Le Sentier des Ocres — Attraction in Apt

Colorado in Provence as they’re commonly known is indeed a colourful treat to our eyes. The combination of several coloured soil types in one little place accessible by hiking is an interesting experience in itself. Located in the cute town of Roussillon, they’re one of the tourist attractions in the region of Luberon.

The town is pretty cute as well. All houses are coloured with the same local pigments. One can reach there by car easily. Roughly an hour drive from Aix en Provence using highway A7.

Dedicated parking is available for cars and camping vehicles.

Be aware that reservation required in the month of July and August to visit this place.

There are little lavender fields in the town at a walking distance.

Dont Forget to buy colour pigments if you love to paint. There are many vineyards in this region to explore.

Note: the place becomes really hot in summers so be prepared for such weather and carry a lot fluids and fruits for hiking trail. Hiking trails are well marked...

After visiting many of the cities in Provence, the village of Rousillon was one of my favorites. I am an artist so my bias if for visual beauty and possible painting ops. This town is full of that. The buildings are colorful and not over manicured like Gordes. There is a great vista of the complete village as you walk toward Le Sentier des Ocres, with a great shaded spot for painting plein air. I thought I had seen everything there was to see of the village of Roussillon until my boyfriend convinced me to tour the rusty colored hills at the top of the village. It costs 3 euro per person to go in and it is near a toilet. Yay! OMG I am so glad I did! We got great photos, probably the best of the trip. If you are into photography, go when there is light. Don't go on a rainy or overcast day. I highly suggest you don't miss this part of Roussillon. It is super unique and special, the reddish colored hills against the green trees is breathtaking, a once in a...

There are a few Ochre quarries situated in the area of Roussillon. The “Le Sentier des Ochres” at Roussillon is the best choice for tourists and those who want to learn more about the local history. There are many information signs everywhere in the area, and you can get a free park map with lots of information. The town of Roussillon did a great job turning the former Ochre quarry into a beautiful nature reservoir. This place is perfect for a relaxing hiking day. The nature trail meanders through this unique desert-like Ochre landscape, where erosion has shaped places like the “Fairy Needles” (Aiguilles des Fées) and the “Giants Path” (Chaussée des Géants). Please remember that you shouldn’t leave the trails, respect the park rules and trail guide to protect the 110 million-year-old mineral landscape! It is forbidden to take Ochre out of the park with you. Infringements shall be penalized by fines! There is a shop next to the entrance...