Valensole, Provence, France
Valensole is a beautiful and tranquil town nestled on a vast plateau, famous for its breathtaking landscapes of seemingly endless lavender fields and the cultivation of almond trees. It is located near the spectacular Verdon Canyon, about 30 km west of the picturesque village of Moustiers-Sainte-Marie. The town serves as the heart of this iconic Provençal region, drawing visitors from around the world who come to witness the vibrant purple fields in bloom.
Parking in Valensole
In the village you can conveniently park your car in several parking lots: on the Place Valette in the western part of the town (1; GPS: 43.837892, 5.981992); a little above, on the Cours Saint-Louis street (2; GPS: 43.838539, 5.983154); as well as on a large parking lot in the eastern part of the town at Avenue Segond (3; GPS: 43.838539, 5.983154).
The availability of multiple parking spots makes exploring the village easy, even during the busy summer season. The parking lots are strategically placed to give you quick access to different parts of the town. The large lot on Avenue Segond is a great starting point for those who want to begin their tour by exploring the town's charming streets, while the others are better for those who want to start from a specific point.
Touring Valensole
No matter where in the town you park, you should at least visit the town's center - Place des Héros de la Résistance (A; GPS: 43.837161, 5.985413) with an interesting fountain, and also walk one of the longest streets in the old town - Rue Grande. You should also visit the church of Saint-Blaise from twelfth century, situated on Place du Marché (B; GPS: 43.837128, 5.982941). If you are interested in lavender you can also visit numerous boutiques offering products related to this interesting plant, as well as sites located near Valensole, in which the distillation of lavender takes place, for example Terraroma Jaubert (C; GPS: 43.818609, 5.933397) or Lavandes Angelvin (D; GPS: 43.823730, 5.938498).
The church of Saint-Blaise is a simple yet elegant Romanesque building that has stood for centuries as the spiritual heart of the village. Its historic square, Place du Marché, hosts a weekly market where local producers sell their goods. If you are interested in lavender, you can also visit numerous boutiques offering a wide range of products related to this iconic plant, such as essential oils, soaps, honey, and sachets. For a deeper understanding of the process, you can visit sites near Valensole where lavender distillation takes place, for example Terraroma Jaubert (C; GPS: 43.818609, 5.933397) or Lavandes Angelvin (D; GPS: 43.823730, 5.938498).
The lavender distilleries mentioned offer a fascinating look at how the fragrant plant is transformed into essential oil. Terraroma Jaubert is known for its beautiful fields and shop, while Lavandes Angelvin provides a great opportunity to learn about the different varieties of lavender and their uses. A visit to these farms is a great way to understand the agricultural heritage of the plateau and to purchase authentic, high-quality products directly from the producers.
Local Products and Gastronomy
Valensole is a paradise for lovers of local products, thanks to its rich agricultural heritage. The region is not only famous for its lavender but also for its almond trees, honey, and olive oil. Visitors should take the opportunity to taste the diverse flavors of the plateau, which are a direct result of its sun-drenched climate.
Lavender honey is a particular specialty, known for its light color and delicate floral aroma. You will find it in local shops and at the Valensole market, which is held on Wednesday mornings and is a great place to discover local products. Make sure to sample nougat, a classic Provençal confection made with almonds and honey. The town also has a few cafes and restaurants where you can enjoy simple, authentic Provençal dishes, often featuring local ingredients.
Exploring the charming streets and squares can be a perfect prelude to a leisurely lunch. The town's eateries offer a taste of authentic regional cuisine, providing a perfect opportunity to savor the local atmosphere. A scoop of lavender-flavored ice cream is a must-try for a unique and refreshing treat while strolling through the village on a warm day.
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