Sports and leisure activities Vaucluse

In December, it has become an institution when the whole city is transformed into a huge stage for street performances. It's a magical moment for young and old alike, and has supplanted the Avignon festivities. And that's saying something! A wonderful blend of tradition and enchantment. The Christmas market is criss-crossed by street performances. The opening and closing festivities take the form of enchanted parades. As you stroll through the illuminated town, you'll also discover the huge LED Christmas tree in Place du Général-de-Gaulle and many other illuminated decorations dotted around the streets.

This is known as the music school in tribute to Jean Simon, a violinist who has been sung and who has founded the Symphony Orchestra of Carpentras in the thirties. As for his many works, they are kept at the Inguimbertine library.

Oasis of coolness that this pool "La vie est belle"; here is the name of this emblematic pool - the Palmeraie - located on the island of Barthelasse in Avignon, with a view of the Bénézet bridge and the Palais des Papes. Of course, people come here to bathe and to lounge in season. Children and adults will enjoy strolling on the teak beaches, others will marvel at the fountains and slides. Sportsmen will brave the Olympic pool. For the hungry, there is a bakery and a pizzeria in the shade of the plane trees. Have a good vacation!

Lanes, monkey bridges, zip lines and footbridges are a delight for young and old alike, supervised by a young, dynamic team. No physical predisposition is required, just an introductory course (approx. 10 min.). The courses have several levels, 6 of which are accessible to children, including the "spider net". Younger children, aged 2 and over, can try their hand at the "Feather" course. A continuous lifeline, accessible to all, allows you to move around the courses without ever being unhooked.

Paired with the Botanique botanical trail, you will find this playful area on the road leading to the camping «Les Trois Rivières», just before the bridge bridge (24,50 m). The Association Voconces Environnement has just opened this course, which offers modules accessible to both small and large. A treat for families. Furthermore, adjacent to the river L, it is a perfect picnic area.

Murs, a small town in the Vaucluse region, offers a variety of activities for outdoor enthusiasts. The Association Spéléologique Ambiance Spéléologique Mursoise offers caving initiations, outings and camps, enabling visitors to discover the region's underground wonders. In addition to caving, Murs also offers other activities such as escape games, fishing, golf, climbing, paragliding, adventure courses, via ferrata, paintball and mini-golf.

Discover the ochre massif and the Luberon in a horse-drawn carriage with Olivier, from the Bruoux mines to the ochre path of Roussillon via the Conservatoire des Ocres. Olivier will tell you the story of this natural pigment mixed with the sands of the cliffs and the history of the local fauna and flora. The walk takes you through the typical hamlets of the region with a break for a tasting of fruit juices and wines from the surrounding estates. Olivier also organises visits to vineyards in the autumn or to fields of aromatic plants in the spring.

The Tourisme tourist office offers an original game to discover the city as a family. You will find the streets of Carpentras in the search for answers to the quiz, riddles and guessing puzzles. A total of 4 games are proposed: Who searches find, Quiz The flavours of Comtat, In the footsteps of illustrious characters and finally the Fountains game. Very simple, you can plan to do several more. The answers are also to be withdrawn at the office, once the course is completed.

Tariff: free.

Duration: 1 a. m. to 2 p. m.

Difficulty: .

Carved in limestone rock, the Laces offer their steep sides to the athletes. No need to be an athlete, however to approach them, this two-hour ATV circuit is accessible at all levels. As the mountain says rise, it will have to climb for a moment from the centre of Lafare to admire views of the northern and southern facades of the mountain chain. The itinerary goes in particular to three curiosities that deserve your attention: the Century Tower, St Christopher Chapel and the waterfalls of Lafare.

Tariff: free.

Duration: 2 h.

Difficulty: .

The canyon of the Nesque can be discovered by bicycle, by a 65 kilometers loop which connects the communes of Villes-sur-Auzon, Méthamis, Sault and Monieux. This itinerary on the side of the mountain is quite long and is reserved for sportsmen. However, you can approach it by sections to facilitate the walk. For example: only 6 kilometers separate Sault from Monieux. Take the opportunity to visit these two villages which offer beautiful panoramas on the valley.

The rounded silhouette of Mont Ventoux rises above Provence as to protect it. Its summit is the meeting point of the athletes who take advantage of its slopes in winter and summer. Once snow has fallen, the mountain turns into a ski resort, with several kilometres of signposted slopes for alpine skiing and Nordic skiing. A 8 kilometre snowshoe route also allows to discover Mont Ventoux in two hours. Almost reaching the summit, this circuit offers beautiful landscapes around the mount.

Tariff: free.

Duration: 2 h.

Difficulty: .

