Discover Avignon from HOTEL MERCURE PONT AVIGNON CENTRE

"Starting point: Ile de l’Oiselet car park - Duration: 2 h 45 - Distance: 28.5 km Waymarked - Difficulty Easy" "On this family-friendly bike trail starting out from the peaceful Ile de l'Oiselet you will discover the architectural heritage of the old centres of Sorgues and Bédarrides and on your way you will cross the beautiful Ouvèze plain, chock-a-block with fragrances and vibrant colours, and pass by the vines on the undulating slopes of Châteauneuf du Pape. Get the map and details of this ride at any Tourist office in the region or download it from our website."

Located on the banks of the Rhône, Islon St Luc is part of a Natura 2000 protected area. The area is of particular interest for its flora and fauna, and boasts a beautiful natural ensemble with a wide variety of species and natural habitats.Trees are dotted all over the area making it a nice place where families and older generations will enjoy going for a walk. Joggers and ramblers can make use of the health circuit set up there. Picnics can be enjoyed on the stone benches and tables in the shade of tall trees. Make sure you visit the Arboretum set up by the town of Châteauneuf-du-Pape and the National Forestry Office. It gives you the opportunity to find out about some surprising varieties of trees. L’Islon is the starting point for discovery trails such as the ecological trail, which invites visitors to (re)discover the natural heritage of Bras des Arméniers (distance: 2 km). Information panels along the way explain how the natural environment of Islon Saint Luc works. This is also the starting point for the Châteauneuf-du-Pape natural heritage trail. It goes along the banks of the Rhone and the converted towpath. It features a series of historic and environmental information panels. 10 km circuit. A map of the two walks are available from the Tourist Office.

Remarkable area: Colline de la GrailleThis hill is a blend of natural and agricultural landscapes, offers a 270° view of Avignon and Mont Ventoux. The vegetation is typically Mediterranean, with holm oaks, pines and aromatic plants (juniper, cade and thyme). Find out more about our Greater Avignon nature trails at our Tourist Office reception desk.

A looping tour of the historic site of the Popes' summer residence and a gastronomic mecca. After passing through the village, the tour takes you to the famous vineyards, where you'll discover a landscape of pebbles and vines.

"Distance: 23 km - Duration: 3h - Car park: Quai de l’Ouvèze in Bédarrides. Waymarked." "This ride through the magnificent Provence countryside takes you from Bédarrides to Courthézon along a small peaceful route along the banks of the refreshing Ouvèze river. One variation will take you across the Ouvèze grain-growing plain to discover the town of Jonquières, famous for its arts and crafts shops. Get the map and details of this ride at any Tourist office in the region or download it from the website https://www.provence-a-velo.fr/"

This hill, reaching 134 m in altitude, offers a 360° view of the Durance valley, the Alpilles Alpilles, Mont Ventoux and Caumont.This "sensitive natural area" is also renowned for its renowned for its high biodiversity of birds and and vegetation. Find out more about our Greater Avignon nature trails at our Tourist Office reception desk.

Come and discover Saint-Michel de Frigolet Abbey , in the heart of the Montagnette massif! From the car park, head for the Saint-Michel de Frigolet Abbey. Take the path on the right that goes along the wall. Follow the rocky track towards "Boulbon 1h", then 100 m after the trail on the left. At the next intersection, continue in the middle of the kermes oaks to the track to cross twice. 1- At the next crossing, follow the indication "Boulbon 50mn". After the small collar, go straight down, then climb a second hill. Shortly after, cross the drivable track at the end of the valley to go up on the hill opposite. Cross successively two other valleys. Continue, leaving the basin on the left. 100 m after, cross a track, then take the path towards a factory chimney visible in the distance. 2- Then descend to Boulbon, through the valley of Saint-Michel. At the end of this gorge, turn right and follow the marking of red dots to access the Bonnet mill and its panorama (30 min return trip). Once back at the foot of the gorges, reach the village by the Gaston de Raousset street. 3- At the junction of the end of this street (fire hydrant), take the left for Barri street, then the second right on Météline street. Continue on the Breuil path, to the road. 250 m after the purification plant, turn on the road on the left marked PR (yellow), then find the road again on 100 m. 4- Take the intersection and follow “Pas de Bouquet” path. After 2 km, turn left towards "Saint-Michel de Frigolet abbey 1h40" by the San Salvador path. Continue for about 3 km. 5- At the highest point of the Montagnette (San Salvador, 161 m), dive by a small path on the right. At the crossing in "T” form then take a left. At the next two crossroads, always take the left. 6- Turn right on the track, then at the junction forming a triangle continue to the right. Find shortly after the departure path, "abbey of Saint-Michel of Frigolet 10mn".

