Location: Avignon Town Center In the 14th century, this world-renowned building was the residence for six popes and the seat of western Christianity. It is one of an ensemble of structures with UNESCO listing in Avignon and one of the world’s largest and most important gothic buildings. The architecture, which was the height of medieval craftsmanship, will drive home the opulence and splendour enjoyed by the popes during their exile from the Vatican. Ticket price: 12€
Location: 20 mins from Avignon Maison Ogier offers various enology experiences around its exceptional Châteauneuf-du-Pape sites, all including tastings. Tastings: Introduction to Wine Tasting - Guided tour of the Conservatoire des Terroirs, cellar visit, and tasting of 5 wines from La Maison Ogier (Châteauneuf-du-Pape appellation). From €25/pers. Expert Tasting - Visit of the winemaking site Le Prieuré de l’Oratoire des Papes and a vertical tasting of 6 wines from the Clos de l’Oratoire des Papes. From: €120/pers. Electric Bike: Approach the superb vineyards of Châteauneuf-du-Pape and the four famous terroirs of the appellation at your own pace. From €50/pers. Citroën 2CV Tour: Discover the terroirs of Châteauneuf-du-Pape in a classic French convertible. This tour will take you on the roads to the heart of the vineyard. From €380/4 pers. Horseback Riding: A guided horseback ride through the vineyards. Minimum 4 people.
Location: 40 mins from Avignon This fortress atop a rugged spur has been in a state of ruin since it was demolished in the 1600s. Only decayed towers and fragments of the chapel remain today, but the château brings feudal times back to life is with its menacing set of life-sized siege engines. These include a ballista (a giant crossbow), a mangonel (a catapult) and, most excitingly, Europe’s largest trebuchet: This huge machine is loaded up and launched several times a day during the summer. There’s also a replica medieval forge, where a blacksmith will show you how to craft swords and axes, as well as swordplay and archery demonstrations. Entrance price: 8€ (We recommend combining this visit with the Carrieres des Lumieres, which is nearby)
22 mins from Avignon Indulge in some golfing during your stay, with this 18 holes golf course surrounded by nature and two lakes.
Location: 40 mins from Avignon This "island city" lies at the foot of the Vaucluse plateau in the plains of Comtat Venaissin. The river Sorgue surrounds the city and canals run between the narrow ancient streets. There are little bridges to cross and great wheels to look at with mossy blades turning in the river.
Location: 50 mins from Avignon Arguably the scenic queen of the Luberon hilltop villages, the tiered village of Gordes seems to teeter improbably on the edge of the sheer rock faces of the Vaucluse plateau from which it rises. Named the most beautiful village in France, it's a living postcard. Arrive early or late to avoid the worst crowds or stay for sunset when the village looks at its most beautiful as its honey-coloured stone glows like molten gold.