Destination:At the heart of the Drôme

An impressive show

This massif, finely sculpted by erosion, extends over 8 km between Vaison la Romaine and Carpentras. Amidst the typically Mediterranean greenery and limestone façades, you will need a little puff and determination to reach the crest of St Amand, the summit located at a height of 734 metres. Make the most of the panoramic views on offer to you along the entire footpath. You will be sure to be able to make out the vines enabling the production of the renowned wines of Gigondas or even Beaumes de Venise. Although the footpaths are marked, the ideal thing is to buy a map at the tourist office to be certain that you do not lose your way.

The site abounds in mountain bike trails. An original way to discover the sites hidden along the route, such as the Pas de l’Aigle or the Prébayon monastery ruins. Please note: if you are a climbing enthusiast, this is The Place To Be!

Simply heaven

Cross the splendid Roman bridge, headed for the medieval old town, to discover a genuine open-air archaeological museum. These archaeological remains, including 8 hectares open to the public, are spread over 2 sites: Puymin and La Villasse. The foundations of the village remain and you will even be able to make out the interiors of the wealthy patricians residences, such as the Maison des Messii. End your visit with a flourish taking a detour via the ancient theatre. So as to better immerse yourself in the daily life of the Romans, the ideal thing is to have a guided visit. Continue your historic route via the upper town and the feudal château, nestling at the very top of a rock. Protected behind its ramparts, the medieval town will bewitch you with its charm and the magnificence of its alleyways with evocative names.

A good plan: Buy a Pass Monument (Monument Pass) for a day (for the price of €9) and enjoy an audio-guide with which you will be able to go all over town, and discover a little bit more about the history of this charming village.

Incredibly inspiring

Inspired by the postcards which he distributed, Ferdinand Cheval imagined in his wildest dreams, a preposterous palace straight out of his imagination. During a period of 33 years, the eccentric postman built, on his own, the residence from his imagination with the stones, which he accumulated during his rounds. The result is an extraordinary titanic construction, where the architecture is inspired from features on each continent. A multitude of historical and mythological creatures are scattered within this fresco: pelicans, caimans (of the allegator species), elephants…You will delight in scrutinizing the smallest nooks of these sculptures looking for these facets.

Provençal caviar

More than 2,000 years ago, the climatic conditions in Nyons and its surrounding area enabled the olive tree to create a place for itself. Nowadays there are nearly 260,000 under the Appellation d’Origine Contrôlée (registered designation of origin) of Nyons. Those curious are able to admire the Nyons plantations by taking the Sentier des Oliviers. This 4-kilometre walk, punctuated by signs that have been erected and explanatory boards, transports you to the heart of an exceptional olive growing heritage, and its highly remarkable black variety called the Tanche.

On Thursdays and Sundays, a typical Provençal market takes place in the streets of the town for the greatest pleasure of gourmets. You will find the famous black olives in various forms: oil, tapenade (a savoury spread made with puréed olives) or simply for crunching... In addition, find irresistible the urge for some Montélimar nougat, a further speciality of the area.