Top 3 Castles around Vacqueyras
Best castles around Vacqueyras are situated in a charming village in Provence, known for its viticultural heritage and historical significance. The region offers views of Mont Ventoux, the Dentelles de Montmirail, and the Comtat plain. These sites provide insights into the area's past and architectural evolution.
Best castles around Vacqueyras
- The most popular castles is Château du Barroux, a castle that protected the plain of Comtat Venaissin against invasions. This powerful keep, surrounded by thick walls, has undergone almost…
Last updated: June 22, 2026
Château du Barroux
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Orange Gate
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View of the Château du Barroux
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Castellas de Durban Ruins
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Between the chapel ruins and the remains …
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Old village of Cairanne
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Bad Google translation of Brigitte Roth's comment. It should read 800 m of elevation gain.
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beautiful castle that can be visited. The view from the castle to the surrounding area is very beautiful. Worth a stop.
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When it was built, the Château du Barroux was a powerful keep, surrounded by thick walls, which protected the plain of Comtat Venaissin against Saracen and Italian invasions. In 1274, when the Comtat Venaissin was taken possession of by the Papacy, Barroux became a fiefdom under the control of the Apostolic Chamber of Carpentras, until 1791, when the Comtat was attached to France. Abandoned, damaged in 1793 by the revolutionary hordes, sold in the 19th century, it fell into complete ruin, and it served as a stone quarry for almost 150 years. until its purchase at the beginning of the 20th century by an industrialist, Mr. Vayson de Pradenne, who undertook restoration work. His family still owns the place today. During the war, it was partly used as an observation post by the German occupation troops. In 1944, during an ambush, the Resistance killed a German soldier in the surrounding area. In retaliation against this army of shadows, the occupying troops, gathering the inhabitants of Le Barroux, wanted to execute civilian hostages. Fortunately, the leader of the German detachment was relented and did not commit this revenge, but when they left, the Germans discovered straw mattresses and other traces of occupation in the castle. Thinking they had found a resistance hideout when it was in fact the former cantonment of their own troops, they set fire to the castle, which burned for 10 days. Under almost permanent restoration, the castle now houses a whisky distillery and a fossil exhibition.
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There used to be a castle and the settlement of Durban here. The chapel and other buildings are gradually being rebuilt with donations. Between the chapel ruins and the remains of a watchtower there are two picnic tables with a wonderful view of the area to the south and Baumes-de-Venise. You can find out more about the project here: https://www.fondation-patrimoine.org/les-projets/castellas-de-durban-a-beaumes-de-venise
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Since 1274, Carpentras belonged to the papal domain of the Comtat Venaissin. Between 1309 and 1314, Pope Clement V made Carpentras – alongside Avignon – his residence. During the term of office of Pope Innocent VI (1352–1362), the city was surrounded by a city wall with 32 towers and four gates to protect it from the plundering mercenary troops of the Grandes Compagnies. The 27 m high Porte d’Orange (around 1360) with its battlements is the only remaining city gate and is open on the city side as a three-wall gate tower (half-shell tower). It has two plank floors, one above the brick passageway (barrel vault) and the defense platform behind the battlements. https://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Carpentras
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Perched on its promontory, the old village of Cairanne offers lovely views of the vineyards of the Rhône valley. Among its heritage, the ramparts, the chapels and the old keep are worth noting.
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clearly visible from afar!
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Frequently Asked Questions
What historical castles and sites can I visit near Vacqueyras?
The region around Vacqueyras offers several historical sites and castles. You can explore the medieval village and fortress of Château du Barroux, which boasts a rich history and panoramic views. In the heart of Vacqueyras village, the Château Seigneurial, built on the ruins of an older castle, offers a glimpse into the area's past with its 16th-century elements. Further afield, the Old village of Cairanne features ramparts and an old keep, while the Castellas de Durban Ruins provide a historical viewpoint.
Are there any castles known for wine production or tastings?
Yes, the region is famous for its wines. Château des Roques in Vacqueyras is a distinguished family-owned wine estate renowned for its Vacqueyras Cru wines. Visitors can enjoy wine tastings and learn about their sustainable agricultural practices and unique troglodyte (cave) aging cellar.
Which castles offer the best panoramic views?
For breathtaking views, head to Château du Barroux, which offers a panoramic vista of Mont Ventoux, the Dentelles de Montmirail, and the Comtat plain. The Castellas de Durban Ruins also provide a wonderful view of the area to the south and Beaumes-de-Venise. Additionally, the Old village of Cairanne, perched on its promontory, offers lovely views of the Rhône valley vineyards.
Are there family-friendly historical sites or castles to visit?
The Orange Gate in Carpentras is a historical site that is considered family-friendly. It's the only remaining city gate of Carpentras, dating back to the 14th century, offering an interesting historical experience for all ages.
Can I go hiking near the castles around Vacqueyras?
Absolutely! The area around Vacqueyras is excellent for hiking. You can find mountain hikes, including routes like "Chemin de Cayron – Dentelles de Montmirail loop from Gigondas" or "Chemin de Cayron – Col du Cayron loop from Lafare." Explore more options on the Mountain Hikes around Vacqueyras guide.
What cycling routes are available near the castles?
There are several cycling opportunities. For traffic-free options, consider routes like "Les Vigneaux – Le Barroux: Village and Castle loop from Aubignan." For general cycling, you can find routes such as "Carpentras – Cycle bridge over the Auzon loop from Vacqueyras" or "Dentelles de Montmirail – Gigondas loop from Gigondas." Discover more routes in the Traffic-free bike rides around Vacqueyras guide and the Cycling around Vacqueyras guide.
What is the history of the <a href="https://www.komoot.com/highlight/3825354" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Château du Barroux</a>?
The Château du Barroux was originally a powerful keep protecting the Comtat Venaissin plain. It became a fiefdom under Papal control in 1274. After being abandoned and damaged during the French Revolution, it fell into ruin. Restoration began in the early 20th century, but it was partially burned during WWII. Today, it's under almost permanent restoration and houses a whisky distillery and a fossil exhibition.
Can I visit the <a href="https://www.komoot.com/highlight/6703965" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Castellas de Durban Ruins</a>?
Yes, you can visit the Castellas de Durban Ruins. This site once housed a castle and settlement, and while it's mostly ruins, there's a project to rebuild the chapel and other structures. It offers a historical experience with picnic tables and wonderful views of the surrounding area.
What makes the <a href="https://www.komoot.com/highlight/6332958" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Old village of Cairanne</a> interesting?
The Old village of Cairanne is notable for its historical heritage, including well-preserved ramparts, chapels, and an old keep. Perched on a promontory, it also provides beautiful views of the Rhône valley vineyards, making it a scenic and historically rich destination.
What is the significance of the <a href="https://www.komoot.com/highlight/4286839" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Orange Gate</a> in Carpentras?
The Orange Gate is the only remaining city gate of Carpentras, built around 1360. It was part of a city wall constructed on the initiative of Pope Innocent VI to protect the city from plundering mercenary troops. Its 27-meter height and battlements make it a significant historical landmark.
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