The best walks around Avignon

Written by Sophie Renassia

Published on December 14, 2024

Avignon is best known for its summer festival and famous bridge. But did you know that Grand Avignon - a community of 16 communes between the Vaucluse and Gard regions, featured in this this article - is brimming with wonderful trails for discovering Provence's landscapes on foot? Let's take a closer look at our top 5 hikes to explore the region.

1. GR42 - Roquemaure to Pujaut

Distance: 19.5 km (approx. 4h30).
Start: Roquemaure (accessible by bus, notably via the Difficulty: easy to moderate (ideal for a day's walk!).122 line from Villeneuve lez Avignon). We advise you to take the bus for the outward journey, so that you can control your return schedule.
Difficulty: easy to moderate (ideal for a day's walk!).

Photo : ©Alexis Calvignac - The beauty of the countryside from above

Our reporters Tolt and Alexis have tested the GR42 for you (find out more here). Verdict: a beautiful walk and breathtaking scenery!

Photo : ©Alexis Calvignac - One of the magnificent views along the way

Gourmet break: for lunch, we recommend a stop at the Bar du Marché in Pujaut. Simple but tasty dishes: royal couscous, barbecue or moules-frites accompanied by live music at weekends. The restaurant also offers vegetarian options, using local produce from the village.

2. Urban Trail V (Section 17)

Distance: 13 km for section 17, between Roquefort-du-Gard and Avignon.
Start: Roquefort-du-Gard, accessible by public transport from Avignon.
Difficulty: easy to moderate.

This historic trail takes you in the footsteps of Pope Urban V (hence the name), through bucolic landscapes and places steeped in history. In Greater Avignon, section 17 of the itinerary takes you through several communes:
- Roquefort-du-Gard (with its magnificent 12th-century Romanesque church),
- Les Angles (with its old village perched on a cliff),
- Villeneuve lez Avignon (with its Saint-André abbey fort, Chartreuse and Mourgues hill),
- and of course Avignon (with its Palais des Papes and famous bridge, both UNESCO World Heritage sites). Perfect for lovers of cultural heritage and nature!

Photo : ©Alexis Calvignac - Villeneuve lez Avignon and its fort seen from above!

Find out more information here.

3. Piécaud Hill - Caumont-sur-Durance

Distance: 2.8 km.
Start: Caumont-sur-Durance (accessible by bus from Avignon).
Difficulty: easy.

A very accessible loop takes you up to 134 m altitude on the Piécaud hill to discover a magnificent panorama of the Durance valley, the Alpilles, Mont Ventoux and Caumont! The ideal walk for a family outing or a quick getaway. The little extra: this “Espace Naturel Sensible” area is also renowned for its biodiversity and olive tree-lined paths! A feast for the eyes and ears (the birds will be there).

Photo : ©Office de Tourisme Grand Avignon - Sentier de la Garance on the Colline de Piécaud

Find out more information here.

4. The vineyard and cellar walk - Rochefort-du-Gard

Distance: 12 km.
Start: Rochefort-du-Gard (accessible by bus from Avignon).
Difficulty: moderate.

For connoisseurs of fine wines, this vineyard-based loop combines nature and indulgence: along the way, you can stop off at local cellars to taste the region's wines. An itinerary to enjoy without moderation.

Vines as far as the eye can see

Vines as far as the eye can see

Find out more information here.

5. La Parisienne - Velleron

Distance: 5.7 km.
Start: Velleron (accessible by regional bus from Avignon).
Difficulty: moderate.

Finally, a bucolic stroll to discover Velleron's remarkable landscapes (including the magnificent foothills of Mont Ventoux, the Carpentras canal and the Sorgue river). Country landscapes straight out of a postcard!

Majestic Mont Ventoux

Find out more information here.

To find out more:

- To find out more about buses and public transport options in Grand Avignon, we tell you more here.
- If you prefer bike touring, we also share our top 5 bike tours in Grand Avignon in this article!
- To discover all our recommendations for accommodation, restaurants and activities in Grand Avignon, you can consult our dedicated guide.