Attractions and Places To See around Aurel - Top 20

Aurel is surrounded by significant natural beauty. You can explore the iconic Mont Ventoux summit, offering panoramic views over Provence and the Alps. Another must-see is The Nesque gorges from Villes-sur-Auzon, known for its scenic road winding through impressive rock faces. The area is also famous for its wide valleys filled with lavender fields, particularly beautiful from late June to August.

Aurel itself is a charming perched village with medieval origins, featuring steep streets and old stone houses. While the 12th-century church and 13th-century chateau are privately owned, their exteriors offer a glimpse into the village's past. You can also find a tastefully restored 19th-century washhouse and two 17th-century chapels outside the village: Saint Esprit and Ventouret.

The region around Aurel is ideal for various outdoor activities. You can find numerous hiking trails through woodlands, open fields, and lavender fields. For more challenging adventures, consider mountaineering routes around Mont Ventoux, such as the "Pass of Storms – Grand panorama loop" or the "Summit of Mont Ventoux loop." Mountain biking and running trails are also popular, with options like the "Chalet Reynard – Mont Ventoux summit loop" for MTB enthusiasts and various challenging running routes around Mont Ventoux.

For experiencing the famous lavender fields, the best time to visit Aurel is from the end of June to August when they are in full bloom. Mont Ventoux offers spectacular views year-round, but for hiking and cycling, spring to autumn is ideal. In winter, Mont Ventoux can be enjoyed for skiing or snowshoeing.

Absolutely. The Mont Ventoux summit provides unparalleled panoramic views over Provence and the Alps. Another notable spot is the Pass of Storms, a mountain pass offering magnificent views and located near the memorial dedicated to cyclist Tom Simpson.

Aurel is known as a "village of painters" and has inspired artists. Nearby, you can visit Sault (4 km away), famous for its medieval market on Wednesday mornings, or Montbrun-les-Bains (5 km away), listed as a "most beautiful village in France." Exploring regional markets is also a great way to taste local produce like fruits, vegetables, and wines from Provence.

While many trails around Mont Ventoux are moderate to difficult, the preserved area of Provence around Aurel offers numerous hiking trails that vary in difficulty. You can find routes through woodlands and open fields. For specific easy routes, it's recommended to check local trail maps or guides, as the provided komoot routes tend to be more challenging, such as the "Pass of Storms – Grand panorama loop" which is moderate.

Visitors particularly appreciate the breathtaking views from Mont Ventoux summit, often queuing to take photos at the 1,910-meter sign. The scenic drive through The Nesque gorges is also highly recommended for its impressive rock faces and moderate incline, making it enjoyable for cyclists. The historical significance of sites like the Stele dedicated to Tom Simpson also draws interest from cycling fans.

Yes, the region is a cycling paradise. The climb to Mont Ventoux summit is a classic, with the last part through a scree desert being particularly memorable. The Nesque Gorge Road is also highly recommended for road cyclists, offering a moderate incline and spectacular views, especially in its eastern section. Many MTB trails are also available, such as the "Aurel Village – Sault loop".

The Stele dedicated to Tom Simpson is a poignant historical site for cycling enthusiasts. Located 1.5 km from the summit of Mont Ventoux, it marks the spot where British cyclist Tom Simpson tragically collapsed and died during the 1967 Tour de France. Many cyclists stop here to pay their respects and leave mementos.

Beyond Mont Ventoux and the Gorges de la Nesque, you can explore the unique colorful landscapes of the Colorado Provençal, located about 23 km away. The jagged mountains of the Dentelles de Montmirail, approximately 30 km from Aurel, also offer a striking natural attraction.