Le Pontet camping guide
Where to go
Provence
Perched on the east side of Avignon, Le Pontet is strategically situated for escaping into the surrounding countryside, and what better destination for a scenic road trip than Provence? The hilltop villages, vineyards, and lavender fields of the Luberon are less than two hours drive away, where you can visit favourites like Gordes and Roussillon, then go hiking or biking in the Luberon Regional Natural Park.
Alpilles Natural Regional Park
South of Le Pontet, the Provencal city of Saint-Rémy-de-Provence is best known as the former home of Van Gogh, but it’s also the gateway to the vast Alpilles Natural Regional Park. Soaring limestone cliffs provide a striking backdrop for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding, after which you can hop between picturesque villages, olive groves, and wineries.
Rhône Valley
Wine lovers don’t have to head far north of Le Pontet to find themselves in the heart of the Rhône Valley, France’s second-largest wine region. The rolling vineyards of the Châteauneuf-du-Pape appellation produce some of France’s most world-renowned red wines, and a wine-tasting bike tour is a fun way to explore. Further north, Mont Ventoux is a popular spot for hiking and rock climbing.
When to go
Le Pontet receives a surge in visitors during the three-week-long Avignon Art Festival in July—the largest event of its kind in France. It’s worth braving the summer crowds to experience Provence’s lavender and sunflower fields in bloom, but the balmy temperatures can make tent camping uncomfortable in the hottest months. Camping season in France runs from April through October, and most campgrounds are closed outside of this period.
