Bollène

Last update on Feb 21, 2026

53 km from Avignon and 20 km from Orange. Bollene Exit on A7.

Bollene is strategically situated in the Rhone Valley, at the crossroads of four departements : Vaucluse, Drome, Ardeche and Gard.
Symbolising the gateway of Provence, Bollene is blessed with plenty of sunshine (the Mistral wind also...) and the locals speak with a lilting accent...

Bollene is an ancient city with a rich history that has witnessed the passing of several civilisations.
The most well-known is the troglodyte of Barry (one of the most important in French history). By visiting it, you will discover the ingenuity of the inhabitants who carved their house and its interior fittings directly on the rock.

In the old town of Bollene, you can see lovely old doors, several "hotels particuliers" (private mansions) and charming squares, so typical of Provence.
At the Couvent des Ursulines you will discover rows of arches, huge stairways and an ancient chapel.

From the high-point of the village and the beautiful gardens which surround the Collegiale St Martin, you can admire the view of the Cevennes, la Vallee du Rhone and the old houses... as well as the Tricastin nuclear power plant and the Andre Blondel hydro-electricity factory!

A number of activities help you to appreciate the surroundings: the marked walking tracks on the "plateau du site de Barri", excursions in the Ardeche gorges, visits to the chateaux in the Comtat Venaissin or the cotes du Rhone wine trail.

What to see

Barry troglodyte village.
Collegiale St Martin 11th, 14th and 15th century
Church. 17th century hotels particuliers.
Flutes of the world museum.

Things to do

Monday morning market.
"Brocante" or jumble sale: the second Saturday of the month.
Hiking and cycling. Swimming pool, tennis, wind surfing, sailing, fishing, petanque.
Exhibitions, cultural activities and music festivals.