L’île de la Barthelasse

Located between Avignon and Villeneuve-lez-Avignon, between the two branches of the Rhône – the Grand Rhône on the Villeneuve side, the Petit Rhône on the Avignon side – it offers 700 hectares of calm and greenery, just a few minutes from the historic center.

The island has a population of around 1,000 and was protected from urbanization because it was prone to flooding. It remains largely agricultural. Numerous spaces are dedicated to leisure and relaxation, including a skate park, a soccer field, a swimming pool, a recreation center, and a youth hostel.

The towpath, very calm and pleasant, offers a breathtaking and exceptional view of the Avignon bridge, the Rocher des Doms and the Palais des Papes, it is ideal for jogging, a walk or even daydreaming in the grass.

And if you want to tour the island, there's nothing better than cycling; it's flat and there are plenty of cycle paths!
You can buy local products at La Reboule farm, visit the Manguin distillery, or simply stroll among the orchards.
For those who love peace and quiet, the island offers a wide range of accommodation: hotels, guesthouses, lodges and campsites.

Part of the banks of Barthelasse Island is classified in the inventory of Natural Resources as a ZNIEFF, a natural zone of ecological, faunal and floral interest.
They are home to nesting birds, hedgehogs, shrews, martens and badgers, dormice and beavers, but also sparrowhawks, grey herons, diving ducks, mallards and cormorants.

Served by a free river shuttle from mid-February to December 31 (trail ferry), it can also be accessed on foot or by taking the cycle path on the Daladier bridge while enjoying the magnificent view of the famous Pont d'Avignon.

It’s the recipe for relaxation for the whole family!

Barthelasse Island is a natural space, let's preserve it together!
We give you the keys and good practices:
– I do not pick or glean (unless, for fruits and vegetables, I obtain the consent of local farmers).
– I take all my rubbish away.
– My 4-legged companion is welcome, kept on a leash.
– I do not disturb the peace of the premises with noise, shouting or sound devices.
– I do not park, camp or bivouac outside of designated areas (the island’s campsites are numerous and well-equipped).
– I do not make fires, I do not smoke in wooded areas, I do not throw cigarette butts, I find out about the accessibility of the massif in summer: 04 28 31 77 11 or go to www.risque-prevention-incendie.fr/vaucluse.


Thank you for your commitment to ensuring the well-being of residents and other visitors!

Map of Piot and Barthelasse Islands available below: