Cavaillon
The central town of the Luberon, most famous for producing melons
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.
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- Sights & Attractions in Cavaillon
- Dining in Cavaillon
- Events in Cavaillon
- Things to do in Cavaillon
- Cycling in Cavaillon
- Hiking in Cavaillon
- Yachts & Sailing in Cavaillon
- Watersports in Cavaillon
- Families in Cavaillon
- Nightlife in Cavaillon
- Villas in Cavaillon
- Holidays Rentals in Cavaillon
- Hotels in Cavaillon
- Campsites in Cavaillon
- How to get to Cavaillon
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.
Sights in Cavaillon
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Synagogue de Cavaillon
The synagogue in Cavaillon is no longer used as a place of worship, but it's on many people's "must visit" lists if you're in the area, thanks to its ornate decoration and fascinating history.
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Cavaillon Cathedral
From the outside you can't really tell what a beautiful cathedral this is, rich with carvings, gold leaf and painted walls, ceilings and archways.
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.
Restaurants in Cavaillon
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Maison Prevot Restaurant, Cavaillon
Family-owned restaurant nicely decorated with all sorts of local objects about melons. The chef embraces the melon which is what Cavallion is known for and has many creative dishes.
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Les Gerardies Restaurant, Cavaillon
Located in Cavaillon, the heart of Vaucluse, Les Gerardies welcomes you in a warm and friendly atmosphere with a bright and modern decor.
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L'Atelier l'Art des Mets Restaurant, Taillades
L'Atelier l'art des Mets in Taillades, is a new restaurant located on the road between Robion and Cavaillon near Provence Outillage.
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Carte Sur Table Restaurant, Cavaillon
Anthony and Pamela welcome you to the heart of the town of Cavaillon in Provence in the summer on a shaded terrace and the rest of the year in a warm and friendly room.
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.
Events in Provence
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Jazz à Saint Rémy
This modern revival of the jazz festivals of the 70s and 80s is held under the stars in St Rémy.
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European Heritage Days
Exceptional locations around France, including Provence, will be open to visit on the Journées du Patrimoine - a European wide event inspired by by France’s Journées Portes Ouvertes which started in 1984.
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Trail des Alpes Maritimes
Two races plus a kids event starting and ending in the medieval mountain village of Sospel.
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Markets in Provence
Read our Provence markets page to find out which market to visit when in Provence. From the vibrant array of local produce to the delightful scent of freshly baked delicacies, visiting a Provencal market is an absolute must for anyone exploring the charms of Provence.
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Fête de la Chataignes - Chestnut festival, Collobrières
In Provence, the department of the Var is the place to look for chestnuts. The Var village of Collobrières regards itself as chestnut capital of the world and in late October it's time for the chestnut festival, which attracts thousands of visitors from near and far.
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Liszt en Provence festival, Uchaux
Uchaux is the venue for this series of summer concerts that celebrates the music of Liszt. Set in the fabulous grounds of Chateau Saint Esteve, the venue could not be more magical or romantic.
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.
Things To Do in Cavaillon
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Vertical Session Climbing, Cavaillon
Whether you're a beginner or looking to develop your skills, this company offers a range of climbing, adventure trail and via ferrata experiences to suit every level of experience.
Cycling in Cavaillon
Cycling Routes in Provence
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From Isle-Sur-La-Sorgue to Fontaine-de-Vaucluse
This ride takes us along the banks of the river Sorgue, crossing picturesque bridges and cycling past tranquil orchards. You’ll visit a number of fascinating little villages and take in some wonderful scenery along the way.
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Vineyards & Villages Along the River Sorgue
From the perched village of Châteauneuf de Gadagne, this gentle family-friendly cycle route goes from the foot of the Colline de Thouzon, round in a loop to the town of Le Thor, via the cool waters of the River Sorgue.
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Mont Ventoux to L'Isle Sur la Sorgue
This scenic cycle ride goes in a figure of eight, starting and finishing in Velleron, but also visiting Pernes-les-Fontaines to the north and L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue to the south.
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The Perched Villages of Vaucluse
This fun 20km circuits takes in three short climbs on a scenic route that takes in some of the famous “Perched Villages” of Provence.
