
Fondation Vasarely
Hungarian artist Victor Vasarely established this foundation in 1966 with the aim of promoting 'art for all' where art blends beautifully with architecture in the 'city of tomorrow'.
© Seeprovence.com
© Seeprovence.com
© Seeprovence.com
© Seeprovence.com
© Seeprovence.com
© Seeprovence.com
© Seeprovence.com
© Seeprovence.com
Pretty village with a wondrous green river and a 'hidden spring'
The main attraction of Fontaine de Vaucluse is the river on which it sits. The source of the Sorgue is found here, a network of underground rivers and streams fed with water from the surrounding mountains.
This impressive 'hidden' spring comes to light at Fontaine de Vaucluse where it forms a large emerald green pool - divers have measured its depth to be 308m. Only when you see the white water rapids taking water away do you realise that it's not just a pool, but a fully fledged river with it's source underground. In the rainy spring and autumn, it can gush up to 200 cubic metres of water per second. It's the largest natural spring in France (and 5th largest in the world).
The river has a fantastic green colour, very striking with the sun shinning down, and the blue sky above. The village of Fontaine de Vaucluse is found after the rapids where the river calms itself and it winds around watermills and dams before continuing downstream. An old paper mill (open to the public) is the only remaining indication that the village was a hotbed for paper making in the 17th and 18th century.
Just opposite the mill are the ruins of the 14th century Castle of the Bishops of Cavaillon. The walk from the village to the source of the river (La Fontaine) will take you around 20 minutes. There is a bike rental store in the village if you prefer.
A number of restaurants and cafés line the river, and the village is fairly touristy and very popular so try to come out of season if you can. If you're driving, note that there is only pay-parking in the village.
In the village itself, you'll find an 11th century church (Notre-Dame et Saint Véran) and the remains of a Roman canal running alongside the left bank of the river. There are a number of gift shops and artisans workshops in the village - glass, wood work, pottery, jewellery, paintings and sculpture are all practised here.
There are several museums in Fontaine de Vaucluse, from a crystal museum to a geological museum.
Hungarian artist Victor Vasarely established this foundation in 1966 with the aim of promoting 'art for all' where art blends beautifully with architecture in the 'city of tomorrow'.
The Musee des Tapisseries houses a rich collection of 17th and 18th Century tapestries, including a collection called 'Grotesques' - theatrical taspestrie made in Beauvais cir. 1689, and also 'L'histoire de Don Quichotte' of 1735 unique in the world.
A small gallery with a good collection of contemporary and modern art.
Aurélien Raynaud displays his unique gift in capturing the wonderful wildlife kingdom in a range of artforms.
At the beginning of World War II, France interned all Austrian and German nationals who were living in France at the time, and Les Milles was the prison for the south eastern region.
The Muséum d'Aix was founded in 1838 by Henri Coquand, geologist ; it is one of the oldest in Provence.
This elegant restaurant is a must-visit for any lovers of modern cuisine and cooking methods. They embrace local produce and evolve their dishes according to the seasons.
A quiet atmosphere, beautiful grounds and wonderful flavours can be found at Villa Gallici Restaurant. Part of the 5 star Villa Gallici hotel you can indulge in lunch or dinner at this top quality restaurant.
Located inside the luxury Chateau de la Gaude, this Michelin-starred restaurant serves the elaborate cuisine of chef Matthieu Dupuis-Baumal.
Open daily, the Clos du Comptoir offers a sophisticated atmosphere for lunch and dinner in the same setting.
This one Michelin star restaurant sits within a beautiful garden just outside the walled city.
Located on the ground floor of the Hotel, this restaurant is packed full of Mediterranean charm and the selection of Provencial rose will not disappoint.
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.
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.
Head to the Avenue de la Rabasse in Richerenches for the famous Saturday truffle markets, which take place from November to March every year.
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.
An annual agricultural fair, the Foire de la Saint Siffrein is named after the saint who resided in Carpentras during the 7th century. Plenty of local produce is available in the market and the wine fair is one of the largest in the area (and not restricted to wines from Provence).
Many lovely hikes start or pass through Fontaine de Vaucluse, including three Grand Randonnee trails.
The GR6 will take you towards Gordes and the Luberon, or south to Bouches du Rhone.
The GR91 takes you north towards Vaison la Romaine and eventually on to Grenoble, and GR97 is part of the Tour of the Luberon.
The area is split into two areas - one for the 1-5 years age group, and the other for 6-12 year olds.
The Club, established in 1932 has a long and interesting history. Situated on the banks of the river l'Arc over 30 acres, 5 minutes away from the city centre the Club Hippique Aix Marseille offers a full range of facilities.
Set in the beautiful wooded countryside, this 18-hole golf course was designed by American architect Ronald Fream. The club incorporates the David Leadbetter Academy that offers lessons to suit players of all levels.
Tour Designer in Provence provide tailor made tours of the best of Provence with day trips and walking tours on offer.
