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.
Orange
Home to some of the world's best Roman ruins
Driving from Lyon south on the Autoroute A7 towards Provence, you may notice the signs for Orange, the first major town in the region.
What attracts the thousands of visitors to Orange are the two monumental Roman structures, the Arc de Triomphe and the Théatre Antique, both of such stature that a turn off the Autoroute will not disappoint. And if you're a Dutch national and a fan of the Royal Family (the House of Orange), a trip here will certainly be on your list.
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- Events in Orange
- History & Culture in Orange
- Sights & Attractions in Orange
- Dining in Orange
- Nightlife in Orange
- Things to do in Orange
- Cycling in Orange
- Hiking in Orange
- Yachts & Sailing in Orange
- Watersports in Orange
- Families in Orange
- Villas in Orange
- Holidays Rentals in Orange
- Hotels in Orange
- Campsites in Orange
- How to get to Orange
Events in Orange
There are plenty of events going on in Orange throughout the year. One of the oldest and most well known has to be the Choregies d'Orange, an annual International classic music festival set in the Roman theatre.
Events in Orange
See all Events in OrangeHistory & Culture in Orange
A prosperous town under the Roman emperor Augustus, in the 5th century it was pillaged by the Visigoths, becoming an independent county in the 11th century, later passing to the house of Nassau.
In 1660 it was captured by the French King Louis XIV, who had its fortifications pulled down, and it was eventually ceded to France in 1713.
Famous for its Roman architecture, the theatre was built around 27BC - 14AD and is the best preserved of its kind. Originally seating around 1,100 people, an imposing statue of Augustus stands about 3.7m tall in the wall's central niche.
There is also a famous arch, one of the largest built by the Romans at about 19m high, it has fine sculptures of victories of Roman general and statesman Julius Caesar. The theatre, the arch and its surroundings were designated a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1981.
Modern day Orange is an agricultural processing centre, tourism and glass manufacturing are also important.
Sights & Attractions in Orange
The most impressive approach to Orange from the north is by way of the N7, which leads directly to the Triumphal Arch on the north side of town (parking nearby). Most historians think that this ornate Roman arch, one of largest and best preserved, was dedicated to Tiberius or is it Julius Caesar, commemorating the military exploits of his legions, some 20 years BC. A few others doubt the attribute. But what is clear is that this arch tells a story. On the facades you can see the chiselled decorations that tell of Gallic slaves captured, with hands tied behind their backs, of military attributes - helmets, flags, javelins - of naval elements - anchors, ropes, tridents - of battles between the Romans and the Gauls. The arch tells you that the legions of Tiberius, or another emperor, were here and don't you forget it. The crowning glory on top, a chariot drawn by four horses, is now sadly missing.
Just south of the old town and close to the tourist office you'll find the Roman theatre, the best preserved theatre of the Roman Empire. Built during the reign of Augustus, it still serves today as a place to enjoy concerts, opera or ballet. Although it has suffered through the ages from natural decay, fires and looters keen on finding building materials for their own architectural designs, the theatre gives a sense of how the productions in Roman times might have been. It seems, however, that the earlier audiences enjoyed better acoustics (with clever awnings stretched over the seating area) and a more ornate backdrop with statues of Roman dignitaries.
Now we are only treated to a statue of Augustus in a niche, assembled from the rubble 1,500 years after a fire destroyed the backdrop in the 4th century. It's not even certain whether the head is that of Augustus, but he looks impressive enough with his Roman salute. Whether the earlier audiences enjoyed more comfortable seating is entirely doubtful.
A private cushion is the first requirement for an enjoyable evening in the theatre. And when the Mistral strikes, you may well want to bring a sweater, blanket, parka, gloves and other warming devices. A hilarious account of an Aida performance during a Mistral can be read in Yvone Lenard's The Magic of Provence. The chapter is appropriately called "A Song in the Wind." During the performance the strong wind picks up and the Spanish diva Victoria de Los Angeles "holds onto her wig with one hand and attempts to control the ballooning skirt with the other while keeping a precarious balance, in great danger of being toppled by the merciless gusts".
