Sightseeing
The Provence region is one of the most interesting and visited tourist destinations in France. Numerous attractions can be found close to the villa or just a short drive away. We would like to give you some ideas of what is worth a visit.
Roussillon
Roussillon is one of the most beautiful villages in the Provence region. It is renowned for its red and ochre colours. Alleys and colourful facades provide a unique experience when you stroll through the village. You can reach the heart of Roussillon in just a few minutes on foot. In the centre of the village you can visit the “Sentier des Ocres”, which guides you through a unique landscape of red and ochre cliffs. In case you want to learn more about the ochre and its use you can visit the “Conservatoire des Ocres” which is located at the edge of Roussillon in the direction of Apt.
Gordes (9 km)
Gordes and Roussillon are the most popular villages in Lubéron. You can spot the picturesque village of Gordes from the villa’s terrace. Its spectacular setting on top of the rocks makes it a unique tourist destination. The heart of Gordes is dominated by an impressive castle which dates back to the 11th century. Today is reflects the Renaissance-style of the 16th century. Around the castle you can find many alleys, shops and restaurants.
Abbaye de Sénanque (14 km)
The world famous Sénanque monastery is only a few kilometres from Gordes. The road to the monastery is a highlight in itself. The lavender fields, in front of the monastery, are one of the most photographed pictures in the entire region of Provence. You need to book a guided tour to visit the monastery.
Colorado Provençal de Rustrel (19 km)
The landscape is similar to the “Sentier des Ocres” but much larger and even more breathtaking. It is called the “Colorado of the Provence” as it might make you feel like you are in the West of the United States. You can hike three different paths which are between one and three hours in duration.
Bonnieux, Lacoste, Ménerbes, Oppède-le-Vieux, Saignon (11-20 km)
Besides Roussillon and Gordes there are numerous other beautiful villages in the surroundings of the villa, such as Bonnieux, Lacoste, Ménerbes, Oppède-le-Vieux and Saignon. The five mentioned villages are all located on the north side of the Lubéron mountains. Each village has a unique setting with stunning views and charming alleys full of beautiful, historic buildings.
Montagne du Lubéron (18 km)
The mountain range, called Lubéron, which is the origin of the name of the valley and the national park (Parc Naturel Régional du Lubéron), is a paradise for hikers. The ridge, as well as the 1125 metre peak of the Mourre Nègre, are perfect hiking spots offering breathtaking views. The best spots cannot be reached by car but the narrow road from Bonnieux to Lourmarin provides a good idea of the rocky landscape.
Lourmarin (29 km)
Lourmarin is a beautiful village on the south side of the Lubéron mountains. The village has a small castle and a lovely pedestrianised centre with many restaurants.
Aix-en-Provence (57 km)
In most surveys about which city in France the majority of French people would like to live in, Aix-en Provence is their number one choice. This lively university town offers Provençale living at its best. One of its most famous inhabitants was the painter Paul Cézanne.
Avignon (46 km)
This typical city alongside the Rhône river is known throughout the world thanks to its UNESCO world heritage site “The Palace of the Popes” as well as the bridge “Pont d’Avignon”. In addition to these two highlights the entire old town is worth a visit. You can easily walk around for hours taking in the ancient city wall. During the summer months the international theatre festival, with lots of different activities happening, is definitely worth a visit.
Fontaine-de-Vaucluse (22 km)
The most important water fountain in France is located in the village of Fontaine-de-Vaucluse. The Sorgue river has its origin here and produces about 630 to 700 million cubic metres of water every year, which makes it the fifth biggest fountain in the world.
Orange (60 km)
Orange has an impressive architectural heritage, which includes a Roman amphitheatre und triumphal arch. The amphitheatre is said to be the best preserved of the Roman Empire.
Sault (32 km)
The area around Sault is known for its numerous lavender fields. The small village offers beautiful views and has several authentic restaurants.
Gorges de la Nesque (39 km)
While the Grand Canyon du Verdon is extremely popular, the Gorges de la Nesque, in the heart of the Provence, is a hidden gem. It is no less spectacular and offers breathtaking views. The road winds for about 20 kilometres and runs through completely unspoilt nature.
Mont Ventoux (44 km)
The most well-known landmark of Provence is Mont Ventoux, which also serves as a dreaded leg of the Tour de France. Mount Ventoux dominates the lowlands of the Comtat Venaissi. You can see the summit of Mount Ventoux from the terrace of the villa. In case you do not want to mimic the Tour de France and cycle to the summit, you can drive there instead.
Plateau de Valensole (69 km)
The high plateau of Valensol, east of Manosque, is definitely worth a visit between the end of June and the middle of August. In these summer months this region transforms into a sea of intensely fragrant deep purple blossoms. The plateau is the main area in France where lavender is cultivated.
Pont du Gard (72 km)
In order to supply Nîmes with drinking water, the Romans constructed a very sophisticated pipeline system. This dates back to 50 a.d. The Pont du Gard was an integral part of this system, channelling water from fountains as far as 50 kilometres away to the city of Nîmes. 2000 years later the highest aqueduct of the Roman Empire is still standing and was declared a UNESCO world heritage site in 1985. With more than 1,25 million visitors each year it is one of the most popular tourist spots in France.
Les Baux-de-Provence et les Alpilles (54 km)
South of Avignon you can find the Alpille mountains, a jagged mountain range made out of limestone. This sun-dominated and Mistral-influenced landscape, with its vineyards and olive groves, has inspired many famous painters, including Vincent van Gogh. In the heart of the Alpille mountains is the village of Les Baux-de-Provence, which has, since 1998, been classified as one of the most beautiful villages in France.