A different tour, a different atmosphere. One of harmony between nature and agriculture discovering the lavender and small spelt fields with many photo opportunities. Country roads where the Ventoux is never far away and the attractive village terraces will tempt you to stop for a pause.
This time we start in Monieux. Overlooked by the remains of the watch tower, Monieux was built against the rock and has maintained its medieval charm. Walking around the paved streets and alleys you will discover remains of the original fortifications and gateways, stone stairways, tiny gardens, and shaded squares. The main one has an impressive fountain surmounted by an allegorical statue of the Nesque river.
500 metres from the village you will find a small lake with ducks, children’s play area, fishing, etc. Ideal spot for a peaceful pause before heading off to St Christol d’Albion, a village situated in the heart of the plateau d’Albion. Follow the interesting ‘karstic trail’ which starts in the village and explains the geology and cavities of the area. Note as you walk the many sundials, fresques, statues of Virgin Mary and houses with ancient dates over the doors. Note also the sculpted bestiary of the classified church and the Reynier windmill from the XVIII century, now a dovecote having lost its blades.
On your way to the next village, St Trinit, you will pass the foreign legion military camp. It formerly housed the airforce in charge of the strategic installations of the French nuclear deterrant force. On arrival at St Trinit head for the romanesque church, classified since 1915 due to its remarkable architecture. Unfortunately, the church may not be open to the public at the moment due to structural weaknesses. Outside you can perceive the ancient doorway to the priory and the chapel of St Roch, built to protect the population during the first outbreak of the plague.
Continue onto Ferrassières, entering the county of Drome provençale ! All around this small lavender producing village, fields of the rare fine lavender are still cultivated alongside a variety grown specifically for the bouquets of dried lavender. In the middle of these fields you will see the famous ‘bories’, dry stone shelters from the XIXth century.
If you have enough time let yourself be tempted by the 45 minute botanical lavender trail or drive a few more kilometres towards the Col de l’Homme Mort to the orientation table offering panoramic views of the plateau d’Albion.