Full Day Ocean of Lavender in Valensole from Avignon

If you’re considering a trip to Provence during lavender season, you’ve probably come across the Full Day Ocean of Lavender in Valensole from Avignon tour. While we haven’t personally taken this exact trip, the detailed reviews and itinerary paint a pretty clear picture of what you can expect. It’s a popular choice for those wanting to see the famous lavender fields, explore picturesque towns, and learn about local crafts—all in one day.

What really grabs us about this tour is the opportunity to stroll through rows of purple lavender in full bloom, and visit iconic villages like Moustiers-Sainte-Marie, known for its pottery and stunning cliffs. Also, the inclusion of a visit to the l’Occitane museum adds a little extra charm, especially if you’re into Provençal scents and skincare. And with a small-group setting limited to eight people, it promises a more personal, relaxed experience.

That said, a few considerations are worth noting. The tour’s timing and itinerary might vary slightly, especially since one review mentioned missing an Aix-en-Provence stop. Plus, at around $133 per person, the price is quite reasonable given what’s included, but it’s good to weigh whether a full, guided day fits your travel style. This tour will suit travelers who love scenic drives, authentic villages, and fragrant fields, and who appreciate guided insights without the hassle of organizing everything themselves.

If that sounds appealing, this trip could be a great fit. It’s especially suitable for those who want a comprehensive Provence experience in a manageable, intimate group setting. Now, let’s dig into the details so you can decide if this tour matches your travel plans.

Key Points

• Small-group experience ensures personalized attention and fewer crowds
• Ideal timing is mid-June to early August, when lavender is in full bloom
• The itinerary includes iconic Provençal towns, lavender fields, and artisan villages
• Price reflects the value of guided visits, transport, and museum access
• The tour ends with return to Avignon, making it a convenient day trip
• Expect 9 hours of travel, sightseeing, and walking, so comfortable shoes are recommended

A Closer Look at the Tour Experience

This full-day tour kicks off early, with hotel pickups between 8am and 8:30am, making it a seamless start right from your accommodations in Avignon. From there, you’re transported in a comfortable vehicle, setting the tone for a relaxed day of exploration. The small group size—just up to eight people—means you’ll get more attention from your guide, who can tailor the experience and answer questions along the way.

The Journey Out into Provençal Countryside

The drive itself is part of the charm. You’ll leave the city behind and enter the rolling hills of Provence, a landscape that’s as idyllic as you’ve imagined. It’s about a 1.5-hour ride to the first major stop, which is Aix-en-Provence—a lively town famous for its art scene and vibrant streets. Though one review noted a change in the itinerary where Aix wasn’t part of the stop, the guide’s flexibility and local knowledge seem to make this a minor hiccup for most travelers.

Walking Amongst Lavender Fields in Valensole

The highlight for most visitors is the visit to Valensole, the heart of lavender country. Here, you’ll have about two hours to stroll along the endless rows of purple flowers, breathing in the sweet, heady scent. The photos alone are worth the trip, but the real joy is in the chance to touch and smell the lavender directly. Several reviews praise the guide’s patience and skill at picking the most vibrant, less crowded patches, which can make your photos and experience feel more special.

One reviewer described this part as “Lavendel ohne Ende,” or “Lavender without end,” emphasizing just how breathtaking and expansive these fields are. The gentle scent and vibrant colors are a sensory treat, especially in the warm Provençal sun.

Exploring Moustiers-Sainte-Marie

Next, the tour takes you to Moustiers-Sainte-Marie, often regarded as one of France’s prettiest villages. Its winding streets and traditional pottery shops make it a charming stop. Here, you can admire the cliffside views and browse local crafts, making it a perfect spot for photos and souvenirs. One review raved about this part, calling it “one of the most beautiful days I’ve ever had on a trip,” thanks to the layout and atmosphere of the town.

Visiting the l’Occitane Museum and Shop

A visit to l’Occitane en Provence in nearby Manosque rounds out the day. While the museum and shop are free to visit, this is a good opportunity to learn about Provençal scents, natural ingredients, and perhaps pick up some skincare products. For those interested in local artisan crafts and natural beauty, it’s a worthwhile stop.

Return Journey and Final Impressions

After a satisfying day of sightseeing, the group heads back to Avignon, arriving around 5-6pm. The return trip offers a chance to reflect on the day’s highlights and enjoy the comfort of your vehicle.

