Starting in July, next to the Oratory of San Guido, the small religious building made famous by Giosuè Carducci’s poem “Davanti San Guido”, the blooming lavender offers a stunning visual experience. A violet field opens at the entrance to the Viale dei Cipressi, giving visitors a natural backdrop that combines the charm of the Tuscan landscape with the intense fragrance of this aromatic plant.
The Oratory of San Guido is located at the beginning of the famous cypress-lined avenue that leads to Bolgheri. It was built in the 18th century at the request of the Della Gherardesca family and is now one of the most recognizable landmarks in the area. With its simple architecture, framed by towering cypress trees and now also by blooming lavender, it serves as a visual and cultural landmark for those visiting the region. It is precisely in front of this building that Carducci sets the famous opening lines of his poem:
“I cipressi che a Bólgheri alti e schietti / van da San Guido in duplice filar…”
Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia), a quintessential Mediterranean plant, is valued not only for its fragrance and medicinal properties, but also for the important role it plays in supporting biodiversity. Its long blooming period and abundant nectar make it essential for bees and other pollinating insects.
In recent years, this corner of Bolgheri has become a must-see stop for visitors to the area. Many pause along the road to take a photo in front of the oratory surrounded by flowers, a striking contrast of colors that has spread widely online. The initiative reflects a growing trend in Tuscany, where more and more farms are choosing to cultivate lavender not only for its scenic value but also for the production of essential oils and natural cosmetics.
A visual and fragrant pause that enriches the travel experience among the iconic rows of Bolgheri.