For the Dutch, a walk up to the Eutrope hill, which overlooks the village is a must. There they find the dismal remains of a castle that Prince Maurits built in 1622, using the remains of Roman structures as his building blocks. Fortunately he left the theatre, to a degree, in tact. In the 16th century the principality of Orange was passed on to William the Silent, Stadtholder of the Dutch Provinces. For the next hundred years or so the ownership of the territory was much in dispute, torn this way and that by the religious wars between Catholics and Protestants, with the French King being more than annoyed about this Dutch enclave in his territory. Finally, in 1713, the decree of Utrecht decided that Orange was to be part of France, but that the descendants of William the Silent could still call themselves prince or princess of Orange, without land. To this day the primary title of the Queen is Princess of Orange. And when you see a soccer match of the Dutch national team and wonder about all those orange colours, now you know why.
After the visit to the Roman theatre, the Arch and the remains of the considerably smaller Dutch empire, you may wander about the old town. There are agreeable squares with restaurants that offer decently priced and good meals. Orange is worth a half or full-day stay. But be sure to bring your winter clothes when you attend a performance at the theatre.
Sights in Orange
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Musee du Vin Brotte, Chateauneuf du Pape
Created in 1972 by Jeanne Brotte, this wine museum is unique in Châteauneuf-du-Pape. First a modest museum displaying an impressing collection of old tools it has been renovated in 2002 and 2014 now presenting you with a museography called “In the footstep of the winegrower”.
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Theatre Antique, Orange
Orange boasts the best preserved Roman Amphitheatre in the western world.
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Château Suze la Rousse
Originally a defensive fortress, this impressive château was built in the 12th century on a rocky outcrop overlooking the surrounding plains.
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Orange Cathedral
The cathedral of our lady of Nazareth, or Notre Dame de Nazareth, lies in the centre of Orange not far from the river.
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Museum of Orange
Located across the street from the Theatre Antique, you'll find this small museum housing many of the Roman artefacts found at some of Orange's best archaeological sites.
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Ile de la Barthelasse
The perfect setting for a Sunday walk or a family bike ride is just a short ferry trip away from the city centre of Avignon on the Ile de la Barthelasse.
Dining in Orange
You'll find a great selection of restaurants, cafés and delis in Orange. Some feature in the Michelin guide, but if you're not looking for fine dining you'll find plenty of choice to suits your tastes and budget.
Restaurants in Orange
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Cote Sud Restaurant, Uchaux
The Cote Sud has a charming sophisticated interior and includes a lovely terrace where you can enjoy your food when the weather is warm enough.
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Le Temp de Vivre Restaurant, Uchaux
Le Temps de Vivre is situated in the little hamlet of Les Farjons just down the road from Uchaux.
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L'Arausio Restaurant, Orange
L'Arausio restaurant has a superb location, facing the ruins of the ancient Roman theatre.
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Le Relais Restaurant, Sainte-Cecile-les-Vignes
This restaurant serves classic French dishes with a creative twist by chef Christophe Bonet. All made with the freshest ingredients.
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La Grotte d'Auguste Restaurant, Orange
Inside the Roman amphitheatre overlooking the esplanade of the Temple, La Grotte Auguste offers a delicious meal during your visit.
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La Table des Balmes Restaurant, Beaumes de Venise
Located in front of the church in Beaumes de Venise, this restaurant serves traditional Provençal cuisine and international dishes.
Nightlife in Orange
You can take in a show at the Roman theatre as well as the Theatre du Sablier in the centre of Orange. If you're just looking for a place to drink, there are plenty of bars and cafés to choose from.
Things to do in Orange
Things To Do in Orange
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Wave Island Waterpark, Monteux
This huge waterpark covers an area of 4.7 hectares and includes a surf simulator, waterslides and a river feature called river land.
