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Destination Spotlight - France: Provence
Car hire Provence, France
Nimes Arles Mont Ventoux Vaison-la-Romaine Orange Châteauneuf-du-Pape Avignon

Vaison-la-Romaine

A definite stop however, just six miles from Seguret is that of Vaison-la-Romaine, the ‘Jewel of Roman Provence’. The name becomes apt from the moment you approach the city and the Roman ruins become apparent. The city has also been the focal point of numerous archaeological digs, which have unearthed some of the most luxurious and elaborate homes of Roman times. 

The first sight that will strike you is the ancient 1st century bridge, which traverses the River Ouveze and leads to the medieval town and cathedral that sit high on a rocky cliff. Most notable amongst buildings in the old town is the apse of the Church of St. Quentin, which dates back to the 8th Century and is regarded as one of the oldest in France.

To appreciate the significance of the city as a veritable Roman goldmine for archaeologists, the Archaelogical Museum to the southern side of Vaison-la-Romaine provides a fascinating insight to Roman life in the area via artefacts, model replicas and details of digs.

The city is perhaps at its most vibrant on Tuesday mornings as the weekly local food market fills the streets of the old town.

Châteauneuf-du-Pape

Travel south to make your next point of call. Châteauneuf-du-Pape is of course, world-famous for its wine of the same name; growing it, producing it and selling it. Head to the ruins of the ancient chateau which towers above the village and admire the picture-perfect setting of the vineyards which surround the area and the Rhône River.

Châteauneuf-du-Pape

Whilst in the village, stop at the Place de la Fontaine, where visitors will find an almost endless number of cellars, offering tastes of some of the world’s finest locally produced wine. Should you be looking to further your knowledge of this legendary wine-producing area, take one of the many guided tours available of the vineyards advertised throughout the village.

Away from its wine culture, Châteauneuf-du-Pape is a beautiful stopping point in its own right. The village is punctuated by numerous beautiful fountains and twisting narrow streets. Walk to the Papal castle built by Pope Jean XXII in 1333 and up the wide stone staircase that takes you to the fortress where each Pope lived until 1377. Although now in ruins, part owing to damage inflicted during World War II, a trek to the top of the fortress offers an incredible panoramic view of the Luberon, the Rhône Valley and Avignon.



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