The Mines de Bruoux bring Gargas’s ochre heritage to life on an unusual scale. Lighting art, sacred works and panoramic views of Perréal offer further perspectives on the destination.

Ochre underground: the Mines de Bruoux

The figures describe two different scales: the underground ochre network of the Mines de Bruoux extends for 40 kilometres, while the underground visitor route is 650 metres long. It passes through galleries more than 15 metres high. The Mines can only be visited as part of a 50-minute guided tour. For planning purposes, the duration of this tour is therefore the relevant guide, not the length of the entire ochre network. Check visitor arrangements before travelling, as they may change.

Lighting art and sacred works

The Mathieu Museum in Gargas traces five centuries of decorative art through more than 200 lights. This long historical span gives the museum a clear art-historical focus, with the lights providing a tangible thread running through the subject. Those interested in design will find a different way to experience Gargas here than in the underground galleries of the Mines de Bruoux.

The Mathieu Lustrerie is also dedicated to lighting: during opening hours, visitors can explore it freely without a reservation; a free guided tour is also offered daily. Check visitor arrangements before travelling. In the Église Saint Denis in Gargas, tapestries and paintings from the 17th century preserve scenes from the life of Saint Denis. The Romanesque Sainte Radegonde chapel on Perréal was built in 1551. The two dates refer to different things: 1551 is the year the chapel was built, while the 17th century dates the artworks in the church.

Perréal: oppidum and panoramic views

The remains of a Gallic oppidum can be seen along the wooded ridge path of Colline de Perréal. The hill also offers panoramic views of the Apt region. Perréal thus brings together two different perspectives: an archaeological site along the ridge path and views across the region. This combination offers a different focus from the underground galleries of the Mines de Bruoux.

Routes through and from Gargas

The Les Ocres à vélo circular route starts in Gargas, is 28.7 kilometres long and passes the Mines de Bruoux. The starting point, circular format and route length are all specified; check route conditions in advance. The GR 6 “Alpes-Océan” passes through Gargas and its hamlets, through ochre-coloured and wooded landscapes. The routes differ in the landmarks described: for Les Ocres à vélo, the circular format and length are given; for the GR 6, the route through the village and its hamlets, as well as the landscapes, are described.

Discover more destinations: Lourmarin, Althen-Des-Paluds, Grillon, Caseneuve, Blauvac, Saint-Léger-Du-Ventoux, Châteauneuf-Du-Pape, Saint Didier.

For the main travel overview: Vaucluse.