The Rocalinaud Rock, also known as the « lunar rock »

The Rocalinaud Rock, also known as the « lunar rock » (rocca lunal in Provençale) is a mass of sandstone, bound and sculpted by the wind, the rain and by man over a million years.

Unusual and enigmatic site, the Rocalinaud Rock is ideally situated in the middle of the vineyards to the east of the village of Beaumes de Venise, not far from the famous Dentelles de Montmirail.

It is the remains of an underground dune that was formed during the Miocene (between 24 and 5 million years ago).
Along with its strange beak shape the rock also has numerous basins sculpted by the rain which gather rainfall, appreciated by the wild animals.

Whilst walking around this giant sandstone you will notice the man-made cavities used for shelter from prehistoric times up until the 16th century…

Note : the banks of the Canal are private belonging to the ASA who manage the Carpentras Canal. Aware of the beauty of the area the administrator authorises walking beside the canal. The paths are however not maintained for walking purposes, only for service vehicles and maintenance puposes.