Perched on some precipitous cliffs, the 11th- to 14th-century Forteresse de Mornas, 12km north of Orange, makes a dramatic backdrop for the pretty village below. Built by the medieval Counts of Toulouse, it commands outstanding views west to the Rhône and east to Mont Ventoux.
You can visit by yourself, or take one of the five guided tours (adult/child €9/7) available daily in July and August, or on weekends from April to June and in September.
6.11 MILES
Orange's monumental, Unesco-protected Roman theatre is unquestionably one of France's most impressive Roman sights. It's one of only three intact Roman…
20.18 MILES
The extraordinary three-tiered Pont du Gard was once part of a 50km-long system of channels built around 19 BC to transport water from Uzès to Nîmes. The…
17.89 MILES
The largest Gothic palace ever built, the Palais des Papes was erected by Pope Clement V, who abandoned Rome in 1309 in the wake of violent disorder after…
17.66 MILES
Legend says Pastor Bénézet (a former shepherd) had three visions urging him to build a bridge across the Rhône. Completed in 1185, the 900m-long bridge…
20.42 MILES
This unique complex about 7km northeast of Vallon-Pont-d'Arc takes you on an incredible journey back in time. The biggest replica cave in the world, it…
Abbaye Notre-Dame de Sénanque
29.65 MILES
If you're searching for that classic postcard shot of the medieval abbey surrounded by a sea of purple lavender, look no further. This sublime Cistercian…
29.87 MILES
This monastery turned asylum is famous for one of its former residents – the ever-volatile Vincent van Gogh, who admitted himself in 1889. Safe within the…
Abbaye et Jardins de l’Abbaye
16.79 MILES
The resplendent vaulted halls of this 10th-century abbey, within Fort St-André, can only be visited by guided tour. The stunning terrace gardens, however …
5.64 MILES
Orange’s 1st-century-AD monumental arch, the Arc de Triomphe – 19m high and wide, and 8m thick – stands on the Via Agrippa. Restored in 2009, its…
2. Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Nazareth
5.94 MILES
Orange's oldest church was consecrated in the 12th century.
3. Musée d’Art et d'Histoire
6.06 MILES
This small museum contains various finds relating to the theatre's history, including plaques and friezes that once formed part of the scenery, a range of…
6.07 MILES
Enter the Théâtre Antique through the portals on the western edge.
6.11 MILES
This Franciscan church was established in the 14th century and was the burial place of the princes of Baux. It was heavily damaged in the Wars of Religion.
6.11 MILES
Orange's monumental, Unesco-protected Roman theatre is unquestionably one of France's most impressive Roman sights. It's one of only three intact Roman…
6.19 MILES
For bird's-eye views of the theatre – and phenomenal vistas of Mont Ventoux and the Dentelles de Montmirail – follow montée Philbert de Chalons or montée…
9.28 MILES
Three kilometres from Châteauneuf-du-Pape, Mont-Redon is gorgeously placed amid sweeping vineyards. Large, and easy for drop-ins, it can attract weekend…