In the shade of the foothills of Mont Ventoux, a village in Haut-Vaucluse welcomes travelers eager to experience the true art of Provençal hospitality. Vaison-la-Romaine, crowned “the most welcoming town in France” during the Traveller Review Awards, charms as much with the magic of its ancient ruins as with the sincerity of its sense of hospitality. Between the fragrance of Provençal Herbs, the well-preserved sweetness of life, and the richness of a unique heritage, this city transports visitors to a world where the term Provence Welcome takes on its full meaning. This is why Vaison-la-Romaine, a discreet jewel nestled between Avignon and Orange, stands out as an unmissable stop for any successful stay in Provence.
Vaison-la-Romaine: capital of hospitality in Provence and gateway to an authentic journey
Halfway between the Dentelles de Montmirail massif and the slopes of the legendary Mont Ventoux, Vaison-la-Romaine stands today as the address to remember for anyone seeking the best Sunshine of Provence. If the latest rankings are to be believed, the village not only exceeds national standards in hospitality but also stands as a model of the renowned Provence Welcome.
- Easy accessibility from major cities such as Avignon or Orange (less than an hour’s drive)
- Remarkable ancient heritage, a living testament to the Romanization of the region
- A comforting tradition of hospitality, confirmed by unanimous reviews from travelers
- Summer events enhancing the warm atmosphere, including a beloved dance festival throughout the region
| Attraction | Experience offered | Useful link |
|---|---|---|
| Ancient ruins | Discovery of the Villasse, baths, and theater | Info on scenic village |
| Hikes | Stroll in the gorges of the Nesque | Provençal getaway |
| Discovery of neighboring villages | Excursion to Séguret and Crestet | Last-minute Provence |
The unique charm of a Roman and medieval heritage
In Vaison-la-Romaine, every walk reveals the omnipresence of history. Crossed by the Ouvèze River, this village unveils major ancient ruins like those of the Villasse and Puymin sites, as well as a medieval heart perched and accessible via the characteristic Roman bridge. This leads, in a few steps, to the majestic ruins of the counts of Toulouse castle, offering a panorama of the village’s golden rooftops and contemporary art galleries sheltered behind vaulted doors.
- Perfectly preserved ancient mosaics and patrician houses
- Ruins of a medieval castle overlooking the valley
- Paved streets where Provençal Crafts endure (ceramics, Marseille soaps, pottery)
- Authentic scenes of life at markets where olive & co are featured on every plate
| Era | Remarkable site | Uniqueness |
|---|---|---|
| Antiquity | Roman theater | Mosaics and summer performances |
| Middle Ages | High medieval town | Counts’ castle and old stones |
| Current era | Art galleries | Creations of Provençal Crafts |
Gourmet and artisanal pleasures: live the Provence Welcome at the table and at the market
The Provençal art of living is also a generous table: here, flavors combine with conviviality. Olive & Co, creamy goat cheeses, freshly picked Herbes de Provence, and of course, Provence Wines grace meals under the arbor. Colorful markets allow you to uncover local highlight products, alongside Marseille soaps and specialties from Provençal Crafts.
- Stands of tapenade and flavored black olives
- Provençal Cooking School to learn typical recipes
- Tastings of rosés from the heart of Vaucluse
- Provençal herbs available in fresh or dried bouquets
| Specialty | Where to taste/buy it? | Associated experience |
|---|---|---|
| Herbes de Provence | Tuesday morning market | Culinary initiation with a local chef |
| Provence Wines | Family cellars around the village | Tasting visit and food-wine pairings |
| Marseille soaps | Craft workshops in the historic center | Workshop on making natural soaps |
Excursions and exceptional villages just steps from Vaison-la-Romaine
Vaison-la-Romaine proves to be an ideal starting point to explore lesser-known but equally enchanting villages like Gordes. Whether you prefer to embark on a hike along the Mont Ventoux trails or stroll through the classified alleys of Séguret, each excursion promises to reveal another face of Stays in Provence.
- Hiking in the gorges of the Nesque, immersion in nature and breathtaking views
- Séguret, listed among the most beautiful villages in France, typical and intimate
- Crestet, a perched village with a breathtaking view
- Diverse secret villages to discover off the beaten track
| Adjacent destination | Particularity | For more information |
|---|---|---|
| Séguret | Typical and preserved village | Hidden villages of Provence |
| Crestet | View over the Ouvèze valley | Discover Crestet |
| Mont Ventoux | Sporty hiking and preserved nature | Sun vacation Provence |
| Gorges de la Nesque | Scenic route and walks | Getaway stay Provence |
Experience Provence differently: tips and secrets for an authentic stay
To fully enjoy the warm welcome of Vaison-la-Romaine and explore the treasures of the region, some advice is essential. Prefer the low season for an even more intimate experience, dare to take paths off the beaten track, and let yourself be guided by exchanges with the locals. It’s impossible to leave without bringing back a bottle of olive oil, a bouquet of the famous Herbes de Provence, or some Marseille soaps to extend a bit of that Sunshine of Provence at home.
- Select labeled accommodations for a true Provence Welcome
- Participate in a workshop at the local Provençal Cooking School
- Opt for a bike ride through the vineyards and neighboring villages
- Ask for tasting tips at the market, especially regarding Provence Wines
| Travel tip | Benefit | Associated discovery |
|---|---|---|
| Guided historical tours | Enriching context | Secret village to visit |
| Farmers’ markets | Guaranteed local flavors | Gourmet stay |
| Excursions to perched villages | Complete change of scenery | Hidden pearl of Provence |
