Weekend in Provence, lavender fields: Valensole and great deals

Weekend in Provence: heading to Valensole, the lavender fields and our best tips starting from the Grasse region.

Fancy a short, memorable getaway in the South of France? Here's a clear guide to planning a weekend exploring the lavender fields of the Valensole plateau, complete with a 2-day itinerary, the best times to see the lavender in bloom, photography tips, and a charming place to stay between Grasse and the Verdon Gorge. You'll leave with a concrete plan, realistic travel times, and tried-and-tested tips for avoiding the crowds.

In short

• Best time for lavender: generally mid-June to mid-July (peak early July depending on weather).

• 2-day itinerary: Valensole + Moustiers-Sainte-Marie + Sainte-Croix lake, then Grasse and hilltop villages.

• Ideal base: a charming hotel in a quiet location, 15 minutes from Grasse, between the French Riviera and the Verdon.

• Photo tips: sunrise/sunset, respect the plots, avoid midday.

• Good tips: book accommodation early, plan a picnic, visit local markets and scenic routes.

Your base camp between sea, perfumes and lavender

The Relais Impérial, a peaceful address

Nestled in Saint-Vallier-de-Thiey on the Route Napoléon, Le Relais Impérial is a charming stopover, ideal for exploring the French Riviera, Grasse, and the Verdon region. The hotel offers 28 cozy rooms and terraces with views of the Grasse hills. For dining, a bistro-style restaurant and a wood-fired pizzeria await you, perfect for recharging after your excursions.

• Discover the categories and views from our rooms

• Useful amenities (parking, food, opening hours) can be found on the services page.

• Ready to book your dates? Access the booking platform

Easy access to Valensole and the Verdon

From Saint-Vallier-de-Thiey, allow approximately 2 hours to reach the Valensole plateau by car (this may vary depending on traffic and route). Beautiful options include Castellane (with views of the Verdon Gorge) or the A51 motorway. This is an ideal compromise: a peaceful night, an early start towards the lavender fields, then a return journey via the gorges or the Sainte-Croix lake for a change of scenery.

Valensole lavender fields: when and how to see them

Flowering calendar

Flowering depends on the year's temperatures and rainfall. Generally: - Start of flowering: mid-June - Peak: late June to early July - Harvesting: often from mid-July (varies by plot)

To plan your trip, keep an eye on the local weather forecast and tourist office updates. The Verdon Regional Natural Park regularly publishes useful information on best practices and exploring the area. Also, check the weather forecast on Météo-France the day before your departure.

Respect for the fields and safety

The fields are private property: stay on the verges, public roads and designated areas. Do not trample the plants, do not pick anything, and park only where permitted.

Good reflex: a successful photo is taken from the edge of the field, not in the middle of the rows.

Avoid smoking on site and beware of bees. If you use a drone, check the applicable recreational regulations.

Simple and effective photo tips

• Golden lights: aim for sunrise and sunset; during the day, seek light shade and use a polarizing lens.

• Composition: rows of trees, curves of roads, presence of a church steeple or a village in the background.

• Colors: a pastel or white garment brings out the purple hues without stealing the show from the landscape.

Suggested itinerary — 2 days exploring the lavender fields

Day 1 — Valensole, Moustiers-Sainte-Marie and Lake Sainte-Croix

• Dawn on the plateau: take the D6, D8 or D953 roads for iconic panoramas (lavender fields stretching as far as the eye can see, almond trees, isolated farms). Keep moving: the best light changes quickly.

• Village of Valensole: coffee break and tasting of honeys, essential oils and artisanal soaps.

• Moustiers-Sainte-Marie: stroll through the hilltop village, earthenware, narrow streets and waterfalls.

• Afternoon at Lake Sainte-Croix: swimming, paddleboarding or simply a nap by the water.

• Sunset option: return to the plateau for one last bath of light before heading home.

Suggested routes: 120–180 km per day depending on the loops; adapt according to desires and traffic.

Day 2 — Grasse, perfume expertise and hilltop villages

• Grasse: Immerse yourself in the world of fragrances at the International Perfume Museum in Grasse. An excellent way to connect lavender, jasmine, and local history.

• Picturesque villages: suggested according to timing — Gourdon (spectacular viewpoint), Saint-Paul-de-Vence (galleries), Bar-sur-Loup (quiet charm).

• A gourmet return to the Relais: bistronomic dinner or wood-fired pizzas to conclude the getaway.

