The lavender fields in Provence, France, are the most famous among the world’s lavender destinations. And for good reason – there are few places on Earth as stunning as Provence, where you’ll come across flower fields at almost every turn, whether it’s lavender, sunflowers, poppies, or any other flower, throughout several months of the year.
Within the Provence lavender fields, the town of Valensole stands out, boasting perhaps the highest concentration of fields. Exploring around Valensole provides the complete lavender experience – iconic photo spots, opportunities to purchase lavender products, lavender festival, excellent local infrastructure, and easily accessible fields.
Therefore, for true flower enthusiasts, we consider Provence, especially Valensole, a must-visit destination, as our own story attests – it’s not a place you visit just once.
In recent years, we’ve visited the Provence lavender fields three times: in 2019, 2022, and 2023. Additionally, we have plans for another trip in 2024.
Why?
Because it’s incredibly challenging to pinpoint the perfect time when most fields are in full bloom. We arrived too early once, too late another time, and a bit late again on the third occasion, but we still managed to capture some beautiful fields.
So, we hope 2024 will be our year, incorporating all our experiences to make it the best lavender-filled French visit. Drawing on these years of experience, we’ve written this article, sharing everything worth knowing about the Provence lavender fields, with a special focus on the plateau of Valensole.
What to know about Valensole
Where is Valensole located
Valensole is a small town in Southern France with a population of a few thousand. It is situated on the Valensole plateau, not far from the famous Verdon Gorge.
Valensole is a little over an hour’s drive from Marseille and about two and a half hours from Nice.
Why is Valensole famous
At first glance, Valensole appears as a modest, typical French town with few attractions. However, if you visit during the right time of the year, you will experience much more. In the summer, you can immerse yourself in the beauty of the lavender fields, which attract crowds of tourists every year.
Is Valensole worth a visit?
Absolutely yes. In our opinion, there’s no question about it – we’ve already been three times, and we’re going again for the fourth time.
The summer lavender fields, the scent of lavender, the buzzing bees, the surrounding mountains, and the countryside excursions are all wonderful memories that would have been a shame to miss.
How to find the best lavender fields around Valensole
Finding the lavender fields in Valensole may not seem easy at first, but in reality, you just need to follow the surrounding roads. Now we’ll show you where to find the best fields and how to get to them.
How to get to the lavender fields of Valensole
Getting to the town of Valensole is mostly possible by private vehicle, so you should be prepared for driving. Public transportation in the area is quite underdeveloped, and reaching the individual fields is nearly impossible without a car.
So, arrive either by rental or your own car. Valensole is easily accessible from the A51 highway, and you should approach it via the D6 road at the Manosque exit.
Even before reaching the town, you can see some lavender fields, like Terra Roma, but the majority will be in the surrounding areas.
You’ll find most of the fields along the D8 road, but there’s plenty of lavender to be found on the surrounding roads as well.
Map to the best known lavender fields near Valensole
We’ll show you on a map where you can expect to find the most lavender fields.
It’s important to note that the locations of the lavender fields change every few years, so no field is fixed to remain in the same spot year after year! However, the general areas remain consistent, so the fields don’t move far.
When is the lavender season in Provence
The lavender season is theoretically in mid-summer, from the second half of June to mid-August. However, based on our experiences, we’ve found that in June, the fields are rarely in full bloom, and in August, it’s difficult to find fields with blossoming lavender.
The absolute best time to visit the Valensole lavender fields
Based on some years of experience, we’ve found that the last days of June and the first two weeks of July seem to be the best choice. During this time, there’s the highest chance of finding the most blooming fields.
To find out about the current blooming of lavender fields
As the exact timing of lavender blooming can vary from year to year, you may wonder how to know exactly when to travel.
Previously, some locals set up webcams that allowed online tracking of lavender blooming. However, in recent years, these have become less available.
Therefore, we cannot recommend a webcam in Valensole for tracking blooming. We believe there would be great demand for it!
How much time is needed to visit the lavender fields in Valensole
It depends on what you’re looking for.
- If you just want a short excursion, even half a day could be enough: you can visit a few fields, and take some photos.
- If you’re aiming for social media or other platforms, you’ll need 1-2 days to find the best spots, lighting, etc.
