
Campredon Centre d'Art, Isle sur la Sorgue
The building itself has been protected as a historic monument since 1979 and is worth the journey just for that, let alone the art works inside.
© Seeprovence.com
© Seeprovence.com
© Seeprovence.com
© Seeprovence.com
© Seeprovence.com
© Seeprovence.com
Wonderful town with streams and waterwheels, most famous for its antiques markets
L'Isle sur la Sorgue is a small Provencal town that sits on the edge of the Luberon and to the east of Avignon. It is most famous for its antiques markets and arcades which draw thousands of visitors every year.
The river Sorgue runs through this pretty town, some of which is diverted into canals that add a great deal of character to the place. The river encircles the inner town and little tributaries pop up from nowhere amongst the charming lanes. Waterwheels adorn the river and canals - a throwback to the 16th to 19th centuries when the town was a centre for silk, wool and paper manufacturing.
The town is probably best known for it's important role in the antiques industry. On Sunday mornings, the permanent antique shops and arcades are joined by antique stalls along the canals, and literally thousands of day trippers take the opportunity to seek out a piece of treasure. The arcades hold the most valuable items whereas the stalls hold a wider range of 'ready-to-wear-antiques'... Great for browsing, you could easily pick up some quirky one-off items, but you'll have to haggle hard to get a bargain.
Assurances of quality are guaranteed by the French Company of Antique Experts, who are available during the markets and fairs to give advice and their opinion to visitors and dealers alike - free of charge.
The old town is ringed by the river and canal system which makes it very easy to walk around and explore. You'll find narrow winding lanes and hidden waterways, along with Renaissance mansions and a Medieval tower, the Tour d'Argent. This tower was originally built as a defence keep in the 13th century, and has since had many uses, including a cinema and theatre during the last century. There are now plans to restore it completely and use it as a culture space.
One way or another you'll end up at the central square which is home to the old granary, now the tourist office, and a rather impressive church, the Collegiale Notre Dame des Anges. This Baroque styled church may look rather austere from the outside, but the interior is more lavishly decorated with grand paintings, murals, sculpture and of course, 222 angel statues who accompany the Virgin to heaven. The tourist office offers guided walks and tours if you'd like to find out a bit more about the history of L'Isle sur la Sorgue.
The Campredon Art Centre is an 18th century mansion that shows contemporary art exhibitions throughout the year (closed on Sundays July - September, and Mondays and Sundays from October - June). There are also two museums - one is an old-fashioned school museum, the other an antique doll and toy museum (only open during the school holidays).
Throughout the town there are art galleries, antique shops and gift shops. Many cafes and restaurants offer terraces overlooking the rivers, making it a fine spot for lunch or dinner.
The building itself has been protected as a historic monument since 1979 and is worth the journey just for that, let alone the art works inside.
Originally built in 1222 this church was renovated and extended in the Italian Baroque style in the 17th century and was consecrated in 1672 by the Bishop of Cavaillon.
There are a multitude of places to eat here, many of them either traditional Provencal style or more modern with a quirky twist on the traditional. With the Provencal markets in the area being such a draw it is of no surprise that most of the produce is locally grown and purchased and you can be sure of the freshest of ingredients.
Owned and run by two French guys, this wine bar has an extraordinary selection of 30 wines by the glass and offers superb platters of cheese matured by René Pellegrini, cold meats, rillettes and foie gras terrine.
Umami is a small restaurant tucked away on rue Carnot in delightful Isle sur la Sorgue.
This charming restaurant is in an ideal location, in the centre of the town, just behind the church and right on the river, literally!
This small restaurant is located in the outskirts of the small village of Le Thor, in a business park. It features a large terrace in their garden.
In a friendly atmosphere with a contemporary decor, Benjamin and Sophie Fabre are pleased to welcome you.
A gourmet restaurant in Isle-sur-la-Sorgue, the Café Fleurs Au Jardin d’Aubanel welcomes you for a delicious gourmet experience to be enjoyed in a peaceful waterside setting.
