Roussillon, Provence, France
Roussillon is truly an exceptional town in the heart of the picturesque Provence region, nestled within the stunning Luberon National Park, approximately 10 km east of the famous village of Gordes. Its uniqueness is immediately striking: all of the town's buildings are painted in a vibrant palette of ocher colors, creating a breathtaking visual harmony. This distinct chromatic identity is no coincidence, as the village is located right in the middle of a rich geological area known for its natural ocher deposits.
The town's history is deeply intertwined with the ocher industry, which flourished here for centuries. Today, a disused ocher mine, transformed into a captivating natural trail, is open to the public. This open-air museum allows visitors to walk through a landscape of stunning red and yellow cliffs, offering a direct connection to the natural pigment that has colored the village and its identity for generations.
Parking in Roussillon
Getting to Roussillon is an enjoyable experience in itself, as you travel along scenic, albeit narrow, local roads. The village offers several paid parking options, all conveniently located just a short walk from the center. Choosing the right one can make your visit more pleasant.
The Des Ocres parking lot (1; GPS: 43.901340, 5.294541) is situated close to the town center and the famous ochre mine trail. However, be extremely cautious when entering and exiting this lot, as the final 100 meters of the road is a very narrow, steep street often bustling with both pedestrians and cars. For a more relaxed arrival, we highly recommend the Des Sablons parking lot (2; GPS: 43.902461, 5.290019) located at the western border of the town.
The distance from Des Sablons to the center is very short, allowing for a delightful and easy walk into the heart of the village. There is also a third option, the De La Fontaine parking lot (3; GPS: 43.903203, 5.292862), situated on the northern side of the village. All of these parking lots are paid, so be prepared with a credit card or cash upon arrival.
Strolling the town
Your exploration of Roussillon can begin at the picturesque Place de la Mairie (A; GPS 43.902502, 5.292878), the heart of the village where the local town hall is located. This charming square is not just an administrative center; it is a lively hub dotted with delightful restaurants where you can enjoy a refreshing drink or a delicious meal while soaking in the vibrant atmosphere.
From the square, you can begin your ascent through the narrow, winding streets that climb towards the highest point of the village. As you make your way up, you will pass a striking clock tower, a beautiful landmark that stands against the azure sky. The climb is rewarded with breathtaking views at the top, where the St. Michel church (B; GPS: 43.902815, 5.292237) stands as a beacon.
The entire village is a photographer's dream, with its houses painted in shades ranging from fiery red to soft yellow. You can enjoy beautiful views of the town itself and its stunning surroundings during your walk. A particularly excellent vantage point (C; GPS: 43.901561, 5.295340) is located next to the Des Ocres parking, where a modern sundial has also been erected, adding a touch of contemporary art to the timeless landscape.
As you wander, you will notice that Roussillon is also a town of artists and artisans, with many galleries and workshops showcasing local talent. The vibrant colors of the ochre cliffs inspire painters, sculptors, and potters, and their work can be seen in the many small shops. It is a wonderful place to find a unique souvenir that truly captures the spirit of the Luberon.
Sentier des Ocres
For a truly unforgettable experience that reveals the source of Roussillon's beauty, you must visit the inactive, open-pit ocher mine known as the Sentier des Ocres (the Ocher Trail). The mine's entrance (D; GPS: 43.900645, 5.296108) is conveniently located near the Des Ocres parking. Once inside, you can choose from two marked trails, a shorter one (about 35 minutes) and a longer one (about 50 minutes), both of which take you on a journey through a breathtaking canyon.
The admission ticket to this natural wonder costs only 2.5€, making the visit an absolute must. The trail winds through a landscape of dramatic cliffs and sculpted canyons, where the ground is a dazzling palette of reds, oranges, and yellows. The sheer intensity of the colors, shaped by centuries of erosion, creates a surreal and stunning environment that feels like walking on a different planet. It is a sensory feast that showcases the full spectrum of this natural pigment.
Joucas
While you are in the area, a visit to the charming village of Joucas is highly recommended. Located just 6 km north-west of Roussillon, it offers a quieter, more intimate glimpse into Provençal village life. Like many local villages, it is built on the slope of a hill, providing its own unique character and beautiful views.
It is well worth the time to stroll through its cobbled streets, admiring the perfectly preserved old stone houses and the many wooden sculptures created by local artists that are displayed throughout the village. From its vantage points, you can enjoy stunning, clear views of the plains surrounding the colorful Roussillon hills, offering a different and equally beautiful perspective on the Luberon landscape.
Gastronomy in Roussillon and the Luberon
The culinary scene in Roussillon and the surrounding Luberon region is a classic example of authentic Provençal cuisine. The food is defined by its use of fresh, local ingredients, aromatic herbs, and the liquid gold of the region: olive oil.
What to Try?
- `Tapenade`: A delicious and addictive purée of black olives, capers, anchovies, and olive oil. It is typically served as a dip with bread and is a perfect start to any meal.
- `Ratatouille`: This classic vegetable stew features a mix of eggplant, zucchini, tomatoes, onions, and bell peppers, slow-cooked with `herbes de Provence`. It embodies the flavors of the sun-drenched region.
- `Agnage de Sisteron`: The lamb from the nearby Sisteron region is highly prized for its quality. You can often find it roasted with garlic and rosemary.
- Candied Fruits (`Fruits Confits`): The nearby town of Apt is known as the world capital of candied fruits. These sweet, colorful treats are a local specialty that makes for a perfect gift or snack.
- Local Wines: The Luberon is an official wine appellation. Be sure to try the local rosé, red, and white wines from the many vineyards in the area.
Where to Eat?
- Village Restaurants: The restaurants in Roussillon's main square and along its narrow streets offer charming settings to enjoy traditional Provençal dishes.
- Farmers' Markets: If you visit on a market day, you can purchase local produce, cheeses, olives, and bread directly from the producers.
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