Le Sentier des Ocres: A Journey Through Provence's Painted Earth
Discover a vibrant, natural masterpiece in the heart of Provence: hike through ochre cliffs and fairy chimneys sculpted by centuries of mining in Roussillon's stunning landscape.
Le Sentier des Ocres, nestled in the heart of Roussillon, offers an unforgettable immersion into a landscape painted with ochre hues. This isn't just a walk; it's a journey through a former ochre quarry, where two centuries of mining have sculpted a surreal world of vibrant colors and unique geological formations. Choose between a shorter 30-minute trail or a longer 50-minute route to explore cliffs and fairy chimneys sculpted by wind and water. The trails are well-maintained, with boardwalks in some areas, making the experience accessible to most. Be prepared to be mesmerized by the ever-changing shades of yellow, orange, and red, a spectacle that evolves with the sun's movement. Remember to wear appropriate footwear, as the ochre dust can stain, and prepare for a moderate climb with over 350 steps on the main trail. Le Sentier des Ocres is more than a hike; it's a sensory experience that connects you to the history and natural beauty of the Luberon region.
A brief summary to Le Sentier des Ocres
- sentier des ocres, Roussillon, 84220, FR
- +33490056025
- Visit website
- Monday 11 am-3:30 pm
- Tuesday 11 am-3:30 pm
- Wednesday 11 am-3:30 pm
- Thursday 11 am-3:30 pm
- Friday 11 am-3:30 pm
- Saturday 11 am-3:30 pm
- Sunday 11 am-3:30 pm
Local tips
- Wear old shoes: The ochre dust can stain footwear, so opt for shoes you don't mind getting a bit colorful.
- Visit during shoulder season (spring or fall) for pleasant weather and fewer crowds.
- Bring water, especially during summer, as the trails can get hot.
- Combine your visit with a stroll through Roussillon village to admire its ochre-colored houses.
- Check the official website for current opening hours and any closure notices due to weather.
Getting There
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Walking
From the center of Roussillon village, follow the signs towards Le Sentier des Ocres. The entrance is located a short walk from the main square, approximately 5-10 minutes. The path is well-marked and easy to navigate. Be aware that the final approach involves a slight incline. Parking is available in several paid lots around the village, including Parking des Ocres, which is closest to the trail entrance. Parking fees typically range from €4 for the day, but are free from mid-November to the end of February. Entrance to the Sentier des Ocres costs €3.50 per person.
Discover more about Le Sentier des Ocres
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
La Medievale du Luberon
0.9 km
Experience the charm of Provence at La Medievale du Luberon, a unique bed and breakfast in the heart of Roussillon's stunning ochre landscape.
Le Carillon
6.0 km
Experience authentic French cuisine in the heart of Provence at Le Carillon, a charming restaurant that delights with seasonal flavors and local ingredients.
Tour du Luberon
7.7 km
Explore the breathtaking landscapes of the Tour du Luberon, a premier hiking destination in Provence, France, renowned for its stunning views and charming villages.
Hôtel Restaurant Panoramique César - Logis Hôtel
8.7 km
Explore the best of Provence at Hôtel Restaurant Panoramique César - a culinary haven with stunning views and authentic French cuisine.
Luberone
8.7 km
Discover Luberone in Bonnieux - where chic fashion meets the charm of Provence for an unforgettable shopping experience.
1 Av. Clovis Hugues
8.8 km
Discover Bonnieux, a charming hilltop village in Provence, offering stunning views, rich history, and delightful local culture.
La Bastide
9.0 km
Indulge in the finest French cuisine at La Bastide in Bonnieux, where culinary artistry meets breathtaking Provençal views.
LUBERON WINE GOURMET
9.0 km
Experience the best of Luberon with exquisite wine tastings, premium olive oils, and delectable pastries at Luberon Wine Gourmet.
Maison Valvert / Absoluut Valvert
9.3 km
Experience the enchanting charm of Provence at Maison Valvert, a cozy bed & breakfast in Bonnieux offering stunning views and warm hospitality.
L'enclos Des Bories
9.4 km
Explore L'enclos Des Bories: A Hidden Gem in Bonnieux, Showcasing the Timeless Beauty of Provençal Dry Stone Architecture.
Inn Le Roy Soleil - Luberon
9.9 km
Experience serenity at Inn Le Roy Soleil in Ménerbes, a perfect blend of wellness, exquisite dining, and stunning views in the heart of Provence.
La Bastide de Marie
10.0 km
Discover the tranquil elegance of La Bastide de Marie, a charming hotel nestled in the heart of Provence, offering stunning views and unforgettable experiences.
Le Mas Vermentino
10.0 km
Experience the tranquility and beauty of Le Mas Vermentino, a charming villa in the heart of Provence, surrounded by vineyards and breathtaking landscapes.
Eglise Saint Luc
10.4 km
Explore the tranquility and beauty of Eglise Saint Luc in Ménerbes, a captivating Catholic church that enriches your travel experience in Provence.
