Treasures
of Haute-Provence
Uncover the local treasures that breathe life into our territory.
From the Abbey of Valsaintes and its inspiring gardens to the legendary Bleuet Bookstore in Banon, from the castles of Haute-Provence to the dramatic Gorges of Oppedette, each destination reveals an authentic facet of the region.
Explore the Priory of Salagon and its ethnobotanical gardens, immerse yourself in the rhythm of lavender painting our landscapes, and then gaze up at the stars from the Astronomical Center of Saint-Michel l’Observatoire.
These local gems invite you to explore, marvel, and pause. Click through each descriptive page to prepare your journey and experience Authentic Haute-Provence intimately.
Lavender
of haute-Provence
Lavender, Provence’s iconic plant, grows naturally in the region and has been cultivated for centuries for its aromatic and medicinal properties.
Two types are primarily cultivated in Haute-Provence: true lavender (lavande fine), which grows naturally at elevations above 700-800 meters and is produced mainly for its essential oil.
THE OPPEDETTE
GORGES
Unforgettable walks await in the magnificent Oppedette gorges, thoughtfully developed for visitors.
The gorges are part of the Luberon Regional Nature Park and are protected.
The exceptional richness of the flora and fauna (particularly in spring) ranks this area among sites of national interest. The departmental council, in collaboration with the commune and the Luberon Park, works to protect the most fragile and emblematic species of the site.