Charming villages, narrow streets and centuries-old mountains characterize the Vaucluse, a department in the Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur region. The department got its name from the famous and beautiful source Fontaine de Vaucluse. It is remarkable that the water surge out of the ground. The Vaucluse is a region where large mountains dominate the landscape.
France is the oldest daughter of Rome, the Vaucluse was once one of the most beloved provinces of the Roman Empire. This can still be seen in the ancient theater and the triumphal arch in the city Orange. But also within the the city walls of Avignon, the monumental capital of the department. In this ancient city you will find impressive statues and historical monuments such as the Papal Palace and the cathedral Notre Dame des Doms. Famous for its international theater festival, which attracts more than 100,000 visitors each summer.
Huge vineyards stretch along the sloping banks of the Rhone and the surrounding hills. With the most famous appellation: Châteauneuf-du-Pape, literally translated to "The Pope's new castle". Wine is only one of the many delights of the Vaucluse. Olives, truffles, melons, cherries, basil, thyme, marjoram, oregano and lavender contribute to the typical Provençal scents and colors.
Those scents and colors are reflected in the landscape. Purple lavender fields, silver-gray green olive trees, ocher yellow earth, white limestone. And especially: this famous transparent blue sky that you can expierence in Provence. The Vaucluse is dominated by two impressive mountain ranges: the Mont Ventoux and the Luberon. The summit of Mont Ventoux (1,912 meters) is best known for the many charitable cycling events. Less well known is that Mont Ventoux is a protected bio-reserve with unique flora and fauna. The Luberon, with its summit of 1125 meters, separates the Vaucluse Alpes-de-Haute-Provence. We find typical mountain villages like Lourmarin, Gordes, Roussillon and Manosque.
The most green and fertile part of the Vaucluse is called Pays des Sorgues, named after the river with a thousand arms. At L'Ísle Sur La Sorgue the river splits into two, creating an exceptional oasis, also known as 'Venice of France'. Another piece of Italy. L'Isle Sur La Sorgue has become one of Europe's location for antique and curiosity shops.
Of course, the Vaucluse offers cheerful Provencal goods markets. The daily morning market of Carpentas, the night market of Velleron and the weekly market of Vaison-La-Romaine are recommended. Those who aspire to an active holiday will find many themed walking routes in the Vaucluse, five golf courses, various locations to climb up to the mountain walls or explore caverns and many cycling courses. After working, it is good to rest. With a rosé on the attractive terrace of a holiday home in the Vaucluse. In the Provencal sun.