Lavender at the Verdon: When to See Valensole Fields and Where to Find Them

Lavender at the Verdon: A Spectacle Not to Miss

Every year, from mid-June to mid-August, the Valensole plateau is covered with a violet ocean of lavender that stretches as far as the eye can see. Located just 30 minutes from the Gorges du Verdon, this plateau is one of Provence's largest lavender fields and a must-visit for anyone traveling to the region.

The intoxicating fragrance, the striking colors, and the Provençal light make it an unforgettable experience — whether you're an amateur photographer or simply a nature lover.

When Does Lavender Bloom Near the Verdon?

Blooming depends on the year's weather, but here are the usual benchmarks:

• Mid-June: the first fields begin to turn blue. Flower spikes aren't fully open yet, but the color is already visible. Few tourists.
• Early July: peak bloom. This is THE magical period: fields are an intense violet, fragrance is at its maximum. Ideal for photos.
• Mid-July: peak blooming, fields are in full display. Harvesting begins on some parcels.
• Late July – early August: harvest is in full swing. Some fields are already cut, others still in bloom. Mixed but sometimes very beautiful with bundles of lavender drying in the sun.
• Mid-August: most fields are harvested. The season is over.

In short: aim for June 20 to July 15 to be certain of seeing the fields in full splendor.

Where to See Lavender: The Valensole Plateau

The Valensole plateau is the largest and most accessible lavender field near the Verdon. It stretches across more than 12,000 hectares between the villages of Valensole, Puimoisson, and Riez.

How to Get There from Gorges du Verdon

• From Aiguines: direction Moustiers-Sainte-Marie, then D952 toward Riez and Valensole. Allow 30-40 minutes.
• From Pont de Galetas: D957 to Moustiers, then D6 toward Riez. About 35 minutes.

The road between Moustiers and Valensole is itself lined with lavender fields — stop at the small parking areas along the D6.

Lavender Itinerary: The Half-Day Loop

Here's an optimized itinerary to combine lavender and Verdon in one morning:

• Depart Aiguines (7am) — toward Moustiers-Sainte-Marie via D957
• Moustiers (7:30am) — coffee in the village square, quick visit (pottery, waterfalls)
• D6 Road to Riez (8am) — first lavender fields, photo stops
• Valensole Plateau (8:30-10am) — sea of lavender, photos, strolls between the rows
• Riez (10:30am) — small Provençal market, purchase honey and lavender essential oil
• Return to the lake (11:30am) — swim at Lake Sainte-Croix for lunch

This circuit covers about 80 km and 2 hours of driving (excluding stops). Combine it with a multi-day itinerary to fully enjoy the region.

Lavender and Tourism: Rules to Respect

Lavender fields are private agricultural operations. A few commonsense rules:

• Do not enter fields without permission. Stay on borders and paths. Trampling the rows damages the farmer's harvest.
• Do not pick lavender — it's meant for distillation. Buy bunches from local producers instead.
• Watch out for bees — fields are intensive foraging zones. No sudden movements, no sweet fragrance.
• Park in designated areas, not on roadside edges of narrow roads.

Combining Lavender with Verdon Activities

The lavender season (late June – mid-July) coincides with the start of high season at the Verdon. Here's how to organize a full day:

• Morning: stroll on Valensole plateau (photos, producers)
• Lunch: terrace in Moustiers-Sainte-Marie
• Afternoon: swim at Lake Sainte-Croix or pedal boat at the gorges
• Evening: sunset over the lake from the villa terrace

For families, lavender pairs perfectly with Verdon activities for families. Children love running along the rows (on the paths!) and watching bees.

Frequently Asked Questions

When can I see lavender near Gorges du Verdon?

Blooming occurs from mid-June to mid-July on the Valensole plateau, 30 minutes from the gorges. Peak bloom is usually around July 1st.

Is the Valensole plateau free?

Yes, access to the plateau and roads is free. Fields are private but visible from roads. Some producers open their farms to visitors.

Can I see lavender in August?

Unlikely: harvest occurs in late July. Early August, a few late fields remain but most are cut. To be sure, come before July 15.

How far are the lavender fields from Gorges du Verdon?

The Valensole plateau is about 30-40 minutes by car from Aiguines or Pont de Galetas. Access is via Moustiers-Sainte-Marie and the D6.

Are there other lavender fields besides Valensole?

Yes, lavender also grows around Puimoisson, Riez, and on the road to Manosque. But Valensole remains by far the most striking due to the size of the parcels and the scope of the panorama.