Valensole is a picture-postcard town surrounded by a sea of lavender fields. It’s set on the Plateau of Valensole and captures the charm of life in Provence. Shop for lavender-infused gifts in the historic town centre, visit working flower farms and enjoy the dreamy scenery.
Things to do in Valensole
Valensole is the capital of the world-famous Plateau of Valensole lavender-growing region. Locals have been farming lavender here for centuries. Visit in summer to see the lavender fields explode in a sea of purple. Learn about how lavender is grown, picked and distilled on guided tours of local farms.
Walk around the historic town centre and discover a maze of cobbled streets lined with honey-coloured stone houses. Many feature brightly painted window shutters, carved stone doorways and wrought-iron balconies decorated with colourful flower boxes.
Sip espresso at a café overlooking Place Thiers and stroll along Frederic Mistral, one of the prettiest streets in town. It’s lined with shops selling lavender perfumes, soaps and candles. Hand-tied lavender bouquets and pure essential oils make excellent gifts. You’ll also see lavender-infused honey, sweets and ice cream. The uphill walk to the Church of Saint-Blaise is worth the effort, and inside the stone façade are beautiful murals and intricate wood carvings.
Switch up lavender-themed activities with a day in Gorges du Verdon. Rent a kayak and paddle along the aquamarine river that snaked through the canyon. Dock on a secluded beach to enjoy a picnic and swim in the river. There are beautiful hiking trails and panoramic viewpoints around the gorge if you don’t want to get wet.
Getting around Valensole
Valensole is pedestrian-friendly and easy to get around on foot. Rental cars offer the freedom to visit Valensole and explore Alpes-de-Haute-Provence at your own pace. Manosque Greoux Bains Train Station is a 30-minute drive away. Valensole is a three-hour drive from Nice and 2.5 hours from Nice Côte d'Azur Airport.