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Cycling the Ochre Region from Roussillon
This ride is bursting with colour and vibrant views; starting off in the pretty little village of Roussillon it passes through the vivid landscape of the Ochre region, an area characterised by its deep red soil and golden wheat fields.
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Au fil du Comtat (Through the Comtat Venaissin)
The Comtat Venaissin (County of Venaissin), often called the Comtat for short, dates back to the middle ages and was politically significant throughout the 16th and 17th centuries.
Hiking in Cavaillon
Walking Routes in Provence
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Cabrieres tour
Take your time, explore and discover the rich historical heritage and natural surroundings, fashioned by centuries of work which continues to the present day.
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Gorges de Regalon Hike
A slightly more challenging hike through the most spectactular gorge in Provence, with its narrow high walls and dark alleyway you can witness the amazing vegetation and plants. A 3 hour and 30 minute walk you can enjoy this popular walking route, recommended during the week when it is likely to be quieter.
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Les Alpilles, Col de Vallongue-Pas de l'Aigle
A great walk in any season as it gets the sun throughout the day and is sheltered from the sometimes strong, Mistral wind.
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La Fontaine de Saint-Gens
Explore the valleys of Le Beaucet situated between the Mountains of Vaucluse and the Luberon Valley.
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Roussillon Walk
Roussillon is a wonderful little village located about 10km outside of Apt. This gorgeous walk that explores the Ochre cliffs of Rousillon is relatively easy and will be enjoyable for everyone. Not to be confused with the Ochre Trail, which which has a visitor fee for entry into the park.
Yachts & Sailing in Cavaillon
Watersports in Cavaillon
Watersports in Provence
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Canoe Evasion, near Isle sur la Sorgue
This company offers a 2 hour river descent from Isle sur la Sorgue to Fontain de Vaucluse in canoes.
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Kayak Vert, Fontaine de Vaucluse
This company offers an 8 kilometre canoe trip along the river near Fontaine de Vaucluse.
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Caminaterra Activity Company, Vedene
This company offers all kinds of activities, from climbing and pot-holing to canyoning, canoeing, kayaking, hiking and via ferrata.
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Le lac de Monteux, Monteux
Located in the heart of the EcoQuartier Beaulieu, Lake Monteux is an open every day of the year. Ideal for the whole family, this area offers a multitude of activities.
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AFDA Canoe & Kayak, Lauris
This company offers two different types of excursions by kayak or canoe for either an hour and 15 minutes or 3 hours.
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Raille Lake Watersports, Apt
Just to the north of Apt lies the Plan d'Eau de la Raille. You can practice all sorts of watersports here, with a sailing & windsurfing school. All equipment is available to rent - dinghies, windsurfs, pedal boats and kayaks.
Families in Cavaillon
Nightlife in Cavaillon
Head to La Garance theatre for some cultured nightlife, or stop off at one of the many cafés or bars for an evening tipple.
Villas in Cavaillon
Villas in Cavaillon
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La Bastide De Maubec Villa, Maubec
Superb farmhouse for rent in Provence in the Luberon for 2 to 8 people. It is made up of independent buildings with a heated swimming pool, a beautiful interior courtyard and a large covered terrace with a magnificent summer kitchen.
Price: €4,088
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Holiday Home In An Authentic Luberon Village Villa, Robion
This charming house of 160m2, ideally located in the heart of the village of Robion, is perfect for a nice summer holiday.
Price: €1,719
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Les 7 Lauriers Villa, Maubec
Beautiful holiday house for rent in the Luberon, nearby a charming, authentic Provencal village at the foot of the Luberon, close to the most beautiful villages of France : Gordes, Ménerbes, Bonnieux
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La Bastide De Maubec Villa, Maubec
Superb farmhouse for rent in Provence in the Luberon for 2 to 4 people. It enjoys a heated swimming pool, a beautiful interior courtyard and a large covered terrace with a magnificent summer kitchen.
