Provence classics
Gordes, Fontaine de Vaucluse, Isle sur la Sorgue, Avignon, Saint Rémy
Get right in the heart of Provencal culture by discovering one of the best known Provencal villages: Gordes. We will then join Fontaine de Vaucluse where the mysterious Sorgue River flows out of the depths, before joining Avignon through the antiquaire’s village, l’Isle sur la Sorgue. After having lunch on the place de l’horloge in Avignon, admire the Palais des Papes and the St Bénézet Bridge, we will also visit the pleasant town of St Rémy and its ancient roman ruins.Download the itinerary: Provence classics
Gordes
Its houses of white and grey stone rise up in a spiral around the rock where the village is set. At the very top are the church and the castle which face out onto the hills of the Luberon. You will discover here and there beautiful old doorways, arcades and walls of flat stone perfectly restored.
Saint Rémy
Surrounded by lush green perfumed valleys, its ancient streets are lined with beautifully restored old houses... you will soon be seduced by Saint Remy’s charm! You will discover fantastic old fountains, shady squares, picturesque restaurants and elegant boutiques. Vincent Van Gogh produced more than 150 paintings of the countryside surrounding Saint Rémy de Provence.
Avignon
City of history and city of theatre, the fortified city of Avignon will not leave you in different. Avignon architecture is marked by papal history. Going through any of the seven doors of the superbly preserved walls one discovers the city of the Popes. The Palace of the Popes built in the 14th century overlooks a lively square.Fontaine de Vaucluse
The success of the village is essentially due to the impressive spring which flows out of the 230 m high cliff. Fontaine de Vaucluse inspired the poets Frédéric Mistral and François Pétrarque. They were seduced by the beauty of the place and enchanted by walks along the verdant banks of the River Sorgue.
Isle sur la Sorgue
Its colours are nature's green and the bright reflection of the water shining from the several canals running through its centre. Antique lovers and art collectors will be gratified by the nearly 300 permanent antique dealers. 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.
Restaurants recommended
Gastronomic restaurants
Christian Etienne
Situated next to the Palace of the Popes in a 13th century house. The best Chateauneuf du Pape wines for your Provençal meal.
Best Quality for reasonable prices
“Chez Philip” in Fontaine de Vaucluse
It will be a real refreshing place to have a good French meal. Along the Sorgue River, you should enjoy the regional food.
Suggestion for your day
The Abbey of Senanque
Whatever you do, you must not miss the fabulous Abbey of Senanque hidden in the green valley. Cistercian monks still live there producing honey, lavender essence, and liqueurs. The whole twelfth century edifice is open for visits.
