Monteux

Article updated in August 2024 following a new visit to the village.

Discover the village of Monteux in Vaucluse

Monteux is a large village that spreads out across the fertile plain surrounding Carpentras. The heart of the ancient village of Monteux is enclosed within its 14th-century fortified ramparts.

The old center of Monteux

Enter through the Porte Neuve or Porte d'Avignon, the only remaining vestiges of the town's ramparts, then wander through the narrow streets and alleys of the old town. The Porte Neuve is a listed historic monument, and in the 14th century served as the seat of the city council, which dispensed justice.

Notre Dame de Nazareth church

This leads to rue Gaston Gonnet, where a few stores still liven up the old quarter. A few steps away, you'll see the Notre Dame de Nazareth church, in Gothic style, recently restored and listed as a historic monument. Curious visitors can take the right-hand side of the church to the foot of the Clémentine tower, which dominates the village at a height of 28 metres.

The Clementine Tower

This square tower is the keep of the former Château de Monteux, built in the 12th century as one of Pope Clement V's residences. It is the only building in the old town to have survived the fire of 1415.

The walk ends at the Porte d'Orange, which opens onto the courtyard that encircles the village, where you'll find cafés and restaurants for refreshments or a quick bite to eat. Until the 19th century, Monteux was essentially an agricultural village.

The Monteux market

A few farmers have resisted the competition to offer quality local fruit and vegetables at the market. Tomatoes, melons, strawberries, apples, peaches, leeks and peppers still taste good here! The farmers' market takes place every Wednesday and Saturday morning on the Place du Marché (see our map).

Monteux fireworks

Monteux is also renowned for the quality of its fireworks: every year on Saint Jean's Day (the last weekend in August), you can admire a grand 45-minute fireworks display, the only one of its kind in France. Beware: the show attracts huge crowds, making it difficult to get around and park (plan to be there in the afternoon, as car access is closed at 5 p.m.). The quality of the show varies from year to year. Monteux was home to the famous Ruggieri company (leading manufacturer of fireworks) until 1992. From the mid-19th century onwards, Ruggieri's establishments employed a large part of the population of Monteux. It was this activity that made Monteux the capital of fireworks.

Parc Spirou and Wave Island: water parks and attractions

Monteux is famous for its amusement parks, which attract large crowds. On the shores of Lake Monteux, Parc Spirou (attractions, roller coasters, children's games...) and Wave Island (water park, huge slides) are two of Provence's most popular parks. We recommend visiting the village in the morning, having lunch there and spending the afternoon with the family in one of these beautiful leisure parks.

Lake Monteux

In addition to the amusement parks mentioned above, Lac de Monteux is also a refreshing haven for hiking, kayaking, paddling and fishing enthusiasts. It's a great place to spend time with family and friends.

Our map of Monteux

To find your way around Monteux, you can use our interactive map of the village. You'll find all the village's points of interest (town hall, church, lake...) as well as our accommodation recommendations. This will help you locate them before you book your stay in Monteux.