The Ochre Cliffs, a Unique Landscape!
The Ochre Quarries are a must-visit in Luberon. Whether on foot or by bike, explore the magnificent colors of Luberon.
The Ochre Trail in Roussillon
The Ochre Trail, also known as the Giants’ Causeway, is an exceptional walk that you must experience. You have the choice between two routes: one taking 30 minutes and another 50 minutes. Upon arrival at the site, you will be amazed by the beauty of the surroundings 😍. Ochre is everywhere around you, generously displaying its various shades of colors.
Along each route, you’ll find explanatory panels about the geology, flora, and history of the Luberon ochre massif. You’ll also come across various stops where you can take the time to appreciate the view of these former ochre quarries.
Practical information:
- 🚗: 10 minutes by car from the campsite
- 🕛: Open from 9:30 am to 5:30 pm
- 💸: Individual rate of €3 per person
The Ochre Conservatory
To delve deeper into the discovery of Ochre, you can also visit the Ochre Conservatory. The conservatory was built in an old factory in 1921. The 5-hectare site includes 4 ochre washings, 1 kiln, and 2 buildings housing 3 ochre mills. This unique place will take you through all the stages of ochre processing through a permanent exhibition and exclusive temporary exhibitions.
The OKHRA Association, which now manages the conservatory, offers guided tours as well as color-related workshops and educational activities for children during vacations.
Practical information:
- 🚗: 10 minutes by car from the campsite
- 🕛: Open year-round from 9 am to 6 pm, and from 9 am to 7 pm in summer
- ⌛: Guided tours every 30 minutes
The Provençal Colorado in Rustrel
The Provençal Colorado, named for its resemblance to the natural landscapes of the state of Colorado in the United States, is a breathtaking trail in the Luberon massif.
Originally, the site was exploited for mineral deposits. Today, it is an important tourist destination when exploring Luberon. The trail fascinates with its exotic charm, incredible colors, and the diversity of emblematic species of the massif such as Scots pine, oaks, and cistus.
Practical information:
- 🚗: 20 minutes by car from the campsite
- 🕛: Open from 9:30 am to 4:30 pm
- Morning reservation required
The Bruoux Mines
The Mines de Bruoux, located in Gargas, Vaucluse, are a major historical ochre extraction site. These ancient mines, which extend over several kilometers of underground galleries, were exploited for almost two centuries, until the beginning of the 20th century.
Today, the site is open to the public, allowing visitors to discover the history of ochre mining, as well as mining and processing techniques. The underground galleries, with their colors and play of light, offer a unique immersive experience in the world of ochre. Listed as one of the region’s natural and cultural sites, it’s a must-see for history and geology buffs!
Practical information:
- 🚗: 3 minutes by car from the campsite
- 🕛 : From March 24 to October 31, daily, 10 am to 6 pm.
- Guided tours only, duration 1h at fixed times: first departure 10:30 am / last departure 4:30 pm.
- Telephone reservations essential. Go 15 minutes early and bring warm clothes, indoor temperature 10° C.