A 3-hour, partially signposted ride from either Orange or Caderousse. If you want to cycle in peace and quiet, at the heart of nature and in the shade, follow the “Green Island” trail. From the town centre, encircled by its imposing embankment, and where you can admire a historic heritage, you will set off along the River Rhone and its canals, and then along a greenway, guaranteeing perfect safety and tranquility. Come with your family, and enjoy cycling through a haven of peace. Departure Tourist office towards the avenue Charles de Gaulle. a. After the crossing on the A7, turn right and then left onto Chemin des Princes. Continue straight on the road to Cairanne and the road to Cabanelles for about 4 kms. b. Enter the village through the Castelan gate. c. From the Léon Roche gate follow Clos d’Orange. d. Turn left towards Orange on chemin des Terracles

Leave the small village of Caderousse by a temporary Via Rhôna trail that leads to the peaks of the Châteauneuf-du-Pape vineyards before entering Avignon." The route climbs up around 1 km and crosses through hillside vineyards affording beautiful views over the Rhone Valley. After Sorgues and as far as Pontet, the 3.5-km route through industrial and commercial areas demands more vigilance until the greenway running along the canals, at the entrance to Avignon, a stunning way in to the former City of the Popes. If you have children in tow, it may be easier to take the train from Sorgues or Orange to Avignon.

Avignon has a magnficent urban landscape. The Rocher des Doms overlooks the city and the Rhône. Here there is an exceptional architectural group which includes the Pont d'Avignon (also known as Pont Saint Bénezet, the Ramparts, the Petit Palais, the Doms Cathedral and the massive walls of the Palace of the Popes, with four impressive towers in each corner. This unique architectural ensemble has been ranked as a UNESCO World Heritage site. The biggest Gothic palace in the world: tour 24 rooms! Museum space, priceless frescoes. Audioguide in 11 languages. See all the hours and prices on our website: >>> www.palais-des-papes.com IMPORTANT INFORMATION Due to the preparation of numerous cultural events, and to preserve your experience of discovering the monument, the Palais des Papes is adapting your tour itinerary. From May 05 to 29, visitors will enter and leave via the Benedict XII gardens, located at the rear of the monument. During this period, we will not be able to distribute Histopad tablets, nor offer the usual locker or baby-carrier services. The Palais des Papes is one of the 10 most visited monuments in France. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, it is the largest Gothic palace in the world (15,000 m2 of floor space, equivalent to the volume of 4 Gothic cathedrals). More than twenty rooms are on display, including the pope's private apartments with their fabulous fresco decorations by Italian artist Matteo Giovannetti. PRACTICAL INFORMATION Babies and strollers: strollers may not be used inside the monument and must be left at the cloakroom. Baby carriers available on loan. TICKETS: Avignon Tourisme invites you to book your visit online by choosing your time slot. Reservations at www.avignon-tourisme.com Tickets can be purchased on site and at the tourist office for slots that are not fully booked. HISTOPAD: an immersive digital tour to go back in time and see the invisible! With the Histopad (digital tablet), step back in time and relive the splendors of the pontifical court in the 14th century in multimedia immersion. Thanks to augmented reality, you can visualize many of the rooms in the Papal Palace as they might have been in the 14th century. The Histopad allows you to take a virtual tour of 9 of the palace's main rooms, which have been re-imagined in their 14th-century settings using augmented reality. THE PALACE GARDENS Recently restored, the gardens are a new attraction for visitors, providing a space for relaxation and a better understanding of the entire Palais des Papes, an exceptional historic monument listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Jardin du Pape and the Jardin du Palais thus join the Verger Urbain V, inaugurated on September 14, 2018, and freely accessible to the public, to complete the triptych of the Gardens of the Palais des Papes. This redevelopment is structured into two zones: the Jardin du Palais (or Jardin Benoît XII, 1250m2) and the Jardin du Pape (662m2). The 14th-century hydraulic network was chosen as the structuring element for the design of the Palace Garden, delimiting the large rectangles where Mediterranean plant species attested to in the 14th century in these pontifical gardens are planted. The Jardin du Pape is an intimate garden, with direct access from the papal apartments. Its redevelopment has restored its precious character, with the re-creation of the griffin fountain and the surrounding flower meadow. The famous and imposing Roma building, of which only a trace remains on the ground, has been reconstituted in the form of a monumental pergola, which will eventually be entirely covered with plants. Restoration work has been undertaken by the City of Avignon and Avignon Tourisme with the support of the French government, the DRAC, the Southern Region, the Crédit Agricole Foundation and the L'Occitane Foundation. The gardens can be visited on their own, or combined with the Pont d'Avignon or Palais des Papes. Free for Avignon residents every day of the year, upon reservation and presentation of proof of address. Tours close 1 hour before the monument closes. IH : Due to a large number of steps, the tour of the Palais des Papes is partially inaccessible to wheelchair users. However, we are happy to assist you with your personalized visit. All our teams are mobilized to accompany you and provide you with a "tailor-made" experience at the heart of the greatest Gothic palace. Your visit will take you through the main areas of the monument, allowing you to discover the history of the Popes, armed with your Histopad. Bonus: access to the Sant-Martial chapel. Open all year round: Tuesdays, Fridays and Sundays, 4pm-6pm. Length of visit: 2 hours. Free admission for you and your companion (guided tour recommended). Reservations required on 04 32 74 32 74 or by e-mail: officetourisme@avignon-tourisme.com Numerous guided tours of the monument are offered throughout the year. Information and reservations at www.avignon-tourisme.com The boutique-bookshop is open all year round. See the store video: youtu.be/17jxnfkn7cc Pets are not allowed (except guide dogs). The Palais des Papes has been awarded the "Accueil vélo" label. Subject to change without notice.

