Valensole and the Lavender
The lavender is probably the most known element of Provence: every year, lavender fields attract thousands of tourists from all over the world, for their colours, their fragrance and the amazing landscapes.
The natural region called Plateau de Valensole is composed by small villages, local producers’ estates, small mountains and, above all, an infinite number of purple, yellow and green fields. This “lavender countryside” offers a unique landscape: there, you will feel free, relaxed and nature will help you to forget all the stress and the problems.
Lavender usually blossoms June to August and can be used to create any kind of product: honey, essential oils, soaps, food and many others. In the area, you can also find many festivals and funfairs, along the way which links all the small villages through the lavender fields, such as Forcalquier, Castellane and Aiguines (in the latter, you can visit a beautiful chateau on the top of a hill).
By foot, by bike or by car, there are several ways to enjoy the area and experience all the different varieties of lavender: the rare and ancient lavender “des hauteurs”, that grows on the hills; the mixed “mosaïque” lavender, which grows next to vineyards and other plants; the well-known “site” lavender, which grown with cereals and plays a crucial role in rural landscapes.
Moving from this region towards Avignon, you will also have the chance to visit the famous Luberon villages: typical rural houses, ancient streets and seasonal markets will let you taste the real provençal flavour!