A symbol of Provence, lavender is the "blue gold" of the Luberon. To pay tribute, the commune of Sault has set up a five-kilometre discovery trail (possible on 8 and 12 km) at the edge of the village, showing every stage in the distillation of lavender from the moment it is planted. The loop is freely accessible, but the fields are only in bloom during the summer, so it would be a shame not to see their brilliant colors, and even more, to breathe in their intoxicating fragrance. What's more, the one-and-a-half-hour walk is very easy.

The establishment is located on the southern ramparts of Avignon, not far from the Palais de Justice. La Bodeguita is a great place to come and dance, especially if you like Latin rhythms, as there's a DJ every night. You can also take dance classes (salsa, bachata, kizomba...). What's more, the food is good, whether it's fish or meat, it's simple and always fresh and concocted by Cuban chef José Antenor: it's also an invitation to travel. A place where there's no shortage of entertainment! Enjoy without moderation.

Because there are dreams that deserve to be realized, Montgolfière Vol-Terre offers you hot-air balloon flights departing from Roussillon, one of the most beautiful villages in the Luberon. Aboard the hot-air balloon, in a calm and peaceful setting, the sun will gradually reveal the grandiose spectacle of a breathtaking panorama featuring the Vaucluse mountains and the Luberon and its many-colored ochres. On landing, a toast from the balloonist and a flight certificate will round off this unique experience.

Chocolaterie Castelain is an artisan chocolatier located in Châteauneuf-du-Pape. They offer a wide range of quality chocolates, including prestige boxes of dark and milk chocolates, boxes of organic tablets, palets des Papes and cocoa-coated almonds.

A workshop of glazed pottery breathing la: blues, greens and reds create a colourful universe and blend in compositions inspired by tissues or paintings, with a predilection for Matisse.

trout and hunting big game,

Old and modern,

In forest on marked and maintained circuits,

Take a free donkey ride and discover the landscapes, flora and fauna of Mont Ventoux, a unique experience for the whole family. The donkey sets the pace for the hike, and you'll soon discover that its presence opens doors and loosens tongues in the hamlets you pass through. Contrary to its reputation, this animal is intelligent, endearing, clever and cuddly. Your donkey will carry your luggage (30 kg to 40 kg) or one of your children (under the responsibility of an adult). At the start of the tour, you'll be given all the advice you need.

Whether you are a novice or novice fisherman, you can watch the swane of trout from June to September, and enjoy the gentle relaxation of a fishing day by the Amicale fishermen who know how to share their experience with small and large. Contact (Tel.) 04 88 50 48 63

The Wine Cellar of the Vignerons du Mont Ventoux (VMV) refined a real relaxing moment inviting the amateurs to wander in the vineyards on the wheel of a buggy, followed by a tasting process commented on in the cellar. The opportunity to discover the particularities of AOC Côtes du Ventoux, aromas and agreements and wines; a playful way to meet the wine that best suits you.

In this store where creation is king, Olivia Tregaut offers us a realistic, sometimes whimsical interpretation of the animal world. Her technique uses cracked clay, a delicate work that borders on the breaking. Olivia also presents original works in bronze, magnificent unique pieces. At her side, her companion Denis Bouniard exhibits his beautiful enamelled stoneware ceramics. A beautiful address, completed with an excellent welcome and an inspiring passion.

It is an open-air pool with three pools and a large diving board to relax and refresh at the height of the summer heat.

The Ouvèze crossing Vaison and its tributary Le are classified as the first class of water in the upstream Roman bridge.

Located between Fontaine de Vaucluse and Lagnes, just 6 km from L'Isle-sur-la-Sorgue, this park offers a unique outdoor experience. With over 130 games and evolving courses, there's something for all levels and ages. Reservations are required, and the park provides all the equipment needed for safe play. A snack bar is also available on site.

Nestled in a 60-hectare green oasis in Vedène, Golf Grand Avignon is a paradise for golf enthusiasts. With 18 holes offering breathtaking views of Mont Ventoux and 5 lakes stretching over a 5,828-metre course, every round is an unforgettable experience. The flat course, with bunkers and water hazards, is suitable for all levels. The water driving range and professional lessons will help you improve your skills. The golf course also organizes tournaments throughout the year.

La Cave de Vacqueyras - Rhonéa is the place to be for Rhône Valley wine lovers. This wine cellar offers a wide selection of quality wines and local produce. The cellar's contemporary space is both spacious and welcoming, offering visitors a pleasant setting in which to taste and discover new wines.

