Cavaillon, Provence

The central town of the Luberon, most famous for producing melons

featured in Towns & villages Updated 29 June 2023

Cavaillon, as with many towns and villages in Provence, has a diverse cultural heritage and you don't have to walk far to come across its old town, a first century Roman arch, France's oldest Jewish synagogue, or to enjoy the views from the St Jaques hill that overlooks the town.

What most people know Cavaillon for though, is its melons. The melon harvest season is from mid-summer to the Autumn and the town hosts a festival in celebration of their favourite fruit in the middle of July. Most often eaten fresh, as a dessert or wrapped in prosciutto or local hams as an appetizer, puréed Cavaillon melon is also popular mixed with water and diced cucumber and served as a chilled soup.

Like many French towns, Cavaillon is fiercely proud of its local cuisine and in particular this delicacy, and in 1987 'The Knights of the Order of the Melon' was set up to promote and protect the fruit. All melons have to pass stringent quality controls and the majority are consumed locally rather than exported.

Sights & Attractions in Cavaillon

France's oldest synagogue can be found here, with its accompanying museum. It dates from around the 15th century and is well worth a visit.

Keeping on a religious theme the Cathédrale St Véran is also an impressive building to go and see. If you're up for a hike, stop off at the Chapelle St Jacques on the hill of the same name, for great views over the town below. The first century Roman arches make for a good photo opportunity too, and if you want to absorb more history there are a few museums dotted about the town.

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Events in Cavaillon

As well as the melon festival held around the end of June/beginning of July, Cavaillon also has a regular Monday morning market in the old town, a country music festival in May, and markets for local produce from April to October.

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Things to do in Cavaillon

If you've got a head for heights, then definitely give the via ferrata a go on the colline St Jacques. You can get there by following the path behind the tourist office. If being in a harness and teetering along cables and ladders isn't your cup of tea, then you can still enjoy the walk up to the top and take in the views.

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Dining in Cavaillon

Cavaillon has a good selection of restaurants, so whether you're looking for dining al fresco, fine dining surroundings, or grabbing a quick bite to eat there's something to suit pretty much every taste, including a few sushi restaurants.

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