Vaucluse Travel Guide

Explore Vaucluse, the heart of Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur in France, with this comprehensive travel guide. Discover the best places to visit, outdoor activities, food and drink scene, where to stay, and more!


Introduction to Vaucluse

Nestled in the heart of the Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur region in France, Vaucluse is an idyllic destination full of history, culture, natural beauty, and gastronomic delights. Home to Avignon, one of the most important medieval cities in Europe and listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site, Vaucluse boasts numerous attractions, including ancient ruins, historic landmarks, and stunning natural landscapes. Travelers can enjoy hiking, biking, sightseeing, and indulging in delicious French cuisine and local wine. In this comprehensive travel guide, we will explore the best places to visit in Vaucluse, outdoor activities, where to stay, and more!

List of Places to Visit in Vaucluse

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Palais des Papes: The largest Gothic palace in the world, housing impressive frescoes and priceless works of art.
  • Pont Saint-Bénézet: An iconic 12th-century bridge spanning the Rhône River, also known as Pont d’Avignon.
  • Musée Calvet: A museum showcasing fine arts, including paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts.
  • Musée du Petit Palais: A museum featuring Italian and French medieval painting masterpieces.

Natural Attractions of Vaucluse: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Gorges du Verdon: A natural marvel with turquoise waters, granite cliffs, and hiking trails.
  • Mont Ventoux: A famous mountain known for its challenging cycling routes and breathtaking vistas.
  • Luberon Regional Nature Park: A nature park offering ample hiking trails, picturesque villages, and rolling hills.
  • Sénanque Abbey: A 12th-century Cistercian abbey surrounded by lavender fields.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Vaucluse

Vaucluse offers numerous hiking and biking trails that showcase the natural beauty of the region. Some of the best routes include:

  • Sentier des Ocres: This popular trail in Rustrel features vibrant red and orange ochre cliffs.
  • Gorges de la Nesque: A scenic route with panoramic views of the Nesque River Gorge, perfect for cycling.
  • Mont Ventoux: A challenging cycling route that is a must-do for cyclists visiting Vaucluse.
  • Luberon Regional Nature Park: A network of hiking trails offering spectacular views of the park’s flora and fauna.

Best Things to Do in Vaucluse: Activities and Tours

  • Wine tasting: Explore the vineyards of Châteauneuf-du-Pape, Gigondas, and Vacqueyras and taste some of the world’s best wines.
  • Theater Festival d’Avignon: A month-long festival showcasing international theater productions.
  • Hot air balloon ride: Enjoy stunning aerial views of Vaucluse’s countryside and vineyards.
  • Cooking classes: Learn the secrets of traditional French cuisine and bring home some gourmet cooking skills.

Week-Long Itinerary for Vaucluse

Here is a suggested itinerary for a week-long stay in Vaucluse:

  • Day 1: Avignon: Visit Palais des Papes, Pont Saint-Bénézet, and the museums.
  • Day 2: Luberon: Explore picturesque towns like Gordes and Roussillon and hike the Luberon Regional Nature Park.
  • Day 3: Mont Ventoux: Cycle up the mountain or hike to the summit for stunning views.
  • Day 4: Wine tasting: Visit vineyards in Châteauneuf-du-Pape, Gigondas, and Vacqueyras.
  • Day 5: Sault: Visit the lavender fields around Sénanque Abbey and enjoy a hot air balloon ride.
  • Day 6: Gorges du Verdon: Hike or kayak in this striking canyon.
  • Day 7: Cooking class: Join a cooking class to learn the secrets of French cuisine.

Food and Drink Scene of Vaucluse

Must-Try Dishes

  • Ratatouille: A traditional Provencal dish with vegetables, herbs, and olive oil.
  • Pissaladière: A savory onion tart topped with anchovies and olives.
  • Soupe au pistou: A hearty vegetable soup with garlic and basil pesto.
  • Crème brûlée: A creamy custard dessert with a caramelized sugar topping.

Local Beverages

  • Châteauneuf-du-Pape: A full-bodied red wine known for its complex flavors.
  • Côtes du Rhône: A red wine with a range of aromas, from fruity to spicy.
  • Pastis: A licorice-flavored aperitif typically served with water.

Where to Stay in Vaucluse: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Vaucluse offers a variety of accommodations to fit any budget and preference. Some of the best options include:

  • La Mirande: A luxurious 5-star hotel in Avignon with elegant rooms and an exceptional restaurant.
  • Château de Mazan: A beautiful restored 18th-century castle turned hotel, offering tranquil gardens and a swimming pool.
  • Mas des Herbes Blanches: A 4-star hotel in Joucas with stunning views of the Luberon Mountains and an outdoor pool.
  • La Maison Sarrasine: A charming guesthouse in Vaison-la-Romaine with lovely gardens and a pool.