The Saint Bénezet bridge, a major witness of the history of Avignon, is known throughout the world thanks to the famous song. Built from the 12th century, it was washed away several times by the floods of the Rhone, and finally abandoned in the seventeenth century. Classified World Heritage by UNESCO. According to the legend, the bridge was built in the 12th century by a young shepherd from Ardèche - Bénezet - who heard voices telling him to build a bridge in Avignon. The bridge was completed in 1185, creating the only place to cross the Rhône between Lyon and the Mediterranean sea. The bridge originally spanned approximately 900 meters and had 22 arches. It was dismantled in 1226, then rebuilt. It was later washed away several times by flood waters and rebuilt until it was abandoned in the 17th century. Today, all that remains are four arches and a chapel dedicated to Saint Nicolas. The bridge is famous the world over due to the lovely children's song "Sur le pont d’Avignon". The Pont d’Avignon was a true feat of engineering, and was continually being worked on and repaired. A source of legends, an emblematic monument of the area, the bridge has been the subject of unprecedented interdisciplinary research since 2010. Under the aegis of the greater Avignon area and the CNRS, a wide community of researchers has been conducting work. Their results have led to new museum areas and displays, and a multimedia approach which re-creates the bridge in 3D in the many settings that changed over the centuries. - Multi-media display and audioguide with new descriptions resulting from the scientific research on the legends and history of the bridge. Multimedia apps can be downloaded on smart phone ou tablets (AppStore / Google Play) on the sites-papes www.palais-des.com / www.grandavignon.fr or at the reception desk at Pont d’Avignon via a specific terminal. (Subject to change).

GO AND DISCOVER AVIGNON ON A GUIDED VISIT SETTING AND ENJOY PRIORITY ACCESS TO PALAIS DES PAPES! During your visit, you will head to the city's fortifications to discover the Rocher des Doms gardens. You will discover the rich cultural heritage of Avignon, the city where the popedom settled in the 14th century. You will enjoy a fast-track ticket to visit Palais des Papes. You end your visit with a wine tasting from  Côtes du Rhône, served in a historical area kept secret by the locals.

Set off for an excursion at the heart of Camargue's Nature Park and its “capital”, the seaside resort town of Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer!  SET OFF FOR AN EXCURSION AT THE HEART OF CAMARGUE'S NATURE PARK AND ITS “CAPITAL”, THE SEASIDE RESORT TOWN OF SAINTES-MARIES-DE-LA-MER. Start your day by discovering Camargue's nature reserve, a true wildland with diverse flora and fauna. Known as one of the biggest wetlands in Europe, the parks is home to more than 122,000 species of birds as well as pink flamingos, white horses and Camargue bulls. Then, head to Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer, a seaside resort town in Provence considered as the capital of Camargue. As a small Mediterranean fishing town, Saintes-Maries is renowned for its hours of sunshine and beautiful streets. It is even said that Vincent Van Gogh’s masterpieces were inspired by this town!  With your guide, go up to the church's rooftop and take in a superb panorama of the cities, the sea and marshes in the region.   At the end of the day, your chauffeur will drive you back to Avignon.  Make the most of this day and discover the natural beauty of Camargue!

Walk in the footsteps of the Romans by visiting the ancient ruins of their civilization in Vaison la Romaine. Then, savour wine and cheese as you discover the Provençal countryside! WALK IN THE FOOTSTEPS OF THE ROMANS BY VISITING THE ANCIENT RUINS OF THEIR CIVILIZATION IN VAISON LA ROMAINE. THEN, SAVOUR WINE AND CHEESE AS YOU DISCOVER THE PROVENÇAL COUNTRYSIDE.​ Start your day by visiting the Vaison la Romaine, recognised as one of the ‘100 Most Beautiful Detours of France’ for its heritage and history. Admire the ancient ruins of the former “Vasio Vocontiorum”, the capital of the Vocontii people and also the city of medieval churches which tell the rich history of the city.  Afterwards, head to the market and discover diverse Mediterranean products before you participate in a wine and cheese workshop with the advice and supervision of your master cheese-maker.  Continue your day with a delicious homemade lunch in the perched village of Séguret. You will be swept away by the typical Provençal environment and the medieval character that surround these areas. End your excursion with a wine tasting before heading back to minibus and returning to Avignon.

