Without a doubt, there is no more popular time to visit Provence than when the sun-soaked fields are painted with brushstrokes of purple and green emanating from the massive ocean of lavender that bloom all across the valley. Driving along the hillsides with the windows down, you can smell the fields of lavender even before you can see them with your eyes. And what a sight they are when you finally see them appear. Driving along a Lavender Route in Provence is a spectacular way to see these beautiful fields that stretch out as far as the eye can see. Each one framed perfectly under the watchful eye of the bright blue sun and the mountains far off in the distance.
Three different regions around Provence are known for their lavender-producing fields. These are the Valensole Plateau, Pays de Sault and the Luberon Valley. I always choose one area to make a day out to discover the magic of the magnificent lavender fields in Provence. Focusing on one specific region allows you to explore it to the fullest. Discover hidden corners and stop to relax and soak in the scenery. So today, let’s dive (or drive) into the fields around the Valensole Plateau.
The Valensole Lavender Route is the shortest of the different drives you can take around Provence to explore the Lavender fields. This route will take half a day, making all stops. So you can easily fit a visit to one of the neighbouring towns if you’d like to spend all day in the Valensole region or simply head back to home base to relax after an enjoyable morning.
The Valensole Plateau is one of the most beautiful regions of Provence. The area is located in the Alpes-de-Haute-Provence, between the valleys of the Durance River to the west, the Asse River to the north, the Gorges du Verdon and Lake Sainte-Croix to the south. The region comprises gently rolling hills, open meadows, and expansive fields. The landscape is littered with picturesque farmhouses, quaint villages, and charming Provençal architecture, creating a postcard-perfect setting. But from June to August, endless rows of lavender stretch across the countryside. Casting a truly awe-inspiring feast for the eyes and senses.
“Lavender” comes from the Latin “lavare,” meaning washing. Since ancient Antiquity, the Romans knew how powerful the lavender plant was. They used it for its medicinal properties and aromatic qualities, and especially for washing. But Lavender is not native to Provence. It was brought to the countryside by the Romans. The Romans knew that Provence’s dry, sunny climate and well-drained soils would be ideal for lavender growth. In the Middle Ages, lavender cultivation in Provence was primarily undertaken by monastic communities. Monks recognized the value of lavender for its therapeutic uses and began growing it in monastery gardens.
Over time, the cultivation of lavender expanded beyond monasteries. Farmers and locals started cultivating lavender on a larger scale. In the 19th century, the demand for lavender products, such as essential oil, perfume, and soaps, increased domestically and internationally. And lavender became one of the most important agricultural exports for the region. Distillation techniques improved, allowing for efficient processing of lavender crops. Today, lavender fields in Provence are an iconic symbol of the region, attracting tourists from all over the world.
Because the Valensole Plateau is about 500 m above sea level, the lavender in this region typically blooms from mid-June to mid-July. However, it’s important to note that exact blooming times can vary slightly depending on weather conditions throughout the year. In 2023 there was a larger amount of rainfall in the area, delaying the blooms. If you arrive too late or too early, you can always visit the fields in the Luberon or Sault. These areas bloom earlier and later respectively. The best place to get up-to-date information on the bloomings is from local tourism websites, lavender farms themselves, or tourist information centers. All of these are great resources for updates on the current state of the lavender fields.
Before entering lavender fields, remember to respect the farmers’ hard work and follow any posted guidelines. If there are any roped-off areas, avoid entering. They are there for a reason. But with so many different fields to visit, you will always find somewhere you can walk right into the fields to get those sprawling views. Remember to avoid stepping on the plants at all costs. This is how these farmers make a living, and you would hate to be responsible for damaging their crops.
Always be sure to walk only down the rows of lavender and not over them. And never pick the flowers. There are so many places around Provence to buy very inexpensive stalks of lavender; there is no need to pick them yourself in case you damage the plant by doing so. Plus, stalks of lavender must be dried to be preserved, so best to buy them after they have been left to dry.
During the summer, when the lavender blooms in Provence, it can be impossibly hot. So be sure to wear plenty of sunscreens and always bring a large, wide-brimmed hat to ensure you aren’t directly exposed to the sun. Especially in the fields, there is no shade to escape under, so you will always be in direct sunlight. As you walk around in the lavender fields, wear some sensible shoes. Sneakers or comfortable sandals are the best options for footwear.
Bring a nice, thick picnic blanket with you if you want to have a little picnic along the way. Most fields don’t have super soft ground, so having a good, thick base to sit on is a great idea to ensure you’re comfortable. Also, bring everything you’ll need for the picnic, from food and drinks to cutlery and napkins. And always make sure to leave your picnic spot exactly how you found it and bring all your garbage home with you. Be sure you bring plenty of water, more than you’ll think you need, for long days out in the sun.
To make the most of this photographic region of Provence, you’ll want to rent a car to get around. It’s advisable to book your rental car in advance, especially during peak travel seasons. When picking a rental car for your travels in Provence, I always air on the smaller side. Smaller cars are ideal for navigating narrow village streets. And some roads in Provence you might think are one lane only, but before you know it, you’ll discover they aren’t. And the smaller your car, the easier it is to scoot by. Just be sure to pack lightly to ensure you can fit all your luggage into the car.
