Red Earth City

Introducing Red Earth City

Roussillon, also known as "La Rouge," is a small town in the Provence region of France. Known as "the most beautiful village in France" and "the perfect photogenic town," it has also been selected by the French government as one of the "Classic Villages of Beauty." Unlike the more earthy-hued towns of southern France, Roussillon boasts vibrant colors, exuding a vibrant energy. The town is known for its "red" color, primarily due to the abundance of ochre minerals in its soil. The houses are mostly handcrafted from red rock, creating a vibrant artistic atmosphere.

Climate and best time to travel

Climate: Mediterranean climate. Mediterranean climate is a type of climate characterized by hot, dry summers and mild, rainy winters, with alternating periods of heat and rain.

Best time to travel: All seasons

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Recommended attractions: Spring City, Stone City

Recommended play time: half a day

Tickets

free

Attraction opening hours

All day

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Most Popular FAQs for Red Earth City

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

Red Earth City, also known as Roussillon, is famous for its rich history in ochre production, which was once a major industry in the region. The striking red and orange hues of the town's buildings and natural surroundings are due to the area's abundant ochre deposits. The city played an important role in the production and trade of ochre, which was used in art and construction throughout Europe.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

Red Earth City is located in the Vaucluse department in southeastern France, within the Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur region. It is best accessed by car, but public buses connect the area to nearby towns. The closest major city is Avignon, where you can take a taxi or drive to reach Red Earth City in about 40 minutes.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The city itself is always open for exploration, with its outdoor sites and hiking trails available year-round. The best time to visit is in spring (April-June) or autumn (September-November) when the weather is mild, and the town is less crowded.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

There is no entrance fee to visit the city itself. However, for guided tours and visits to specific attractions like the ochre quarries, tickets generally range from €5 to €10. Tickets can be purchased at the sites or online via tourism websites for advance booking.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

Booking tickets in advance is not necessary unless you're attending a guided tour or special event. It is recommended to book tickets for tours at least a day in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

To fully explore Red Earth City, including the town, ochre quarries, and surrounding nature trails, plan to spend about 2 to 4 hours. If you want to take part in hiking or enjoy the art galleries, it may take longer.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

• The Ochre Trail (Sentier des Ocres), a scenic walk through the ochre quarries with incredible views of the surrounding landscapes.
• The town center, with its narrow streets lined with colorful ochre buildings and local shops.
• The Conservatoire des Ocres et des Couleurs, a museum dedicated to the history of ochre production and its cultural significance.

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Yes, guided tours are available in French and English. Audio guides are also offered for the Ochre Trail and the museum in multiple languages including French, English, German, and Spanish.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• The Ochre Trail offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding red-hued landscape and the Luberon mountains.
• The town’s old streets, particularly the Place de la Mairie, offer picturesque views of the colorful buildings against the vibrant ochre backdrop.
• From the cliffs near the ochre quarries, you can capture the dramatic contrast of the red earth with the lush green vineyards below.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

A recommended route is to start with a visit to the Conservatoire des Ocres et des Couleurs, followed by a walk along the Ochre Trail to experience the quarries. Afterward, explore the village center, visit the local art galleries, and enjoy lunch at a nearby café.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

While the town is not typically open for night visits, some special events and festivals occur in the summer months, including light shows and performances that showcase the area’s unique landscape and history.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

Red Earth City can get crowded, especially during the summer months. The least crowded times to visit are in the spring and autumn, and weekdays are generally quieter compared to weekends.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

There are public toilets and water fountains located near the town center and hiking trails. Several cafes, restaurants, and small shops sell local crafts, art, and food in the village center. Picnic areas are available for those who want to enjoy the surroundings.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

The main areas of Red Earth City, including the village center, are accessible for elderly and disabled visitors. However, the Ochre Trail and some of the quarries can be challenging due to uneven surfaces. Be sure to check accessibility options before heading out on trails.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is accepted in most places, but credit cards and mobile payment methods like Apple Pay and Google Pay are widely accepted at most restaurants, shops, and ticket counters.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

• Café des Arts, offering local Provence cuisine and stunning views of the ochre cliffs.
• Le Piquet, a charming bistro serving traditional French meals with a local twist.
• La Table de Roussillon, providing a fine dining experience with dishes prepared using local ingredients.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Many of the restaurants in the area offer vegetarian and vegan-friendly dishes, often incorporating local produce. Halal options may be limited, but some restaurants can accommodate special dietary requests.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

• Hotel Les Sables d'Ocre, a charming hotel with a beautiful terrace offering views of the ochre cliffs.
• La Maison des Ocres, a boutique hotel offering comfortable rooms and easy access to the Ochre Trail.
• Auberge des Seguins, a cozy bed and breakfast located just outside the town center.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

• Gordes, a nearby hilltop village with stunning views and traditional Provencal architecture.
• The Sénanque Abbey, a picturesque Cistercian abbey surrounded by lavender fields.
• The Lavender Museum, located in Coustellet, offers insight into the region's lavender farming history.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Yes, there are souvenir shops in the village selling handcrafted ceramics, local art, lavender products, and ochre-based souvenirs like powders and pigments.