L'Isle sur la Sorgue is one of those places in Provence that one has to see. This "island city" lies at the foot of the Vaucluse plateau in the plains of Comtat Venaissin.
Its colors are nature's green and the bright reflection of the water shining from the several canals running through its center.
The river Sorgue surrounds the city as if to hug it.
Walking along the canals you will notice how they run between the narrow ancient streets.
There are little bridges to cross and great wheels to look at with mossy blades turning in the river.
1 kilometer from the city is the "partage des eaux" where the river splits in two and forms a small pond where plane trees and green foliage abound.
Long ago, the inhabitants lived off crayfishing (up to 35,000 crayfish a day!), and the silk and paper industries used those great wheels in the river for manufacturing their local products.
History has left its mark on L'Isle sur la Sorgue and points out its importance in Comtat Venaissin in the 14thc. The Collegiate church Notre Dame des Anges has an exceptional Baroque interior and the 18th c. hospital pharmacy boasts a rare collection of Moustiers faience.
Also, magnificent mansions have been converted into art galleries, in particular the famous Maison René Char - Hotel Donadeï de Campredon (18thc.), now a museum exhibiting such great artists as Miro, Mauguin or Dufy and a display area dedicated to René Char.
Antique lovers and art collectors will be gratified by the nearly 300 permanent antique dealers and second hand shops here.
L'Isle sur la Sorgue hosts antiques' fairs at Easter and over the August 15th holiday that have given a worldwide reputation to this small city. More than 500 antique dealers and second hand dealers gather here to show their treasures to customers from all over the world.
This city is truly worth the trip! But just a suggestion: leave your car in the parking lot provided, and stroll around the town -slowly taking in the atmosphere and letting yourself be captured by its charms.
Hotels de l'Isle sur Sorgue
L'Isle sur la Sorgue
