Le Barroux

Le Barroux is a hilltop village in the Vaucluse, set at the foot of Mont Ventoux and facing the Dentelles de Montmirail. Dominated by its restored 12th-century castle, open to visitors, the village retains narrow lanes, stone houses and a Romanesque church. Nearby stands the Sainte-Madeleine Abbey of Le Barroux, founded in the 20th century, noted for its Provençal Romanesque-inspired architecture and Gregorian chant services. The surrounding countryside is shaped by olive growing, with local olive oil production, alongside vineyards producing Côtes du Ventoux wines. Le Barroux is one of the Vaucluse's characteristic villages, valued for its tranquil setting amid garrigue scrubland, vines and, in season, lavender fields. The area offers walking opportunities, including routes towards Mont Ventoux and the Dentelles de Montmirail. Neighbouring towns such as Vaison-la-Romaine, Carpentras and Malaucène provide Provençal markets, Roman remains and local life to explore. The Mediterranean climate, hot and dry in summer, mild in winter, makes outdoor activities possible for much of the year, making it a good base for exploring the wider Vaucluse region.