After spending several days in Amsterdam and Annecy, I’ve got 3 nights in L’isle Sur la Sorgue and 3 in Vaison-la-Romaine (will have car). So far the only specific plans I have are for markets: Apt on Saturday, L’isle sur la Sorgue on Sunday and Vaison-la-Romaine on Tuesday. (I love exploring markets, food and antiques, so I don’t think this is too much). Also plan to explore Vaison ruins. Both Airbnb’s where I’m staying have pools, so will likely spend some downtime relaxing and swimming.
I’d love ideas to fill out my itinerary. I enjoy wandering, beautiful scenery, gardens. Also thinking of going to the hospital where Van Gogh stayed. I’ve been to Nimes, Arles, and Avignon before. Love Impressionism.
Also welcome any food recommendations — thanks!
Posted by
Paris
6919 posts
You definitely should explore the Lubéron and its cute villages: Gordes, Roussillon, Goult, Bonnieux, Ménerbes... No need to see them all, but they each have a slightly different character so it is never repetitive.
Very close to l'Isle sur la Sorgue, you also have the village of Vénasque which is less famous than the ones over the ridge in the Lubéron, but worth a visit.
Between L'Isle-sur-la-Sorgue and Vaison, on a clear day you could drive up Mont Ventoux and enjoy the breathtaking views. This can be combined with a drive through the Gorges de la Nesque, where the impressive (and slightly scary) road follows a canyon for 20 miles or so.
Just south of Vaison, the hilltop wine village of Seguret makes for a great lunch or dinner stop.
If you love markets, the Thursday market in Nyons is worth a visit too.
I realize that you only have 6 nights total so there is absolutely no time to do all that I just listed: there are many, many things to see and do in that region.
Posted by
Franklin, TN, USA
875 posts
Wandering through those villages in Provence is delightful……St. Remy has a great market and Van Gogh’s hospital grounds were beautiful. You are going to. Have a great trip!
Posted by
OP
Charlotte, NC, USA
380 posts
Thank you both so much for your replies and tips! I’ve done quite a bit of research (really!) but I’m feeling overwhelmed by so many great choices. I’m typically a “slow traveler” but after not traveling for 2 years, I find myself torn between wanting to do/see it all and just relaxing and soaking in my beautiful surroundings.
Posted by
Paris
6919 posts
Don't overstretch yourself! For example, after a Sunday morning at the busy market in l'Isle sur la Sorgue, you might just want to relax in the afternoon. Otherwise, it would be the perfect time to go to St Paul de Mausole (the Van Gogh hospital).
Likewise, after the Saturday market in Apt, you can head to Roussillon, and Gordes if you have time, and that will be a pretty full day already.