Price: €2,360
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Mas Formiga Villa, Cavaillon
Come and spend your holidays in a quiet haven in the very heart of Provence - Mas Formiga
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Le Mas Du Haut Cabedan Villa, Cavaillon
Authentic farmhouse of 320m² to rent for your holidays and located on a large plot of land with a beautiful heated swimming pool.
Price: €4,736
Holidays Rentals in Cavaillon
On the outskirts of Cavaillon you'll find a selection of apartments to rent, from high end to more functional basic affairs.
Holiday Rentals in Cavaillon
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Mas Formiga Villa, Cavaillon
Come and spend your holidays in a quiet haven in the very heart of Provence - Mas Formiga
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La Bastide De Maubec Villa, Maubec
Superb farmhouse for rent in Provence in the Luberon for 2 to 8 people. It is made up of independent buildings with a heated swimming pool, a beautiful interior courtyard and a large covered terrace with a magnificent summer kitchen.
Price: €4,088
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Holiday Home In An Authentic Luberon Village Villa, Robion
This charming house of 160m2, ideally located in the heart of the village of Robion, is perfect for a nice summer holiday.
Price: €1,719
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La Bastide De Maubec Villa, Maubec
Superb farmhouse for rent in Provence in the Luberon for 2 to 4 people. It enjoys a heated swimming pool, a beautiful interior courtyard and a large covered terrace with a magnificent summer kitchen.
Price: €2,360
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Le Mas Du Haut Cabedan Villa, Cavaillon
Authentic farmhouse of 320m² to rent for your holidays and located on a large plot of land with a beautiful heated swimming pool.
Price: €4,736
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Les 7 Lauriers Villa, Maubec
Beautiful holiday house for rent in the Luberon, nearby a charming, authentic Provencal village at the foot of the Luberon, close to the most beautiful villages of France : Gordes, Ménerbes, Bonnieux
Hotels in Cavaillon
There are a number of great B&B's, converted farmouses and hotels in and around Cavaillon to stay in.
Hotels in Cavaillon
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Couleur Lavande B&B, Le Thor
Set in the heart of Provence, this newly renovated deluxe B&B offers 4 large beautifully decorated rooms with private bathrooms and all modern amenities.
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Le Mas de la Rose B&B, Eygalieres
Le Mas de la Rose is a sort of mini-Provence; full of authenticity. Located 5 minutes from the lovely village of Eygalières, it is situated in a 30-hectare park planted with pine trees, olive trees and lavender.
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Le Domaine des Carmes B&B, Isle sur la Sorgue
Once the home of an order of Carmalite monks, this old Mas is situated in the tranquil countryside of L'Isle sur Sorgue, Provence. Totally renovated into a luxurious Chambre d'hote/Bed and Breakfast.
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La Bastide du Bois Breant Hotel, Maubec
Lovely stone mansion house with elegant bedrooms. In the grounds, you'll also find accommmodation in two wooden treehouses and a wooden caravan. Along with a swimming pool, the Bastide also offers dinner when booked in advance.
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Le Mas de Cure Bourse Hotel, Isle sur la Sorgue
Located in an old 18th-century post house, this hotel offers the quietness of a secluded place.
Campsites in Cavaillon
How to get to Cavaillon
Cavaillon lies to the south-east of Avignon, about 30 minutes (33km) by car and it's easily accessible from the Alpilles and Luberon regions.
Transfers for Provence
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Private Jet and Helicopter Transfers
With an International fleet of jets and helicopters based across Europe it is quick and easy to get a private charter flight for business, pleasure or an airport transfer.
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Chabe Airport Transfers, Marseille
Chabe Transfers are a well known luxury transfer and taxi service operating in the South of France.
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Avignon City Taxis
Avignon City Taxis at your disposal 24/7 for taxi services and transfers airports and railway stations in Avignon and in the entire region.
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Helicopter Airport Transfers & Scenic Flights
Created in 1976 this company has grown and has now transported well over 100,000 passengers. They have a fleet of 12 craft to meet client demands.
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Events-Cars Taxi, Grigan
Events-Cars offer luxury taxi and transfer services across the South of France. They also cater for special events.
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Les Marseillais Taxi, Marseille
300 vehicles at your disposal. All taxi services and transfers airports and Railway stations.