Does the arrival of summer make you want to travel? From Rochefort-du-Gard to Vedène, Grand Avignon is full of picturesque spots for a weekend getaway. Not sure where to start? I've tested the region's most beautiful villages for you. Between castles, gardens, and sunny terraces, the dolce vita made in Provence awaits!
my weekend between culture, gastronomy and relaxation
Villeneuve lez Avignon
From the city of Avignon to that of Villeneuve lez Avignon, there is only one step or rather one bridge! A stone's throw from the City of the Popes, I loved visiting this city in typically Provençal charm. As soon as I arrived, I was immediately struck by its architectural treasures. If you are a history buff, Villeneuve lez Avignon is made for you.
In the heart of the historic center, the Chartreuse and the imposing Fort St-Andre did not leave me unmoved. Without forgetting the essential Philip the Fair Tower, the dungeon of a fortress built in the 13th century leading to the famous Avignon Bridge. An emblematic monument: I can only recommend this visit!
After a few visits, a (nature) break is essential for me. For that, I head to theSaint-André Abbey and its 2 hectares of gardens. I especially enjoyed strolling along the Italian garden and its statues in the style of Tuscan villas. The little extra? In spring, the pergola is covered with wisteria and Banks roses. An explosion of colors that I didn't fail to immortalize!
Find all our recommendations for discovering the town of Villeneuve lez Avignon, as well as its accommodation solutions (hotels, guest houses, furnished accommodation and campsites) and restaurants !
my bucolic getaway in Provence
Rochefort-du-Gard
Who says spring also says 100% nature break. So, to take advantage of the flowery landscapes du Grand Avignon, I set sail on Rochefort-du-Gard. Not far from Nîmes, this village is a true haven of greenery and tranquility. Upon arriving, I first decided to lose myself along the cobbled streets. Then, I stopped in a small café to enjoy thepeaceful and warm atmosphere of the old town.
Rochefort-du-Gard is especially famous for its preserved nature. So, without further ado, I put on my sneakers and went for a walk. I contemplated the vineyards as far as the eye can see, and I also spotted a lot ofoliveThe beating sun, the rustling of the trees and the singing of the birds: For me, this is Provence in all its splendor!
To finish this greening in style, I decided to try some nature activities (and incidentally, sporty). Not being a great athlete, I opted for hiking in the scrubland. If you have calves of steel, don't hesitate to opt for mountain biking tours. Climbing supplement for the more intrepid among you.
Find all our recommendations for discovering the town of Rochefort-du-Gard, a true green lung of the Grand Avignon with its spaces suitable for outdoor activities and with its legendary festivities and wineries and wine estates.
my escape off the beaten track in Provence
Les Angles
New summer weekend, new discovery in the Grand Avignon ! This time, let's focus on the adorable village of Angles, in the Gard. As soon as I arrived, I immediately wanted to explore the Old hilltop village which seems to reign supreme over the plain. Once at the top of the village, my eyes are drawn to the large orientation table. From the latter, I can see the Rhône Valley but also the Luberon, the Alpilles, the Montagnette as well as the Avignon region. In short, I was treated to a lovely immersion in Grand Avignon that I can only recommend!
discovery
3 trails
How can we talk about Les Angles without mentioning its three trails? This beautiful walk is the perfect combo for a stay between nature and culture. I first started with the Painters' Trail, where I was able to walk in the footsteps of the naturalist painters of the Avignon School of Fine Arts. I was even able to contemplate some emblematic works, reproduced on lava slabs in the village.
I then ventured onto the Plant Trail. As its name suggests, this walk introduced me to lush Mediterranean vegetation. An ideal green space before starting the Heritage TrailFrom the Mascs Tower to the Place de la Brèche, passing by the fortified castle, the history of the village no longer holds any secrets for me. I invite you too to become an expert on Les Angles!
