Advice

Let's pause for a moment to give you a few tips as you continue to explore the region. The Vaucluse is full of treasures. Once you've seen all the wonders of the ancient world here in Orange, you can head off to the Dentelles de Montmirail.

You see, "Dentelles" is French for "lace", and, living up to its name, this mountain range features lace-like peaks sculpted by centuries of erosion. This exceptional natural site is absolutely magnificent and will delight climbing and hiking enthusiasts. Nestled right at the heart of the Côtes du Rhône vineyards, the 12th century Suze-la-Rousse castle is also well worth a visit.

Because of its strategic position on a rocky promontory, it was first converted into a military fortress, and only later into a grand mansion. Its eclectic architecture gives us one of the most beautiful Italianate courtyards in France. Calling all connoisseurs!

If you're a wine lover, this is the region for you! The wine route from Orange to Vaison-la-Romaine will take you through exceptional vineyards, where you'll get to learn about many great wines, including the renowned Châteauneuf-du-Pape. If the Roman ruins of Orange left you spellbound, head to Vaison-la-Romaine next.

Here you'll discover two vast Gallo-Roman quarters and an impressive archaeological museum, a tribute to the city's rich past. Don’t miss the Roman bridge spanning the Ouvèze river with a single arch, and the feudal castle of the Counts of Toulouse, with its magnificent Romanesque cathedral! Now, if you're in the mood to visit some charming little villages, you're spoilt for choice.

Aiguèze is a medieval hilltop village just 27km from Orange. Overlooked by the remnants of its fortress, the site promises magnificent views over the Ardèche gorges. La Roque-sur-Cèze is another great option, home to a Romanesque chapel, a medieval bridge and the remains of a castle.

This village is nestled amidst stunning landscapes; while you're there, don't miss a visit to the Sautadet waterfalls with their spectacular giants' cauldrons, the "marmites des géants". And let's not forget the beautiful city of Avignon and its mythical Palace of the Popes, just half an hour south of Orange. Buckle up and unravel its mysteries with our audio-guide available on the Navaway app.

If it's otherworldly beauty you seek, be sure to explore the marvellous underground world of the Orgnac sinkhole. Listed as a Great Site of France, this spectacular cave takes you deep into the bowels of the Earth, to tour grandiose chambers filled with impressive rock formations. Descend 121 meters below ground to watch a captivating sound and light show and top it all off with a visit to the on-site museum of prehistory.

For those who prefer the great outdoors, an escapade in the Barronies Provençales Regional Nature Park is a must. Visit this natural reserve, located between the departments of Drôme and Ardèche, and off to explore 1,800km² of protected wilderness! Limestone mountains rise up amid lavender and olive groves, revealing their beauty as you hike along many trails.

It's also the perfect place to get your adrenalin pumping. Choose between rock climbing, via ferrata, canyoning and paragliding and experience the region in a whole new way. And how could we forget the Pont du Gard, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

This ancient work of art, built by our ancestors in the 1st century AD in a mere five years, brought running water to Nîmes for 500 years! Today, it's the largest ancient bridge ever built and a must-see in France. If you want to find out more about it, check our dedicated article.

Well, with all this, you've got plenty of things to do if you feel like staying in the area for a while.