The best walks and hikes around Roussillon

There are over 50 hiking routes around Roussillon, offering a diverse range of experiences. These trails are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 500 reviews.

Roussillon is renowned for its vibrant ochre cliffs and quarries, often called the 'Colorado of Provence'. These unique geological formations create a stunning landscape of reds, oranges, and yellows, contrasting beautifully with the green pine and cedar forests. You'll find trails winding through these colorful canyons, offering a truly distinctive hiking experience.

Yes, Roussillon offers several easy trails suitable for families. A great option is the Ochre Trail loop from Roussillon, which is about 0.6 miles (1.0 km) long and takes around 17 minutes to complete, leading you directly through the iconic ochre quarries. Another easy choice is the Town Hall Square (Roussillon) – Roussillon Village loop from Roussillon, a 3.5-mile (5.6 km) path exploring the village surroundings.

Absolutely. Many of the trails in Roussillon are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end in the same location. For a moderate circular route, consider the Roussillon Village – Town Hall Square (Roussillon) loop from Roussillon, which is 7.1 miles (11.4 km) and takes about 3 hours 9 minutes, offering varied scenery around the village.

Beyond the famous ochre landscapes, Roussillon's trails feature diverse topography including rolling hills, vineyards, and dense pine and cedar forests. You might also encounter dramatic gorges like the Gorges de Régalon and Gorges de la Véroncle, which offer more adventurous hiking with rock scrambling and narrow corridors.

While Roussillon has many moderate trails, the broader Luberon region, including areas like the Gorges de Régalon and Gorges de la Véroncle, offers more challenging opportunities. These can involve scrambling over rocks and navigating narrow passages, sometimes with ladders and ropes, providing a more adventurous experience for seasoned hikers.

Many trails offer views of or lead to fascinating sites. You can explore the iconic Ochre Trail itself, or visit the charming village of Roussillon with its ochre-toned houses. The region also features historical sites like the Fort Buoux Ruins and picturesque perched villages such as Gordes. For a route with panoramic views, try the Magnificent panorama – Saint Madeleine Chapel loop from ENS Les marnes Aptiennes de la Tuilière.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars. Reviewers often praise the unique and vibrant ochre landscapes, the well-marked paths, and the opportunity to combine natural exploration with visits to charming historical villages. Many appreciate the variety of trails suitable for different ability levels.

While specific trail regulations can vary, many natural areas in Roussillon and the Luberon are generally welcoming to dogs, especially if kept on a leash. It's always best to check local signage for any restrictions, particularly in protected natural sites or village centers. The diverse terrain offers plenty of opportunities for walks with your canine companion.

The spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) are generally considered the best times for hiking in Roussillon. During these seasons, the weather is mild and pleasant, and the natural colors are particularly vibrant – from spring blooms to autumn foliage, complementing the ochre hues. Summers can be very hot, making early mornings or late afternoons preferable for hiking.

Yes, many trails provide stunning panoramic views. The View of Roussillon – Ochre Trail loop from Roussillon offers excellent vistas of the village and surrounding ochre landscape. The broader Luberon area also features vantage points with views of the entire massif and even glimpses of Mont Ventoux, such as the Falaise de la Madeleine near Lioux.