carte Gargas

How long does it take to visit Gargas?

A full day will allow you to discover the essentials of Gargas without rushing. Allow 3 to 4 hours to visit the major sites and fully enjoy the Provençal atmosphere.

For the Bruoux Mines, allow 1.5 hours for the mandatory guided tour. Tours depart at 10:30 a.m., 11:30 a.m., 2:30 p.m., 3:30 p.m., and 4:30 p.m. The Lustrerie Mathieu takes about 1 hour to visit on your own.

If you want to explore the surrounding area, an extra half-day is ideal. The GR6 hiking trails cross the town and offer beautiful views of the Vaucluse mountains.

A quick 2-3 hour visit is possible if you focus on one main site and a stroll through the village.

Where can I download a map of Gargas in PDF format?

You can download a detailed map of Gargas for free by clicking on the “Download map” button above our interactive map. This handy PDF map will accompany you during your visit.

This map includes all points of interest, hiking trails, and practical information. You can print it before you leave or view it directly on your smartphone.

The map also shows available parking and access to various tourist sites. It is the ideal tool for optimizing your visit.

Where is the tourist office?

The Pays d'Apt Luberon Intercommunal Tourist Office is located at 788 Avenue Victor Hugo in Apt, just 4 km from Gargas. You can contact them on +33 (0)4 90 74 03 18.

This office serves the entire region and will provide you with all the practical information you need for your stay. Opening hours are Monday to Thursday from 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. and from 2:00 p.m. to 5:30 p.m., and Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. and from 2:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.

For questions specific to Gargas, the town hall is located at 4 Place du Château and can be reached at +33 (0)4 90 74 12 70. The mayor is available by appointment on Wednesday mornings.

The office team will be happy to advise you on seasonal activities and local events during your visit.

What are the must-see places?

The Bruoux Mines: a unique underground journey

The Bruoux Mines are the must-see site in Gargas, with their 40 km of underground galleries dug between 1880 and 1950. This underground cathedral immerses you in the history of ochre mining.

The one-hour guided tour takes you through 650 meters of galleries with impressive vaults, 12 to 15 meters high. Please note: the temperature is a constant 10°C, so bring warm clothing even in summer!

Practical information:

• Adult price: €9.50, child: €7.50, free for children under 6

• Open daily from March 20 to October 31

• Reservations recommended at +33 (0)4 90 06 22 59

La Lustrerie Mathieu: the art of light

Discover the Mathieu Museum with its exceptional collection of over 250 light fixtures from the 15th to the 21st century. This former ochre factory now houses workshops where the world's most beautiful chandeliers are restored.

You can choose between a free self-guided tour from Monday to Thursday from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. and from 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m., or a guided tour (reservation required) for a fee. The guided tour costs €10 per person and lasts a maximum of 1.5 hours.

The workshops restore chandeliers from prestigious monuments such as the Palace of Versailles and Notre-Dame de Paris. A unique cultural experience awaits you in this magical place.

Saint-Denis Church: religious heritage

The 17th-century Saint-Denis Church features a remarkable Romanesque façade, a cul-de-four nave, and a Baroque altar with period tapestries. This historic monument bears witness to Gargas' rich religious past.

Located at the foot of the hill, it contrasts beautifully with the ochre colors of the surrounding landscape. The interior is worth a visit for its works of art and harmonious architecture.

Chapel of Sainte-Radegonde and panorama

At the top of the hill of Perréal, discover the remains of a Roman oppidum and a 16th-century chapel. This highest point offers a 360° view of the Pays d'Apt, from the Luberon to the Monts de Vaucluse.

The climb is well worth the effort for this exceptional panorama. It is the ideal place to understand the geography of the region and take some magnificent souvenir photos.

How to get to Gargas?

By car

Gargas is located at the intersection of the RD 4 road to Murs, the RD 83 to Villars, the RD 101 to Apt, and the RD 104 to Roussillon. From Avignon, it's a 45-minute drive via the D900 and then the D83.

From Marseille, take the A7 then the A51 towards Apt, which takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes. Free parking is available near the main tourist sites.

The town is easily accessible from the region's major cities. The roads are well maintained and tourist signs guide you efficiently.

By public transport

ZOU! Proximité buses connect Avignon to Gargas with a change in Apt. The journey takes about 1 hour from Avignon. From Apt, the direct bus takes only 9 minutes.

Services operate all year round with frequencies varying according to the season. Check the timetables on the ZOU! website to plan your trip.

This economical and eco-friendly option is ideal for visiting without a car.

What are the best hotels in Gargas?

The Coquillade Provence - Relais & Châteaux hotel majestically overlooks the region from its hilltop location in the heart of a 13th-century wine-growing village. This 5-star establishment offers 63 rooms and suites in an exceptional setting with a spa, swimming pools, and gourmet restaurants. Guests particularly appreciate the attentive staff, high-quality facilities, and prime location. The complex perfectly combines modern luxury and Provençal authenticity, offering an unforgettable experience in the heart of the Luberon's vineyards and lavender fields.

Also read to help you plan your stay in Gargas:

• visit Gargas

• the best bed and breakfasts in Gargas