Spirou, Lucky Luke, Marsupilami and Gaston Lagaffe, the characters in the Dupuis comics are the stars of this new amusement park located right next to the Wave Island aquatic complex. A dozen Spirou-coloured attractions, rides for the youngest, roller coasters, turbotraction, 3D digital animations, are sure to appeal to those nostalgic for the 1950s who will take a step back in time. Even the food-trucks are installed in old Citroën trucks and Piaggio scooters, vintage gas stations line the aisles, and the hostesses are easily recognizable, in the famous little groom's red suit. It is the perfect intergenerational park, for both adults and children, which brings together friends, families, grandparents and toddlers. You can spend the day there, everything is planned on site, restaurants, snacks and refreshments. It is a good value for money compared to a fair, because the attractions are unlimited for the price of a single entrance. Try it, it's nice!

How peaceful it is to ride along the water. This 35km bike tour follows part of the Carpentras canal (3 hours). The water comes from the Durance and irrigates the Comtat Venaissin plain, which is covered with market gardens and orchards. From the Gargamiane plateau, a vast field of olive groves, you can enjoy a splendid view of the Ventoux and the Dentelles, towards which you'll reach Beaumes-de-Venise. You'll also pass through Loriol-du-Comtat and Aubignan.

This 34 km loop passes through villages famous for their AOC Côtes du Rhône and AOC Ventoux wines. You'll discover Sarrians, Vacqueyras, Beaumes de Venise and Aubignan. You'll follow the Ouvèze river and cross the Carpentras canal. A pause at the Notre-dame d'Aubune chapel will be welcome before returning to Beaumes-de-Venise. Allow 3 hours to pedal with your nose in the air towards Mont Ventoux or the Dentelles. Enjoy the long rows of vines that follow the curve of the hills.

This hike, classified as difficult, revolves around the remains of a Saracen Tower that can't be ignored. It has stood atop its rocky peak since the 12th century, when it sent signals to other towers and castles in the Comtat region. All that remains today is its base. In these fantastic Dentelles with their many paths, follow the signs carefully and pack a picnic, as it will take you 4.5 hours to cover the 12 km route. It climbs up through the wooded massif, but patience will be rewarded when you reach the Rocher du Midi, where the orientation table puts names to a 360° landscape.

It's an easy hike (4.9 km, which can be done in 2H15) that takes you through the vineyards of this world-renowned, hand-harvested muscat grape. Who hasn't tasted Muscat de Beaumes de Venise, a sweet wine whose origins date back to the Middle Ages? To climb from the village to the Courens plateau, from where you'll have a view of the Dentelles de Montmirail and the Comtat plain, you'll pass the Notre-Dame d'Aubune chapel. Don't be afraid of the Rocher du Diable (Devil's Rock), which seems to want to crush it, because it's said that the Vierge's cattail holds it back! On the northern slopes of the plateau, the Ambrosi caves, former millstone quarries, bear witness to our presence here since prehistoric times.

After passing the chapel of Saint-Hilaire, you'll discover the Castellas or château de Durban, in ruins and the only vestige of the village of the same name and, above all, the namesake of the renowned producer of this delicious Muscat.

This hike is a great success every year in July and August. The night ascent of Mont Ventoux is done with a guide and in groups of no more than 25 people. You can be sure of a magical experience. You'll climb 24 km over 1,400 m of ascent through forests and rocky desert, with the ultimate reward being the sunrise over the Alps. Beware, the climb requires courage and stamina. Dates and bookings will be available from June at the Bédoin tourist information office, which is also selling a topo-guide of 14 walks for all levels.

Cédric Demangeon will introduce you to Provence through the slopes of the Ventoux, the steep paths of the Dentelles de Montmirail and the garrigue of the Monts de Vaucluse. The themes are alluring: nature and terroir, climbing the Géant by headlamp in the dark, to enjoy the sunrise at the summit. There's also the sunset over the hills, from which you return in the half-light when the scents of thyme and lavender are more prevalent. For the more sporty, there's trail running and even à la carte preparation for more challenging hikes. And for the pros, there's first-aid training. Cédric knows everything there is to know about this special natural environment. He knows all about the fauna, flora and rural heritage you'll come across on your way. What's more, as a trained fireman, your safety is guaranteed.

It's a beautiful hike through vineyards and olive groves, steeped in history thanks to the 3 medieval chapels you'll come across along the way. Along the way, you'll come across an exceptional collection of Merovingian sarcophagi in what is now the Mazan cemetery. These sarcophagi are among the most important remains of the Comtat Venaissin. The Pareloup chapel was built in the heart of the cemetery to protect the living and the dead from the wolves, which were numerous in the region at the time. It houses a plaster statue of Notre-Dame de Pareloup, subduing a wolf at her feet. You'll also come across the Notre-Dame la Brune chapel, built in 1730 on a Gallo-Roman crossroads, where popular belief locates the exhumation of sarcophagi lining the cemetery. A Black Madonna, preserved by ruins, was discovered here. Finally, the trail skirts the ruined chapel of Saint Alban. This 9.7-kilometer hike, with views of the Ventoux, takes an average of 3 hours.

