Between the two ancient gates
The old town of Manosque slips between two medieval gates: Saunerie Gate to the south, topped by a square tower and iron bell cage, and Soubeyran Gate to the north, in honey stone. In between, Rue Grande lines up old-fashioned shops, cafés and shaded little squares. You meet on Place de l’Hôtel-de-Ville, around a fountain, before pushing open the door of a Provençal grocer.
In Jean Giono’s footsteps
Jean Giono was born in Manosque in 1895 and spent his whole life there. The Jean Giono Centre, housed on Rue de Villeneuve, retells the writer through manuscripts, photos and editions. You can also follow a town trail that leads to his home, Lou Paraïs, perched on Mont d’Or. From the heights, the view embraces the russet roofs, the Durance plain and the hills of upper Provence. A literary date wrapped in gentleness.
Lavender and Provence scents
A few minutes away, the Valensole plateau turns blue from June to July. The lavender fields, lined with sunflowers later in the season, offer a spectacular backdrop for a bike or motorbike ride. Manosque is also the historic home of L’Occitane en Provence, whose factory can be visited by booking. On Lyad, the people of Manosque share their favourite paths; it is up to you to find someone to breathe the lavender with.
Date ideas
- Saunerie Gate
- Soubeyran Gate
- Jean Giono Centre
- Place de l’Hôtel-de-Ville
- Mont d’Or
- L’Occitane en Provence
- Valensole Plateau
