A short drive south of the historic city of Avignon, this semi-detached dwelling is set on a country lane close to the outskirts of Châteaurenard (1.5km). Ideally located between Avignon and St-Rémy-de-Provence, this picturesque town is the gateway to some of the region’s most iconic sights.
Châteaurenard offers an authentic blend of history and culture. Wander through its characterful centre, soak in the views from the medieval castle ruins, and experience the warm hospitality that defines the south of France. There is a good-sized supermarket less than 1km away whilst the heart of the historic quarter is just a little further with its restaurants, shops and bustling Sunday morning market. If walking to the town, please note that part of the route does not have a pavement.
A short drive away, immerse yourself in the grandeur of Avignon (12.5km), home to the magnificent Palais des Papes and the famous Pont Saint-Bénézet, both UNESCO World Heritage sites. Visit wonderful restaurants and wine-bars across the small historic city, look out for atmospheric markets and even hire bikes to cycle across to île de la Barthelasse, the Rhône’s largest river island.
Meanwhile, history enthusiasts will be just as enchanted by the UNESCO-listed Pont du Gard (35km), an ancient Roman aqueduct that stands as a marvel of engineering, a fine spot for riverside picnics as well as canoeing/kayaking.
Heading south instead, venture towards St-Rémy-de-Provence (11km) and the landscapes of Les Alpilles, where Van Gogh found his inspiration. Here, cobbled streets, art galleries, high-end restaurants and traditional cafés create an irresistible charm.
If you crave more scenic beauty, L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue (25km)—often called the Venice of Provence—beckons with its winding canals, vibrant antique markets, and riverside cafés. Continue into the enchanting Luberon, where rolling lavender fields, hilltop villages, and picturesque landscapes offer a true taste of the Provençal dream.
For wine lovers, the renowned vineyards of Châteauneuf-du-Pape (27km) and the Rhône Valley are also just a stone’s throw away. Indulge in world-class tastings at prestigious domaines, sampling full-bodied reds that have made this region legendary.
Closer to home, golf enthusiasts can enjoy a relaxing round at Golf de Barbentane (10km), where verdant greens meet Provençal landscapes.
The Region
Stay in and around the region of Avignon to discover picturesque villages, historic towns, Côtes du Rhône vineyards and beautiful landscapes of summer sunflowers, olive groves and rural countryside. This is a fantastic base for exploring much of Provence and beyond.
With its historic, gastronomic and cultural riches, the small city of Avignon stands proudly by the banks of the Rhône, home to vibrant markets, restaurants, wine-bars and impressive UNESCO World Heritage sites.
One of the most visited monuments of France, Le Palais des Papes is in the heart of the old city, next to the 12th century cathedral and leafy Jardin des Doms where you can admire gorgeous views of the river and Provençal countryside beyond. Soak up the rich history of Le Pont d’Avignon on a guided tour before heading over the river to capture photogenic shots of the city from île de la Barthelasse, France’s largest river island. Avignon’s little tourist road train is a great way to explore the historic city with young children.
Stock up on seasonal fruit, vegetables and regional delights at the beautiful covered market at Les Halles d’Avignon or wait for the main Saturday morning Provençal market near the 14th century Basilique Saint-Pierre. Embrace the city’s food scene across its many cafes and restaurants from the tourist haunts of Place de l’Horloge to hidden gems found on the charming side streets and shady squares of the old quarter. Avignon is also known for its Côtes du Rhône wineries and bars waiting to be discovered.
In July the 3-week long Festival d’Avignon takes over the city, a world-renowned event with contemporary performing arts, films and exhibitions taking place across theatres, cinemas and outdoor venues.
Beyond the city centre, hire bikes to cycle along part of the via Rhôna route or enjoy the landscapes of île de la Barthelasse passing farmland, orchards and vistas across the river towards Avignon’s city centre. Meanwhile, antique lovers won’t want to miss the Saturday morning brocante in Villeneuve-lès-Avignon, one of Provence’s most famous flea markets, or venture further afield to the wonderful Sunday morning brocante in L'Isle-sur-la-Sorgue.
Embrace the Provençal ambience across villages of the Vaucluse – one of our favourites is charming Pernes-les-Fontaines, loved for its many fountains and delightful market every Saturday morning and Wednesday evening in July and August. Velleron is famed for its early evening farmers’ market open throughout the year (six evenings a week from April to September) whilst Saint-Didier and Venasque are two other picture-perfect Provençal villages to discover.
Driving south instead, visit the art galleries and Wednesday morning market of Saint-Rémy-de-Provence, a bustling town on the edge of Les Alpilles where Vincent Van Gogh lived towards the end of his life. Enjoy lunch on a pavement terrace in the idyllic hilltop village of Eygalières (you may even spot a discreet A-list celebrity or two) or head south-west of Avignon to embrace the historic ambience of Tarascon and Beaucaire with their impressive castles overlooking the Rhône river.
