First hand information on places to see and visit in Provence from Villas Worldwide, providers of first class villa accommodation in Provence, France and around the world. We are more than just a villa company.
The Fontaine de Vaucluse is one of the jewels in the crown of the Provence region in the south of France and is frequented though-out the year by locals and visitors alike. The Fontaine de Vaucluse has something for everyone, if you want to stroll in a stunning leafy valley by a crystal clear river its perfect, or if you want a special place to eat with great food and a wonderful aspect its right up there with the best.
Children can enjoy paddling in the shallow river waters which are full of fish as well as visit interesting shops and museums. Plus for those with restricted mobility or with children in pushchairs its an ideal spot for an interesting meander on an easy flat footpath along the gorge or if you want a serious hike there are numerous excellent walks in the surrounding hills all starting from the Fontaine de Vaucluse.
So why is it so special? The Fontaine de Vaucluse is primarily a river source which springs from the foot of a huge limestone cliff at the end of a deep, wooded, glacial valley, it is a dramatic freak of nature. In the Yorkshire Dales where the Villas Worldwide office is based we have a similar geological wonder at Malham Tarn which also attracts numerous tourists from around the world. The river which once cascaded over the top of a huge cliff sunk and now emerges from below to dramatic effect.
In the surrounding hills there are beautiful pastures, steep wooded valleys adorned with shepherd’s stone shelters known locally as “Bories”, beautiful limestone cliffs and panoramic views which take your breath away. As a keen walker myself something I particularly appreciated is the verdant vegetation which stays thus practically all year round. I have enjoyed magnificent walks in the hills here in November and it has seemed like spring in the UK, greenery and pretty flowers everywhere.
You can tell by the number of local families who visit regularly at weekends in order to enjoy a long lunch that the nature and variety of restaurants on offer is something special. Here you can enjoy superb food with lovely views of the beautiful river, then walk it off in a leisurely or vigorous fashion whichever takes your fancy. I’m a big fan of the fresh trout on offer. Even when it gets busy you can always find a reposeful setting to sit and enjoy the tranquility and beauty of the valley which basks in the sunshine.
There is an excellent working paper museum which is driven by waterwheel and produces lovely paper in natural format or impregnated with local flowers and other variations which make for interesting, unique gifts whilst the production process itself is fascinating.
The Fontaine de Vaucluse is located East of Avignon near l’Isle sur la Sorge, for further information the tourist office is located in the centre on the road flanking the river and they have details of the five or six principal circular walks which vary from 30 minutes to four hours. It’s advisable to park on the left in the pay car park shortly before entering the town itself.
For further information on Provence and the Fontaine de Vaucluse do not hesitate to contact us by phone using our freephone service or by email.
View our selection of villas with private swimming pools in the Provence region, near to the Fontaine de Vaucluse, and if you would like to combine a second week by the sea we also have a superb range of holiday gites in cote d'azur with pool. Once you have a shortlist of houses get in touch and we will help narrow down your choice. Our holiday experts are very familiar with the area and the houses, let us save you time and effort.