Enjoy a day discovering 2000 years of history through visits and tastings! ENJOY A DAY DISCOVERING 2000 YEARS OF HISTORY THROUGH VISITS AND TASTINGS. Start your day with a walking tour of the famous Pont du Gard, a Roman aqueduct registered as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visit the town of Orange where you can find several Roman ruins.  After visiting these historic locations, enjoy a session of gourmet tastings. Head to Châteauneuf du Pape to visit the Wine Museum and meet Bernard Castelain, a master chocolatier. During this visit, you will have the opportunity to savour chocolate and wine.  At the end of the day, your chauffeur will drive you back to Avignon.  Make the most of this cultural day as you discover Provence and its cuisine! 

During the lavender blossoming season, discover the beauty of the fields in bloom along the Provençal countryside! Be swept away by the colours and scents in the different villages before visiting the famous cosmetics factory, “L’Occitane©”.  DURING THE LAVENDER BLOSSOMING SEASON (JUNE 15 TO AUGUST 15), DISCOVER THE BEAUTY OF THE FIELDS IN BLOOM ALONG THE PROVENÇAL COUNTRYSIDE. BE SWEPT AWAY BY THE COLOURS AND SCENTS IN THE DIFFERENT VILLAGES BEFORE VISITING THE FAMOUS COSMETICS FACTORY, “L’OCCITANE©”. Start your day with a tour of Valensole, the entrance to the regional Nature Park of Verdon. Follow the “Lavender Routes” for a sensory experience that can only be had in Provence. Discover the colourful summer landscape, combining the blue from the lavender with the gold from the wheat.  Then, journey to Moustiers Sainte Marie, located at the gates of the Verdon Gorges measuring 630 metres high. Spend a pleasant moment in this charming pottery town, registered as one of the most beautiful villages in France. Your guide will then take you along the Lake of Sainte Croix, recognised for its wooded environment and Provençal fragrance due to the neighbouring fields of lavender, thyme and rosemary. Appreciate this relaxing moment in a natural and preserved environment. End your Provence-themed day with a guided tour of the l’Occitane© factory, the famous and world-renowned cosmetics brand, before heading back to Avignon on your minibus. 

Meander through the Provençal countryside by minibus on a one-day trip! Explore the wonderful hillside villages and marvel at the landscapes of the lavender fields and the olive trees!   Start your trip by visiting Roussillon; this village ranked as one of France's most beautiful will captivate you with its variety of colours! Perched upon an ochre cliff, this village offers breathtaking panoramic views of the region. You will be charmed by this picturesque village!  You will enjoy its Provençal market (Thursday). Your next stop is to the medieval village of Gordes. This town built entirely of "Lauze" stones will amaze you with its architecture and typical regional atmosphere! Discover Gordes market (Tuesday). Next, visit Fontaine de Vaucluse and discover where the Sorgues starts. Then, head to see the amazing Gard bridge. Admire the architecture and the vestiges of the Nimes aquaduct, which is listed on UNESCO's World Heritage List. Following the aquaduct, the tour will go to the village of Baux de Provence. Situated on the top of a hill, enjoy the spectacular view of the surrounding landscape, and let yourself be charmed by the authenticity of the village! From here drive to Saint Remy de Provence, and stop along the way to photograph the famous  "Les Antiques" which are known for their triumphal arc and Roman mausoleum. If you take the tour on a Sunday, you will enjoy an extra visit to Isle sur la Sorgue. Explore this village famous for its charming antique shops and its Provençal market! At the end of the day, you will return to Avignon accompanied by your driver. Through this tour you will discover the Provençal way of life and the region's magnificent landscapes!

Stroll through the typical streets of Luberon and make the most of this day to admire the lavender fields!  Also discover the region's traditional markets! Start your circuit by visiting Roussillon, this village listed among France's most beautiful will amaze you! Perched upon an ochre cliff, this village offers breathtaking panoramic views of the region. You will take advantage of its Provençal market to discover the regional products and specialities (Thursdays). You will be charmed by this picturesque village!  Your next stop is to the medieval village of Gordes. This town built entirely of stones known as "Lauze", you will be amazed at its architecture and the typical atmosphere of the region! Enjoy the Provençal market, soak up the scents of olive oil and lavender which fill the air (Tuesdays)! At the end of the day, you will return to Avignon accompanied by your driver. Opt for this unique tour and discover the picturesque villages of this utterly charming region!

