Haut Vaucluse
Discover Haut Vaucluse: all our advice
Do you dream of exploring the real Provence, far from the beaten track? The Haut Vaucluse awaits you! This exceptional region, located at the foot of the majestic Mont Ventoux, is full of little-known treasures. You will discover hilltop villages such as Séguret and Entrechaux, renowned vineyards in Gigondas, and an impressive Roman heritage in Vaison-la-Romaine.
The wine route will take you through breathtaking landscapes. Don't miss the local markets where local products will delight your taste buds. For an unforgettable stay, allow at least three days to explore this region rich in history and flavors.
Haut Vaucluse offers activities for everyone: hiking in the Ventoux, discovering the historical heritage, or simply relaxing among the lavender fields. Whether you are looking for a charming bed and breakfast or a campsite surrounded by nature, you will find what you are looking for here.
The unmissable villages of Haut Vaucluse
Are you looking for the most beautiful villages in Haut Vaucluse? Start with Vaison-la-Romaine, a veritable open-air museum. The upper and lower towns are connected by a thousand-year-old Roman bridge. Don't miss the medieval house and the Gallo-Roman sites that make up the identity of this place steeped in history.
A few kilometers away, Séguret will charm you with its cobbled streets and stone houses. This hilltop village, ranked among the most beautiful in France, offers a breathtaking view of the vineyards. Its fountains and shady squares invite you to take a refreshing break.
For wine lovers, Châteauneuf-du-Pape is a must. It is not only the name of a grand cru, but also that of a village dominated by the remains of the popes' castle. Tastings in the local cellars will introduce you to the region's excellent wines.
Nestled at the foot of the Dentelles de Montmirail, Gigondas combines heritage and exceptional terroir. Its narrow streets climb up to the church of Saint-Catherine. The many cellars offer tastings of their renowned wines. The village square, with its fountain and plane trees, is perfect for a lunch break.
Don't miss Cairanne, less well known but just as charming. This fortified village offers a spectacular panorama from its ramparts. Its wine estates produce wines that are gaining in notoriety. The small local craft shops are worth a visit.
For a complete immersion, visit Le Barroux and its imposing medieval castle. Its impressive silhouette dominates the Comtat valley.
Entrechaux, perched on its rocky outcrop, preserves the remains of a medieval fortress. This small village offers exceptional panoramic views over the Ouvèze valley and Mont Ventoux. Its hiking trails allow you to explore the surrounding area in a preserved natural setting.
Each village has its own character and deserves at least a few hours of exploration. Plan to stay in one of them to get the full experience and enjoy the atmosphere in the evening, when the day tourists have left.
Where to sleep in Haut Vaucluse?
For your vacation in northern Vaucluse, we have selected the best accommodations in the area. We update this selection every year. Click on the type of accommodation you are looking for to discover our favorites:
The best activities in Haut Vaucluse
First of all, here is a selection of activities with great local guides that we have selected for you:
Wondering how to fill your days in Haut Vaucluse? The options are many and varied. Hiking is the region's flagship activity. The marked trails of Mont Ventoux offer routes for all levels. From beginners to experienced hikers, there is something for everyone on these scenic paths.
Mountain bikers are not forgotten. The region has circuits suitable for all levels of ability. The trails wind their way between vineyards and oak forests. The descent of the Ventoux remains the most sought-after experience for mountain bikers who come from all over the world.
Did you know that you can ski in the Vaucluse? The resort of Mont Serein offers downhill and cross-country skiing in winter. This surprising activity in Provence attracts many vacationers. The rates are more affordable than in the large alpine resorts.
Wine tourism occupies a central place in the Haut Vaucluse. The wine estates of Gigondas, Vacqueyras and Cairanne open their doors to visitors. Wine tasting is often accompanied by a visit to the cellars and explanations of the production methods. Each estate offers a personalized approach to wine discovery.
In July, the lavender fields transform the landscape into impressive purple paintings. This bloom attracts photographers from all over the world. The lavender route takes you through breathtaking panoramas. Essential oil extraction can be visited in several local distilleries.
The historical heritage can be discovered through fascinating guided tours. The Roman sites of Vaison-la-Romaine bear witness to the importance of the region in Antiquity. The ancient theater of Orange, a World Heritage Site, still hosts shows. The Gallo-Roman remains reveal the historical richness of the territory.
The cultural life is particularly lively during the summer period. Music, theater and dance festivals are multiplying in the villages. The Chorégies d'Orange are the most prestigious event. The village squares are transformed into open-air stages for a variety of shows.
The local gastronomy deserves attention. The Provençal markets are full of exceptional local products. The black truffle, the diamond of local cuisine, is celebrated at dedicated festivals in winter. The restaurants offer menus showcasing Mediterranean flavors.
