When we think about Provence’s iconic landscapes, the Plateau de Valensole immediately comes to mind.

This wide plateau in the Alpes-de-Haute-Provence region, inside the Verdon Natural Regional Park, stretches over 800 square kilometers and is world-famous for rolling lavender fields and wheat plains, alongside quaint French villages like Saint-Martin-de-Brômes, Riez, and Esparron-de-Verdon.

Visiting here is a sensory adventure — a mix of colors, scents, countryside life, and relaxed roads perfect for driving, cycling, and photography.

Best Time to Visit & Opening Information

We plan our visit for late June to mid-July — this is peak lavender bloom season when fields turn vivid purple. Lavender usually starts flowering around June 15 and lasts through late July, but timing can vary year to year.

- Plateau de Valensole fields: Free access and open all day — there are no tickets or fixed opening hours, since it’s an open natural area.

Tourist Information Office (Valensole):

- June–August: Daily 9:30 am–12:30 pm & 2 pm–6 pm

- Apr–May / Sep–Oct: Tuesday–Saturday 9:30 am–12:30 pm & 2:30 pm–5:30 pm

- Jan–Mar / Nov–Dec: Weekdays 9:30 am–12:30 pm & Wed afternoon 2 pm–5 pm

- Address: 8 boulevard Frédéric Mistral, 04210 Valensole, France

Because this is a natural landscape, we can arrive anytime during daylight for free. If we want to visit lavender farms with guided tours, some may charge small fees (varies by farm), so it’s best to check in advance.

Transportation: How We Get There & Costs

By Car (Recommended):

- From Aix-en-Provence TGV Station, the plateau is about 1 hour’s drive (~70–80 km).

- Parking around fields and village centers is usually free or low cost (approx. $2–$5 per hour) at designated spots.

Public Transport:

- Take train to Aix-en-Provence or Manosque then local buses towards Valensole. Buses like 133 from Manosque to Valensole operate less frequently; a one-way fare is typically around $5–$10.

- Public transport schedules change seasonally, so checking current timetables before our trip is essential. Buses can be sparse.

Organized Tours:

- Day tours from Aix-en-Provence or Nice often combine Valensole with the Verdon Gorge or nearby villages. Prices range $150–$300 per person, depending on duration and inclusions.

Car rental in Provence averages around $130–$160 per day in summer; this gives us maximum flexibility.

Exploring Villages & Activities

Visiting surrounding villages adds cultural depth to our trip:

- Saint-Martin-de-Brômes: Picturesque medieval streets, local shops.

- Riez: Saturday morning local markets (8:00 am–1:00 pm) where we can try regional products like olive oil, lavender honey, and pastries.

- Esparron-de-Verdon: Near the Verdon Gorge — perfect for short hikes. Summer temperatures can be high, so starting early is recommended.

Lavender Routes & Walks:

- Free themed walks and treasure-hunt style maps for kids make exploring fun and educational.

Accommodation: Where We Stay & Prices

Valensole and nearby towns offer a range of stays:

- Economy Guesthouses / B&Bs: About $80–$120 per night in summer.

- Comfort / Boutique Stays: $120–$200+ per night, often with terraces or garden views.

- Airbnb Options: Family-friendly apartments or cottages around Valensole might be $90–$150 per night (this can change) depending on season and amenities.

Booking early (especially for peak bloom season) helps secure better rates and locations near the fields.

Dining Options & Typical Costs

Provence countryside dining is relaxed and delicious:

- Casual Cafés / Bistros: Main courses range $12–$25 per person.

- Local Markets: Fresh bread, cheese, lavender honey, olives — snacks and picnic supplies $5–$15.

- Picnic Spot: Many lavender routes have picnic areas — perfect for a mid-day break.

Trying lavender-infused honey or sweets is a highlight of this region.

Practical Tips for a Smooth Trip

- Best Hours: Early morning or late afternoon for photos and cooler temperatures.

- Parking: Rural fields often allow roadside parking — be respectful of farmers’ land.

- Tourist Office Maps: Pick up free lavender route maps for cycling or walking.

- Combine Nearby Attractions: Link our visit to Verdon Gorge or local markets to make the most of the region in one day.

Plan Our Lavender Adventure

The Plateau de Valensole in Alpes-de-Haute-Provence’s Verdon Natural Regional Park is one of Provence’s most iconic summer experiences. With free access to fields, easy driving routes, seasonal markets, charming villages, affordable lodging, and delicious local food, this is a dream destination for nature lovers and photographers alike.

By visiting during late June–mid-July, planning transport in advance, and enjoying local culture and food, we can make our lavender trip both enriching and practical. So, Lykkers, are we ready to explore the soaring purple fields and create unforgettable memories in Provence?