The Plateau de Valensole: An Ocean of Lavender in the Heart of Provence
Located in the Alpes-de-Haute-Provence region, the Valensole plateau is one of the most beautiful landscapes in Provence. A veritable sea of lavender as far as the eye can see, it offers a unique spectacle, particularly in June and July, when the fields are in full bloom.
But Valensole isn’t just about enchanting panoramas: it’s also a mecca for lavender and lavandin, two plants that are emblematic of the region, just 36 minutes from your Aux Vallons*** open-air hotel.
1. The Plateau de Valensole: a breathtaking landscape 🌿
Covering an area of almost 800 km², the Valensole plateau is a veritable picture postcard of Provence. Its winding roads, lined with lavender, sunflowers and almond trees, attract thousands of visitors and photographers from all over the world every year.
📍 The best time to visit?
- June – mid-July: Maximum bloom, a cameo of intense purple.
- Mid-July – early August: Harvesting begins, still a photogenic period.
📷 Must-see photo spots
- The Valensole – Puimoisson road, surrounded by rolling fields.
- Le Champ du Riez, with its typical stone hut.
- The road to the Gorges du Verdon, where lavender contrasts with the cliffs.
2. Lavender and Lavandin: Treasures of Valensole 🌸
🌿 What’s the difference between lavender and lavandin?
- Fine lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) grows at high altitudes, has a delicate fragrance and is prized in aromatherapy and perfumery.
- Lavandin (Lavandula x intermedia) is a hybrid, grown in lowlands and more productive. It has a stronger scent, ideal for essential oils and household products.
🛢️ Handcrafted, traditional production
The region’s growers perpetuate ancestral know-how. The flowers are harvested in July and distilled on site to produce theessential oil with its many virtues.
🛍️ Where can I buy lavender?
🚜 Distilleries to visit
- La Maison du Lavandin in Sainte Croix du Verdon: For a complete immersion in the world of lavender.
- Distillerie Angelvin: Explanations of the culture and sale of artisanal products.
✨ Local products to bring back
- Essential oils
- Scented linen sachets
- Lavender honey
- Organic cosmetics
3. What to do around the Plateau de Valensole? 🌍
Valensole is an ideal starting point for exploring other emblematic sites in the region.
🏛️ Valensole, the Medieval Village
This perched village boasts pretty cobbled streets, an 11th-century church and an authentic Provencal market.
🏞️ Gorges du Verdon (30 min)
One of largest and most beautiful canyons in Europe is a must for hikers and water sports enthusiasts(kayaking, paddling, swimming).
🌊 Lac de Sainte-Croix (25 min)
A lake with turquoise waters, perfect for a relaxing day out or a pedal-boat ride through the gorges.
🏰 Moustiers-Sainte-Marie (40 min)
One of France’s most beautiful villages, famous for its earthenware and charming alleyways.
🌻 Sunflower and almond fields
In addition to lavender, Valensole is home to golden fields of sunflowers and almond orchards, which complete this idyllic Provencal setting.
4. Why visit the Plateau de Valensole?
✅ Spectacular landscapes in full bloom.
✅ Immerse yourself in lavender and lavandin cultivation.
✅ Passionate local producers sharing their know-how.
✅ An ideal starting point for discovering Provence and the Gorges du Verdon.
Whether you're a nature lover, a photography enthusiast or looking for a relaxing break, the Plateau de Valensole is a must-see destination. So, are you ready to escape to the heart of Provence? 💜🌿✨
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the Plateau de Valensole
