The Valley of Roses resembles very other valley we passed through:  A verdant flood plain spreading between dry, rocky hills.  The name comes from the considerable cultivation of roses in the valley.  Most of the bushes were, in fact, rose bushes — which would be quite a sight when in bloom.  Each year in May the towns in the valley have a festival of roses; various rose products (cosmetics, perfumes, etc.) were available for sale everywhere.