Roussillon, the ochre village.
Roussillon, famed for its ochre quarries, looks like no other village. The colour of the village at sunset is incredible. Ochre mining took place on the edge of the village and was a major source of employment in bygone times. The quarries can now be visited and are just a short walk from the village. The village itself has a few tourist shops as well as a baker, butcher and several good cafes and restaurants - some with spectacular views. With its friendly locals and a colourful market on Thursday mornings, Roussillon is just how one imagines a Provencal village to be.
The surrounding area.
Roussillon is in the heart of the Luberon with many attractive neighbouring villages including Menerbes (where Peter Mayle did his 'Year in Provence'), Lourmarin, Gordes, Bonnieux and Lacoste (home to the Marquis de Sade).
Further afield, but only 45 minutes away to the west is Avignon and a little further still, Arles. North is the town of Carpentras, Mont Ventoux and the great wine areas of Chateauneuf-du-Pape and Gigondas. To the south is the dramatic scenery of the Grand Luberon and just to the east lies the town of Apt with its superb Saturday market.
Gordes, 10 minutes away.
Lourmarin, 30 minutes away.
Bonnieux, 15 minutes away.