Discover two of Provence's iconic towns! Discover famous vineyards of Châteauneuf-du-Pape and taste the region's best wines! Start your circuit by minibus by visiting the wonderful city of Orange. Visit its superb ancient theatre (admission ticket and audio guide)! Visit its Provençal market to do some shopping and take home typical souvenirs of the region (Thursday)! Then head off to Châteauneuf-du-Pape! During the journey, you can admire the landscape and the beauty of the charming Provençal countryside! Then you will visit the region's authentic vineyards and taste the region's wines in the fermentation cellars! At the end of the day, you will return to Avignon accompanied by your driver. Opt for this authentic tour and explore the region's vineyards! Taste some of Provence's typical wines!

Avignon has a magnficent urban landscape. The Rocher des Doms overlooks the city and the Rhône. Here there is an exceptional architectural group which includes the Pont d'Avignon (also known as Pont Saint Bénezet, the Ramparts, the Petit Palais, the Doms Cathedral and the massive walls of the Palace of the Popes, with four impressive towers in each corner. This unique architectural ensemble has been ranked as a UNESCO World Heritage site. The biggest Gothic palace in the world: tour 24 rooms! Museum space, priceless frescoes. Audioguide in 11 languages. See all the hours and prices on our website: >>> www.palais-des-papes.com IMPORTANT INFORMATION Due to the preparation of numerous cultural events, and to preserve your experience of discovering the monument, the Palais des Papes is adapting your tour itinerary. From May 05 to 29, visitors will enter and leave via the Benedict XII gardens, located at the rear of the monument. During this period, we will not be able to distribute Histopad tablets, nor offer the usual locker or baby-carrier services. The Palais des Papes is one of the 10 most visited monuments in France. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, it is the largest Gothic palace in the world (15,000 m2 of floor space, equivalent to the volume of 4 Gothic cathedrals). More than twenty rooms are on display, including the pope's private apartments with their fabulous fresco decorations by Italian artist Matteo Giovannetti. PRACTICAL INFORMATION Babies and strollers: strollers may not be used inside the monument and must be left at the cloakroom. Baby carriers available on loan. TICKETS: Avignon Tourisme invites you to book your visit online by choosing your time slot. Reservations at www.avignon-tourisme.com Tickets can be purchased on site and at the tourist office for slots that are not fully booked. HISTOPAD: an immersive digital tour to go back in time and see the invisible! With the Histopad (digital tablet), step back in time and relive the splendors of the pontifical court in the 14th century in multimedia immersion. Thanks to augmented reality, you can visualize many of the rooms in the Papal Palace as they might have been in the 14th century. The Histopad allows you to take a virtual tour of 9 of the palace's main rooms, which have been re-imagined in their 14th-century settings using augmented reality. THE PALACE GARDENS Recently restored, the gardens are a new attraction for visitors, providing a space for relaxation and a better understanding of the entire Palais des Papes, an exceptional historic monument listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Jardin du Pape and the Jardin du Palais thus join the Verger Urbain V, inaugurated on September 14, 2018, and freely accessible to the public, to complete the triptych of the Gardens of the Palais des Papes. This redevelopment is structured into two zones: the Jardin du Palais (or Jardin Benoît XII, 1250m2) and the Jardin du Pape (662m2). The 14th-century hydraulic network was chosen as the structuring element for the design of the Palace Garden, delimiting the large rectangles where Mediterranean plant species attested to in the 14th century in these pontifical gardens are planted. The Jardin du Pape is an intimate garden, with direct access from the papal apartments. Its redevelopment has restored its precious character, with the re-creation of the griffin fountain and the surrounding flower meadow. The famous and imposing Roma building, of which only a trace remains on the ground, has been reconstituted in the form of a monumental pergola, which will eventually be entirely covered with plants. Restoration work has been undertaken by the City of Avignon and Avignon Tourisme with the support of the French government, the DRAC, the Southern Region, the Crédit Agricole Foundation and the L'Occitane Foundation. The gardens can be visited on their own, or combined with the Pont d'Avignon or Palais des Papes. Free for Avignon residents every day of the year, upon reservation and presentation of proof of address. Tours close 1 hour before the monument closes. IH : Due to a large number of steps, the tour of the Palais des Papes is partially inaccessible to wheelchair users. However, we are happy to assist you with your personalized visit. All our teams are mobilized to accompany you and provide you with a "tailor-made" experience at the heart of the greatest Gothic palace. Your visit will take you through the main areas of the monument, allowing you to discover the history of the Popes, armed with your Histopad. Bonus: access to the Sant-Martial chapel. Open all year round: Tuesdays, Fridays and Sundays, 4pm-6pm. Length of visit: 2 hours. Free admission for you and your companion (guided tour recommended). Reservations required on 04 32 74 32 74 or by e-mail: officetourisme@avignon-tourisme.com Numerous guided tours of the monument are offered throughout the year. Information and reservations at www.avignon-tourisme.com The boutique-bookshop is open all year round. See the store video: youtu.be/17jxnfkn7cc Pets are not allowed (except guide dogs). The Palais des Papes has been awarded the "Accueil vélo" label. Subject to change without notice.

