Excursions / Links


1. Main excursions


 
GORGES OF VERDON CIRCUIT

So many wonders to discover that one day is far from enough! – Three possible roads, from Riez with several villages (the largest circuit is 200km by winding roads)
From the trail to Riez (13km Valensole). Among "Discovery sports" you can indulge in canœing or safe climbing, and discover the Gorges du Verdon, one of the finest jewels of Europe, amazing!
Please click on the following web link :here and here
 
PLATEAU OF VALENSOLE

Many hikes with scents of lavender, thyme and rosemary and unforgettable views.
Please click on the following web link : here
 
PRIEURE OF SALAGON
A historic monument – A Museum of ethnology and “ remarkable gardens”
Please click on the following web link : here
 
ABBAYE OF VALSAINTES

Rosery – Floral parc
04150-Simiane la Rotonde
This visit might be coupled with a walk in the typical village of Simiane la Rotonde
Please click on the following web link : here
 
ABBAYE OF GANAGOBIE
Dominates the vallée of the Durance- Remarkable site –Visit of the monastery
Village of Ganagobie with its troglodytes
04310-Ganagobie
This visit might be combined with the typical villages of Ganagobie and Lurs
Please click on the following web link : here
 
CHATEAU OF SAUVAN
Historic monument dating from the 18th century, sumptuously restored - Parks – Guided tours
04300-Mane
This visit could be combined with the typical villages of Mane and the old town of Forcalquier
Please click on the following web link : here
 
LES JARDINS DE VILLENEUVE
Located in Valensole, very close from the Château du Grand Jardin, this classified park surrounds a nice gentleman’s residence dating from the 18th century. This was the property of Admiral Pierre Sylvestre de Villeneuve, Nelson’s rival at Trafalgar. Group visit of the park available.
Please click on the following web link : here
 
DECOUVERTE DES TRUFFIERES
Pleasant visit entitled « discovery of the black truffle » organized by the owner-exploiter of the domain, in a beautiful countryside, up on the hills of Valensole.
Please click on the following web link : here
 

2. Excursions by minibus


 
DISCOVERING THE AREA WITHOUT HAVING TO DRIVE

Driving his specially equipped van, a charming young woman will make you discover the region she knows on her fingertips. You just have to sit in those comfortable seats and let yourself guide. They will provide any explanation on the course … Possible friendly picnic break!
Please click on the following web link : here
 

3. Discovery sports


 
KAYAKING & CLIMBING
Get in touch with this organism in Riez (13km away from Valensole). They are specialized in rafting and mountain climbing and will make you discover the gorges du Verdon with wonder and out of common sensations. In both specialities, certificated monitors will take care of you, so that you could enjoy this sport as safely as possible.
Please click on the following web link : here
 
GLIDING & ULTRALIGHT FLYING
In Puimoisson, on the plateau of Valensole, there has been a landing ground since the Second World War. Many people come from all over Europe to enjoy the exceptional wonders of the Gorges of the Verdon from the sky!!
Please click on the following web link: here
 
PARAGLIDING & MOUNTAIN BIKING
In Riez (13km from Valensole), this club offers mountain biking facilities to discover the plateau of Valensole but also the gorges of the Verdon. Forget common sensations: Fly like a bird, by paragliding, above the marvellous Gorges of the Verdon, under the guidance of a high qualified instructor!!
Please click on the following web link : here
 
SPORTY FISHING IN THE VERDON
In the wild and exceptionally transparent waters of the Verdon, far from all pollution, you will be able to catch several kinds of wild fishes as trout, in an incomparably beautiful site.
Please click on the following web link : here
 
HORSEBACK RIDING
Horse lovers can indulge in the pleasures of discovering Valensole through the many paths that crisscross the park and those of the Verdon, accompanied by real professionals who know the riding area.
A few steps from the village on the road leading to Oraison.
Please click on the following web link : here
 
18 HOLES GOLF COURSE
One of the most athletic golf courses in Europe because of its hilly park. 
On the outskirts of Pierrevert village, 25km from Valensole in the direction of Manosque. 
Please click on the following web link : here
 

4.Museums


 
A MUSEUM DEVOTED TO BEES
True professionals, specialized in honeycraft, the Nevières have developed a small museum located in Valensole, where you will discover, with amazement, the lives of bees in real size. There is also a shop where you can buy lavender honey and other honey products.
Please click on the following web link :here
 
QUINSON MUSEUM OF THE PREHITOIRE
This museum is very rich in relics and acquires each year a growing reputation. 
29km Valensole. Do not forget to visit the village.
Please click on the following web link :here
 
JEAN GIONO CENTRE
In Manosque, his hometown, you can walk on the footsteps of that famous Provence writer. 
20km from Valensole – you may also visit Manosque. 
Please click on the following web link :here
 

5. Regional products


 
LAVENDER PRODUCES
You will find a store located 3 km from Valensole right along the road leading to Manosque. Surrounded by beautiful lavender fields. They sell all the existing lavender products.
Please click on the following web link :here
 
ALMONDS
You will find a store located 3 km from Valensole on the left edge of the road leading to Manosque, surrounded by beautiful lavender fields. They sell almonds and by-products. Almonds used to be Valensole’s main economic resource before it was supplanted by lavender.
Please click on the following web link : here
 
PROVENCE PRODUCTS /WINE CELLARS
You will find a charming shop in the center of Valensole opposite the beautiful public fountain. You will not resist coming in and will not regret it because two women welcome you with their best smile and the Provence products’ scents fill in the air. You will find lavender, honey, herbs, fragrances …. But also an extensive amount of fine wines!
Please click on the following web link: here
 
L’OCCITANE
Globally renowned stores. Location: 15 km from Valensole, ZA St Maurice. It sells a huge variety of cosmetics and fragrances.
Please click on the following web link : here
 
TERRE D’OC
Location: 25 km from Valensole, ZA portion Villeneuve. It sells a wide variety of organic cosmetics and perfumes.
Please click on the following web link: here
 

6. Recommended restaurants


 
Le rempart
Location : In the heart of the ancient town of Riez (13km from Valensole) -Fine dining, great room and good service. Excellent value for money. It is worth the trip!!
Please click on the following web link: here
 
LA FERME SAINTE CECILE
Location : 1km from Moustiers Sainte Marie, on the road leading to Lake St. Croix (29km Valensole). Excellent reputation. Closed on Sundays evening and Mondays.
Please click on the following web link : here
 
Le comptoir de Valérie
Location : 16km from Valensole in the direction of Manosque. A 4-star hotel-restaurant famous for its haute cuisine. Beautiful setting, beautiful room.
Please click on the following web link : here
 
LA VILLA BORGHESE
Location : Gréoux les bains (13km from Valensole) Not far from the Roman Baths. A 3-star hotel-restaurant. Beautiful setting, beautiful room.
Please click on the following web link : here
 
La caverne
Situation : A Gréoux les bains ( 13km de Valensole), un restaurant semi-gastronomique, de la cuisine française traditionnelle raffinée et diversifiée.
Cliquez : ici
 

7. Our Partner sites (bed and breakfast)

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