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Le Sentier des Ocres: A Provencal Palette

Explore the vibrant ochre cliffs and trails of Roussillon, a 'Most Beautiful Village of France', in the heart of the Luberon region.

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Wander through a vibrant landscape sculpted by ochre mining at Le Sentier des Ocres in Roussillon, one of France's most beautiful villages. This unique trail unveils a stunning panorama of cliffs and rock formations painted in shades of yellow, orange, and red, offering an unforgettable immersion into the heart of the Luberon's ochre deposits.

A brief summary to Le Sentier des Ocres

Local tips

  • Visit during the spring or fall for pleasant temperatures and vibrant colors.
  • Arrive early in the morning or late in the afternoon during the summer to avoid the heat.
  • Wear comfortable shoes suitable for sandy and uneven terrain.
  • Bring water and sunscreen, especially during the warmer months.
  • Dogs are allowed on the trail but must be kept on a leash.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the center of Roussillon, follow the signs towards Le Sentier des Ocres. The trail entrance is located a short walk from the village square. Be prepared for some stairs and uneven ground.

  • Public Transport

    Take the bus to Roussillon. From the bus stop in the village, walk towards the center and follow the signs to Le Sentier des Ocres. The trail entrance is a short walk from the village.

  • Parking

    Several parking options are available near Le Sentier des Ocres. Parking des Ocres is the closest (100m from the trail) but paid. Other paid parking options include Parking de la Fontaine (600m) and Parking Saint Michel (700m). Free parking is available at Parking du Stade (1 km) and Parking du Sage (2.5 km). Paid parking costs €4 per day.

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Discover more about Le Sentier des Ocres

Le Sentier des Ocres, nestled in the picturesque village of Roussillon, offers a breathtaking walk through the world's largest ochre deposit. Often compared to the landscapes of Colorado, this trail crosses historic ochre quarries, revealing vibrant colors and fascinating geological formations. Ochre, a natural pigment composed of clay and iron oxide, has been extracted here for centuries. In 1785, Jean Étienne Astier discovered an effective method for grinding and washing this pigment, leading to significant industrial development in the region. At its peak, the former ochre production factory employed up to 1,000 workers and produced 40,000 tons of ochre per year, contributing to the Luberon's worldwide reputation. The Ochres Trail offers two itineraries tailored to your preferences: a short 30-minute trail for a quick discovery and a longer 50-minute trail for a complete immersion into the geological formations and panoramas of the Luberon. Informative panels along the routes provide insights into the geology, flora, and history of the ochre massif.

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