Timing tip: if your weekend falls late in the season, reverse the order (Grasse/Day 2 to Day 1) to schedule Valensole on the most favorable weather day.

Practical tips for a smooth stay

Avoid the crowds and traffic jams

• Arrive early (30 to 45 minutes before sunrise) or shoot at the very end of the day.

• Prefer the smaller roads parallel to the D6, and short but frequent stops.

• Aim for a weekday night outside of major holidays: better light/quiet ratio.

Budget and reservations

• Peak demand in early July: block accommodation 2 to 6 weeks in advance.

• On the road: expect fuel + tolls if you take the motorway; a loop via the Verdon sometimes avoids the A51 and offers superb scenery.

• Meals: mix restaurants and picnics; stock up on water, fruit, bread, cheese, tapenade for an impromptu break overlooking the fields.

Local basket: souvenirs that have meaning

Lavender honey, handcrafted soap, essential oil (check the label and local distillation), almonds, Moustiers earthenware, herbs of Provence. Buy from artisans or producers to support the local economy.

Where to sleep and eat well nearby

After the drive and the photos, you'll appreciate a cool room, a comfortable bed, and a welcoming table. The Relais Impérial offers all these essentials, with a peaceful setting and soothing views.

• Nighttime options: double rooms, family rooms and terraces depending on category — see availability for our rooms and online booking .

• On the food front: Provençal bistronomy and wood-fired pizzeria, sunny terraces, warm service.

• Events: Hen/stag parties, biker gatherings on the Route Napoléon, birthdays? Discover our event services .

• For a touch of local history, the soul of the place is told here: the story of the family .

Local resources and weather to consult

Before you leave, check the weather, road conditions, and best practices for visiting: - Verdon Park and ecosystems: Verdon Regional Natural Park - Reliable forecasts: Météo-France

FAQ

What is the best time for a lavender weekend in Provence without missing the flowering season?

Generally, plan your harvest between mid-June and mid-July, with peak viewing in late June to early July. Harvesting can begin as early as mid-July depending on the weather and elevation, and varies from field to field. To maximize your chances: block out flexible dates, monitor the weather 3–5 days in advance, and target early morning or late afternoon for color. If you arrive late in the season, explore higher elevations where bloom may last a few days longer.

Where can I see the most beautiful lavender fields around Valensole?

Classic panoramic views can be enjoyed along the D6, D8, and D953 roads, with superb vistas between Valensole, Puimoisson, and Riez. Stay on the roadsides and designated areas: some spots have secure parking. Make frequent short stops to vary the perspectives (hills, farms, almond groves). To avoid crowds, opt for dawn, the golden hour, and the smaller parallel roads.

How to plan a pleasant 2-day itinerary without rushing?

Day 1: Depart at dawn for Valensole, visit the village of Valensole in the late morning, then Moustiers-Sainte-Marie for lunch, followed by relaxation at Lake Sainte-Croix and sunset on the plateau. Day 2: Grasse (perfume museum, leisurely stroll), then a hilltop village (Gourdon, Bar-sur-Loup) before a leisurely dinner. Allow 30–45 minutes per segment to enjoy unexpected moments and the light.

Can a drone be used in lavender fields?

Drone flights are strictly regulated in France: no-fly zones, altitude limits, and respect for privacy. Check official regulations and airspace maps before any flight, and never operate over people or private property without authorization. On the Valensole plateau, prioritize discretion and safety: it's better to give up than to disturb farmers or visitors.

What to pack for a successful lavender weekend?

Lightweight and practical: closed-toe shoes (for rocky paths), hat, sunglasses, SPF sunscreen, plenty of water, mosquito repellent, small first-aid kit, breathable clothing. For photography: power bank, memory card, microfiber cloth, polarizing filter. A local picnic (bread, cheese, fruit, water) allows you to make the most of your time at dawn and sunset without the constraints of restaurants.

Key points to remember

• The lavender blooms often peak in late June–early July; get up early for unforgettable colours.

• Base yourself in the Grasse region to combine Valensole, Verdon and the perfumes of Grasse.

• Respect the fields: stay at the edge, park in the designated areas, no picking.

• Flexible 2-day plan: Valensole + Moustiers + lake, then Grasse and hilltop villages.

• Plan ahead: book accommodation, check the weather, prepare a picnic.

Ready to experience your weekend in Provence? Check availability and book your stay at the Relais Impérial, or contact us for personalized advice.