Haut Vaucluse, or Upper Vaucluse, is a region in Provence found between Avignon and the towering Mont Ventoux. The “upper” part of the region’s name actually comes from the fact that it is north of the rest of Vaucluse, though it could equally be a description of the scenery in this part of southern France, which is dominated by hills, mountains and, most of all, vineyards. Here is where many of the famous Cotes du Rhone wines are produced, and no visit to the region would be complete with out a tour round a cave , which often comes with the chance to taste some of the finished product.
There are dozens of picturesque hilltop villages in the Haut Vaucluse, many of which now make their money from tourism, wine or both. Gigondas is a classic example of this, attracting many tourists to its charming old town or stunning natural scenery, while also producing one of the most famous wines of the region. Home to an 11th century chapel and a ruined castle, the best way to explore Gigondas is on foot, either through the narrow streets of stone houses, or by taking one of the many hiking trails that start in the village and then wind their way along the mountain ridge known as the Dentelles de Montmirail. Just an hour’s walk out of the town is one of the most stunning views of the Haut Vaucluse area, at the end of a forest trail on the peak of the Belvedere de Rocher du Midi. Keen hikers can pick up a map of area’s hiking trails at the local tourist office.
Seguret is always busy with tourists in the summer- and with good reason. Accepted as one of the most beautiful villages in the whole of France, the town is packed with historical buildings, unusual architecture, such as the “Fountain of Masks”, and, nowadays, tourist shops and art galleries. History buffs will enjoy a trip to Buisson, where you can visit the ruins of a fortress built by the Knights Templars in the 12th century.
Anyone who considers themselves a cycling fan will have heard of Mont Ventoux, scene of many of the most dramatic moments on the annual Tour de France bike race. Standing nearly 2,000 metres in height, the mountain is often used in the race, despite claiming the life of a British cyclist in the 1960s. A monument to Tommy Simpson still stands at the spot where he died. You can rent a bicycle in many of the villages on the lower slopes, or if you’re not quite fit enough for that challenge, follow one of the more leisurely hiking routes to the summit. Of course, there is always the option of just driving to the top! Once at the peak, there is little to see apart from a small café, but the views can be spectacular.
Looking for self catering holiday accommodation in Haut-Vaucluse? Then below is a selection of gites in Haut-Vaucluse and villas in Haut-Vaucluse that can be rented direct from their owners. You can either click on each listing for further details or you can use our search engine on the left if you are looking for something in particular.