Be sure to familiarize yourself with France’s road rules and driving customs. In France, you drive on the right side of the road. And remember that priority is given to vehicles coming from the right at intersections without traffic lights or signs. The roads in Provence have very strict speed limits. And there are hidden speed cameras even in small villages and dirty roads. And these speed cameras will fine you for going even 10km over the limit! These fines will be mailed to you back home, so there is so escaping them after your trip. So you should always keep an eye on these speed limits. Some cars come with a GPS system that will alert you to the change in speed limits. Or use Waze to help you get an alert when a speed camera is in effect.
Before stopping your car to get out and explore the fields, you’ll want to do so safely. You don’t want to stop your car in the middle of the road and block oncoming traffic. Trust me; there are many places to stop, so if you think you’re missing an opportunity, another will come any minute. Many lavender fields have come to expect tourists these days. And there will often be a patch of dirt where you can park your car, off to the side of the road, near the fields. Never ever park or drive your car right into the lavender plants field.
Lots of the lavender producers and shops have parking lots out front. You can explore the shops and then head back to see the fields beyond. When in villages, there are both free and paid parking options. Pay attention to parking signs to avoid any fines or penalties.
You have to expect to see a lot of people during the summer months. But arriving early in the morning, or right at sunset, will ensure you get as much of the field to yourself as possible. And remember, if you just turn your camera this way or that, it’s easy enough to get a shot without other people in it. Be kind to those around you; everyone is there for the same reason.
While renting a car and going at your own pace is always my recommendation, if you don’t want to drive yourself and instead just want to relax and be led by a guide, you have plenty of options. These guided tours stop off at producers and fields and combine your day trip with a visit to famous neighbouring villages like Moustiers-Sainte-Marie and Sainte Croix du Verdon.
When it comes to lavender, there are over 30 different species. But the two most popular you’ll find in Provence are Fine Lavender and Lavandine. While they both belong to the Lavandula genus, there are distinct differences in the characteristics, aroma, and cultivation of each plant.
Fine lavender (or Lavandula angustifolia) typically grows in compact, bushy formations, reaching around two-three feet. It showcases slender, linear leaves with a gray-green hue. Its slender and elongated flowers form tight spikes at the top of the stems. The blossoms display a lovely lavender-purple colour. This flower offers a delicate, sweet, and floral fragrance. Its scent is often soothing, calming, and reminiscent of the quintessential lavender aroma.
Lavandine (or Lavandula x intermedia) is a much larger plant, often growing up to three-four feet tall. Its flowers are shorter and fuller than Fine Lavender, forming dense and rounded flower spikes. The colour of the blossoms can range from lavender-purple to bluish-purple. Lavandine exhibits a more intense fragrance compared to Fine Lavender. Its scent carries a sharper, medicinal note with hints of camphor (woody scent), making it suitable for various aromatherapy applications. Lavandine also typically blooms a bit later than Fine Lavender.
Start your journey early in the morning. Tourists come out in full force by mid-afternoon, so starting early, you’ll hope to beat the big crowds. Before heading out into the Valensole, always ensure your car has a full tank of gas. Gas stations can be few and far between out in the country. It’s always good to get enough gas for the journey so you don’t end up needing to backtrack for a fuel station. We also always ensure to stop off at our local boulangerie before leaving. That way, we can stock up on some snacks for the road. Great for an impromptu picnic in the lavender fields.
To begin your day along the Valensole Lavender route, start your journey on the Route de Manosque or the D6 roadway. This peaceful road stretches across the valley, with views of the mountains in the distance. As you wind down the road, you’ll pass through orchards of almond trees and vibrant red poppies lining, acting as a floral carpet across the roadside. And then, all of a sudden, you make one turn and, like magic, you are suddenly immersed in the world of lavender. Fields of purple stretch as far as the eye can see. The fields on either side of your car are absolutely flanked with lavender. Bushy green leaves support surging stems of bright purple lavender blooms all the way to the horizon.
Our first stop of the day is the Terraroma farm. The family of Jaubert has owned the fields here for four generations. As a mainstay in the community, they take great pride in their products. They produce everything from Provencal almonds to honey, but their most popular items are their cosmetics made from their lavender.
Lavender products offer a range of benefits, as lavender is known for its soothing and therapeutic properties. From sleep aids to skincare and relaxation, there seems to be a myriad of ways in which lavender can help you. Terraroma does a really fantastic job of creating cosmetics from their fields that feel very luxurious. Many touristy shops only carry essential oils or soaps, but you can get face creams, shampoos, body lotion and even eau-de-toilette here. Many of their lavender products are blended with the almond oil they produce. Almond oil is one of the best formulations for skin moisturization, and mixed with that divine scent of lavender makes for the most luxurious-smelling hand cream.
There is no charge to park at these little roadside producer shops. While you don’t need to go inside, I highly recommend it as the prices direct from the producers are some of the cheapest you’ll find in Provence. After you finish touring the shop, take a walk down their vast fields of lavender. The other great bonus of visiting Terraroma is that they also grow sunflowers in addition to lavender. And these fields also make for amazing photos! The sight of those brilliant yellow flowers next to the dense array of purple blooms is such beautiful contrast.
