Visit Valréas: discover the treasures of the Enclave des Papes region

Although few archaeological traces have been discovered, it would appear that the rich and complex past of this Vaucluse town dates back to prehistoric times.

In the Middle Ages, and more precisely in the 9th century, Valréas saw the light of day with the establishment of an estate on the banks of the Coronne by a certain Valère. This fact, which marked the real beginning of the town’s history, was followed by the construction of Château de Ripert in the 13th century.

In 1317, Pope John XXII acquired Valréas, making it part of the States of the Holy See, marking the beginning of the Enclave des Papes. During the Renaissance, the town suffered religious troubles, notably in 1562 when it was taken and pillaged by the Baron des Adrets, before being rescued by the Catholic troops of the Count of Suze. In 1791, during the French Revolution, Valréas became part of France.

Today, it’s known for its historic heritage, renowned wines and its role in the Enclave des Papes. The latter also includes Grillon, Richerenches and Visan, forming a canton administratively attached to the Vaucluse, but geographically located in the Drôme.

Its mild Mediterranean climate makes it an ideal year-round destination. A visit to Valréas promises a memorable experience that combines immersive activities in the local culture with the discovery of its must-see sites.

You can’t visit Valréas without seeing the church of Notre-Dame de Nazareth!

This must-see building, listed as a Monument Historique since 1862, is located at Place Pie, a 10-minute drive from our campsite near Valréas. Admire this 11th-century building and its two bell towers. It’s a masterpiece ofProvencal Romanesque art. Step through the portal to discover a 12th-century apse, a nave and a 17th-century organ. At Christmas, the church of Notre-Dame de Nazareth is home to the famous monumental Provencal crib.

The site is open to visitors every day. Guided tours are also available on request from theValréas tourist office.

If you’re planning to visit the Vaucluse region during your stay at our campsite, don’t miss the Tour Ripert, one of the main witnesses to the medieval history of Valréas!

This imposing tower was once the keep of the Château de Ripert. In 1548, a clock was installed here, giving the “Tour de l’Horloge ” its name. Built of limestone, this monument stands 17 metres high and measures around 7 metres wide. It has three storeys, with a magnificent Romanesque vault on the third level. But the real treasure is at the top, where a 360° panoramic view awaits you, allowing you to admire the surrounding landscape in all its splendor.

The tower is open on Heritage Days and every day in July and August. Guided tours are also available on request throughout the year.

The Penitent brotherhoods were born out of the piety of laymen who wanted to gather together to pay homage to God and draw closer to spiritual perfection through penance. The one in Valréas was founded in 1509. The chapel of the Pénitents Blancs was not built until 1642.

Distinguished by its Catholic architecture, it is nonetheless marked by its sober exterior. You’ll be struck by its single nave, splendid walnut panelling and painted coffered ceiling.

A number of concerts are held here every year. To arrange a guided tour of the site, you should contact theValréas Tourist Office.

Visiting Valréas also means discovering a part of its industrial history.

Labelled a Musée de France since 2002, this site pays tribute to an activity that has flourished in this Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur town since the mid-19th century. The museum’s collections provide an insight into how cardboard boxes are made and printed, and how they have evolved over the centuries.
During your visit, thepermanent exhibition on the first floor provides an overview of the different phases in the creation of boxes and other cardboard products for pharmacies, perfumeries, jewellers, etc. The Musée du Cartonnage et de l’Imprimerie also features a video projection on current design procedures.

Visits are possible from Tuesday to Saturday, practically all year round. The museum closes on January 1, May 1 and December 25.

The Valréas winegrowing terroir lies on stony red clay terraces. This characteristic, combined with the Mediterranean climate, favors the production of wines of exceptional quality, such as Côtes-du-Rhône Villages Valréas, highly prized for its red fruit aromas and freshness.

To discover the secrets of this exceptional terroir, visit Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur vineyards such as Domaine de la Prévosse and Château MontPlaisir, just ten minutes from our campsite.

Legend has it that Pope John XXII was miraculously cured by a Valréas wine, prompting him to buy the town in 1317, thus contributing to the creation of the Enclave des Papes.