The Saint Bénezet bridge, a major witness of the history of Avignon, is known throughout the world thanks to the famous song. Built from the 12th century, it was washed away several times by the floods of the Rhone, and finally abandoned in the seventeenth century. Classified World Heritage by UNESCO. According to the legend, the bridge was built in the 12th century by a young shepherd from Ardèche - Bénezet - who heard voices telling him to build a bridge in Avignon. The bridge was completed in 1185, creating the only place to cross the Rhône between Lyon and the Mediterranean sea. The bridge originally spanned approximately 900 meters and had 22 arches. It was dismantled in 1226, then rebuilt. It was later washed away several times by flood waters and rebuilt until it was abandoned in the 17th century. Today, all that remains are four arches and a chapel dedicated to Saint Nicolas. The bridge is famous the world over due to the lovely children's song "Sur le pont d’Avignon". The Pont d’Avignon was a true feat of engineering, and was continually being worked on and repaired. A source of legends, an emblematic monument of the area, the bridge has been the subject of unprecedented interdisciplinary research since 2010. Under the aegis of the greater Avignon area and the CNRS, a wide community of researchers has been conducting work. Their results have led to new museum areas and displays, and a multimedia approach which re-creates the bridge in 3D in the many settings that changed over the centuries. - Multi-media display and audioguide with new descriptions resulting from the scientific research on the legends and history of the bridge. Multimedia apps can be downloaded on smart phone ou tablets (AppStore / Google Play) on the sites-papes www.palais-des.com / www.grandavignon.fr or at the reception desk at Pont d’Avignon via a specific terminal. (Subject to change).

The ramparts, ranked as UNESCO World Heritage, encircle the entire old city. They are 4.3 km long, and were started in 1355 during the Papacy of Pope Innocent VI, to protect the city from the assaults by the roving bands of mercenaries. They were finished in 1370 under Pope Urban V. The entrance of the Avignon Bridge provides access onto the ramparts, and to the Rocher des Doms Gardens. The views over the city and the Rhône River are breathtaking. There is no charge to go up on the ramparts.

It is built on the site of a chapel erected by Pope Adrian IV (1154-1159) and dedicated to St. Peter in Chains. Construction and early expansions took place in the 16th and 17th centuries, with the current building being renovated in 1758 and enlarged in 1832 and 1894. The current bell tower dates back to 1932. The church is characterized by the presence of four side chapels, one of which is used for a reenactment of the Lourdes grotto.

The Porte Calendale is a Romanesque gateway at the northern entrance to Barbentane. The recently restored Porte Calendrale commanded the northern entrance to Barbentane. There is a wonderful view of this gate from the end of the Grand'Rue. All that remains of the 11th century ramparts is a defensive tower which was transformed into a prison and used until 1826.

Under the pontificate of Benedict VIII, the church was consecrated, along with the Sainte Croix chapel, by Monseigneur de Solsanne, Bishop of Teanum, on November 21, 1407. Placed under the patronage of Saint John the Baptist, it took the name of Notre Dame des Grâces. It is originally a Romanesque church full hanger of the 12th century on the first two bays. It was extended a first time in the 14th century, at the time of the cardinal Grimoard, brother of Pope Urban V, by adding two Gothic bays and an apse in 1324. The porch, in the form of mantel, date from the 15th century.The Bell Tower was raised on St. Croix Chapel between 1486 and 1492. It is 21 meters high and a rise of 7 m overcomes. She kicked balls in 1794 (rebuilt in 1983), destroyed during the French Revolution. All its bells, except one, were shipped to Marseille for "weapons against the enemies of the Nation". The Bell Tower and the porch are classified historical monuments since 1921.

"Home of the Knights of Malta", known as "the House of the Knights" is the former stately home of the Marquis de Barbentane. Located opposite the Church in the middle of the fortified Center of the village, its construction dates from the beginning of the twelfth century (1133).The House is divided and sold from 1665. The northern part became the home of the Consuls and Hotel City 1670 to 1888, the southern part is occupied by families and the low Gallery is used as a Hall. The Town Hall party was strongly reworked between 1838 and 1843, only the corner tower is preserved, with a monumental sculpture of the first coat of arms of the village. The South façade, on the street Pujade, is dressed again around 1740 and treated in classic hotel. All has been restored in the year 2000.

Built in the North side of the little mountain, the city is overlooked by the Anglica Tower. It was built in 1365 by Cardinal Grimoard, Brother of Pope Urbain V, the tower measures 28 meters high and 10 meters wide. It remains the great witness of the medieval period, and was restored in the 18th century. The Angelica Tower, with a turret above it, was sung by Mistral (Famous Provencal Poet) in Les Iscles d’Or. On its left side, the Sequier Door (14th century) was the village border line. The tower has been registered “Historical Monument“ since 1925 but is closed to the public. Visible only from outside.