What to Buy in Vaucluse: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Lavender products: From soaps to sachets, Vaucluse is famous for its lavender products.
  • Olive oil and tapenade: The region produces some of the best olive oil in France, along with flavorful tapenade.
  • Pottery: The town of Moustiers-Sainte-Marie is known for its intricate pottery.
  • Wine: Take home a bottle of your favorite Côtes du Rhône or Châteauneuf-du-Pape wine.

Local Culture and Customs of Vaucluse

  • French language: While English is widely spoken in tourist areas, locals in Vaucluse primarily speak French.
  • Dining etiquette: It is common to wait for everyone to be served before starting to eat. And don’t forget to say “bon appétit!” before digging in.
  • Tipping: Tipping is not mandatory in France, but rounding up the bill is appreciated.
  • Attire: Dress for comfort and practicality, especially if you plan on hiking or biking. Dressing up is not necessary in most places.

Best Time to Visit Vaucluse

The best time to visit Vaucluse is during the shoulder seasons of spring and fall when the crowds are thinner, and the weather is mild. Summer (June to August) is the peak season with high temperatures and large crowds, while winter (December to February) can be chilly and rainy.

Do’s and Don’ts of Vaucluse

Do:

  • Try the local cuisine: Sample the traditional dishes of Vaucluse and indulge in the local wine.
  • Take a hot air balloon ride: Experience Vaucluse’s stunning scenery from above.
  • Visit smaller towns: Venture beyond the tourist hotspots and explore the charming towns and villages of the region.
  • Bring sunscreen: Protect your skin from the strong Mediterranean sun.

Don’t:

  • Forget to dress appropriately: Dress for the weather and activities. Avoid overly revealing clothing when visiting religious sites and other cultural attractions.
  • Skip the museums: Vaucluse has a rich cultural heritage that is best explored through its museums and historical attractions.
  • Over-tip: Tipping is not mandatory in France, and leaving excessive tips may be viewed as impolite.
  • Lose your belongings: Be aware of pickpockets in crowded areas and keep your belongings close to you.

Safety and Health

Safety in Vaucluse

Vaucluse is a safe destination for travelers, with a low crime rate. However, it’s always important to take precautions, such as keeping an eye on your belongings and avoiding deserted areas at night.

Health in Vaucluse

There are no major health threats in Vaucluse. However, it’s always a good idea to carry a travel insurance policy that covers medical expenses and emergency evacuations, especially if you plan on engaging in outdoor activities.

Getting to Vaucluse: Transportation Options and Logistics

Vaucluse is easily accessible from several major cities and airports in the region.

Airports Near Vaucluse

  • Avignon-Provence Airport (AVN): Located just 8 km southeast of Avignon, this airport offers flights to and from several European cities.
  • Marseille Provence Airport (MRS): Located around 70 km south of Vaucluse, this airport offers international and domestic flights.

Bus Stations Near Vaucluse

  • Avignon Bus Station (Gare Routière Avignon): Located in the city center, this station offers connections to cities throughout France and Europe.
  • Cavaillon Bus Station: This regional bus station provides direct connections to several towns in Vaucluse and neighboring regions.

Other Options

  • Train: The Avignon TGV station provides connections to several French and European cities.
  • Car rental: Renting a car is a convenient way to explore Vaucluse and the surrounding area.

How to Get Around in Vaucluse

The most convenient way to get around Vaucluse is by car. Rental cars are available at the airports and major towns. Alternatively, taxis and buses offer connections to many of the popular areas and attractions.

Where to Go Next from Vaucluse: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Aix-en-Provence: A picturesque town known for its colorful markets, mansions, and galleries.
  • Arles: A historic town with well-preserved Roman ruins and a vibrant arts scene.
  • Marseille: A bustling port city with a rich history, culture, and delicious food.
  • Nîmes: A Roman city with stunning ancient ruins, including the amphitheater and Maison Carrée.

Conclusion

Vaucluse is a charming destination with plenty to offer travelers seeking history, culture, nature, and delicious cuisine. With its picturesque towns, stunning natural landscapes, and world-renowned wine, Vaucluse is not to be missed. Whether you prefer outdoor activities, cultural attractions, or gourmet cuisine, Vaucluse has something for everyone. Follow this comprehensive travel guide to make the most of your trip to this beautiful region of Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur.

Pont Saint-Benezet (the Pont d'Avignon of song) Pont Saint-Benezet (the Pont d'Avignon of song) A cooperative wine cellar in the village of Bonnieux A cooperative wine cellar in the village of Bonnieux Papeton d'aubergine with asparagus Papeton d'aubergine with asparagus


    Carpentras
    Cavaillon
    L'Isle-sur-la-Sorgue
    Lourmarin
    Mont Ventoux
    Orange
    Vaison-la-Romaine