“Fresh” Summer Outings and Activities
In summer, the rhythm of life changes in Provence: afternoons become the time for a nap lying in the shade, lulled by the sound of the cicadas. At the end of the day, the shutters are thrown open, the streets are bursting with life, and the chattering and clinking of glasses can be heard on every terrace and village square. It is from this late hour until the early hours of the morning that you can enjoy various activities in the fresh air!
An afternoon swim
In a lake or swimming pool
A refreshing dip or relaxing nap at the beaches of the natural and artificial lakes in Vaucluse should definitely be included in your holiday plans. And what could be better than enjoying time in the sun with family or friends?
To help you choose between Olympic-sized swimming pools and artificial lakes, here is a list of the most beautiful places to swim in Vaucluse.
Did you know?
No fewer than 37 rivers cross Vaucluse, with the river Boulon spanning 3.4 km, and the Rhône spanning a whopping 812 km!
Activities on land, in the water, or even on top of a mountain!
To help you stay cool throughout the day
For lovers of excitement, a wide programme of activities promises active days without overheating. From tranquil canoe trips along the Rhône to guided canyoning trips, exploring the depths of the various caves and cavities, the Vaucluse guides will aid your discovery of the hidden aspects of the landscape.
Searching for classic family activities? Head to the summit of Mont Serein, where a host of activities awaits both children and grown-ups!
A dip in the water or a trip underground?
A treat for the taste buds
As a stay in Provence goes hand in hand with aperitifs, meals, and the sampling of local products, the Vaucluse wine makers compete to organise the most original events throughout the summer.
Listen to Jazz at the foot of the Dentelles de Montmirail, discover vineyards at sunset, practice yoga first thing in the morning among the vines or have a drink with winemakers while enjoying live music – all of this is possible in Vaucluse!
Don’t forget about our “food truck” evenings, when you can savour simple dishes in a convivial setting.
Firm Favourite
Do not miss the flavours of the summer truffle, prepared by restaurateur “Chez Serge” on the 14th juillet at Gigondas La Cave
Summer menus in the fresh air
Night-time Outings
During the summer, you can visit Provence by night: a whole range of guided tours, as well as nature walks and hikes, allow you to discover all of the facets of the village, the flora and fauna, and the history of the department.
Whether it’s admiring the sunset at Mont Ventoux or discovering villages by the light of lanterns, there are numerous events scheduled throughout the summer to liven up your evenings!
Firm Favourite
Early birds can enjoy a trip to watch the sunrise at Mont Ventoux and see the chamois, every Wednesday at 4am in summertime.
Summer Night-time Outings
Unmissable events
Festivals and the local way of life in the evening
With arrival of summer comes the promise of grand festivals featuring theatre, dance, music, and more!
Summer also brings about the return of local evening markets: When the stalls are set up in the cool air, you can get to know a wide range of local producers and artisans in Vaucluse, such as at the country market in Coustellet on Wednesday evenings, and the local evening markets in Pernes-les-Fontaines and Lourmarin
In the shade of centuries-old walls
Museums and monuments
Another way to keep cool is to take advantage of the thick and cool walls of the monuments dating back to Antiquity and the Middle Ages…
In the shade of the air-conditioned galleries, the vast rooms of the Popes’ Palace, or the castles of the Luberon, enjoy a variety of places rich in culture in Vaucluse.
And to visit museums and monuments to your heart’s content, opt for the Vaucluse Provence Pass, which will give you access to tourist attractions in Avignon, the Luberon, Ventoux, and the Rhône valley.
