Richerenches Truffle Market
Head to the Avenue de la Rabasse in Richerenches for the famous Saturday truffle markets, which take place from November to March every year.

© SeeProvence.com

© SeeProvence.com

© SeeProvence.com

© SeeProvence.com

© SeeProvence.com

© SeeProvence.com
Ancient village in the Vaucluse, one of the oldest in Provence
Venasque is one of the oldest villages in Provence, and has been rated as one of the 'most beautiful villages in France'.
Situated in the hills around 20 miles to the east of Avignon, Venasque is built on top of a rock and enjoys wonderful views over the countryside of the Vaucluse. Many of the houses have been wonderfully preserved and the village has a pristine feel about it.
Cherries are big in Venasque, and cherries grown here carry the quality mark 'Monts de Venasque'. Enjoy the white blossom in the Spring, and then look out for the juicy red fruits from mid-May to mid-July. Venasque holds special markets at this time to promote their treasured cherries.
Head to the Avenue de la Rabasse in Richerenches for the famous Saturday truffle markets, which take place from November to March every year.
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.
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).
Whilst evidence remains of Roman occupation in the area, they did not build their settlement on the current location of Venasque. However, stone blocks from their stay were used in the foundations of the walls and towers of Venasque when it became essential to create defensive villages in the Middle Ages.
The position for the village on top of a rock was carefully chosen by the Bishop of Carpentras in the 6th century, as it provided maximum protection from the war-hungry Barbarians who were busy ransacking the Provençal countryside. The imposing stone walls and towers that surround the village helped to keep the village safe. The gates that you see were restored in the early 20th century.
On the esplanade in front of the walls is a view point over the northern countryside, where you can see all the way to the Dentilles de Montmirail and Mont Ventoux.
The baptistery (next to the 11th century Romanesque church at the far end of the village) dates from this time and is one of the oldest buildings in France. It was designed in the shape of a Greek cross and features arches and ancient columns. It's open throughout the year and you can visit for a small entry fee.
Vineyards are found throughout the countryside and the grapes are not only used for wine but also for the table - the season for these grapes is late August to October.
The Muséum d'Aix was founded in 1838 by Henri Coquand, geologist ; it is one of the oldest in Provence.
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'.
An old quarry, the Carrieres de Bibemus lies on the western slopes of Montagne St Victoire and is a place that inspired Paul Cezanne through out his life.
Cezannes studio was created in Aix-en-Provence in 1902 and this is where he worked until he died in 1906.
A small gallery with a good collection of contemporary and modern art.
Located not far from Aix centre, this museum and shop explains a little about the history of how this unusual sweet is made.
There are a couple of gift shops and galleries in Venasque, and a handful of restaurants.
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.
Open daily, the Clos du Comptoir offers a sophisticated atmosphere for lunch and dinner in the same setting.
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.
The restaurant is situated just a step from the law court of Aix en Provence in Rue Constantin near Rue Mignet. It has a welcoming terrace with a view of the church Sainte-Catherine.
Located in a street right off the main food market, La Bota is a small restaurant with about eight tables outside.
The Scat Club plays live music every night, and not just jazz the club plays pop, rock, funk and R'n'B.
The Mistral is Aix-en-Provence's answer to those looking for a trendy night out listening to the latest DJ's.
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.
There is a small tourist office in the centre of Venasque, and they offer guided tours in English from April to September - check with them for current times and prices.
Hiking trails crisscross the countryside, and the GR91 hiking trail (from Fontaine de Vaucluse heading north via Mont Ventoux) runs just to the east of Venasque.
The Golf de la Cabre d'Or is only 20 minutes away from Aix-en-Provence et Marseille. This is a fairly new golf course which opened only in 2008.
The Aix Yoga Center is a 150m2 studio yoga in the heart of Aix en Provence.
The area is split into two areas - one for the 1-5 years age group, and the other for 6-12 year olds.
Just an hour long ride through the city of Aix, learning about its history and a good introduction to this beautiful area.
Provence Wine Tours offer a variety of wine tours from private visits, to group tours and even corporate events.
Set CLub is a sports complex which has 13 tennis courts, eight of which are clay courts and five are the faster green set. Lessons and competitions are all part of the club. Non-members are welcome.
This fun 20km circuits takes in three short climbs on a scenic route that takes in some of the famous “Perched Villages” of Provence.
Second only to the Gorges du Verdon, the Gorge de la Nesque is one of the most visited and cycled parts of Provence. A stunning hydro geological site with fantastic cliffs, overhanging rock and a long winding river deep in the valley.
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.
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.
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.
Most of this circuit follows the canal tow paths to the north of Carpentras, within sight of Mont Ventoux.
Explore the valleys of Le Beaucet situated between the Mountains of Vaucluse and the Luberon Valley.
Take your time, explore and discover the rich historical heritage and natural surroundings, fashioned by centuries of work which continues to the present day.
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.
Throughout the duration of this hike you have breathtaking views over the Comtat Venaissin plain and the Dentelles de Montmirail range.
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.
From the look out point at 965m you are rewarded with fantastic views of the Alazards valley and the Rhone valley.
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.
Beautiful holiday home for rent in Provence, in Lourmarin, with garden and swimming pool.
Former 17th century farmhouse in Bonnieux, fully restored by a renowned architect.
18th century stone farmhouse on a landscaped park of approximately 1 hectare with panoramic views of the Luberon.
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.
Holiday house with pool located in the heart of the Luberon.
The Lieutenant is an apartment for rent for holidays in Provence, located on the 1st floor of a pretty country house in Bonnieux.
Stone house with pool for rent in Bonnieux - La Prairie du Luberon
Magnificent villa near Bonnieux, in the heart of the Luberon, with swimming pool, for a unique holiday.
This fully restored nineteenth-century farmhouse for holiday rental is located 3 km from Bonnieux, a lovely Provençal village perched in the foothills of the Luberon in Provence.
The Capitaine is an apartment located on the 2nd floor, its exposure is ideal for holidays in Provence, beautiful atmosphere.
18th century stone farmhouse on a landscaped park of approximately 1 hectare with panoramic views of the Luberon.
Architect-designed villa for holiday rental, with swimming pool, in the heart of the Luberon with an elevated position in the village of Cadenet.
There are a couple of Chambre d'Hôtes in the village. A couple of miles to the west in Pernes les Fontaines is a luxury guest house.
Around four miles to the north is the village of Mazan and several good accommodation options.
A bit further north of Mazan is a bastide set within vineyards with a delightful pool.
This hotel is a beautiful renovated house located on a quiet street, and walking distance to all the hustle and bustle of Aix.
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.
Under the light Cézanne once knew, the Villa Gallici Hotel is an 18th century Provençal house and a member of Relais et Châteaux portfolio.
Built in 2013 this modern, contemporary five star hotel in Provence combines art work in contemporary spaces, filled with uber stylish furniture and fittings.
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.
This B&B is located around 10 minutes north of Aix en Provence centre, and houses 4 separate bedrooms, each designed with their own unique style.
Events-Cars offer luxury taxi and transfer services across the South of France. They also cater for special events.
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.
All taxi services 24/7 within a 60 mile radius.
49 air-conditioned vehicles at your disposal for local transport, airport and rail station transfers, and touristic excursions.
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.
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.
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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