What makes Rousillon special?
The facades of the houses in Rousillon, painted in bright shades of yellow, orange, and red, create a striking contrast with the lush green vegetation and blue sky. The village has retained its historic charm, featuring an old door rebuilt into a bell tower and the 12th-century Saint-Michel church, which has been restored multiple times. Climb to the top of the village to enjoy an incredible panorama of the Vaucluse mountains and Mont Ventoux from the orientation table. At the bottom of the village, discover the 18th-century fountain-washhouse of the Naiades, once the only one in the village.
Roussillon is famous for the Sentier des Ocres and its magnificent cliffs. Two trails, one 30 minutes and the other 50 minutes, offer an immersive experience in the heart of the largest ocher deposit in the world. Explanatory panels along the routes provide insights into this unique place shaped by centuries of ocher exploitation. The walk through these unusual landscapes leaves no one indifferent.
A visit to Ôkhra, the Ocher eco-museum, offers a fascinating additional experience. In the setting of an old ocher factory, learn all about ochres and colors from prehistory to the present day through guided tours and workshops. You can also participate in activities like making pastels, watercolors, and paintings. A bookstore on-site offers a range of products related to the use of colors.
Roussillon holds the prestigious title of being one of "The Most Beautiful Villages of France," reflecting its rich history and distinctive allure. A truly unique experience awaits you in this captivating village.
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The best places to visit in Roussillon
Getting to Roussillon
The best way to reach Roussillon is by car, allowing you to fully enjoy the picturesque landscapes of Provence along the way. The nearest major airport is Marseille Provence Airport (MRS), approximately 90 kilometers away, offering numerous international and domestic flights. From the airport, renting a car is the most convenient option.
If you're traveling by train, the closest station is Avignon TGV, around 50 kilometers from Roussillon. From Avignon, you can either rent a car or take a regional bus to reach the village. The drive from Avignon to Roussillon takes about an hour and offers beautiful views of the Provencal countryside.
For an even more scenic route, consider taking the historic roads, such as the D2 and D4, which wind through gorgeous villages and rolling hills. This route provides a deeper connection to the region's rich heritage and natural beauty.
Useful information about Roussillon
Roussillon is a picturesque village located in The Luberon region of Provence, southeastern France. It is renowned for its vibrant ochre cliffs and historic charm. Here are some key points of interest and useful information about Roussillon:
Geography and Scenery
- Ochre Deposits: Roussillon is famous for its ochre deposits, which have been used for centuries to produce pigments. The cliffs and quarries display a stunning range of colors from yellow to red.
- Le Sentier des Ocres: This is a walking trail that takes visitors through the ochre quarries, providing an opportunity to see the striking colors and unique geological formations up close.
History
- Historical Significance: The village has a rich history dating back to Roman times. It was an important centre for ochre mining and pigment production.
- Architecture: The buildings in Roussillon are characterised by their warm, earthy tones, reflecting the colors of the surrounding ochre deposits. The narrow streets and well-preserved architecture make it a delight to explore.
Attractions
- Village Centre: The heart of Roussillon features charming squares, artisanal shops, and cafes. The Place de la Mairie, where the town hall is located, is a great spot to start your exploration.
- Église Saint-Michel: This historic church dates back to the 11th century and offers beautiful views of the surrounding countryside from its vantage point.
- Art Galleries and Studios: The village is home to numerous artists, and you can visit their galleries and studios to see and purchase local artwork.
Culture and events
- Art and Culture: Roussillon has inspired many artists due to its unique landscape and vibrant colors. The village often hosts art exhibitions and cultural events.
- Market Days: The weekly market in Roussillon is a great place to buy local produce, crafts, and ochre products. It’s a lively event that captures the essence of Provençal life.
Practical information
- Access: Roussillon is accessible by car, and there are several parking areas on the outskirts of the village. It is also reachable by bus from nearby towns.
- Dining: The village has several restaurants and cafes that serve traditional Provençal cuisine. Local specialties include dishes flavored with herbs de Provence and fresh, seasonal ingredients.
Nearby attractions
- Luberon Regional Park: The village is located within The Luberon Regional Park, which offers numerous outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling, and exploring other picturesque villages.
- Gordes: Another beautiful village nearby, Gordes is known for its stunning views, stone houses, and historic castle.
Roussillon is a captivating destination that offers a unique blend of natural beauty, history, and culture, making it a must-visit in The Luberon region.
