Full Day Ocean of Lavender in Valensole from Avignon

Travelers seeking a taste of Provence’s legendary lavender fields will find this full-day tour from Avignon offers a well-rounded glimpse into the region’s vibrant landscapes and charming towns. As a 9-hour guided excursion, it combines scenic drives, fragrant walks among endless lavender rows, and visits to picture-perfect villages, making it a popular choice for those wanting to experience France’s lavender country at its peak from June to August.

One of the things we love about this tour is its small-group format — limited to just eight people — which ensures plenty of personal attention from your guide and more flexibility in exploring each stop. It’s also a great way to see multiple highlights in one day, from the famous lavender fields of Valensole to the artistic streets of Moustiers-Sainte-Marie.

A potential consideration is the limited time at each stop — roughly two hours in Valensole and Moustiers, and just an hour at the l’Occitane museum — which means you’ll want to keep an eye on the clock. But for those who prefer an intimate, guided experience over DIY travel, this tour offers good value and convenience, especially since hotel pickup and drop-off are included.

If you’re keen on experiencing Provence’s stunning scenery, aromatic lavender, and charming villages without the hassle of planning, this tour could be a perfect fit. It’s especially suited for travelers who enjoy small-group tours, detailed guide commentary, and diverse sightseeing in a single day.

Key Points

• Intimate Experience: Small group of only 8 travelers ensures personalized attention and fewer crowds.
• Diverse Stops: Combines lavender fields, Provencal towns, and a museum visit for a well-rounded day.
• Timing & Duration: About 9 hours, with flexible pickup times and a focus on peak lavender season in summer.
• Value for Money: Includes transport, guide, and hotel pickup, making it a hassle-free option.
• Authentic Insights: Guides like Frederique and others provide insider knowledge and friendly narration.
• Limited Availability: Book well in advance (89 days on average) to secure your spot during the busy months.

A Deep Dive into the Tour Experience

This full-day voyage from Avignon is primarily designed for travelers craving a scenic escape into Provence’s lavender-scented fields, combined with a taste of local culture. The journey kicks off with convenient hotel pickup between 8 am and 8:30 am, followed by a brief ride to the Avignon tourist office, where the adventure begins at 9 am. This early start maximizes your time in the countryside and allows you to beat some crowds, though keep in mind that the drive itself is about 1.5 hours before you reach the first major stop.

Exploring Valensole: The Heart of Lavender Fields

The crown jewel of this tour is Valensole, famous for its expansive, perfectly aligned rows of purple lavender. As several reviewers have pointed out, this is where you’ll want your camera ready. The vibrant colors and the intoxicating scent of fresh lavender make for picture-perfect moments. Reviewers like Dunja from Germany describe this as “one of the most beautiful days” they’ve experienced, highlighting the boundless lavender fields that stretch to the horizon.

Your guide accompanies you here, offering insights into the region’s agriculture and the significance of lavender to Provence’s economy and culture. Expect about two hours at this stop, which provides ample opportunity to stroll, take photos, and breathe in the aroma. Some guests appreciated that guides picked the most vibrant, less crowded patches — a little insider tip that can make your experience even more special.

Visiting Aix-en-Provence: A Touch of Artistic Charm

While the description mentions a stop in Aix-en-Provence, some recent reviews note that this part of the itinerary may be omitted or abbreviated in practice. Nevertheless, if included, this town offers a lively art scene, quaint squares, and fountains. It’s a good opportunity to stretch your legs, sip coffee, and soak in Provençal character. If you’re lucky, your guide might share local stories or recommend hidden gems.

The Enchanting Village of Moustiers-Sainte-Marie

Next up is Moustiers-Sainte-Marie, renowned for its stunning pottery and cliffside views. Wander through narrow streets lined with artisan workshops, admire the traditional faience ceramics, and enjoy sweeping vistas over the cliffs. Reviewers highlight this as a favorite part: “Winding streets with traditional potters and breathtaking views,” as one reviewer put it. It’s the perfect spot to buy souvenirs and marvel at Provençal craftsmanship.