Parking de la forêt de cèdres
11.4 km
Discover the serene beauty of Parking de la Forêt de Cèdres, your gateway to nature and scenic adventures in Bonnieux, Luberon.
Unmissable attractions to see
Roussillon
0.3 km
Discover Roussillon, the ochre jewel of Provence: a vibrant village perched atop colorful cliffs, offering breathtaking views, art, history, and a truly unforgettable experience.
Roussillon Lookout
0.4 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Provence from Roussillon Lookout, offering panoramic views of ochre cliffs and the charming village, a jewel in the Luberon region.
Roussillon Lavender Farms
0.8 km
Experience the beauty and fragrance of Provence at Roussillon Lavender Farms, where vibrant lavender fields meet the ochre-colored charm of Roussillon, creating an unforgettable sensory escape.
Ôkhra - Écomusée De L'ocre Roussillon
1.0 km
Discover the vibrant world of ochre at Ôkhra, where art, culture, and nature converge in the heart of Roussillon, Provence.
Arche d'Ocre
2.9 km
Discover the vibrant ochre cliffs and trails of Roussillon, a geological wonder in the heart of Provence, offering a unique blend of natural beauty and rich cultural history.
Mines Bruoux
4.1 km
Explore the depths of ochre history at the Mines de Bruoux in Gargas, a unique subterranean world showcasing the legacy of ochre mining in the Luberon region of Provence.
Pont Julien
4.4 km
Explore the ancient beauty of Pont Julien, a stunning Roman bridge nestled in the heart of Provence, surrounded by picturesque landscapes and rich history.
Falaise de la Madeleine
4.5 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Falaise de la Madeleine, a stunning cliff in Provence, perfect for hiking, photography, and nature exploration.
Les Gorges de Véroncle
5.7 km
Discover the dramatic beauty and ancient history of Les Gorges de Véroncle near Gordes, where stunning cliffs meet the remains of historic watermills in the heart of the Luberon.
Panorama
6.0 km
Experience breathtaking views of the Luberon region at Panorama in Goult, where nature's beauty and tranquility converge.
Moulin de Jérusalem
6.1 km
Discover the Moulin de Jérusalem in Goult, a beautifully restored 17th-century windmill offering panoramic views and a glimpse into Provence's rich agricultural heritage and captivating history.
Lavender Fields
6.6 km
Experience the enchanting Lavender Fields of Bonnieux, a breathtaking natural wonder in Provence, France, perfect for relaxation and stunning photography.
Sanctuaire Notre-Dame de Lumières
6.9 km
Explore the serene Sanctuaire Notre-Dame de Lumières in Provence, a beautiful Catholic church perfect for spiritual reflection and stunning views.
gorges de veroncle
7.4 km
Discover the Gorges de Véroncle near Murs: a stunning natural canyon with ancient mill ruins, offering challenging hikes and a glimpse into Provence's rich history.
Photo stop
7.7 km
Capture the iconic panorama of Gordes, one of France's most beautiful hilltop villages, from this breathtaking viewpoint offering unforgettable vistas of Provence's Luberon region.
Essential places to dine
La Gaudina Luberon
4.5 km
Experience exquisite dining at La Gaudina Luberon - where traditional French cuisine meets delightful pastries in the heart of Provence.
LA TABLE DES AMIS by CHRISTOPHE BACQUIE
5.5 km
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La Terrasse
5.9 km
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Café de la Poste
5.9 km
Experience authentic French cuisine at Café de la Poste in Goult - a charming culinary gem nestled in the heart of Provence.
Restaurant La Bartavelle
5.9 km
Discover exquisite French and Mediterranean cuisine at Restaurant La Bartavelle in Goult - where culinary art meets local charm.
La Trinquette
7.8 km
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Cafe de France
8.0 km
Discover the culinary delights of Café de France in Lacoste - where authentic French cuisine meets charming ambiance.
Restaurant Un P'tit Coin De Cuisine
8.6 km
Experience authentic French cuisine with Mediterranean flair at Restaurant Un P'tit Coin De Cuisine in beautiful Bonnieux.
Bistrot Le Terrail
8.6 km
Experience authentic French cuisine at Bistrot Le Terrail in Bonnieux – where rustic charm meets culinary excellence.
JU-Maison de Cuisine
8.7 km
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Restaurant La Flambée
8.7 km
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La Bergerie
8.9 km
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L'Estellan
9.5 km
Experience exquisite French cuisine at L'Estellan in Gordes, where traditional flavors meet modern elegance amidst stunning Provençal landscapes.
Restaurant Tayac MENERBES
10.1 km
Experience exquisite Provençal cuisine at Restaurant Tayac in Ménerbes - where local flavors meet exceptional dining.