Find all our recommendations to discover the commune of Angles, a peaceful and charming city, rich in a strong architectural heritage and excellent restaurants et hotels.
my playful dive into the Provence of yesteryear
Vedène
The weekend is already (almost) over! It's time to tell you about my latest getaway to Grand Avignon. To end my stay in style, I decided to stop off in the village of Vedène. A few kilometers from the city of Avignon, this ancient medieval city is well worth the detour. A nice surprise when I put down my suitcases: I discovered that the village is home to a castle settled on the heights of a hill. I then set off into the old town and decided to stroll along the narrow streets and stone buildings. A real journey into the past!
During my walk, a monument caught my attention. It is the Clock Tower, built under the leadership of the Lords of Galléan and listed as a Historic Monument. In terms of architecture, the ramparts and the Place du Château give me the impression of having gone back in time. You really feel that the village bears witness to a rich historical past and it is quite a change of scenery.
Now you know my passion for going green! To cool off in the village of Vedène, I chose to lay my mat in the heart of the Bardi Park. Between fitness trails, playgrounds and deckchairs, this space is ideal for recharging your batteries for a weekend. For my part, I decided to organize a small impromptu picnic with some delicious nuggets that I found in the village. On the menu: Catalan-style escalivade and bunyetes for dessert. Needless to say, I had a blast!
My playful advice
You go in family weekend ? At the Tourist Office of Villeneuve lez Avignon (or at the Espace du Lavoir in Vedène from Monday to Friday), get the quiz booklet of the Stolen Treasure of VedèneThis investigation punctuated by puzzles invites you to discover the village and unravel some mysteries. A fun game that will bring together the whole family.
Find all our recommendations to discover the commune of Vedène, its historical heritage, its activities as well as its delicious restaurants !
Our answers to your questions
Where is Grand Avignon?
Le Grand Avignon is an urban community in France located in the Vaucluse and Gard departments, with Avignon as its main city. The territory is located in the Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur and Occitanie regions. It includes towns such as Morières-lès-Avignon and Rochefort du Gard.
Which villages to visit in Grand Avignon?
Le Grand Avignon is full of towns and villages to visit for a weekend. Whether you're looking for a 100% nature-based stay, a cultural getaway, or an epicurean weekend, you're sure to find a city to suit your needs.
Here are some examples of towns and villages to visit in the Grand Avignon :
- Villeneuve lez Avignon (Gard) and its Provençal charm
- Rochefort-du-Gard and its bucolic landscapes
- Les Angles (Gard) and its rich history
- Vedène (Vaucluse) and its hilltop castle
- Gordes in the Luberon (Alpes-de-Haute-Provence, Vaucluse) and its regional natural park
- Morières-lès-Avignon (Vaucluse)
- Velleron (Provence-Alpes-Côte-d'Azur, Vaucluse) at the gateway to the Ventoux Regional Natural Park
What to see around Avignon?
Want to extend your stay in the Grand Avignon Treat yourself to a getaway in Provence, near the city of Avignon and its iconic bridge. Here are some places, towns, and villages to visit to immerse yourself in the Provençal art of living:
- Luberon (Alpes-de-Hautes-Provence, Vaucluse)
- Ventoux-Provence (Vaucluse)
- Gordes (Vaucluse)
- Isle-sur-la-Sorgue (Vaucluse)
- Aix-en-Provence (Bouches-du-Rhône)
What culinary specialties can you taste in Grand Avignon?
Between the gastronomy of Languedoc and that of Provence, the Grand Avignon is full of culinary specialties with Mediterranean influences.
Here are some traditional dishes to enjoy in the Grand Avignon :
- Anchoïade
- Grilled or stuffed cuttlefish
- The ratatouille
- The Camargue bull herdsman
- The Great Aioli
- The bouillabaisse
- Provençal stew
What to visit during a weekend in Avignon?
Want to settle down in the unmissable city of Avignon? With its iconic bridge and the Palais des Papes, this flagship city of Provence is teeming with activities to fill your weekend.
Here are some activities to do during a stay in Avignon:
- Visit the Popes' Palace
- Cross the Saint-Bénezet bridge
- Stroll through the Doms garden
- Discover the Calvet Museum
- Stroll through the Avignon Market Halls
- Walk along the ramparts of Avignon
Discover the Notre-Dame-des-Doms Cathedral in Avignon
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