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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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Karting de Monteux, Monteux
Karting circuit for beginners or the experienced. Kids can start from age 7 (or 1m 30cm), or small kids can use a bi-kite with an adult. Modified karts are available for disabled customers.
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Centre Equestre d'Avignon Horse riding
Le Centre Equestre d'Avignon offers a wide range of activities for riders of all ages and abilities
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Caneton swimming pool, Sorgues
There are two swimming pools here - an indoor one for winter and outdoor one for summer.
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Exo 84 Watersports, Lamotte-du-Rhône
This watersports centre is based on a 10 hectare lake with boxes and features in the water that you can practise your wakeboarding moves on.
Cycling in Orange
Cycling Routes in Provence
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Via Venaissia from Jonquieres
Once in the town of Jonquieres there are several choices of cycle routes around the area. The country roads are the perfect platform to discover the local villages, view points and historical points of interest.
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Chateauneuf du Pape vineyards and towns
This 28.5km long route is a journey of discovery through the Ile de l'Oiselay and the vineyards of Chateauneuf du Pape.
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Cycling in the Cotes du Rhone from Sainte-Cecile-des-Vignes
This short and relatively easy circuit goes through a number of pretty little villages and past a multitude of vineyards, streams and creeks, crossing the Aygues river twice along the way.
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Cycling through the Comtadin Vineyards
This 35km loop takes you through the famous vineyards of the Côtes du Rhône, as well as past strawberry fields, olive groves and fruit orchards. It is a wonderfully scenic ride with the opportunity to do some tasting along the way!
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Le Tour du Massif d'Uchaux
This circular route offers a variety of scenery and landscapes, with gently rolling hills to ensure a bit of downhill after any short climbs.
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Cycling the canals of Carpentras
Most of this circuit follows the canal tow paths to the north of Carpentras, within sight of Mont Ventoux.
Hiking in Orange
Walking Routes in Provence
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Vineyard Walks
The vast numbers of lovely Vineyards in Provence make for great places to go on a walking or hiking tour.
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Les Rochers des Rams
From the look out point at 965m you are rewarded with fantastic views of the Alazards valley and the Rhone valley.
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St Michel de Frigolet Walk
Starting in Barbentane, a short 15 minute drive from Avignon, this gentle and easy walk is great for all abilities of walker. WIth a shady tracks and only a 2 hour and 45 minute round trip you can amble along this walk and enjoy the surrouding scenery.
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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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Combe de Malaval Hike
Throughout the duration of this hike you have breathtaking views over the Comtat Venaissin plain and the Dentelles de Montmirail range.
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Gorges du Toulourenc, near Malaucene
This river gorge runs for around 30 kilometres from the small village of Saint Leger, heading west along the borders of the Vaucluse and Drome regions.
Yachts & Sailing in Orange
Watersports in Orange
Watersports in Orange
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Exo 84 Watersports, Lamotte-du-Rhône
This watersports centre is based on a 10 hectare lake with boxes and features in the water that you can practise your wakeboarding moves on.
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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.
Families in Orange
Villas in Orange
Villas in Orange
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Le Mas Des Cigales Villa, Pernes-Les-Fontaines
Beautiful Provençal farmhouse to rent for your holiday.
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La Colline Villa
Welcome to La Colline, a stunning villa built from honey-colored local stone, nestled among Provençal vineyards with breathtaking views of Mont Ventoux and the distant hilltop villages. The villa offers a peaceful setting, perfect for spending a summer day by the swimming pool, accompanied only by the gentle song of the cicadas.
La Colline Villa
25 Oct 2025, 7 Nights, 1-9 people, Self-cateredFrom€3,164€2,724 -
Le Mas Du Haut Trigaud Villa, Bonnieux
Superb 5 star rated property located in Bonnieux with swimming pool
Le Mas Du Haut Trigaud Villa, Bonnieux
25 Oct 2025, 7 Nights, 1-8 people, Self-cateredFrom €8,075 -
La Vie Joly Villa, Gordes
Beautiful stone villa for rent for quiet holidays near Gordes and Joucas.
