Moving out of Forcalquier we drop into the Plateau de Valensole, as the name suggests it’s a (relatively!) flat start to the day as we wind our way through the primary lavender growing region of Provence. The plateau itself is dramatic, especially when the lavender as in full bloom, an ocean of purple set against the sky and occasional jagged peaks of the mountain range behind. With the light that Provence is so renowned for this area is popular with artists and photographers. The morning is spiced up with a climb or two as we make our way through the almond woods that grow in the area. Of course, what goes up…must come down and we’re soon enjoying a thrilling descent toward the charming and picturesque village of Moustiers Saint Marie. Perched precariously on a cliff edge, we can see the village above us as we approach and our final few kilometres take us up through its narrow streets. Moustiers-Sainte-Marie is situated just a few km from the shores of Lac de Sainte Croix and the gateway village to tomorrow’s challenge; the Gorge du Verdon.