Deciding to go enjoy the fall in Provence is kind of a no brainer for anybody interested in experiencing first-hand that much talked about Gallic Quality of Life. Even if you decide to avoid the major cities for more rustic pleasures, the sheer number of options is still daunting. Luckily, New York Habitat has done some homework for you and is happy to whole-heartedly recommend one of France’s officially recognized 100 Most Beautiful Detours in the delightful town of Vaison-la-Romaine.
As its name leads to believe, this is one of the best preserved Roman settlements in the region and its stunning array of ancient relics can easily vouch for that ambitious claim. Even the devastating floods of 1992 couldn’t make a dent in its graceful single-arched bridge that was built over 2,000 years ago! The undisputable engineering skills of those first civilized dwellers are also on full display in the impressive archeological site and its excellent museum.
When you’re done with the Ancient Times, you can cross the bridge and immerse yourself in the Middles Ages and the Renaissance with an excursion to the Count of Toulouse’s imposing castle. Still proudly standing at the highest point of the old town, you’ll be able to reach this 12th century château by walking first through a massive 14th century stone gateway, then in the narrow streets of the prettily restored 17th century old quarter.
But Vaison-la-Romaine also offers some modern fun with many cultural events. One of the most popular ones is without a doubt the Soup Festival in October. That’s when over the course of three weeks 17 neighboring villages engage in a friendly contest when each takes turn organizing a soup tasting event during which the inhabitants’ soups are sampled and graded. The festivities culminate when the winners are announced during an all-out Gourmet Fair in Vaison.
Moreover, the whole region is well-known for its natural beauty and wine production, and NY Habitat can help you feel at home right away with a trio of attractive villas, all featuring much appreciated private gardens and swimming pools and our vacation rentals in Provence.
Just 7 km outside Vaison, our 2-bedroom furnished vacation rental – Seguret (PR-259) dating from the 15-16th centuries is located right in the center of fortified Seguret, one of Northern Vaucluse’s most picturesque villages.
You can also take a look at this Bed and Breakfast in the heart of Vaison La Romaine (PR-498) in a 4 bedroom villa with a private garden and a swimming pool.
Slightly further out, our 4-bedroom furnished vacation rental – Rasteau (PR-698) is in the perfect spot right between Vaison and Orange, smack in wine country.
The area around Vaison-la-Romaine will never fail to enchant you. Have you been there and experienced it yourself? If so, would you share your impressions with us hereunder?
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