Open to all, this small golf club offers a clubhouse, restaurant, driving range, putting green and 6 holes. It is home to an academy that offers lessons at all levels.
An exciting path through the forest...but not on the ground! This tree top adventure will have you swinging from the branches and enjoying the sights and sounds of nature.
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.
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.
This fun 20km circuits takes in three short climbs on a scenic route that takes in some of the famous “Perched Villages” of Provence.
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.
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.
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.
Take your time, explore and discover the rich historical heritage and natural surroundings, fashioned by centuries of work which continues to the present day.
Explore the valleys of Le Beaucet situated between the Mountains of Vaucluse and the Luberon Valley.
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.
This lovely hike in the Luberon region of Provence is great for most abilities of walkers. Stunning views and landscape on every part of the trail will make the 2hr 30 minute walk well worth it. Walking along the top of the large rocky cliff you can see for miles and enjoy the cool breeze.
This easy and gentle 3km walk is perfect for families as most of the route is shaded by large billowing trees with ideal spots for picnics, wondeful views and interesting forestry along the way.
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.
This company offers an 8 kilometre canoe trip along the river near Fontaine de Vaucluse.
This company offers a 2 hour river descent from Isle sur la Sorgue to Fontain de Vaucluse in canoes.
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.
This company offers all kinds of activities, from climbing and pot-holing to canyoning, canoeing, kayaking, hiking and via ferrata.
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.
This company offers two different types of excursions by kayak or canoe for either an hour and 15 minutes or 3 hours.
This small bar has a nice seating area outside next to one of Aix's many fountains and it catches the sun late into the evening.
The Mistral is Aix-en-Provence's answer to those looking for a trendy night out listening to the latest DJ's.
The Scat Club plays live music every night, and not just jazz the club plays pop, rock, funk and R'n'B.
A few minutes walk from the charming village of Bonnieux, on the heights towards Lourmarin, this charming stone house, freshly renovated by architects, is for rent for your holidays.
Come and discover this house with large swimming pool, near Bonnieux, for a holiday in the heart of nature.
A magnificent "Mas" in Bonnieux to rent in the Luberon, with a large landscaped garden for a dream holiday between Bonnieux and Lacoste.
Magnificent villa near Bonnieux, in the heart of the Luberon, with swimming pool, for a unique holiday.
Farmhouse available to rent for holidays with a large pool in the Golden Triangle in Bonnieux.
A few kilometers from the charming village of Bonnieux, enjoying a superb view of the Luberon, this tastefully restored old farmhouse will amaze you as soon as you arrive.
Come and discover this house with large swimming pool, near Bonnieux, for a holiday in the heart of nature.
House for rent in Luberon - Le Mas entre Monts et Merveilles. The perfect holiday location in Provence!
Magnificent villa near Bonnieux, in the heart of the Luberon, with swimming pool, for a unique holiday.
18th century stone farmhouse on a landscaped park of approximately 1 hectare with panoramic views of the Luberon.
Farmhouse available to rent for holidays with a large pool in the Golden Triangle in Bonnieux.
Beautiful holiday villa with swimming pool for rent in the South of France, near the village of Bonnieux in Provence.
There are a couple of hotels in the village - try the Hotel du Poete.
The five star Pigonnet hotel in Aix is an 18th-century mansion surrounded with stunning floral gardens, situated just outside the centre of Aix-en-Provence.
Located in one of the most beautiful villages in France, this former oil mill welcomes its guests in an enchanting setting surrounded by lime trees.
Built in 2013 this modern, contemporary five star hotel in Provence combines art work in contemporary spaces, filled with uber stylish furniture and fittings.
Under the light Cézanne once knew, the Villa Gallici Hotel is an 18th century Provençal house and a member of Relais et Châteaux portfolio.
This hotel is a beautiful renovated house located on a quiet street, and walking distance to all the hustle and bustle of Aix.
A well located hotel in the heart of the city just a short walk away from some great attractions.
Events-Cars offer luxury taxi and transfer services across the South of France. They also cater for special events.
Helitec caters for all your helicopter needs from passenger transport to aerial photography, filming, transport of heavy goods, leisure flights over Provence and the South of France. A great way to see the most beautiful spots from the air.
With a long history and experience in the VIP transport industry this company is proud of its personal and high-quality services.
Avignon City Taxis at your disposal 24/7 for taxi services and transfers airports and railway stations in Avignon and in the entire region.
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.
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.
Find out all about what is happening in Provence and how to make the most of your time here. The latest news, reviews of fun activities, current events and the trendiest restaurants, as well as interviews with leading locals, insider's guides and our top choices for things to do, see and experience in this picturesque French region.
See allLatest News & ReviewsProvence has a busy calendar of events all year round featuring art exhibitions, charming markets, cultural festivals and concerts. Spring and autumn are the time to celebrate local produce while during the peak holiday times, in the summer months, you will find world-renowned music and cultural events like the Choregies d'Orange or the Avignon Festival.
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