Absolutely! Here are some useful travel tips for your visit to Valensole, Gordes, and Avignon:
Best Time to Visit:
Valensole:
The lavender fields are in full bloom from mid-June to mid-July.
Gordes:
The best time to visit Gordes is from June to August, the weather is nice and the village is lively but expect some crowd during these periods.
Avignon:
The best time is from June to August when the weather is warm, and the city hosts its famous theatre festival in July.
Route and Accessibility:
All three spots are in the Provence region of southern France and are accessible by train and road from major cities like Marseille and Nice. You can also rent a car for more flexibility when moving between these destinations.
Altitude and Acclimatization:
Both Valensole, Gordes and Avignon are not located at high altitudes so there should be no issues with acclimatization.
Accommodation and Booking:
Booking in advance is essential, especially in summer. Both Gordes and Avignon offer ranges of accommodation from luxury hotels to cozy B&B's. Valensole is a smaller village so options may be more limited.
Clothing and Essentials:
Pack comfortable clothing for warm summer weather, but also remember to bring an umbrella or lightweight jacket, as the occasional summer showers can occur. Don’t forget to bring a good pair of shoes for walking, and a hat and sunscreen for protection from the sun.
Health and Safety:
Regularly hydrate and use sunscreen due to high summer temperatures. Make sure your travel insurance covers any possible health issues.
Local Etiquette and Respect:
The French appreciate politeness, so remember to greet with "Bonjour" (Good day) and thank with "Merci" (Thank you). In Avignon, modest dress is required in the Papal Palace and other religious sites. Enjoy the local French cuisine and when visiting markets in Gordes and Valensole, remember to ask the vendor before taking pictures.