Venasque is a pretty small village that clings to a rocky hillside overlooking vineyards, garrigue (areas of shrubby vegetation found in the Mediterranean region), and cherry trees. It is classified among the “Plus Beaux Villages de France.” Despite the many charming villages in Provence and the rest of France, the designation is not one that every town deserves. However, in our minds, Venasque is well-deserving of the label. Please continue reading here for the original article and photos.

Beautiful Venasque Information

Located northeast of Avignon and southeast of Carpentras, Venasque was in the heart of the Comtat Venaissin during the Papal reign in France. The village’s small footprint matches its population of just over 1,000 (as of 2019). However, this medieval village offers many highlights for visitors, including an imposing chateau with stone walls that connect three towers.

Also worth seeing is the 12th-century church and its bell tower, which replaced a 6th-century cathedral. The baptistery, constructed in the shape of the cross, also dates to the 6th century. It is next to the church.

Visit Venasque in the spring (May and June) and try the trademark cherries “Monts de Venasque.” There are over 100 cherry orchards nearby, with annual harvests of roughly 20,000 tons. While in the area, sample some of the AOC Côtes du Ventoux wines.

And if you are hungry, here is a suggestion for lunch:

Les Remparts Restaurant
37 Rue Haute
84210 Venasque
Telephone: +33 (0)4 90 66 02 79