Attractions and Places To See around Aurons - Top 20

Aurons is rich in history. You can explore the eleven-century-old Historic Village Center with its traditional Provençal architecture, the Bicentenary Plane Tree, and the communal bread oven. Other significant sites include the Rock of Castelas and the Virgin of Aurons, and the Saint-Denis Chapel of Calès, a 12th-century religious building that served as the first parish church for the community of Calès.

Yes, Aurons offers several interesting natural features. You can visit the Natural Bridge, a unique geological formation. The Sonnailler Plateau also provides scenic views and is a starting point for various trails. Additionally, the Statue of the Virgin Mary at the Calès Caves is located on a site that was an ancient habitat from prehistoric times, offering a blend of natural and historical interest.

The area around Aurons is excellent for outdoor enthusiasts. You can find numerous walking and mountain biking trails on the Sonnailler Plateau. For more structured activities, explore the hiking routes around Aurons, which include options like the 'Windmill Ruins on the Plateau' or 'Vue Mont Sainte Victoire' loops. Cyclists can also find various road cycling routes and general cycling routes, such as the 'Tour de Cornillon – Flavian Bridge loop'.

While specific family-friendly attractions aren't highlighted, the village's charm and natural surroundings offer pleasant experiences for families. Exploring the historic village center, discovering rustic fountains, or enjoying a picnic near the Bicentenary Plane Tree can be enjoyable. The Goat Cheese Farm (Ferme d'Aurons) also offers a chance to taste local products, which can be a fun outing for all ages.

Aurons is particularly vibrant during the warmer months. The village hosts various events throughout the year, especially during the summer, including 'Les Floralies' in May, the Music Festival on June 21st, and votive festivals in late July. Guided tours of the village are also organized during the summer, making it an ideal time to experience the local culture and enjoy outdoor activities.

For a unique local experience, visit the Goat Cheese Farm (Ferme d'Aurons) located between Aurons and Pélissanne. Here, you can taste and purchase artisanal goat cheeses, yogurts, and other local products directly from the producer. The Boulodrome also offers a vibrant hub of Provençal conviviality, serving as a bar, restaurant, and concert venue during festive seasons.

The village of Mérindol is deeply linked to the Vaudois movement, a religious dissidence that faced persecution. It was the site where the bloody massacre of the Vaudois began in 1545. Today, a path of memory remains, with vestiges of these bygone times at the height of the current village, offering a poignant historical insight.

Yes, cyclists looking for a challenge can tackle the Col de Sainte-Anne. This climb is known for its steep gradients, especially in the last 900 meters, where sections can reach up to 20%. It's a demanding ascent that rewards with a thrilling descent.

Visitors appreciate the blend of historical depth and natural beauty. Highlights like the Suspension Bridge of Mallemort are noted for being impressive structures, even while under renovation. The historical sites, religious buildings, and unique geological formations, combined with the serene Provençal atmosphere, are frequently praised by the komoot community.

Beyond the well-preserved sites, you can find remnants of the past. The Suspension Bridge of Mallemort, operational from 1848 to 1980, is an impressive old structure currently under renovation. The Calès Caves area, where the Statue of the Virgin Mary stands, was an ancient habitat from prehistoric times until the 15th century, offering a glimpse into very early human settlements.

Aurons hosts several events throughout the year, particularly during the summer. These include 'Les Floralies' in May, the Music Festival on June 21st, the July 14th Ball, and the votive festivals in late July. In December, a Christmas market takes place at the Château du Petit Sonnailler, adding to the festive atmosphere.