and Hautes-Alpes, is the birthplace of the Carpentras linden, renowned for its exceptional quality. Here, linden harvesting is far more than a tradition: it is a true ritual passed down from generation to generation.
From mid-June to early July, locals and seasonal pickers climb trees or use poles to hand-pick the delicate flowers, often early in the morning to preserve their fragrance. The linden is then dried in the shade, in ventilated attics, on wooden racks. This crucial step ensures the preservation of its soothing properties.
Used in infusions, the linden of the Baronnies is prized for its calming and digestive virtues. It is also sold in herbal shops, at local markets, or exported in bulk. You can find it notably at Maison Laget ([https://www.maisonlaget.fr/fr/10-plantes](https://www.maisonlaget.fr/fr/10-plantes)), in the herb square of Buis-les-Baronnies.
Beyond its economic value, this harvest symbolizes a strong connection with nature and the rhythm of the seasons. In the Baronnies, the linden is not just a medicinal plant; it is also a local pride and a symbol of summer sweetness.
Linden Festival in Buis-les-Baronnies
The Linden Festival in Buis-les-Baronnies is a landmark event that celebrates every summer the flowering and harvesting of this precious plant, the true green gold of the region. Usually held in early July, at the heart of the harvest season, this festival brings together locals, producers, artisans, and visitors around traditions linked to linden.
The village transforms into a lively, fragrant market where herbalist stalls, local products (honey, jams, essential oils), drying demonstrations, and medicinal plant recognition workshops mingle. Children can participate in scent-based games, while the more curious attend talks on linden’s virtues and ancient know-how.
Highlight: the great guided walk among the lindens in the surrounding area, often accompanied by passionate producers. In the evening, concerts, shows, and outdoor meals enliven the village square with a convivial atmosphere.
More than just a rural gathering, the Linden Festival is a showcase of the natural and cultural heritage of the Provençal Baronnies. It embodies the close connection between humans and nature and honors a resource that has shaped the identity of the territory for over a century.