La Vie Joly Villa, Gordes
1 Nov 2025, 7 Nights, 1-8 people, Self-cateredFrom €3,594 -
La Bastide De La Forêt Villa, Bonnieux
Come and discover this house with large swimming pool, near Bonnieux, for a holiday in the heart of nature.
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Mas Des Hirondelles Villa, Eygalieres
New to the rental market: this magnificent stone mas, which has been freshly renovated in the center of Eygalières.
Holidays Rentals in Orange
Holiday Rentals in Orange
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La Bastide De La Forêt Villa, Bonnieux
Come and discover this house with large swimming pool, near Bonnieux, for a holiday in the heart of nature.
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Rêve De Provence Villa, Eyragues
Beautiful stone farmhouse for rent in the Alpilles: Rêve de Provence
Rêve De Provence Villa, Eyragues
1 Nov 2025, 7 Nights, 1-8 people, Self-cateredFrom €3,936 -
Provence Country Club Studio Apartment
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.
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La Colline Villa
Welcome to La Colline, a stunning villa built from honey-colored local stone, nestled among Provençal vineyards with breathtaking views of Mont Ventoux and the distant hilltop villages. The villa offers a peaceful setting, perfect for spending a summer day by the swimming pool, accompanied only by the gentle song of the cicadas.
La Colline Villa
25 Oct 2025, 7 Nights, 1-9 people, Self-cateredFrom€3,164€2,724 -
Douce France Villa, Oppede
Farmhouse in the heart of the Luberon, near Coustellet, providing peace and quiet and a breathtaking view of the countryside.
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Horizon Villa, Eygalieres
House for rent with view of les Alpilles
Horizon Villa, Eygalieres
25 Oct 2025, 7 Nights, 1-10 people, Self-cateredFrom €4,402
Hotels in Orange
There are a good selection of hotels in and around Orange, as well as a lot of charming B&B's and apartments for rent.
Hotels in Orange
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Le Clos des Lavandes B&B
In the heart of the Luberon National Park, a beautiful and charming B&B welcomes you for a relaxing stay.
Le Clos des Lavandes B&B
1 November 2025, 7 NightsFrom €858 -
Hotel de Tourrel, Saint Remy de Provence
This 17th century palais in charming Saint Remy de Provence is a historic-meets-contemporary sanctuary for lovers of all things gourmet.
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Cloitre Saint-Louis Hotel
Originally a 16th century Jesuit seminary, the Cloitre Saint Louis is set in a peaceful cloister within Avignon's old town.
Cloitre Saint-Louis Hotel
1 November 2025, 7 NightsFrom €723 -
La Maison sur la Sorgue Hotel, Isle dur la Sorgue
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.
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Le Vallon de Valrugues Hotel & Spa, St Remy
The Vallon de Valrugues is located in the centre of St Remy, a stylish Provencial town filled with chic boutiques and galleries.
Le Vallon de Valrugues Hotel & Spa, St Remy
1 November 2025, 7 NightsFrom €1,630 -
La Mirande Hotel
La Mirande is a 5 star 'grand dame' luxury hotel that has been decorated with 18th century interiors, period tapestries and chandeliers.
Campsites in Orange
How to get to Orange
Transfers for Provence
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Radio Aixois Taxi
49 air-conditioned vehicles at your disposal for local transport, airport and rail station transfers, and touristic excursions.
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Helicopter Leisure Flights & Transfers, Marseille
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.
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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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Helicopter Transfers and Scenic Flights
With a long history and experience in the VIP transport industry this company is proud of its personal and high-quality services.
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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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Les Marseillais Taxi, Marseille
300 vehicles at your disposal. All taxi services and transfers airports and Railway stations.