- For a relaxing experience, we suggest a minimum of 2 days, yet considering the other attractions in the area, you could comfortably spend 3-5 days exploring the region.
Where to stay near Valensole
In Valensole, there aren’t many places to stay, so tourists often look for accommodation in nearby towns like Manosque or Gréoux-les-Bains.
So, we suggest considering these options:
- Villa Castellane: A modern four-star hotel located in Gréoux-les-Bains, near Valensole
- Lou Paradou: A three-star hotel with more affordable rates, also situated in Gréoux-les-Bains
The best things to do at lavender fields
Driving on the best lavender routes
Embark on a picturesque road trip along the best lavender routes: the D6, D8, D953, and D56 roads. Enjoy the beautiful views of blooming lavender fields while relaxing and appreciating the natural beauty of the French countryside.
Taking photos in the lavender fields
Capture the beauty of the lavender fields with stunning photographs. Enjoy the peaceful environment and the vibrant purple shades for memorable moments.
Lavender festival in Valensole
The Valensole Lavender Festival is one of France’s largest lavender festivals. Held in Valensole every year on the third Sunday of July, it celebrates the beginning of the lavender harvest. Immerse yourself in the pleasant atmosphere, meet local growers, stroll through the market stalls, and enjoy entertaining performances.
Visiting a lavender farm
Explore the process of lavender cultivation and processing by visiting a local farm. Some of the most renowned farms in Valensole include TERRAROMA Lavande Amandes and Lavandes Angelvin, both situated along the D6 road. Learn about lavender cultivation, wander through the fields, and shop for lavender products from local farmers.
Buy lavender souvenirs
Take a piece of Provence home with you by purchasing lavender-themed souvenirs. Choose from a wide range of items such as essential oils, pillows, soaps, and culinary products.
What else to know about lavender in Provence
Need a ticket to see the lavender fields?
No, you don’t need a ticket to enter anywhere. Visiting the lavender fields is free.
Main types of lavender in Valensole
In Provence, France, two main types of lavender are commonly grown: Lavandula angustifolia, also known as true lavender, and Lavandula x intermedia, commonly referred to as lavandin.
- Lavandula angustifolia (True or Fine Lavender): True lavender is one of the most popular varieties grown in Provence. It produces essential oil known for its calming and soothing properties. This oil is often used in aromatherapy for relaxation, stress relief, and promoting sleep. Additionally, the dried flowers of true lavender are used for decoration, crafting dried flower arrangements, or filling lavender sachets for a pleasant scent.
- Lavandula x intermedia (Lavandin): Lavandin is a hybrid lavender variety, a cross between true lavender (L. angustifolia) and spike lavender (L. latifolia). It grows faster and has a higher oil content compared to true lavender. Lavandin essential oil is commonly used in the fragrance industry for perfumes, soaps, and household cleaners. Its oil is invigorating and often used in massage blends or air fresheners.
In Provence, you can find both types of lavender, and even more. As Provence has become one of the world’s largest lavender-producing regions in recent decades, here you can truly learn and experience everything about lavender.
Some other things to keep in mind
Here are some things to keep in mind when visiting lavender fields in Provence:
- Avoid using drones near the fields: While it may be tempting to capture aerial shots of the purple fields, it’s not recommended due to the presence of wildlife. Drones can disturb bees that play a crucial role in pollination.
- Do not pick or trample the flowers: These flowers belong to private farms and are the livelihood of farmers. It’s important not to damage them by picking or stepping on them.
- Leave your dog at home: Most fields do not allow dogs, so it’s best to leave your pets elsewhere to avoid any inconvenience.
Where else to see lavender fields in France besides Valensole
In addition to Valensole, there are several other regions in France where you can see beautiful lavender fields:
- Plateau de Sault: Located in the Vaucluse department of Provence, Plateau de Sault is renowned for its vast expanses of lavender fields, offering stunning views and a serene atmosphere.
- Luberon Regional Natural Park: This picturesque area in Provence is dotted with charming villages and fields of lavender, making it a perfect destination for scenic drives and leisurely walks. A special attraction in the area is the Abbaye de Sénanque, a Cistercian monastery near Gordes, where you’ll also find a lovely lavender field next to the monastery in summer.