What You’ll Love About This Tour

The guide and small-group setting are often praised for making the day more intimate and enjoyable. Travelers frequently mention how knowledgeable and patient the guides are, often going the extra mile to find the best lavender patches or answer questions about local history.

The scenery is truly spectacular. Whether you’re a photographer, a lover of fragrant flowers, or just someone who appreciates pretty villages, the views along the way are guaranteed to delight. Reviewers highlighted how vibrant and endless the lavender fields seem, especially in peak bloom.

The combination of towns and countryside offers a well-rounded experience. You’re not just staring at flowers; you’re walking through charming towns, exploring local crafts, and soaking in the Provençal atmosphere.

Value for money is another strong point. For around $133, you get transport, a guide, museum entry, and visits to several notable locations, which many review as worth the price considering the hassle it saves.

Considerations and Possible Drawbacks

While most reviews are glowing, a couple of points to keep in mind. One traveler noted that not every stop may be exactly as described, mentioning that Aix-en-Provence was skipped in their case. It suggests that itineraries might vary or be adjusted depending on the day, so be prepared for some flexibility.

The duration of 9 hours means a long day of travel and walking, so comfortable shoes and a water bottle are advisable. Also, because the tour is limited to a maximum of eight travelers, it can fill up quickly, so booking in advance is recommended—ideally around 89 days ahead, as most do.

Lastly, the price doesn’t include meals or drinks, so you might want to budget for lunch or snacks on your own.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is a good fit for those seeking a comprehensive Provence experience in one day—beautiful scenery, charming villages, and local crafts. It’s ideal if you prefer guided trips with a small group, and if you’re comfortable with a full day of sightseeing.

It’s also perfect for photographers, flower lovers, or anyone wanting a taste of lavender season, especially since the fields are in full bloom from mid-June to early August. If you’re traveling with people who enjoy exploring towns and historic sites but prefer to leave the driving and planning to someone else, this tour offers good value.

FAQ

Q: When is the best time to take this tour?
A: The lavender fields bloom from mid-June to early August, making this the ideal window for the best scenery.

Q: What is included in the price?
A: The tour includes round-trip transportation from Avignon, a driver/guide, visits to Valensole, Moustiers-Sainte-Marie, Aix-en-Provence, and the l’Occitane museum, as well as parking fees and fuel surcharge.

Q: Are meals included?
A: No, food and drinks are not included, so you might want to bring snacks or plan to buy lunch during the day.

Q: How long is the drive between stops?
A: The drive from Avignon to Valensole is about 1.5 hours, with stops along the way for sightseeing.

Q: Can I customize the itinerary?
A: The itinerary is set by the tour provider, but some discussion with your guide might be possible on the day.

Q: What should I wear or bring?
A: Comfortable walking shoes, sunglasses, a hat, and sunscreen are recommended. Bring a camera for those stunning lavender views.

Q: Is this tour suitable for children?
A: The tour is not specifically marketed as family-friendly, but older children and teenagers who enjoy walking and scenery might find it enjoyable.

Q: How many people are in each group?
A: The group is limited to 8 travelers, ensuring a more personalized experience.

Q: What happens if it rains?
A: The tour usually proceeds in light rain; check the weather forecast and dress accordingly, as some walking is involved.

Q: Do I need to arrange my own transportation to Avignon?
A: The tour includes pickup from your hotel in Avignon or the tourist office, so no need to worry about transportation unless you’re staying outside the pickup area.

If you love the idea of wandering through endless lavender fields, discovering charming Provençal villages, and learning about local crafts—all in one well-organized day—this tour offers a lot of value. The small-group format, combined with the knowledgeable guide, ensures a more intimate and informative experience, making it a good choice for those wanting to avoid the crowds and enjoy personalized attention.

While the itinerary might vary slightly, the core appeal of vibrant colors, fragrant flowers, and picture-perfect towns remains. It’s a solid option for travelers seeking a convenient, guided Provençal adventure without the hassle of planning every detail themselves.

If you’re visiting Avignon during lavender season and want to see the iconic fields in full bloom, this tour can really help unlock the magic of Provence—just be prepared for a full, lively day of exploring some of France’s most beautiful scenery.

Enjoy your trip and happy lavender hunting!