The L’Occitane Museum in Manosque

Before returning to Avignon, the tour includes a stop at the l’Occitane en Provence museum in Manosque. Here, you can learn about the brand’s origins, production, and the natural ingredients that define Provence’s skincare products. It’s a brief but insightful visit, and the shop offers the opportunity to purchase authentic products directly.

Transportation & Group Size

Comfortable transportation is a key highlight — a well-maintained vehicle driven by knowledgeable guides like Frederique, who consistently receive praise for their friendliness and local expertise. The small group size (max 8) makes the experience more intimate and allows the guide to customize some aspects of the tour, like choosing less crowded lavender patches or taking scenic detours.

Is This Tour Worth the Price?

At approximately $133 per person, this tour offers decent value, especially considering hotel pickup, transportation, and the guided narration**. It’s more expensive than DIY options, but the convenience and expert guidance often outweigh the cost for many travelers. The ability to see multiple sites efficiently — especially during the brief summer window when lavender is in full bloom — makes this a compelling option.

Reviewers have pointed out the excellent guides, with some praising Frederique for making the day truly memorable. The inclusion of a museum visit and local villages adds cultural depth that many solo travelers might not easily access alone.

Practical Tips for Making the Most of Your Tour

• Book early — as reviews show, the tour is booked about 89 days in advance during peak season.
• Wear comfortable shoes — especially if you plan to walk among lavender or explore village streets.
• Bring a camera and a water bottle — plenty of photo opportunities and warm summer days.
• Check the lavender bloom schedule — mid-June to early August is ideal, but timing can vary slightly year to year.
• Arrive on time for pickup — punctuality ensures you maximize your day.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers who want a guided, all-in-one day trip that combines scenic beauty with cultural stops. It’s particularly well-suited for those who prefer small groups and personalized attention. If you’re keen on photography, the lavender fields provide countless Instagram-worthy moments. Foodies and craft lovers will also enjoy the pottery in Moustiers-Sainte-Marie and the chance to browse Provençal products at the l’Occitane shop.

However, if you prefer to explore independently or have more time to linger in individual locations, this guided tour might feel a bit rushed. Also, those looking for a tour with a specific focus on wine, history, or extensive shopping might want to consider other options.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the tour include hotel pickup?
Yes, the tour offers pickup directly from your central Avignon hotel or at the tourist office, making it very convenient for travelers staying in the city.

How long is the driving time?
The transfer from Avignon to the lavender fields and other stops typically takes around 1.5 hours, giving you a comfortable window to relax and chat with your guide.

What’s the best time to go?
Lavender generally blooms from mid-June to early August, so this tour is best during those months. The peak bloom can vary slightly each year depending on weather conditions.

Are meals included?
No, meals and drinks are not included, so consider bringing snacks or eating before or after the tour. There are opportunities to buy at stops like Moustiers-Sainte-Marie.

Is this a full-day tour?
Yes, the tour lasts approximately 9 hours, including travel, sightseeing, and shopping. Expect to be back in Avignon around 6 or 7 pm.

What is the group size?
Limited to 8 participants, which helps ensure a more intimate and flexible experience.

What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering peace of mind in case your plans change.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, and the scenic nature makes it a family-friendly option, as long as children are comfortable with a full day of sightseeing.

For those dreaming of Provence’s iconic lavender fields, this small-group guided tour from Avignon hits many of the right notes. The combination of fragrant landscapes, picturesque villages, and cultural stops makes for a memorable day — especially when guided by local experts like Frederique. It offers a clean, comfortable way to experience the region without the stress of planning, all within a manageable budget considering the inclusions.

If you’re after authentic, scenic Provence with the benefit of insider knowledge and less hassle, this tour provides excellent value. It’s particularly suited for travelers who value personalized service, want to see multiple highlights in one day, and have a limited time window during the lavender season.

In the end, this journey promises a fragrant, colorful slice of Provence that many visitors will treasure long after they’ve left the fields behind.