- Drome Provencale: In the Rhône-Alpes region, Drome Provencale boasts scenic landscapes and charming villages surrounded by lavender fields, providing a peaceful setting for relaxation and exploration.
- Ardèche: Known for its stunning natural beauty, Ardèche also features lavender fields in various parts of the department, offering visitors the chance to experience the fragrant charm of Provence in a unique setting.
These are just a few examples of places where you can find lavender fields in France, each offering its own unique charm and beauty.
Other day trip destinations from Valensole
If you’re interested in more than just lavender fields and would like to explore other places, we suggest some wonderful destinations in Southern France:
Verdon Gorge
This deep canyon is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, offering opportunities for hiking, water biking and canoeing. The turquoise waters of the Verdon River wind through the dramatic limestone cliffs, creating breathtaking scenery at every turn.
Lake Sainte-Croix
Created by the construction of a dam on the Verdon River, Lake Sainte-Croix is a popular destination for water sports such as swimming, kayaking, and paddleboarding. The crystal-clear waters are surrounded by sandy beaches, perfect for sunbathing and picnicking.
Sault
Situated at the heart of lavender country, Sault is known for its fields of fragrant purple blooms. Visit Sault in August to experience its Lavender Festival and explore the charming streets lined with shops selling lavender products.
Roussillon
This picturesque village is famous for its vibrant orange and red cliffs, which were once mined for ochre pigment. Take a walk along the Ochre Trail to admire the colorful rock formations and explore the charming streets of the village.
Sisteron
Dominated by its imposing citadel, Sisteron is a historic town located at the confluence of the Durance and Buëch rivers. Visit the citadel for panoramic views of the surrounding countryside, and wander through the medieval old town.
These destinations offer a diverse range of experiences, from outdoor adventures to cultural discoveries, making them perfect for day trips from Valensole.
Other best places to visit in the South of France
We also recommend a few more places if you want to expand your trip to other exciting destinations in Southern France:
Marseille
Marseille is France’s oldest city, known for its bustling Old Port, where you can enjoy fresh seafood and watch fishermen at work. Don’t miss the Basilica of Notre-Dame de la Garde, offering panoramic views of the city and the sea.
Calanques
The Calanques are stunning rocky coves with crystal-clear waters, perfect for swimming, hiking, or simply admiring the dramatic coastal scenery. The best Calanques are located along the coast near Marseille, including Calanque de Sugiton, Calanque d’En Vau, and Calanque de Port-Pin. These coves boast stunning turquoise waters and rugged limestone cliffs, offering breathtaking views and opportunities for swimming, hiking, and relaxation.
Avignon
Avignon is famous for its UNESCO-listed historic center, featuring the impressive Palais des Papes (Palace of the Popes) and the iconic Pont Saint-Bénézet bridge. Explore the narrow cobblestone streets and enjoy the lively atmosphere of this charming medieval town.
Nice
Nice is a picturesque city located on the French Riviera, renowned for its beautiful beaches, vibrant streets, and stunning architecture. Take a stroll along the Promenade des Anglais, visit the colorful Old Town, and explore world-class museums and galleries.
Monaco
Although Monaco is not part of France, it still has a place on our list. Monaco is a glamorous principality known for its luxury lifestyle and iconic landmarks. Visit the lavish Monte Carlo Casino, explore the historic Prince’s Palace, and enjoy the scenic views from the Jardin Exotique botanical garden.
These destinations offer a mix of cultural heritage, natural beauty, and recreational activities, making them ideal for exploring the diverse attractions of the South of France.
As we wrap up our guide to the lavender fields in Valensole, Provence, we hope it has provided valuable insights for your visit. From practical tips to must-see attractions, exploring the lavender-rich landscapes of Provence promises a memorable experience. Whether you’re a photography enthusiast, nature lover, or simply seeking a serene escape, Valensole offers a unique blend of beauty and tranquility. As you embark on your journey, may you discover the charm and allure of these lavender fields, creating cherished memories that will last a lifetime. Plan your trip thoughtfully, and enjoy the splendor of Provence’s lavender season to the fullest.