The Porte du Séquier is a Romanesque gateway at the southern entrance to the Barbentane ramparts. You will find it when you are South of the medieval walls. Sequier, from Provençal “seca“ means “dry“. Farmers dried their vegetable crops for winter stores on the streets of the Sequier.

Relax and breathe… On the wine route, two kilometres from Châteauneuf-du-Pape, La Sommellerie is a haven of peace. In the elegant setting of the restaurant, you will enjoy a refined and home-made cuisine. This former sheepfold dating from the 17th century with its thick walls and typically Provençal character has 16 bedrooms and a restaurant opening on to a shaded terrace, a garden and a swimming pool. An ideal environment for business lunches and for romantic dinners.

Bar-restaurant open Monday to Saturday. Lunch only. Traditional regional cuisine.

With its quiet, shady terrace, boule court and free Wi-Fi, this village bistro is an idyllic spot to sample the country life. For a slice of the Provençal lifestyle, come and eat at Les Acacias! Traditional cuisine served on a quiet, shady terrace. Specialities: Cherry tomato tarte tatin with fresh goat’s cheese, Mediterranean-style sea bass fillets, lemon and herb-marinated pork pluma, bone marrow with Camargue fleur de sel. Free Wi-Fi, local and regional newspapers, cards, dice and board games.

Located in the heart of the small village of Lafare, the Bistro de Lafare offers traditional, family-style cuisine based on fresh, local, seasonal produce, as well as a grocery store and bread depot.

The "Le M" restaurant invites you to experience a natural, inventive gourmet meal made from our organic vegetable garden and seasonal produce.

If the village only had its church and a few houses in the 19th century, it is at the center of a territory that includes the most beautiful farmhouses in the Camargue: the painted farmhouse, the Cazeau tower farmhouse. This sector specializes in the breeding of herds of bulls and the cultivation of rice, including organic rice. There is also an important private research center on the flora and fauna of the marshes, the biological station of the Tour du Valat.

On the edge of the Vaccarès pond nature reserve, the Domaine de Méjanes offers a privileged approach to the Camargue and its traditions, while respecting the environment. The domain of Méjanes is an old fortified residence of the Templars of the 13th century, part of the buildings of which date from the 11th century. Acquired by Paul Ricard in 1939, the Domaine is now an agricultural and tourist property which allows you to discover all the riches of the Camargue natural environment, on foot, on horseback, by mountain bike or with the little train. Authentic and secret, this land between the Rhône and the Mediterranean is unique for its flora and fauna, the wetlands of which are an exceptional natural place of residence for a multitude of animal and plant species. Phone. +33 (0) 4 90 97 10 10 Fax +33 (0) 4 90 97 12 32 http://www.mejanes-camargue.fr

A former coaching inn in a hilltop village, this building with plenty of character is great place to stop on the GR9 route and the cyclotourist circuits. Pascal welcomes you in the spirit of the Bistrots de Pays with simplicity and conviviality. His sunny, family-style cuisine, featuring seasonal produce, celebrates all the flavors and colors of Provence and the Mediterranean. Comfortably seated indoors by the fireplace or on the panoramic terrace facing the Ventoux, enjoy this tasty stopover as you discover the beautiful Toulourenc valley.

At Mas Saint Bertrand Nature atmosphere in a still wild setting. Camarguais restaurant for lunch, Gîtes and Bed and Breakfast From the end of March to the end of October: +33 (0) 4 42 48 80 69

A peaceful and welcoming winemakers’ house located at the centre of Châteauneuf-du-Pape, the most famous wine area in the Rhone Valley. A must for all wine lovers! In the evening, on the patio, near the pool, Danièle, a qualified wine expert, will be delighted to share her travel memories, the art of living in Provence and her passion for cookery, along with the wines from the region, from France and elsewhere. Breakfast is served beside the fireplace or in the garden. “The cosy corner” of the house. An impressive library, the arts, French and overseas literature, dozens of modern works and a wine and cuisine collection (works to be read on site). 3 bedrooms with 3 different atmospheres: CARMEN (2nd floor). A charming, cosy room in the colours of the south; “honey” style furniture. Bed 160 × 200. Great bathroom (bath and shower). Parefeuilles Provence floor. LI BAI, the “Chinese” bedroom, is named after the great 11th century poet who wrote a great many poems in praise of wine! Refined decor and furniture, souvenirs from the owner’s travels. “Open” bathroom with separate shower and toilet. The room (on the 2nd floor), in loft style, can accommodate 3 people: large bed: 180 × 200 for 2 + 1 bed 90 x 200 OR 3 separate beds for 3 people 90 × 200. Breathtaking 180° view of the vineyards of Châteauneuf-du-Pape!

Welcome home! Bastide la Buissière, an authentic 18th-century Provencal home nestled in a peaceful green setting, offers 2 unique guest rooms combining comfort and antiques. Our table d'hôtes promises convivial meal breaks.

