Tourism in Vaucluse: your activity guide
The Vaucluse, a land of light between the Rhône and Ventoux, is calling you! Looking for a total escape? Looking for authenticity? You’ve come to the right place. This department in south-east France is a concentrate of raw Provence that leaves no one indifferent. Tempted by tourism in the Vaucluse? A stay at our campsite is the best way to discover the nuggets of the Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur region.
Discover all the activities in the Vaucluse
Why visit Vaucluse? The essentials at a glance
- Stroll throughAvignon’ s historic streets and admire its UNESCO-listed heritage.
- Step back in time in Orange and Vaison-la-Romaine, between Roman remains and Provencal markets.
- Soar to the heights of Mont Ventoux and the Dentelles de Montmirail.
- Enjoy the freshness of L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue and Fontaine-de-Vaucluse.
- Enjoy the wines and landscapes of Châteauneuf-du-Pape.
Avigon
Just 56 km from your campsite in the Vaucluse, the City of the Popes is waiting to welcome you. It’s a must-see for anyone visiting this département!
Focus on history and heritage
Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site,Avignon ‘s historic center is home to some famous monuments. The Palais des Papes, Europe’s largest Gothic palace, impresses with its monumental dimensions and its major role in the history of Christianity in the XIVᵉ century.
Just a stone’s throw away, the famous Pont Saint-Bénézet, world-famous for the song “Sur le pont d’Avignon”, offers a unique walk over the Rhône. Today, it’s one of the city’s most photographed landmarks.
For an exceptional panoramic view, climb up to the Rocher des Doms. This perched garden is a superb vantage point overlooking the river and Villeneuve-lez-Avignon.
Our practical advice
- For easy, stress-free access, choose the Île Piot parking lot. Located on the banks of the Rhône, it offers a free shuttle (or a short walk) to the ramparts of the historic center.
- TheAvignon City Pass is a great way to discover the main monuments and museums at a reduced rate.
Orange and Vaison-la-Romaine
Step back in time and discover the northern Vaucluse. Orange is 27 km from our accommodation and Vaison-la-Romaine around 29 km. Travel back to the heart of Roman antiquity in these two towns. Along the way, don’t miss the Forteresse de Mornas (16 km from the campsite), one of Vaucluse’s castles, offering lively medieval tours from its clifftop.
Theaters and Roman remains
In Orange, the Théâtre Antique, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is one of the best-preserved Roman theaters in the world. Its monumental stage wall and remarkable acoustics make it an exceptional site, still used today for prestigious shows such as the Chorégies.
In Vaison-la-Romaine, stroll through the vast Gallo-Roman quarters (Puymin and La Villasse), amidst villas, thermal baths and mosaics, to discover the daily life of ancient inhabitants. Lovers of old stones will also appreciate the climb up to the medieval town, dominated by the ruins of the castle of the Counts of Toulouse, and graced by a superb panorama of the Ouvèze valley.
The Vaison-la-Romaine market
In Vaison, don’t miss the Tuesday morning market, reputed to be one of the finest and oldest in the region. Local produce, colorful stalls and a Provencal ambience make this a not-to-be-missed event. It’s one of the most colorful and flavorful things to do in the Vaucluse.
Mont Ventoux and the Dentelles de Montmirail
Sport and views
Nicknamed the Giant of Provence, Mont Ventoux dominates the landscape from the top of its 1,910 meters. Located around 60 km from our accommodation, it is a Mecca for cycling and hiking, made famous by the legendary stages of the Tour de France. From the summit, panoramic views extend over the Vaucluse, the Alps and, on clear days, as far as the Mediterranean.
Around 35 km from our establishment, you can also discover the Dentelles de Montmirail, spectacular rock formations carved out by erosion. This massif provides a unique backdrop for rock climbing. It overlooks the famous vineyards of Gigondas and Beaumes-de-Venise.
Our tip: a stopover in the Châteauneuf-du-Pape vineyards on the way back will allow you to discover one of the Rhône Valley‘s most prestigious crus.
Good to know for the ascent
In summer, we recommend setting off early in the morning to avoid the heat and sometimes windy conditions at the summit.
Please note: the Mont Ventoux summit road is generally closed from November to April, with variable reopening in spring depending on weather conditions.
Isle-sur-la-Sorgue and Fontaine-de-Vaucluse
Approximately 57 km from your mobile home, discover two sites in the Vaucluse region, renowned for their fresh, riverside scenery.
L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue
Known as the Venice of the Comtadine, Isle-sur-la-Sorgue’ s canals, paddlewheels and numerous antique stores make it a must-see destination in Provence.
Practical tip: the famous Sunday morning market is magnificent but very busy. For a more leisurely stroll along the canals, opt for a weekday visit.
Fontaine-de-Vaucluse
It is home to a spectacular spring, considered Europe’s largest resurgence, nestling at the bottom of an impressive rocky abyss.
Practical tip: to see the spring gush forth powerfully, the best time to visit is in spring or after heavy rain. In summer, the water level is lower, but the natural coolness of the site is a real blessing on hot days.
Want to visit the Vaucluse? Book your stay at La Simioune campsite in Bollène, your gateway to Provence.
