What are the best things to see and do in L'Isle-sur-la-Sorgue?

L'Isle-sur-la-Sorgue is a small town in the southern French region of Provence. A pretty river called the Sorgue flows through it, as a result of which it is referred to as the Venice of Comtat. The climate is very pleasant, enticing you to wander through the colourful streets and browse in the antique shops and markets.

The waterwheel route

Enjoy a 45-minute walk that will let you see the town's waterwheels; there are about 15 of them. They used to serve the area's different industries: paper manufacturing, silk- and wool-spinning, olive oil and flour mills. You can get a copy of the route at the Tourist Offices.

The Partage des Eaux interpretation trail

Set off from the town centre and stroll alongside the Sorgue for 1.5 km, until you reach a place called Partage des Eaux, which means 'watershed'. The river forks here. It's a nice spot to have a picnic by the water, rest, watch the ducks or read a book.

The Collegiate Church of Notre-Dame-des-Anges

The baroque-style Collegiate Church of Notre-Dame-des-Anges (Our Lady of Angels) in the town centre is classed as a historical monument. Marvel at the sumptuous interior and the 222 angels.

Parks and Gardens

• Gautier Park: A large park with picnic tables, benches and children's playgrounds. Admire the magnificent Château Giraud which stands in the middle of the park.
• The public garden: Located just opposite the washhouse, the garden has several benches and a pretty fountain, making it a nice spot for a brief pause.

Museums and art centres:

• La Filaventure: Discover the sensory museum dedicated to the highest quality fibres used by the Brun de Vian Tiran textile factory.
• The Toy and Antique Doll Museum: Take a trip down Memory Lane and revisit the toys of yesteryear. Hundreds of original and remarkable pieces dating from 1880 to 1930.
• The Villa Datris Foundation: Immerse yourself in a dynamic space dedicated to exhibiting contemporary sculptures. Open from May to October.
• Campredon Art Centre: Visit this museum that exhibits works by renowned artists and values art in all of its forms: sculpture, photography and painting.

The Place de la Juiverie

A four-storey building has survived to the present-day. Click here to learn more about it.

The antique dealers

Nearly 300 antique and bric-a-brac dealers work in L'Isle-sur-la-Sorgue, some in 'villages' and some on their own. The town is also home to a number of specialised carrier firms.
They are concentrated around the Avenue de la Libération and the Avenue des Quatre Otages.

You will also find many art galleries scattered around town.

Places to photograph

• The Bouïgas Basin
• The Caisse d’Épargne building
• Partage des Eaux
• Robert Vasse Esplanade
• Place Emile Char (wheel and river)
• The house in Gautier Park

If you happen to be here on a Sunday, take the time for a stroll through the Provençal market and go hunting for a bargain at the flea market.

Buildings that are closed to the public, such as the Chapel of the Blue Penitents, the Hôtel Dieu, the Charité and others, have explanatory panels outside them.

So, are you already planning your next trip to L'Isle-sur-la-Sorgue? Our accommodation page will help you find the best place to stay.