Luberon ochres: Roussillon or the Colorado Provençal in Rustrel?

The Luberon’s ochres fascinate with their incredible red-orange hues, sculpted by industrial extraction and erosion. Two sites share the spotlight: the Sentier des Ocres in Roussillon, famous and accessible, and the Colorado Provençal in Rustrel, wilder and more discreet. Which to choose from Avignon or our Luberon rentals?

Roussillon: the Luberon classic

The village of Roussillon, itself entirely built of ochre stone, hosts the Sentier des Ocres. Two signposted loops, 30 or 50 minutes, cross old quarries and flaming cliffs. Entry is paid (€3-4/adult), the trail well maintained, busy but never packed outside high season. The village itself deserves a wander: art galleries, terraces, ochre lanes.

From Avignon: 50 km, 50 min. From our rentals: 15-25 km depending on departure village. Paid parking at the village, arrive early in summer. Combine with Gordes (10 km) and local Provence markets.

Strengths: accessible, quick, beautiful village, easy photos. Limits: touristic, short trail (plan something else after).

Rustrel: the Colorado Provençal

Less known, the Colorado Provençal in Rustrel offers spectacular landscapes on a grander scale. Several circuits to choose from: Sahara (1h), Belvédère (2h), Cheminées de Fées Circuit (3h). The ochre, white and red cliffs stretch as far as the eye can see, almost lunar. No tourist infrastructure apart from the car park (free or €3 depending on period), so more natural vibe.

From Avignon: 60 km, 1h. From our rentals: 20-35 km. Car park at the end of a small road, then marked trail starts. Bring water and hat: little shade.

Strengths: grand, wild, multiple circuits, few people, free off-season. Limits: longer to reach, less shade, Rustrel village basic (no particular charm).

Our tips for choosing

• Limited time or first Luberon visit: Roussillon. Compact, efficient, combinable with Gordes.
• Hiking and nature lovers: Rustrel. More impressive landscapes, varied circuits.
• Strong heat (July-August): Roussillon (shorter trail, shaded village). Rustrel early morning only.
• With children: Roussillon simpler. Rustrel doable but long circuits, plan supplies.
• Photography: both equal, Rustrel offers more spectacular angles, Roussillon more Provençal charm.

Ideal timing

Spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October): soft light, pleasant temperature, ochres glowing under low sun. Summer: early morning (8am-10am) or late afternoon (5pm-7pm). Avoid 12pm-4pm: crushing heat, dull colours under vertical sun.

Closed shoes mandatory (ochre sand stains), bring small water bottle even for Roussillon.

Still hesitating? Do both if staying several days. Our rentals sit in the heart of the Luberon, ideal base for exploring ochres, perched villages and markets. Book now on our platform and ready your cameras: the Luberon awaits you.