With its prestige enhanced by revived economic activity in an attractive setting, the stately home of the Simiane-Agoult family has begun a new life built around the scent of lavender, the “spirit of Haute Provence” in the words of one of the region’s great writers, Jean Giono.

Bought by the municipality a few years ago, it is now undergoing an ambitious restoration programme under the auspices of the Office for Historic Monuments. The capital outlay is huge for such a tiny commune, but it is vital for the building’s future. In addition to the famous Rotonde, four rooms are already open to the public in the château, and two of them are devoted to perfumed oils, aromatherapy and medicinal plants.