For an original experience, try these must-do activities:
Climbing Mont Ventoux (on foot or by bike)
Visiting wine cellars with tastings
Discovering the Provençal markets
Hiking in the Dentelles de Montmirail
Summer festivals in the hilltop villages
Discovering the fields of lavender in bloom
Between nature, culture and gastronomy, there is something to satisfy everyone's curiosity. The tourist office in Vaison-la-Romaine provides detailed information on all these activities.
Don't hesitate to get off the beaten track to discover the authentic soul of this Provençal land. The most memorable experiences often arise from encounters with the locals and the discovery of little-known places. The beauty of Haut Vaucluse is fully revealed to those who take the time to explore it.
Cultural events not to be missed in Haut Vaucluse
Haut Vaucluse vibrates all year round to the rhythm of a rich and varied cultural program. The summer is when the majority of the major events are concentrated, with a particularly dense offering. Festivals of all kinds are held in all the villages, transforming the region into an open-air artistic stage.
The Chorégies d'Orange is the highlight of the summer season. This opera festival, one of the oldest in France, attracts spectators from all over the world. The ancient theater of Orange provides an exceptional setting for operas and symphony concerts. The high-level program means you should reserve your seats several months in advance.
Vaison-la-Romaine is not to be outdone with its summer festivals. Dance, theater and music take over the heritage sites of the Roman city. The performances often take place in the ancient theater, offering exceptional acoustics. International artists rub shoulders with local talent in a festive and friendly atmosphere.
The Festival des Nuits de l'Enclave in Valréas offers a quality theater program. Contemporary and classical plays are performed in various heritage sites. The actors sometimes take over the squares and streets for surprising performances. This festival attracts a loyal audience of drama lovers.
For music lovers, the Festival des Musicales du Luberon extends its territory to Haut Vaucluse. Romanesque churches and castles host classical and baroque concerts. The chosen venues offer exceptional acoustics that enhance the performances. The quality of the program attracts demanding music lovers.
But cultural life doesn't stop outside the summer season. The Haut Vaucluse village drama center puts on shows all year round. Contemporary creations sit alongside classical works in an eclectic program. The villages take turns to host these events, which inject dynamism into local life.
Visual arts enthusiasts will appreciate the numerous temporary exhibitions. Contemporary art spaces and galleries present works by regional and international artists. Old chapels and heritage sites are often transformed into exhibition spaces. This meeting of heritage and contemporary creation creates interesting dialogues.
Provençal culture is fully expressed during traditional festivals. Votive festivals, with their balls and pétanque competitions, bring the villages to life. Traditional dance and music performances perpetuate the local intangible heritage. These events allow you to discover the deep soul of Provence. Remember to book your tickets in advance for the most popular events.
To keep up to date with the cultural events, consult the tourist offices, which have all the latest information. They can advise you according to your tastes and the period of your stay. Many hotels and bed and breakfasts also offer a reservation service for these events.
How to get to Haut Vaucluse?
Getting to Haut Vaucluse is easier than you might think. The region is well served, particularly by road transport. The A7 motorway, nicknamed the Autoroute du Soleil (Sunshine Motorway), passes nearby and has several convenient exits. The Orange, Bollène and Montélimar exits are the most recommended for accessing the region.
From Paris, allow about 7 hours by car. The most direct route is via the A6 and then the A7. There are numerous, well-equipped rest areas along the way. Remember to take regular breaks to fully enjoy your arrival in Provence.
From Lyon, access is even quicker. In about 2 hours 30 minutes, you will reach the first municipalities of Haut Vaucluse. The N7 trunk road can be a picturesque alternative to the motorway. This famous vacation route crosses magnificent landscapes and pretty villages.
If you are coming from the south, Marseille is about 1.5 hours' drive away. The A7 and then the D977 will take you directly to Vaison-la-Romaine, considered the capital of Haut Vaucluse. Access is also facilitated by a good network of well-maintained departmental roads.
For travelers who prefer the train, there are several stations serving the region. The Avignon TGV station is the main rail gateway. From Paris, it takes less than 3 hours by TGV. This station is well served, with more than 30 TGV trains a day in high season.
The stations at Orange and Carpentras are also good access points. TER connections allow you to reach them from Avignon. These small stations have the advantage of being closer to certain villages in Haut Vaucluse. Waiting times are generally shorter than in Avignon.
Once there, the car remains the most practical means of transport. The villages are scattered and public transport is limited. Car rental is possible at all the stations mentioned. Compare the offers because the rates can vary considerably depending on the agency.
Departmental bus routes exist but offer a limited service. Route 4 runs from Avignon to Vaison-la-Romaine via Orange. Route 11 serves the Carpentras-Malaucène route. These buses mainly run on weekdays and have a reduced timetable at weekends.
Once you are there, don't hesitate to ask the tourist offices for advice. They provide detailed maps and can suggest itineraries tailored to your interests. Their advice on the most picturesque and least frequented routes can transform your experience of discovering the region.
There you have it, we hope you found this article useful and that it makes you want to come and spend a wonderful vacation in Haut Vaucluse!