Fontaine de Vaucluse
8 km from l'Isle sur la Sorgue, south of La Roque sur Pernes and 34 km east from Avignon.
Fontaine-de-Vaucluse, a pretty little village in Provence that lives up to its name
Fontaine de Vaucluse is truly one of the most visited places in the Vaucluse. In summer months, the streets are literally crowded and the souvenir shops come at you from all angles.
The source of the Sorgue gushes out here
If you're looking for calm walks down the charming village streets, try and come in the morning. The success of the village is essentially due to the impressive spring which flows out of the 230 m high cliff.
The most powerful source in France
This gigantic source is the most powerful on France and fifth in the world. 630 million cubic meters of water flow out every year. The emerald green calm summer waters become spectacular in the wet seasons, (automn and spring). 90 m³ of water per second spill into the bed of the River Sorgue.
A superb stretch of water for walking, kayaking and canoeing
In all seasons, secondary sources flow into the river to create an extremely beautiful shady pool, under the immense plane trees. Fontaine de Vaucluse gave its name to the departement.
Artists love Fontaine-de-Vaucluse and its caves
It inspired the poets Frederic Mistral, Francois Petrarque et Rene Char. They were seduced by the beauty of the place and enchanted by walks along the verdant banks of the River Sorgue.
What to see
Ruins of the XIV° Bishops of Cavaillon castle.
XI° Notre Dame de Saint Véran church, Roman style.
Remains of the Roman Canal on the R. Sorgue.
Petrarque Museum (in the italian poet's former residence, XIV°).
L'appel de la liberté musée d'histoire 1939-1945 (Resistance Museum).
Ecomusée du gouffre (Underwater Museum : Caves).
Ecomusee du santon et traditions provencales: Santon Museum.
Papes Crystal makers (hand blown crystal).
Paper Mill (hand made paper, XV° century techniques.
Leisure activities
Hiking. Swimming Pool (2 months in summer).
Fishing.
Concerts and seasonal events. Crafts.
Hotels
On the banks of the Sorgue River
Air-conditioned rooms & suites with satellite TV
Gourmet restaurant - Swimming pool - Free WiFi - Jacuzzi
Bed and breakfast
B&B Villa Chante Coucou offers bed and breakfast accommodation just a 3-minute walk from the centre of Fontaine-de-Vaucluse. It features a garden, 2 outdoor swimming pools and a terrace with sun loungers. Admire the view of the river and the château. The owner is very friendly!
Accomodations
Hotels.
Bed and breakfast.
Vacation rentals.
Your questions about the village of Fontaine
You have sent us many questions about the Fontaine spring and the village in general. Here are our answers to your most frequently asked questions.
How do I get to the Fontaine de Vaucluse chasm?
It's very simple: take the "Gouffre path", which is signposted throughout the village, and walk for about ten minutes. Don't hesitate to ask locals or tourists, the fountain chasm is a must-see in the village and everyone will be able to point it out to you.
When to go to the Vaucluse Fountain?
The spring at Fontaine-de-Vaucluse is at its most powerful and impressive in spring. You'll also avoid the summer crowds and heat. Spring is therefore the best time. Autumn is also a good time to enjoy the village without too many people. In summer, try to come as early as possible.
How deep is the Fontaine de Vaucluse?
The Sorgue springs from a siphon 308 metres deep (223 metres below sea level). It is a very deep spring, which explains the power of the phenomenon when it emerges, especially in Spring when the spring has a large flow.
When does the Fontaine de Vaucluse overflow?
The Fontaine de Vaucluse overflows mainly in winter and spring. However, it can overflow at any time of year after episodes of heavy rain. This is rarer in summer, of course.
Where can I park in Fontaine-de-Vaucluse?
The village attracts many visitors, so there are plenty of pay-and-display car parks in the village and near the source of the Sorgue and the lake. During the holiday season, it's a good idea to arrive early to avoid having to search too hard for a parking space.
When is the market in Fontaine-de-Vaucluse?
As far as we know, there is no weekly market in the pretty village of Fontaine, which is a shame. But we do recommend the market in Isle-sur-la-Sorgue, which takes place on Thursday and Sunday mornings and is only 8 km from Fontaine. It's a very pretty little town that you shouldn't miss either.
NEIGHBOURING TOWNS AND VILLAGES
Lagnes (5km), Saumane de Vaucluse (5 km) and L'Isle sur la Sorgue (8 km).