Though the roofs of the old centre are terracotta and some of the buildings are shades of peach and tangerine, this is not the reason the town got its name. It was called Orange after Charlemagne, the Roman Emperor, made it the seat of the Orange Counts. Visit this French town and find cobbled streets echoing with a millennia of history.
Discover Roman ruins
The term ‘ruins’ is almost a misnomer as the Roman landmarks of Orange are so well preserved. The Roman Theatre of Orange is UNESCO-protected, as is the Triumphal Arch in the town centre, which is believed to have been built during the reign of Augustus, sometime between 10 and 25 AD.
The Roman Theatre of Orange is one of the finest remnants of Ancient Rome and one of the best-preserved ancient theatres in Europe. Immerse yourself in history at one of the amphitheatre’s many re-enactments throughout the year, or plan your trip to coincide with the world-famous Chorégies d'Orange festival.
This summer celebration dates from 1855 and is the oldest festival in France. Join 9,000 spectators who fill the atmospheric auditorium, and watch some of the world’s finest opera in the open air.
A day in the park
Climb up to the hilltop park of Colline Saint-Eutrope for the best view of the Roman theatre. Wander through a maze of paths, lined with shady trees, and admire vistas across the town and out to the peak of Mont Ventoux, looming in the distance.
Take me to church
Visit the Cathédrale Notre-Dame-de-Nazareth in the town centre. Dating back to the 12th century, this imposing building is built in a simple stone style, and inside you’ll find columns and arches surrounding a peaceful courtyard.
Drive through the famous lavender fields of Provence and on to Gordes, found in the hilltop lands of Luberon. Layer upon layer of stone houses lead up to 16th-century Renaissance castle, which has views over the village into the rolling hills. Then delve into the cellars of Saint Firmin Palace where underground cisterns and caverns have been hewn into the rock.
Just beyond Gordes, driving along the D177, make sure you don’t miss the breath-taking Sénanque Abbey, which lies down in the valley. Set in fields of lavender, it founded in 1148 and is still an active monastery. It’s open at set times throughout the day, and you can go by yourself or follow a guided tour around the magnificent arched cloisters, silent chapels and dormitories.
Live the Provencal life
Head south to St-Rémy-de-Provence, where chic boulevards are lined with leafy, plane trees and pavement cafes spill out on to the pavement. Buy dried lavender from the region in one of the many boutique shops and sip a leisurely coffee in the sun.
Les Baux-de-Provence is a medieval village practically hewn into the side of its rocky perch and is a listed heritage site. Nearby walking trails will lead you through the hills, past trickling waterfalls and out into meadows flecked with wildflowers. Pick up a walking trail guide from the tourist information office in town.
Stay in Orange to uncover Roman ruins and atmospheric churches, then head out to the wider Provence region in your rental car to experience everything this idyllic region has to offer.
