Venasque, France

Down a typical street

Down a typical street

Welcome to the big town of Venasque! At 1,100 residents, this is the largest of the mountaintop villages we encountered in this corner of Vaucluse.

Did I mention this is a quiet town?

Did I mention this is a quiet town?

One of many fountains

One of many fountains

While I was researching Venasque, I learned that it is one of the 126 Most Beautiful Villages in France. I’m not sure how special that designation is, but I can attest that it is a lovely place to spend an afternoon, walking around and taking in the views.

Sweeping views of the region from all sides

Sweeping views of the region from all sides

Venasque is a medieval settlement that sits on an exposed rocky spur overlooking the lush Vaucluse Valley. Nearby is the tallest peak in Provence, Mount Ventoux.

Old stone buildings

Old stone buildings

Small cars are necessary!

Small cars are necessary!

The town itself is comprised of twisting streets, steep hills and weathered stone houses. The village has the requisite handful of shops and restaurants, selling and serving local products.

18th-century fountain sits in the center square

18th-century fountain sits in the center square

Oldest building in town

Oldest building in town

Church interior

Church interior

The oldest building in the region is Venasque’s 6th-century baptistry, which was built on the site of a Roman temple.

Venasque is along the D28

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