3-star hotel-restaurant with 54 rooms, a short walk from Orange town centre. Hotel entirely renovated in 2015. Free, secure car park. Campanile has 34 “Prestige” rooms and 20 standard rooms, with 3 rooms respecting the latest reduced-mobility standards. A secure car park, locked at night. Restaurant open from noon to 2 p.m. and from 7 to 10 p.m. Terrace for 30 guests. Campanile can welcome groups both at the hotel and the restaurant. Secure bike garage available.

The Glacier Hotel has been owned by our family since 1947, and welcomes guests at the heart of the historic centre of Orange, in a tree-lined avenue amidst café and restaurant terraces. The hotel has 33 charming, cosy and contemporary rooms. The warm welcome and wide range of facilities will guarantee an unforgettable experience at the heart of the Cotes du Rhone wine region. All the rooms are air-conditioned and equipped with a shower or bath, toilet, telephone and TV. Free wifi. Relaxing, cultural or sports trails. Bikes for rent at the hotel.

Well-equipped holiday accommodation with access to the owners' garden. Shaded open garden of 150 m², shaded 15 m² terrace to the west and car park with view over the vines. Living room/kitchen, 1 bedroom, bathroom with shower and separate toilet. Well-furnished gite, on the ground floor of the owners' house. 150 m2 garden area (no shade), 15 m2 terrace shaded by 2 olive trees and a maple to the west, and private parking. View of the vineyards of Beaumes de Venise. 1 bedroom (1 140cm bed, cot ). Living room /kitchenette (microwave, washing machine. Colour flat screen TV). Shower room. Separate WC. Air conditioning. Heating fee: 20 euros/week. Tourist tax not included. Possible cleaning at the end of stay for 20 euros. Pets 20 euros per week. Garden furniture, barbecue. Free wifi.

This holiday cottage is a former traditional farmhouse renovated with dedication by its owners, in the heart of the vineyards in Beaumes-de-V, right next to its authentic Provençal town centre. Perfect for exploring the surrounding Dentelles de Montmirail mountains, Mont Ventoux and the Côtes du Rhône.

A home from the 1970's, entirely renovated, with private land that is fenced in. South-facing deck, 400 meters from the village. 10x4 swimming pool, with an alarm, shared with another rental, on land surrounded by vineyards 50 meters from the house. A home from the 1970's, entirely renovated, with private land that is fenced in. South-facing deck, 400 meters from the village. 10x4 swimming pool, with an alarm, shared with another rental, on land surrounded by vineyards 50 meters from the house. Beautiful views over the Dentelles de Montmirail, lots of hiking trails nearby, in the heart of the Côtes du Rhône vineyards. On a single level you have a separate kitchen, entirely equipped, a living room with sofa. 2 bedrooms one with double queen-size bed, one with 2 single beds. Split system A/C-heating. Baby bed. Heating is included. Fireplace. Holiday tax is included in the price. WIFI. Sheets and towels are included.

Situated in the heart of a Côtes-du-Rhône vineyard with views of the Dentelles de Montmirail and Mont Ventoux, our campsite offers a choice of 100 or 200 m² pitches. Swimming pool with paddling pool and mobile homes. The campsite is in the heart of a Côtes-du-Rhône wine-growing estate, with views of the Dentelles de Montmirail and Mont Ventoux. Numerous walks and bike rides will take you through the magnificent hilltop villages. Near Vaison-la-Romaine, Orange, Carpentras, Gigondas.

Opening 03/04/2020 > 18/10/2020 In the very heart of the Alpilles in Provence, Huttopia Fontvieille – Provence campsite boasts an exceptional location in the pine forest of Fontvieille.

Farmhouse located in the midst of 5 hectares vineyards and olive groves planted in drystone terraces. 5 hectares of woods.. Magnificent views over the Comtat Venaissin and the Dentelles de Montmirail. Shady garden, not fenced in. Quiet and cool in the summer time. Trellis, authentic, quiet setting. Secured pool with lifeguard, drystone architecture, entrance gate. The kitchen is available to guests. Corinne and Jean-Luc are vine growers from three generations of winemakers. Walking maps available, hikes can start from the house. Secured bike storage area, cyclo-touring charter. Bocce ball playing. - Rooms have Provencal decoration, with views over the Comtat Venaissin and the Dentelles de Montmirail. Private toilet and shower, TV. Rooms are all on one level, and have views over the the estate vineyards. WIFI Internet access. Lounge chairs available. - Generous Provencal breakfasts are served out of doors during the summer, under the flower trellis. Hiking and biking paths start from the farm. Rock climbing nearby in the Dentelles de Montmirail. Visit the Côtes du Rhône Villages cellars. Beautiful nature outings around Beaumes-de-Venise. You can visit the Beaumes-de-Venise wine cooperative cellar with the homeowners, enjoy a guided visit of the vineyards, and tasting of our wines.