Just two minutes down the road is another very popular lavender producer, Angelvin Lavandine. Walking into the shop here, you can meet with the farmers, who will explain their various harvesting and distillation methods. It’s a great opportunity to learn how they manage to get the essence of the lavender out of the plant and into these various products.
Angelvin Lavandine sells traditionally “Provencal” themed gift baskets. These make for wonderful presents to bring home and give to your loved ones. And while you’re there, be sure to try some of their lavender ice creams. While floral-flavoured ice cream might not be for everyone, it’s definitely worth trying. I find it it’s truly delicious!
At the back of the shop, you can see their giant harvesting equipment. And outside the barn are huge bails of lavender plants, harvested and ready to be processed. The fields outside the shop are nice and wide, with large healthy plants where you can stop and take some photos.
As you continue along the D6, you’ll pass several more open lavender fields. These fields are just on the side of the road without an accompanying souvenir shop. If you’re going to stop, be sure you are pulling over onto a part of the field that isn’t occupied by any plants. You’ll easily see the areas meant for vehicles. Do not stop in the middle of the road.
As you continue along, you will enter the village of Valensole. Just at the entry to the little village is the old Château du Grand Jardin. The castle dates back to the 17th century. The Fresse de Monval family acquired “Le Grand Jardin,” and built a country house here around 1680. In the late 19th century, the de Fresse de Monval and d’Auvergne families expanded the castle with additional floors, a tower, outbuildings, and a neo-Gothic chapel.
After the WWII, the house was auctioned off and fell into disrepair. But thankfully, it was purchased in 2001, and restored to its former glory. It opened up to the public as a bed and breakfast. But even if you’re not staying at the hotel, they also welcome day trippers into their antique-styled tea room. Here you can sample a French cup of tea and pastry or simply indulge in their homemade lavender ice cream. Sitting out on the terrace enjoying a refreshing drink is one of the best ways to soak in the scenery. Honestly, happening upon these amazing historical home turned into public properties is one of the reasons I love Provence so much. Where else can you just casually have tea inside a 16th-century castle?!
While passing through the village of Valensole, it would be a shame not to explore the town itself. Leave your car where you parked at the hotel or head towards the parking lot marked on the map. Once you’ve parked the car, walk towards the town square. While Vanlensole might not be a huge city that draws many tourists, I love its quaintness. The square is centred around the old fountain, which dates back to 1734. The houses surrounding the square each bear those iconic colourful window shutters that feel so perfectly Provencal. Be sure to walk along Rue Dr. Maurice Chaupin, as these houses are some of the most charming in the region.
In the town square, you’ll find a shop front selling Miel Aux Fleurs De Lavande or Lavender Honey. This shop has been making honey since 1948, and its quality is known all over the region. And made specifically from the lavender grown in the Valensole region. If you’ve never tried lavender honey before, you absolutely must buy some while you’re here. Lavender honey tastes almost just like regular honey but with a touch of floral notes. Lavender honey makes for one of the best souvenirs from Provence. And don’t worry about buying too much. Honey almost never spoils so you’ll be able to enjoy it for months to come.
If you want to stop for lunch in town, head to the Brasserie du Plateau, where they have a lovely outdoor patio overlooking the valley. The prices are very reasonable, and it serves typical French food from local producers.
As we head out of town, we change from the D6 onto the D8 roadway or the Route de Riez. Riez is one of the oldest towns in Provence, founded in the first century. If you are looking for places to visit after the Lavender Route, visiting Riez is worth a quick stop to see the four monolithic Roman granite columns sculpted during the 1st century A.D.
The fields along the Route de Riez are perhaps even more densely populated than the ones on the D6. While I’ve marked a few spots on the map that I know have small areas to pull over, there are so many more you’ll discover along the way! One of my favourite parts of the drive along the D8 is to study the fields of lavender placed right under the shadow of the Provence Alples.
As you come to the end of the D8 road, near where it exits onto D953, make a stop at the field marked, “Lavender Hut,” on the map. This spot is one of the most photographed fields in the area. In the center, this huge lavender field has an old brick hut surrounded by a wash of purple blooms. It is such a spectacular sight it barely feels real!
This brings us to the end of the tour around the lavender fields of Valensole. If you’re looking to explore the area further, consider visiting Moustiers-Sainte-Marie. Moustiers-Sainte-Marie is situated at the foothills of the Verdon Gorge and is renowned for its scenic beauty, historic charm, and traditional artisanal pottery.
As you go home at the end of the day, see if you spot a lavender field as the sun sets across the valley. The mesmerizing panorama of the sunset casting a golden glow over the landscape is truly a once-in-a-lifetime sight to see! And the perfect way to end your day along the Lavender Route!
Touring the Valensole Lavender Route in Provence is an unforgettable experience that will captivate your senses. Allow yourself to be swept away by the magic of this idyllic region, and you’ll return home with a heart full of cherished memories. And lots of divine smelling souvenirs!
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