Bistrot le 5
10.4 km
Experience authentic French cuisine at Bistrot le 5 in Ménerbes – where every meal is a celebration of local flavors and beautiful surroundings.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Un weekend a Gordes
7.7 km
Explore Un Weekend à Gordes, a charming boutique gift shop in the heart of Provence, offering unique souvenirs and local artisan treasures for every traveler.
Le Potager Du Chateau
7.7 km
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Ladurée
7.8 km
Discover the elegance of French pastry at Ladurée, a gourmet cake shop in Gordes, known for its exquisite macarons and delightful teas.
Senteurs et Provence
8.5 km
Discover the essence of Provence at Senteurs et Provence, where natural cosmetics and delightful toys await every visitor.
Au Détour d'une Promenade
8.7 km
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Charlotte Boutik
10.4 km
Explore Charlotte Boutik in Gordes for exquisite gifts, unique costume jewelry, and charming home goods that embody the spirit of Provence.
chez L en Luberon
10.4 km
Explore the quaint charm of Chez L en Luberon, a home goods store in Gordes offering unique artisan products and local treasures in the heart of Provence.
L’Aparté
10.4 km
Discover unique women's fashion at L’Aparté in Ménerbes, where contemporary style meets Provencal charm in a delightful boutique setting.
Petits points de Provence
10.4 km
Experience the elegance of Provençal linens at Petits points de Provence, a hidden gem in the heart of Ménerbes.
Epicerie du Luberon
10.5 km
Explore the flavors of Provence at Epicerie du Luberon, where local produce, gourmet products, and artisanal delights come together in a charming grocery store.
L'Ornate
10.5 km
Discover the unique charm of L'Ornate, a home goods store in Ménerbes offering exquisite French décor for your home.
COLOURS
12.3 km
Explore COLOURS in Oppède for a unique selection of home goods that embody the rustic charm and vibrant spirit of Provence.
Modern Heritage
12.5 km
Discover the enchanting treasures of Modern Heritage, an antique furniture store and art gallery in the heart of Cabrières-d'Avignon.
Le Château du Bois Provence
12.5 km
Explore Le Château du Bois Provence, the ultimate destination for lavender-infused cosmetics and authentic Provençal experiences.
Somewear
12.8 km
Explore the chic and trendy styles at Somewear, Maubec's premier clothing store, where fashion meets quality and personalized service.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Bar Coquillade
2.8 km
Discover the enchanting Bar Coquillade in Gargas, where exquisite drinks and a charming ambiance create the perfect retreat for every traveler.
Le Restaurant & Bar à cocktails de la Ferme de la Huppe
5.5 km
Savor exquisite French cuisine and vibrant cocktails in the scenic beauty of Gordes, accompanied by live music at Le Restaurant & Bar à cocktails de la Ferme de la Huppe.
Restaurant Bar Tabac d'Alain Sanchez
6.9 km
Discover the cozy charm of Bar Tabac d'Alain Sanchez in Goult, where authentic French cuisine and local wines await amidst a welcoming Provençal atmosphere.
Le Cercle Républicain
7.8 km
Discover Le Cercle Républicain in Gordes, a delightful bar and café offering stunning views, local flavors, and a charming atmosphere in the heart of Provence.
Bar Le Troquet
8.4 km
Discover Bar Le Troquet, a lively bar in Apt, where authentic drinks meet local charm in a cozy atmosphere perfect for socializing.
Brasserie St André
8.7 km
Experience the essence of Provence at Brasserie St André, where authentic French cuisine meets stunning Luberon views.
Café Capelongue
9.0 km
Discover the culinary delights of Café Capelongue in Bonnieux, where local flavors and stunning views come together for an unforgettable dining experience.
Le Tonneau
16.1 km
Discover the enchanting Le Tonneau in Lourmarin, a wine bar that offers an exquisite selection of local wines in a charming atmosphere.
Bar Nulle Part Ailleurs
17.2 km
Experience the charm of Bar Nulle Part Ailleurs in Lauris, where delightful drinks and a warm atmosphere create unforgettable moments.
L'ambroisie
17.7 km
Discover the essence of Provence at L'ambroisie, a charming bar in Mérindol offering exquisite local wines and a welcoming atmosphere.
La Cave à Aimé - Mérindol
17.8 km
Experience the charm of La Cave à Aimé, a delightful wine cellar in Mérindol, showcasing the finest local wines and authentic Provençal culture.
Bar Moderne
18.2 km
Discover the charm of Bar Moderne in Taillades, where exquisite drinks and a welcoming atmosphere await every visitor.
Brasserie Artisanale Lub'
18.5 km
Explore the vibrant craft beer culture at Brasserie Artisanale Lub', a charming brewpub in Taillades offering unique flavors and a cozy atmosphere.
Bar a tapas les collegues
19.5 km
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Bar de l'arquet
19.6 km
Enjoy a delightful drink in the heart of L'Isle-sur-la-Sorgue at Bar de l'arquet, where local charm meets a vibrant atmosphere.
