Pernes-les-Fontaines, Provence, France
Pernes-les-Fontaines is a truly charming town located just 25 km east of the historic city of Avignon, nestled in the heart of the beautiful Provençal countryside. This delightful destination is famously known as the "City of Forty Fountains" because of the remarkable number of historic public fountains that dot its streets and squares. These fountains are not just landmarks; they are the soul of the town, inviting you to wander through the charming alleys and discover a new one at every turn.
Beyond its watery treasures, the town also boasts a rich medieval heritage and offers a fantastic opportunity to climb its historic tower for breathtaking panoramic views of the stunning surroundings, which stretch across the plains of the Comtat Venaissin all the way to the majestic Mont Ventoux. This combination of natural beauty, architectural charm, and a refreshing ambiance makes Pernes-les-Fontaines an unforgettable stop on any tour of Provence.
Parking in Pernes-les-Fontaines
Pernes-les-Fontaines is well-equipped with several convenient parking lots for visitors. We chose to park our car in a small lot at Cours Frizet (1; GPS: 43.998417, 5.055270) in the northwestern part of the town, which offered easy access to the old town center. If this lot is full, you have excellent alternatives nearby, including a larger parking lot located just a little further along the same street (2; GPS: 43.999608, 5.057359 ), as well as on the west side in the parking lot at Cours de la République (3; GPS: 43.998845, 5.062349).
These parking options are all within a short walking distance of the historic center, making your arrival in the town stress-free. We recommend using one of the designated car parks outside the old town to avoid the narrow, one-way streets within the medieval core. This allows you to start your walk immediately and fully immerse yourself in the charming atmosphere of the village and its famous fountains from the moment you step out of your car.
The old town
After leaving the car at the parking lot, we began our exploration with a pleasant walk of a few dozen meters down Avenue Jean Jaurès, which led us directly to the ancient entrance gate (A: GPS: 43.997661, 5.055929) that welcomes visitors into the old town. Stepping through this gate is like a journey back in time. As we strolled along Rue Gambetta, we passed the impressive Tour Ferrande tower on our right, a striking building from the 13th century with a distinctive square base. This tower was built at the request of the Order of Saint John, and its original purpose remains somewhat debated, though it is speculated that it may have been used to store the precious archives of the order. Its solid architecture is a testament to the town's historical importance.
Continuing our walk, we navigated the charming streets of Rue Victor Hugo and Rue Neuve. Our path led us to a fascinating area featuring the town's former school buildings. The original division of separate buildings for boys and girls is an interesting historical detail that highlights changing educational traditions. We then reached the Louis Giraud square, where you can find the Center Culturel Municipal Les Augustins (B, GPS: 43.997531, 5.058778), located within the beautiful former Augustinian convent church. This cultural center now serves as a vibrant hub for art, events, and community life, giving new purpose to a magnificent historical building.
Our journey through the alleys then led us upwards via Rue de Brancas (C; GPS: 43.998498, 5.059362) towards the iconic Tour de l'Horloge, or Clock Tower. This tower is a significant historical landmark, as it is the sole remaining trace of the 12th-century castle of the powerful Counts of Toulouse. While the castle is long gone, the tower stands proudly as a sentinel over the town. If you take the opportunity to climb to its panoramic terrace, you will be rewarded with absolutely magnificent views of the surrounding countryside, from the lush plains to the distant silhouette of Mont Ventoux, which is often visible on a clear day. The climb is well worth the effort for this breathtaking vista.
We concluded our visit by simply losing ourselves in the network of narrow, winding streets of the old town. This is where the true magic of Pernes-les-Fontaines comes to life. The town is a living museum of fountains, and you'll find them at every turn, tucked into small squares, adorning building facades, and bubbling in quiet alleys. Each of the forty fountains has its own unique style, from simple stone basins to ornate sculptures, and they are a constant source of refreshing coolness and tranquility. Following the sound of their trickling water is a delightful way to explore and discover hidden corners of the town, making the walk a truly immersive and peaceful experience.
Gastronomy in Pernes-les-Fontaines
Pernes-les-Fontaines, located in the heart of Provence, offers a culinary experience that is a true feast for the senses, rooted in fresh, local ingredients and the vibrant flavors of Mediterranean cuisine. The local gastronomy is defined by the bountiful produce of the region, from sun-ripened vegetables to aromatic herbs and world-class olive oil.
What to Try?
- Provençal Tapenade: A delicious paste made from black olives, capers, anchovies, and olive oil, perfect as a spread on fresh bread.
- Aïoli: A rich garlic mayonnaise served with boiled vegetables, fish, and hard-boiled eggs. It's a classic dish for a light lunch.
- Ratatouille: This flavorful vegetable stew features eggplant, zucchini, bell peppers, and tomatoes, all simmered with fragrant `herbes de Provence`.
- Cavaillon Melons: The nearby town of Cavaillon is famous for its sweet and juicy melons, which are a must-try during the summer months.
- Goat Cheese (Chèvre): Enjoy fresh local goat cheese, often served with a drizzle of honey or olive oil.
- Provençal Rosé Wine: The region is known for its refreshing rosé wines, which are the perfect accompaniment to any meal.
Where to Eat?
- Local Restaurants: The town has charming restaurants and bistros that offer authentic Provençal dishes, many with terraces in lovely squares.
- Weekly Market: Don't miss the weekly market to sample local produce, cheeses, cured meats, and other regional specialties.
- Patisseries: Look for local bakeries and patisseries to try delicious pastries, including nougat and other traditional sweets.
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