In the heart of Provence the Vaucluse offers a large variety of landscapes; it is a place full of history and tradition. Everywhere you will be seduced by a sunny terrace or a shady vine arbour. Impossible to resist! Here are the top 5 places to visit in Provence:
Avignon – the Pope’s Palace
The majestic Pope’s Palace dominates the old part of Avignon. It was built during the 14th century and is today the most important Gothic palace worldwide. Classified as “World Heritage for Humanity” by UNESCO, it is a symbol of the temporal spiritual influence of the papacy at the time. Discover large ceremonial rooms, chapels with frescoes, the private apartments of the Pope and terraces with breathtaking views of the city.
Luberon – Ochres of Rousillon
The ochre lands of Roussillon in the Luberon shine in a range of beautiful red, orange and yellow colours contrasting with white lime stones, deep green pine trees and the blue Provencal sky; a real feast for the eyes! Via a trail through the village and the ochre lands, with information signs along the way, you can discover the geology, the flora and the history of the ochre deposits. Make use of technology to find popular places to visit in local areas.
Châteauneuf-du-Pape and its vine
Surrounded by ruins and ancient chateau towering, the village is mostly known for the international reputation of its vines. With three other villages nearby, it produces its famous AOC Châteauneuf-du-Pape vines out of thirteen selected grape varieties. A tradition, that exists since the 14th century when the Popes started to encourage the planting of vineyards. You will be enchanted by the particular bouquets and aromas during a vine tasting offered by many wineries of this region.
Mont Ventoux – Biosphere
Known as “Giant of Provence”, the Mont Ventoux has gained fame through its use in the Tour de France cycling race. Classified as a UNESCO biosphere it has an exceptional flora and fauna. One can find Mediterranean plants but also rare species. Like a den, it announces the arrival of winter when its summit is covered in snow. The mountain is surrounded by various landscapes, such as the plain of the Comtat Venaissin with Côtes du Ventoux vineyards, truffle oaks and in springtime, flowering cherry trees and strawberries, the Sault Valley with vast lavender fields and the Toulourenc Valley with medieval hilltop villages.
Isle sur la Sorgue and its antiquarians
Also called “Small Venice of the Comtat”, Isle sur la Sorgue has become over the past 30 years the capital of antiquarians. Featuring 10 villages with antique dealers and many shops and galleries, it is now ranked second only to Paris. A visit of the antique market on Sundays and a stroll along the emerald clear green water of one of the numerous arms of the river Sorgue will leave you unforgettable impressions.
Vaucluse Tourism in Provence is the official website of the department of Vaucluse. Plan your next holidays in South of France: book your hotel, B&B, rental house or campsite across Provence with us. Vaucluse Tourism will be pleased to assist you with organising your stay. Visit us at http://www.provenceguide.co.uk.