Valensole Plateau

This handkerchief of land between the Durance valley and the Verdon gorges is an essential stop for those who want to admire the spectacle of lavender in bloom.

In fact, from the end of June to mid-July, the Valensole plateau is transformed into a veritable corner of paradise, a riot of scents and colours that will give you moments of pure happiness.

The most beautiful lavender fields of Valensole

The real big attraction of the Plateau de Valensole are the marvellous and incredible lavender fields, which stretch as far as the eye can see: a true purple sea capable of enchanting even the most sceptical. This large plateau, wedged between the town of Manosque and the Lac de Sainte-Croix, before the Gorges du Verdon, encloses an endless series of cultivated fields, not only of lavender but also of sunflowers.

But which are the most beautiful fields? Where are the most Instagrammable, fascinating and photogenic views to be found? Indicatively, the most scenic spots on the plateau are to be found along the local roads that cross this lavender-growing area:

• the D56, at the junction with the D952, between Puimoisson and Valensole
• the D6: every moment is good to stop and encounter spectacular fields
• the D8: again, there are many panoramic viewpoints to be immortalised

How to photograph lavender fields

At first glance, every field you encounter will seem fabulous and unmissable. As the hours go by, you will realise that, in the long run, the photographs will all look a bit the same. How do you choose the best camps in which to capture unforgettable views? We have collected a few useful tips:

• Spot the lonely trees: in the spots we have pointed out to you, there are some fields with trees in the background. Be prepared for lots of tourists looking for the perfect shot, especially at sunset: trees and lavender are highly Instagrammable spots.
• Sunflowers and lavender: the proximity of purple lavender with a yellow sea of sunflowers is another postcard image of Provence. An incredible view, especially in the sunny hours of the day, when the contrast of colours is particularly sharp and striking.
• Abandoned cottages: stone cottages surrounded by lavender are another scene to photograph. You will find many of them, from those regularly used for harvesting, to the dilapidated ones now in disuse.
• Waves of lavender: the most popular fields are those where the terrain creates ups and downs. Here the lavender, especially at sunset, resembles a moving purple sea.

The village of Valensole

The village is often snubbed by tourist flows: a pity, since the village is really pretty with its old streets, 18th-century fountain, chapels and surrounding purple landscape.

After savouring the blue of the lavender, the village of Valensole invites you to discover its historical centre, its shops and restaurants. The medieval village was built on a hill and its streets spiral up to the Saint-Blaise church, welcoming you with their character and old-world charm.

The 11th-century Saint-Blaise church enchants with its superb Provençal Romanesque façade and Gothic choir. But the village’s surprises don’t end there: strolling through the centre, you will come across old 17th-century houses under the ramparts, along with fountains and pretty chapels. The lanes come alive in July, during the Lavender Festival.

The famous Lavender Festival takes place in July. This is one of the best times to plan your visit to Valensole and the Verdon. In addition, the santon fair takes place at the turn of June and July. The village is particularly lively during this period.

Also not to be missed are two magnificent gardens: le Clos de Villeneuve, hidden away in a Provençal country house, and the gardens of the Château du Grand, where an unforgettable visit awaits you, amidst flowery corners and an enchanting atmosphere.

You can complete your stay with a visit to a lavender distillery, such as Lavandes Angelvin, where aromatic lavender products are produced.