The Académie des Arts d'Avignon is an arts training school located in the city of the Popes. Behind its ancestral 290 m² premises, it has been offering courses as an alternative to applied arts and fine arts schools since 1987. You'll learn the basics of drawing, painting and sculpture in a personalized setting. You'll develop your technical skills, creativity and independence. The Académie facilitates the transition between know-how and personal artistic expression. It is one of the few national schools to offer long-term training in stone sculpture.

In search of strong adventures? you have an appointment in this park of 5 ha where half-day courses are proposed, elaborated according to age groups, with various difficulties. You won't escape the zip line. Accessible routes and others for the more sporty. Children, from 6 years old, will have access to the first 4 accro-branche courses, to the giant zip line of 220 meters and can evolve up to 13 meters high. This park is a good plan for the whole family, all you have to do is dare. Reservation recommended.

The hike from Cabrières d'Aigues to Mourre Nègre is a rather sporty excursion that takes you through a magnificent forest of Aleppo pines to the summit of Mourre Nègre. From the parking lot at Cabrières d'Aigues town hall, you'll follow a 16 km-long marked trail via the Chemin des Méritants, the Couleton and the Basse de Cabrières, before climbing the highest peak in the Luberon. In practical terms, this is a loop, which means you return to the starting point. Allow around 7 hours to complete this hike, taking into account breaks and individual pace. The reward at the top is well worth all the effort, as the breathtaking panoramic view over the southern Luberon, with its green hills, peaceful valleys and perched villages, is simply breathtaking!

Eric Moreau, who comes from a farming family, has always loved farm animals. He has long since opened his farm to visitors. He has pack donkeys available for day or multi-day hikes, with or without accompaniment. Knowing the area like the back of his hand, he'll be happy to point out a number of interesting hiking trails for you to follow. On site, young and old alike will enjoy discovering and touching the animals on the educational farm: cows, horses, donkeys, goats, sheep, pigs, geese, turkeys, ducks, chickens, rabbits... All accustomed to their young visitors, their docility makes them a safe outing. Workshops, information sheets and games are available for children. You can spend a good part of the day at the farm, and even have a picnic (tables and chairs are provided free of charge).

Provence à Vélo offers you 27.5 kilometers of challenging cycling. But you'll be royally rewarded with views of the Dentelles de Montmirail and the giant Ventoux. Start by climbing to conquer the tiny hilltop villages of Suzette, Lafare and La Roque-Alric. You're then in the heart of this incredible mountain range sculpted by thousands of years of erosion, aptly named the Dentelles de Montmirail. The terraced vineyards trace the curves of the hillsides. Admire the work and then relax on the terraces of the immense Château du Barroux, which has towered over the valley for over 1000 years and can be seen from the other end of the département. Just enough time to treat yourself to some olive oil milled in the château's old mill, and you're off again. It will take you around two and a half hours to complete the loop and return to Malaucène, having overcome a total ascent of 715 metres. If you fancy a refreshing dip, push on to the Notre-Dame du Groseau spring and chapel. The water is always fresh.

Classified as "difficult", this hike takes 3.5 hours to complete, starting from the parking lot at the Groseau spring. Ten kilometers through valleys, combe Obscure and combe de Comentige, small passes, Austrian black pine forest and small meadows, sometimes going back in time. For example, with the imposing building you'll soon come across: a former plasterworks that operated from the ^18th century until the 1950s. On arrival, you'll pass the old Malaucène paper mill.

As far as religious history is concerned, there's the Piaud chapel, from which you'll return via the Way of the Cross, and on arrival you'll discover the Romanesque chapel of Notre-Dame du Groseau. At the spring of the same name, classified as a remarkable heritage site, you can refresh and rest, as pilgrims have done since ancient times.

Of all the canoe rental companies, these are the nicest and they offer the most attractive and longest routes. We have tested it for you! Count 2 hours to cover the 8 km while taking a break in the small square halfway. The children love the small dams, a guaranteed sensation, but in complete safety! The return journey is by bus and your personal belongings are well protected in a waterproof container. You can choose between 2, 3 or 4 person canoes (with 2 young children for the last one). We provide you with life jackets.

What a funny name! The owners, Muriel and Jean-Pierre, are also beekeepers. The donkeys live with pigs and farmyards. The hikes are done off the beaten track with or without accompaniment. At its rhythm, the donkey carries children and picnic, motivates the walk and you follow it while strolling, discovering the flora. Muriel will give you all the advice you need to learn how to drive this affectionate animal. A nice family walk with the Ventoux and the Dentelles de Montmirail in the background.