Jewel of Roman Provence as its name indicates, Vaison la Romaine is a must to visit in the Haut Vaucluse.
The city, higthly interesting from an archeological point of view, is surrounded by the river Ouveze.
On the right bank are two different quarters: the site of the ancient Roman colony and the modern town. Archeological digs have revealed immense, luxurious, and elaborate Gallo Roman homes.
There were floors in mosaics, marble, marquetry, and statues, ponds, atriums, and private thermal baths, all showing life in Roman times..
One learns that every day life was already very refined and that the Romans attached great importance to artistic creation...
A detailed plan ot the digs of Puyman and Villasse can be procured at the Tourist Office.
On the left bank on top of a rocky spur is the Haute-Ville, originating in the 13thc.
In Medieval times the villagers settled in the heights at the foot of the castle to protect themselves from robbers and invasion.
Today the castle is in ruins, but Haute-Ville is a picturesque spot to visit.
There are little shady squares, ancient doorways, and narrow cobbled streets dotted with superb fountains or lined by the fagades of 16th and 18thc. mansions.
Even if the climb to the top of Haute-Ville seems too steep, you will be rewarded for your efforts by the wonderful view of Vaison and its surroundings.
Here, in the sumptuous decor of Mont Ventoux, and the famous mountains Dentelles de Montmirail, one can journey through 20 centuries of the life of Comtat Venaissin and Provence !
What to see:
Gallo-Roman times: Puyman and La Villasse archeological sites, 17m. wide Roman bridge. Romanesque times: Notre Dame de Nazareth Cathedral and its cloister (between 6th and 13thc.). St. Quenin Chapel with its sculptures. Medieval times : Haute-Ville and its 1464 church.
The Comtadin costume museum
Leisure activities:
Tuesday morning market.
Horseback riding. Hiking. Mountain biking. Electric bikes rentals by Sun E Bike with road book on carefully selected itineraries.
At the bend of an alley, perched on the hillside of the Historic high-town
From the greenery of the patio, to the arched room privacy, to the freshness of the cuisine and the room cosiness
Bed & breakfast - 5 charming guest rooms including 2 suites in a private mansion tastefully decorated - Terraces - Located in the middle of the mediaval city of Vaison
Bed & breakfast - 5 spacious charming guest rooms 2/4 pers. in a house in the center of Vaison and 500m from the Roman Theatre - Air conditioning - Swimming Pool
Spacious studios and apartments with swimming pool and jacuzzi in a boutique hotel with restaurant, shaded patio and garden, a haven of peace in the heart of the medieval city.