Carpentras

Located at the foot of the Mont Ventoux, the "Giant of Provence", in the heart of the lush and fertile Comtat Venaissin plain, where the rivers Rhône and Durance meet. During the Middle Ages, it was the capital of the Comtat Venaissin. Carpentras is shielded from the Mistral wind, and is set in a stunning environment, with beautiful countryside and many beautiful buildings - the legacy of the Popes' presence over five centuries. Outside the town, there are numerous paths and circuits which are ideal for discovering and admiring the diversity of the area's wildlife.

What to see, what to visit: an attractive synagogue, built in 1367, and restored in 1954 (it reminds visitors that Jews were placed under the protection of the Popes); the Gothic cathedral Saint-Siffrein (1405 and 1519); the 18th century-style Hôtel Dieu and its pharmacy (housing a collection of 'faïences de Moustiers' and with its interior walls decorated by Duplessis, the painter of Louis 16th); the 17th century Episcopal palace, which is the current court of justice; the Roman arch (1st century AD); the "Porte d'Orange", the last reminder of the town's 14th century ramparts; the chapel Notre-Dame de Santé; the clock tower, four museums; ten art galleries...
Recommended activities: circuits in the Monts de Vaucluse, on the Mont-Ventoux, visits of the perched villages of the Dentelles de Montmirail. Panoramic vistas - Mont Ventoux - Dentelles de Montmirail - Luberon. Walking, Mountain bike and road cycle tours, horse riding, rock climbing...

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