Useful Contacts
Chemist
Pharmacie Chauvet
Place Pasquier, 84220 Roussillon
+33 4 90 05 66 15
Opening time: Monday to Friday: 09:00-12:00 / 14:30-19:00
Saturday: 09:00-12:00 / 14:30-18:00
Closed on Sunday
Bank
La Banque Postal (the post office is also the bank)
Place de la Poste, 84220 Roussillon
Monday to Friday: 8:30 – 12:30
Closed on Saturday and Sunday
Post office
La Poste (the post office is also the bank)
Place de la Poste, 84220 Roussillon
Monday to Friday: 8:30–12:30
Closed on Saturday and Sunday
Doctor
Dr Canolle Malina
Place Jean Eynard, 84220 Roussillon
Monday, Thursday, Friday: 9:00-19:00
Tuesday and Wednesday: 9:00-17:00
Closed on Saturday and Sunday
Closest hospital
Centre Hospitalier du Pays d'Apt
225 Av. de Marseille, 84405 Apt
+33 (0)4 90 04 33 00
http://www.ch-apt.fr/
Dentist
Dr Sylvie Bourla
Pl. Saint-Pierre, 84220 Goult
+33 4 90 72 31 67
https://selarl-dr-bourla.chirurgiens-dentistes.fr/
Activities
Restaurant
Public golf
Golf de Saumane
1141 Rte de Font de Vaucluse, 84800 Saumane-de-Vaucluse
+33 (0)4 90 20 20 65
[email protected]
https://www.golfdesaumane.fr/
Public tennis court
Tennis club de Gargas
Rue des Sources, 84400 Gargas
Places to visit
Le Sentier des Ocres / The Ocher Trail
Discover the ochre trail from the village centre.
You will be amazed by the spectacular landscapes that await you as soon as you arrive. Ochre is everywhere, showing you several variations of natural colours, landscapes shaped by water, wind and man.
Information signs all along the path describe the geology, flora and history of the ochre deposits in Luberon.
Remember: it is a protected area, please follow the safety instructions so you can enjoy your timetravel through the 110 million years of history.
https://en.luberon-apt.fr/the-ochre-trail-roussillon
Opening hours:
March: Open from 10:00 to 17:00 ›› Exit at 17:30 p.m.
April: Open from 9:30 to 17:30 ›› Exit at 18:00.
May: Open from 9:30 to 18:30 ›› Exit at 19:00
June: Open from 9:30 to 18:30 ›› Exit at 19:00
July / August: Open from 9:00 to 19:30 ›› Exit at 20:00
September: Open from 9:30 to 18:30 6:30 ›› Exit at 19:00
October: Open from 10:00 to 17:30 ›› Exit at 18:00
November: 1st to 14th Open from 10 :00 to 16:30 p.m. ›› Exit at 17:00
Ôkhra - Ecomusée de l’Ocre / Ecomuseum of Ocher
This old ocher factory can be visited alone, with family, friends or during group outings organized in advance. Take a guided tour, or discover the site by following the commented route.
570 route d’Apt, 84220 Roussillon
+33 4 90 05 66 69
[email protected]
https://okhra.com/en/accueil/accueil-english/
Shopping
Supermarkets
Vival - Convenient store
113 Av. de la Burlière, 84220 Roussillon
Tuesday to Saturday: 8:00-12:30 / 15:30-19:00
Sunday: 8:00-12:30
Closed on Monday
E.Leclerc - Supermarket
Chem. des Abattoirs, 84400 Apt
Monday to Thursday: 8:30-19:30
Friday and Saturday: 8:30-20:00
Closed on Sunday
Delicatessen
Maison Brémond - Delicatessen
21 rue Richard Casteau, 84220 Roussillon
+33 (0)9 67 23 24 62
[email protected]
Monday to Sunday: 10:00-17:30
Le Panier d'Emilie – Grocery store and delicatessen
Z.A de pied Rousset, 84220 Roussillon
Monday to Saturday: 8:30-18:30
Closed on Sunday
La P’tite Maison Bio - Grocery store and delicatessen
68 Av. de la Burlière, 84220 Roussillon
0626834543
Sunday to Friday: 10:00-19:00
Closed on Saturday
Boulangerie
Au Temps Passé
Av. de la Burlière, 84220 Roussillon
+33 4 90 05 62 17
https://www.boulangerie-autempspasse-roussillon.fr/
Monday to Sunday: 7:15- 19:00
Butcher
Boucherie Laurent Pasero
Rue de la Poste, 84220 Roussillon
+33 4 90 05 64 26
Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday: 8:30-12:00 / 15:30-19:00
Wednesday and Sunday: 8:30-12:00
Closed on Monday
Winery
Regional market
Cheese shop
Comptoir de l'ambroisie
170 Rue des Marchands, 84400 Apt
+33 (0)4 90 75 38 25
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