The local produce market here is on Thursdays and Sundays. The market starts early (06:00) and runs until 14:00. Saturday mornings see an organic produce market in the Petit Palais. On the first Sunday of August, you might want to experience the 'floating market' where the traders dress in traditional costume and sell their produce from the river Sorgue - a reconstruction of times gone by.
There are two international antique fairs every year - one at Easter and one in August - where over 500 dealers (and thousands of antique lovers) come to L'Isle sur la Sorgue.
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.
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.
The Nimes Metroppole Jazz Festival brings together the best of traditional jazz right up to the more modern and contemporary styles.
Head to the Avenue de la Rabasse in Richerenches for the famous Saturday truffle markets, which take place from November to March every year.
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).
This is an area for exploring and there is no better way to do that than by bike. Hiring a bike and enjoying the quiet lanes and small hamlets surrounding L'Isle sur la Sorgue is the perfect way to spend a day or just an afternoon.
Or if you fancy something a little more structured, there are several golf courses where you can enjoy taking a swing whilst soaking up the sunshine and landscapes of Provence.
This company offers a 2 hour river descent from Isle sur la Sorgue to Fontain de Vaucluse in canoes.
Clip yourself in for adventures in the treetops! Children from two years have their own special course, and there are additional routes for four year olds, and one for over nines.
Close to Isle sur la Sorgue in the Vaucluse region of Provence lies the 18-hole golf course of Provence Country Club.
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.
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.
This fun 20km circuits takes in three short climbs on a scenic route that takes in some of the famous “Perched Villages” of Provence.
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.
Most of this circuit follows the canal tow paths to the north of Carpentras, within sight of Mont Ventoux.
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.
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 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.
A great walk in any season as it gets the sun throughout the day and is sheltered from the sometimes strong, Mistral wind.
This company offers a 2 hour river descent from Isle sur la Sorgue to Fontain de Vaucluse in canoes.
This place is a bar, restaurant and tabac all rolled into one, on the side of the river in the centre of Isle de la Sorgue.
Very beautiful mas (stone house) to rent for the holidays in Gordes, decorated with exclusive and tasteful materials, all modern comfort.
Charming house exposed on a beautifully wooded ground with stunning views, for rent for 10 people in the heart of the Luberon.
Authentic provencal house to rent in the heart of Luberon. It has recently been renovated. The pool is safe for children as it is secured by a barrier.
Charming holiday house with pool in the Luberon to go for with your family or friends.
Beautiful stone villa for rent for quiet holidays near Gordes and Joucas.
Beautiful Provençal farmhouse for rent with swimming pool and large garden for the perfect holiday
Charming house exposed on a beautifully wooded ground with stunning views, for rent for 10 people in the heart of the Luberon.
Located in the Residence Provence Country Club in the heart of the Luberon mountain, this studio enjoys a serene and tranquil atmosphere with close proximity to all the sites and attractions of this area of the South of France. An ideal location for nature and golf lovers.
Superb vacation rental in Gordes in the Luberon
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.
Authentic farmhouse in Cabrières d'Avignon, in the Vaucluse, with views of the Luberon Mountains and beautiful swimming pool.
Villa in Provence to rent for your holidays in Oppède, in the heart of the Luberon.
Located in the Luberon region in the heart of Provence this charming hotel sits in grounds of 6000m2.
This is a luxury hotel and spa perched in the heart of Gordes, one of the most beautiful towns in France.
La Maison sur la Sorgue is a small boutique hotel in the heart of the village of the same name, renowned for it's antiques stores and markets. The lovely and generously sized rooms are decorated in a chic Provencal tone and feature antique furniture and modern touches. Wifi is available in the public areas and breakfast is served on the terrace by the pool. There isn't a restaurant, but there are plenty to choose from in the pretty town.
The Auberge de Cassagne consists of a converted family home, the Château de Cassagne (1850), plus it's outbuildings which have been transformed to provide luxurious accommodation close to the historic city of Avignon.
A five star hotel with 33 bedrooms and seven suites in the heart of beautiful Luberon. Les Bories sits in eight hectares of gardens and grounds and is close to the famous village of Gordes.
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.
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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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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