In Entraigues-Sur-La-Sorgue, local history and a landscape shaped by water are among the highlights to discover. The Tour des Templiers stands in the town centre; to the north lie wet meadows and the Les Rochières wetland. There are also opportunities to experience the Sorgue on foot or while fishing, a Wednesday market and other cultural attractions. When planning your visit, it is therefore helpful to distinguish between architectural history, nature watching and leisure activities.
Between the Sorgue and the Wet Meadows
The Sorgue crosses the plain of the Comtat Venaissin. To the north of Entraigues-Sur-La-Sorgue, the wet meadows are criss-crossed by mayres, or streams. The Les Rochières wetland is characterised by numerous water channels; its landscape includes species-rich natural meadows and woodland typical of Mediterranean riparian forests.
The “la Sorgue aval” circular trail is ideal for observing local wildlife and plant life. These include kingfishers, beavers and otters, as well as reeds and water lilies. Along the Sorgue, you can also fish, stroll along the banks and use a fitness trail. Nature watching and exercise offer different experiences: the circular trail focuses on wildlife and plant life, while walking, fishing and the fitness trail provide further ways to enjoy the river.
Local History and Craftsmanship
The Tour des Templiers is a 20-metre-high square tower in the town centre. It was renovated in 2006 and is considered a remnant of the Château Vieux. The tower probably dates from the 11th or 12th century; it was remodelled several times in the 13th and 14th centuries. It is open to visitors and offers panoramic views of Mont Ventoux, the Dentelles de Montmirail and the Monts de Vaucluse. Visits are also possible during the Journées du Patrimoine; the programme may vary from one edition to the next.
The Église Saint-Pierre-aux-Liens was completely renovated in 2006 after eight years of construction work. Its late-19th-century interior features statues, a walnut pulpit and paintings, some of which come from the Avignon seminary. The Centre Horloger de Provence offers another cultural highlight: it brings together repair workshops, a training centre, a manufacturing facility and a retail area. The centre holds the Entreprise du Patrimoine Vivant designation.
Market and Seasonal Leisure Activities
The Wednesday market in the town hall square offers fish, meat, fruit and vegetables, eggs, olives, honey and cheese. There is also an Asian caterer and clothing. The market is mainly attended by local residents; the mix of stalls may change. Alongside the historic buildings, the market is therefore another distinctive aspect of local life.
The Labyrinthe les Hautes Herbes covers two hectares in a cornfield. Riddles guide visitors through the maze, with a theme that changes each year. Several wooden games, a pedal go-kart track and a shaded picnic area for families round out the offer. As opening arrangements are seasonal and facilities may also change, check the latest information before your visit.
Getting There and Choosing Where to Stay
Entraigues-Sur-La-Sorgue railway station is served by TER trains to Avignon TGV and Carpentras. If you are travelling by train, check the current timetable in advance. When choosing a hotel, you can tailor your stay to whether architectural history, nature watching or the local market and leisure activities are your priority. The tower and church offer a different focus from the wetlands and activities along the Sorgue.
Discover more destinations: Villes-Sur-Auzon, Modène, Brantes, Faucon, Uchaux, Beaumont-De-Pertuis, La Motte-D'aigues, Puyméras.
For the regional travel overview: Vaucluse.
