The Valensole plateau, in the Alpes-de-Haute-Provence, is the largest lavender and lavandin growing area in France. Our family has grown lavender here since 1932. Here is what you need to know to discover it, with family or friends.
Where is the Valensole plateau?
The plateau covers about 800 km², between the Durance river to the west, the Asse to the north, and the Verdon and Lake Sainte-Croix to the south. It lies between 500 and 800 metres above sea level, about 1 hour from Aix-en-Provence, 1 hour 15 from Marseille and 2 hours 30 from Nice.
Once covered with almond trees and truffle oaks, the plateau is now mainly grown with lavandin and cereals. It is nicknamed the “granary of Provence”.
When is the lavender in bloom?
Lavandin usually blooms from mid-June to mid-July, depending on the weather that year. Harvest starts in July: after mid-July, some fields are already cut. For the fields at their best, aim for late June and early July.
The Valensole lavender festival takes place every year on the third weekend of July. It celebrates the end of the harvest: producers’ market, parade and festivities in the village. Not to be missed if you are in the area.
- Early morning: soft light, cool air and few visitors.
- Late afternoon: sunsets over the fields are the most photographed moments.
- Avoid midday in July: it is very hot and the light is harsh.
Lavender or lavandin?
Most fields on the plateau are lavandin, mainly the grosso variety: taller, more generous and more fragrant. True lavender grows higher up, from 500 metres. To tell them apart: lavender or lavandin?
Good habits in the fields
The fields are a whole year of work for lavender growers. A few simple habits to enjoy them without damaging them:
- Stay at the edge of the field and do not walk between the rows.
- Do not pick the flowers: you will find bouquets and dried flowers at the growers’ shops.
- Watch out for the bees: closed shoes are best for children.
- Park without blocking farm tracks: tractors use them, especially during harvest.
Villages not to miss
- Valensole: the hilltop village that gives the plateau its name, with its narrow streets and views over the fields.
- Riez: a former Roman town, known for the columns of its ancient temple.
- Moustiers-Sainte-Marie: listed among the Most Beautiful Villages of France, famous for its faience and the star hanging between two cliffs.
- Allemagne-en-Provence: a small village overlooked by its castle.
The Verdon Gorge and Lake Sainte-Croix
South of the plateau begins the Verdon Gorge, often described as the largest canyon in Europe. Where it ends, Lake Sainte-Croix is perfect in summer for swimming, pedal boats or kayaking. A great family day out, easy to combine with a visit to the fields.
Manosque, a town full of history
About twenty minutes from Valensole, Manosque is well worth a visit during your stay. Its old town is best explored on foot, between the 14th-century Porte Saunerie, the Porte Soubeyran and the narrow streets of the historic centre. It is also the town of the writer Jean Giono, who was born and lived here: his house and the Centre Jean Giono tell the story of his work. Don’t miss the Fondation Carzou either, a former chapel entirely painted by the artist Jean Carzou.
Come and visit us
Our shop in Valensole is open from 1 March to 31 October, 7 days a week. During the flowering season, from 1 June to 31 July, you can also find us in our cabin in the middle of the fields, from 8 am to 10 pm, 7 days a week. Our shop in Manosque is open all year round, from 9 am to 7 pm, except Wednesdays and Sundays: you can always find us there, even out of season. We also have a shop in Forcalquier.
Can’t come? Bring the scent of the plateau home: our lavender and lavandin essential oils, our dried flowers and our soaps. To get to know us: our story.
