Full Day Tour in the Lavenders of Valensole or Sault

Discovering the Lavender of Provence: A Full Day Tour in Valensole or Sault

Taking a day to explore the lavender fields of Provence is a dream for many travelers, and this full-day tour from Avignon promises a blend of scenic beauty, delicious local food, and memorable photo opportunities. While we haven’t personally joined this specific excursion, the detailed itinerary and glowing review suggest it’s a well-organized experience that appeals to those seeking authentic Provençal charm.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the opportunity to photograph endless lavender fields as far as the eye can see—an unbeatable sight. Second, the picnic lunch featuring produce from local farms, which elevates the experience beyond just sightseeing. Third, the small group size ensures a more intimate, personalized outing. That said, the winding roads of Provence can be a concern for some, especially those prone to motion sickness.

This tour suits travelers who love nature, photography, and authentic local flavors, and who prefer a relaxed yet informative day out. If you’re after a straightforward, scenic escape that combines Provence’s natural beauty with good food, this could be a great pick.

Good To Know

• Stunning Views: Endless lavender fields are the main highlight, perfect for photos and peaceful reflection.
• Authentic Picnic: Locally-sourced produce makes for a memorable and tasty lunch.
• Intimate Group: With only six travelers maximum, there’s plenty of room for personalized attention.
• Flexible Timing: 7 to 9 hours means enough time to explore without feeling rushed.
• Expert Guidance: Guides like Arnaud are noted for their effort to showcase Provence’s beauty.
• Weather-Dependent: The tour relies on good weather, so check the forecast before booking.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Itinerary

Starting Point and Early Morning Departure

Beginning at Hôtel Le Bristol in Avignon, the tour kicks off at 9:30 am. The small group format allows for a relaxed start and a chance to get to know your guide. The comfort of an air-conditioned vehicle means you’ll stay cool as you begin your journey, which lasts approximately 2 hours before reaching your first stop.

Lac de Sainte Croix: The Scenic Picnic Spot

Your first stop is the Lac de Sainte Croix, a stunning turquoise reservoir framed by cliffs—a perfect backdrop for your Provencal picnic. The meal is simple but thoughtfully curated, featuring hard-boiled eggs, tapenades, goat cheese, fresh seasonal fruit, and grape juice, all sourced from local farms. This emphasis on fresh, regional ingredients offers a genuine taste of Provence.

While the picnic itself takes about 10 minutes to reach, it’s the view of the lake that keeps the camera clicking. Many visitors mention that this spot sets a peaceful tone for the day, with some describing the picnic as a highlight due to its freshness and authenticity.

The Lavender Fields of Valensole

After a leisurely 2-hour drive, you arrive at the Plateau de Valensole, where the true magic begins. Expect to spend around 3 to 4 hours exploring rows of lavender stretching as far as the eye can see. The fields are often at their peak bloom, creating a sea of purple that’s perfect for photography or simply soaking in the scent of blooming lavender.

Reviewers like Manhattan67 praise the guide’s effort to ensure visitors see all the spectacular sights, mentioning visits to the Senaque Abbey and the viewpoint of Gordes. The guide’s local knowledge helps you find the best spots for photos and avoid overly crowded areas.

Final Stop and Return to Avignon

After a satisfying afternoon among the lavender, you’ll start the 2-hour drive back to Avignon, arriving around 6 to 7 pm. The return trip allows time to relax and reflect on a day filled with natural beauty and local flavors.

What the Tour Includes and Why It Matters

Delicious, Local-Source Picnic

The picnic lunch is more than just a meal; it’s a taste of Provence’s culinary culture. Made with products from local farmers, it features hard-boiled eggs, tapenades, goat cheese, seasonal fruit, and grape juice. Reviewers have raved about its quality, describing it as “amazing” and highlighting the organic, free-range eggs and fresh produce.

This thoughtful inclusion adds substantial value, especially for travelers wanting to experience local life and food without the hassle of planning their own picnic.

Comfortable Transportation

Travel is in an air-conditioned vehicle, which is crucial given Provence’s warm summer days. The small group size ensures you won’t be lost in a crowd, and you get more personalized attention from your guide. However, the tour isn’t suitable for those with large suitcases or walkers, as space is limited.

Flexibility and Booking

Most travelers book about three weeks in advance—around 22 days on average—indicating good availability. You can cancel free up to 24 hours in advance, making it flexible if weather or plans change.

The Authentic Experience: What Travelers Say

The sole review available rates the experience a perfect 5 out of 5, with the commenter praising the guide, Arnaud, for going “all out” to ensure guests see the most beautiful lavender fields and enjoy a fantastic picnic at St. Croix du Verdon with a lovely lake view. Such feedback suggests that the guide’s effort significantly enhances the overall experience.

Many reviewers appreciate the stunning vistas and the chance to capture great photos. They note that the timing of the bloom is crucial; visiting during peak lavender season guarantees the most impressive views.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for nature lovers, photographers, and anyone wanting an authentic Provençal outing. It’s especially suited for those who value small group settings and local food. Given the reliance on good weather, it’s best for travelers flexible with their schedule and prepared for winding country roads.

If you’re looking for a relaxing, scenic day with plenty of opportunities to enjoy and photograph lavender, this tour delivers value through its carefully curated stops, delicious picnic, and intimate group size.

The Sum Up: Is This Tour Worth It?

For those wanting to see Provence’s lavender in full bloom, this tour offers a beautiful, well-organized day that balances sightseeing, local cuisine, and scenic photography. The small group size makes it feel more personal, and the inclusion of a picnic sourced from local farms adds a genuine touch of Provence.

While it’s not the cheapest option, the value lies in seeing iconic views without the hassle of planning your own trip, plus the opportunity to learn from knowledgeable guides like Arnaud. It’s perfect for travelers who are keen on capturing stunning photos, tasting regional flavors, and experiencing Provence’s countryside intimately.

This tour isn’t for those uncomfortable with winding roads or with large luggage, but for everyone else, it’s a charming and memorable way to spend a day among the lavender fields.

FAQ

How long is the total tour duration?
The tour lasts approximately 7 to 9 hours, starting at 9:30 am and returning to Avignon around evening, giving ample time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed.

What’s included in the picnic?
The picnic features local produce including hard-boiled eggs, tapenades, goat cheese, seasonal fruit, and grape juice, all sourced from nearby farms, making it a tasty and authentic Provençal meal.

Are there any physical limitations to participate?
The tour isn’t suitable for those with walkers or large suitcases due to limited vehicle space. It might also be less enjoyable for travelers sensitive to winding roads.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, so families with children who enjoy scenic drives and outdoor views should find it suitable, provided children are comfortable with the travel conditions.

What should I wear or bring?
Comfortable shoes for walking among the lavender fields and sun protection such as hats or sunscreen are recommended, especially during peak season when the sun is strong.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather, and if canceled due to rain or poor conditions, you’ll be offered a reschedule or full refund.

How far in advance should I book?
Most people book about 22 days ahead, but checking availability earlier is advisable during peak lavender season to secure your spot.

This lavender tour from Avignon offers a well-rounded blend of scenic beauty, local flavors, and personal attention. Perfect for Provence fans eager to capture iconic views and enjoy a relaxed day amid fields of purple.