They are the two new kids on the block in Avignon for summer 2017, although rather large! These double-decker buses, part of the Cars Lieutaud scheme, perfectly complement the tours offered by the Petit Train . By train, you can explore the Medieval centre, whilst from the open-top deck of the bus, you can admire the ramparts, pay a visit to Villeneuve-les-Avignon, Sorgues’ beautiful cousin on the opposing bank, and enjoy stunning views of the town from the other side of the Rhône.
New, quirky accommodation has just opened this summer in the heart of the famous vineyards of Châteauneuf-du-Pape: Les Cabanes des Grands Cépages. 10 luxurious wooden cabins have been constructed on the turquoise waters of Lac de la Lionne, whether on stilts, floating on the water or semi-troglodyte. Between now and 2019, 10 more cabins will be built.
In this vineyard situated below Ménerbes, one of France’s most beautiful villages, you will notice the Hermès-orange entrance signs – they indicate the chic ambience and outgoing energy of the estate. This is because the Garelle estate, as well as offering tastings of its AOC Luberon wines, has just opened a terrace for hosting group meals. A new vineyard path has also just been created, allowing visitors to explore the vineyards in the hills of the Luberon.
Since June 2016, the Maison de la Tour has become the Jardin de la Tour, with the friendly and talented chef Pascal Barnouin at the helm. The restaurant -open daily- has an unconventional dining room, a large, leafy courtyard, cooking lessons…
Lovers of culture, old stonework and contemporary art will love this hidden treasure of Cavaillon. It alone justifies a detour via the ancient town along the Domitian Way. L’Hôtel d’Agar has the oldest garden in France, containing famous remains, a private 12th c. /15th c. mansion housing a magnificent collection of objects in a “cabinet of curiosities” style, all mixed with exhibitions by famous photographers and artists.
Welcome on board the “Chardonnay,” the latest addition to the Grand Bateaux de Provence fleet, recently moored opposite the Cité des Papes! It’s a nice, manageable size with 23 comfortable, double cabins. From April onwards, it will offer 2, 3 or 4 day cruise packages on the Rhône, Christmas and New Year cruises, and is also available for private hire.
It’s the latest addition to the Vaucluse region’s fast-evolving, bike-tourism scene. Ride & More is an incoming agency, based in Pernes-les-Fontaines, specialising in high-end cycling tours with classic road bike or e-bike, mountain bikes and even electric mountain bikes!
The village of Crillon le Brave, at the foot of Mont Ventoux, is already well known to travel operators, thanks to its hotel of the same name. Now a new hotel, la Maison de Crillon, has taken up its rightful place in the village, easily holding its own against its exclusive neighbour. 11 bedrooms, combining unstated luxury, minimalist design and a zen atmosphere, await fans of beautiful destinations and the great outdoors.
This wine-producing estate, not far from Lourmarin, boasts many assets: a magical location, in the foothills of the Luberon mountain range, an elegant château, flanked by a courtyard with large gate, spectacular wine storerooms and a wide range of wine-tourism activities: a vineyard trail, several wine tours-tasting and master class packages, a picnic aperitif, as well as numerous celebrations and concerts held throughout the year. There are a whole host of reasons to stop off here.
This is a tour unlike any other: there’ll be no getting lost in the maze of rooms that make up the Palais des Papes; nor dancing on Avignon Bridge. Avignon Gourmet Tours is, first and foremost, a tale of passion: Aurélie’s passion for Avignon, the city where she was born and raised, and gourmet Avignon, in particular, with its covered food markets, artisan food producers, old bakeries etc. In short, the tour reveals a surprising and unexpected Avignon, a haven for foodies.
