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The natural sites of the Vaucluse
From terraced vineyards on the slopes of the Dentelles de Montmirail mountains, to the Nesque Gorge, not forgetting Fontaine de Vaucluse, explore the varied landscapes of the Vaucluse, within a 40km radius of your Slow Provence holiday property...
Fontaine de Vaucluse
From the bottom of the "Vallis Clausa" (or Closed Valley, which gave Vaucluse its name), the River Sorgue springs mysteriously from the depths of the Earth... With a flow of 630 million cubic metres a year, it is the most productive spring in Europe. Cool and quiet in winter and summer, surging and fast-flowing in spring and autumn, the Fontaine spring is a true wonder of nature that never ceases to amaze.
Some information about the Fontaine abyss: Official web site
Other sights not to be missed: the remains of the 14th-century castle, the crafts gallery (makers of Nativity figures or "santonniers", glass blowers, etc.), the Paper Museum, etc.
Things to do: kayaking down the Sorgue river Canoë Evasion
Find out more : Office de Tourisme des Pays de la Sorgue-EN
The Nesque Gorge
Listed as a "Biosphere Reserve" by Unesco, the Nesque Gorge stretches along 12km between the villages of Villes sur Auzon and Monieux.
The Nesque Gorge tourist route is a fantastic cycling trail.
On foot, you can explore the gorge and discover the 12th-century troglodyte chapel, or hike along the Mur de la Peste, erected in 1721 with the hope of protecting the Comtat Venaissin from the plague.
Monieux Tourist Office : Official web site Monieux
Circuit for visiting the gorge by bike : Official web site provence byking
The Dentelles de Montmirail
The Massif of the Dentelles de Montmirail is known for its climbing, hiking and exceptional wines. Both amateur and expert climbers relish the challenge of the sheer mountain faces, whilst enjoying the panoramic views. Walkers are also well-catered for with its three parallel mountain chains. It is the home of the famous Beaumes de Venise, Vacqueyras and Gigondas vintages !
More about the Dentelles de Montmirail : Web site Dentelles de Montmirail