Valensole, greatest lavender fields in France
The Valensole plateau is one of the most beautiful natural regions in France. At an average altitude of 500 m, it lies between the valleys of the Durance to the west, the Asse to the north and the Verdon gorges to the south. The sun shines more than three hundred days a year on its vast expanses of lavender as far as the eye can see.
When you walk across the Valensole plateau in the right season, the endless fields are adorned in shades of violet, lavender and mauve. It’s a veritable ballet of colours that delights the senses.
When should you visit the Valensole plateau and lavender fields?
The flowering of the magnificent lavender plant depends on many factors. Climate, altitude, latitude, weather and the different development of each species all influence the right time to go and admire them.
But to put it simply, lavender’s life begins at the start of May, when the stems start to come up.
Then, when the weather warms up again, around June, the flower spikes appear. The fields then begin to take on their dark blue colour. As the heat continues to increase, the flowers will swell and the lavender will produce more essential oil to protect itself. This is known as the ripening phase, which lasts three to four weeks and is the one we’re interested in.
As far as the Valensole plateau is concerned, the window from 20 June to 31 July is the best time to observe the lavender and breathe in its fragrance. But don’t forget, the higher you climb on your visit to the Gorges du Verdon, the later you’ll be able to enjoy the famous gradation of colours that floods the plateau. In the Haut Verdon, for example, you can admire it as late as August!
What are the best outdoor activities on the Valensole plateau?
Come and enjoy unforgettable experiences on the Valensole plateau! Surrounded by lavender fields and mountains, it’s the perfect place for outdoor sporting activities. Whether you’re into hiking, mountain biking, horse riding, golf or paragliding, there’s something for everyone.
Imagine yourself wandering along the hiking trails, discovering the most beautiful panoramas, or flying over the countryside under the calm wing of a paraglider. So don’t wait any longer, and book your sporting activity on the Valensole plateau. Come and experience unforgettable moments in the heart of the Verdon!
Why is the Valensole plateau so famous?
Today, the Valensole plateau is mainly famous for its lavender and truffle crops. But for a long time it was one of the spearheads of almond production in France. That’s why it’s still one of the most beautiful places in the world to see almond trees in flower.
From March onwards, the plateau is dyed pink, before turning lavender blue as June arrives. The blue intensifies throughout the summer until the lavender reaches full maturity.
Lavender and the black diamond
The Valensole plateau is famous for its lavender, which has been attracting tourists from all over the world for decades. Lavender fields have been cultivated for over 2,000 years. Lavender is used in a wide range of skincare and well-being products, as well as in the perfume and food industries.
Then there’s the black diamond that makes the region’s tables and markets shine. Truffles can be found everywhere on the Valensole plateau, which boasts an abundance of beautiful downy oak forests. Montagnac-Montpezat is the nerve centre of truffle production. The Maison de la Truffe (Truffle Centre) in Aups will give you an insight into truffle cultivation on the plateau, and we highly recommend a visit between two activities.
Almonds and vines, the traditional crops of Provence
The Plateau de Valensole is also famous for its almond groves. You can taste the delicious almonds from the Valensole plateau, which are among the best in France. What’s more, France imports forty times more almonds than it produces, so don’t hesitate to taste and buy ‘local’!
Vines are also still grown on the Valensole plateau. The vines planted in this semi-alpine climate produce top-quality wines. For red wines, the Coteaux du Verdon PGI offers interesting blends of Syrah, Mourvèdre, Carignan, Cinsault and Grenache. They are all considered to be traditional grape varieties of Provence. You can taste them in the cellars, of course, in certain restaurants and hotels.
What's not to miss on the Valensole plateau?
Finally, here’s a list of things not to miss on any account during your visit to the Valensole plateau.
- Explore the area around Lake Sainte-Croix, on foot or on the water;
- Discover the gastronomy and bring back local products;
- Enjoy a swim in Lac de Castillon;
- Enjoy a lavender ice cream;
- Take your first bungee jump from the highest bridge in Europe. You can book right here!
- Visit the village of Moustiers-Sainte-Marie and the Musée de la Faïence;
- Take some great photos around the Angelvin Lavandes and in the village of Valensole ;
- And of course, admire the lavender!
What day is the Valensole market?
The Valensole market is held every Saturday, from 8am to 1pm. It runs from 7 January to 30 December, virtually all year round. You’ll be hard pressed to miss it, with all its beautiful stalls, local produce and gastronomic delights.
If you have the opportunity to stay near the Valensole plateau, you’ll be in the best position to enjoy the Verdon and discover the region.
