5 idées d’escapade nature autour de Mollans-sur-Ouvèze

Mollans-sur-Ouvèze: at the crossroads of the Ventoux and Baronnies hiking trails

As Brassens once sang, "All you have to do is cross the bridge, and you're ready for adventure...". From its pretty Roman bridge over the Ouvèze, Mollans is at the crossroads of many paths. Those that criss-cross the peaceful Provencal countryside, between vineyards and orchards. Those that venture into the Baronnies massif, to the Eyguiers balms in particular. Those who wander through the gorges of the Toulourenc or, more daring, climb the steep northern slopes of Mont Ventoux. Whether you're a Sunday stroller or a seasoned sportsman, you'll always find a trail to suit you. To plan your outings, visit www.cheminsdesparcs.fr. 

Cycling the hills and valleys

From Mollans-sur-Ouvèze, the mythical Mont Ventoux seems within easy reach, but it's not for everyone... Don't worry, the foothills of the Giant of Provence and the Baronnies massif are criss-crossed with more accessible signposted circuits, with or without gradients, that allow you to enjoy the diversity of the landscape. Trails, paths and pretty roads lined with olive trees or lavender fields will lead you to discover a castle, a winery or characterful villages such as Entrechaux, Buis-les-Baronnies, Faucon and Puyméras. Maps and detailed fact sheets are available from tourist offices or at www.provence-a-velo.fr. and www.ladrometourisme.com.

Between heaven and earth: climbing and via ferrata

Looking for a bit of height? The mineral landscapes of the Baronnies offer an ideal playground for rock climbers of all levels. Buis-les-Baronnies, 10 km north-east of Mollans-sur-Ouvèze, is a major climbing destination. The Saint-Julien rock face, the Ubrieux gorges and Baume Rousse boast numerous equipped routes. A fun alternative, with its footbridges and monkey bridges, is a 1700 m via ferrata, one of the longest in Europe, on the north face of the Saint-Julien rock: four freely accessible aerial routes, including an initiation route for children and beginners, offer maximum thrills. For equipment rental, which is essential, or for approved supervision, contact the Bureau des Guides des Baronnies (www.guides-baronnies.com).

Paragliding: reach for the summits!

Like the majestic vultures that soar above the Eygues gorges at Rémuzat, spread your wings over the regional nature parks of the Baronnies provençales and Mont Ventoux. In the vicinity of Mollans-sur-Ouvèze, there are a number of take-off points for hang-gliding, and a number of approved service providers offer safe take-offs, including introductory flights, tandem paragliding and complete training courses. Contact details are available from Baronnies Tourisme.

Head in the stars

When evening comes and the sky fills with stars, all you have to do is look up and take a trip... to infinity and beyond! The Vaison-la-Romaine astronomical observatory organizes telescope observation and astrophotography evenings throughout the year to discover the planets and constellations. Check out their program at www.observatoiredevaison.com.

Herbal tea and bed!

After so much excitement, there's nothing better than a good linden infusion, a Baronnies specialty. And if you're looking for a cosy bed to nestle your flowery dreams in, trust us and book Villa Baronnies in Mollans-sur-Ouvèze or Villa Olympe in Entrechaux now!