Attractions and Places To See around Eygaliers - Top 20

Eygalières is rich in history. You can visit the Chapelle des Pénitents, which now houses the Maurice Pezet Museum of Local History, offering insights into the village's past. Explore the 12th-century Old Saint-Laurent Church and the iconic Chapel of Saint-Sixte, framed by cypress trees. Don't miss the ruins of the old feudal castle and the Clock Tower, built from castle stones in 1672.

Yes, Eygalières offers several stunning viewpoints. From the rocky outcrop at the top of the village, you can enjoy exceptional panoramic views of the Alpilles and the Durance valley. Further afield, the Mont Ventoux summit provides breathtaking vistas of the Albion plateau, the Alps, and the Durance valley from its 1,910-meter elevation. The Pass of Storms also offers a magnificent view during the ascent to Mont Ventoux.

The region around Eygalières, nestled within the Alpilles Natural Regional Park, is excellent for outdoor activities. Cycling is very popular, with numerous routes through scenic landscapes. You can find various road cycling routes, such as those detailed in the Road Cycling Routes around Eygalières guide. For hikers, the GR6 long-distance path passes through Eygalières, and there are mountain hikes available, including loops around Mont Ventoux, as seen in the Mountain Hikes around Eygalières guide.

Every Friday morning, the village hosts a vibrant Provençal Market on Rue de la République. Here, you can discover local cheeses, fresh produce, olive oils, and handmade crafts, offering an authentic taste of local culture.

Yes, Eygalières features the Jardin de l'Alchimiste, a unique garden in the old village designed for meditation and hosting cultural events. Additionally, the Sentiers de l'Abondance, located at the village's exit, are trails where visitors can learn about the medicinal and therapeutic properties of local plants.

The spring and autumn months generally offer the most pleasant weather for outdoor activities like hiking and cycling, with milder temperatures. Summers can be hot, especially for strenuous activities. If you plan to visit higher elevations like Mont Ventoux, be aware that conditions can change rapidly; in spring, you might need extra layers and winter gloves even if it's warm in the valley.

The Stele dedicated to Tom Simpson is a poignant historical site located 1.5 km from the summit of Mont Ventoux. It commemorates British cyclist Tom Simpson, who tragically died during the 1967 Tour de France. Many cyclists stop here to pay tribute, often leaving mementos like water bottles. It serves as a significant landmark for cycling history enthusiasts.

While specific 'family-friendly' categories aren't listed for the main highlights, the village itself offers a charming environment for families to explore. Wandering through the narrow, cobblestone streets of the old village and visiting the local market can be enjoyable. For easy walks, exploring the Sentiers de l'Abondance or a gentle stroll through the surrounding olive groves could be suitable.

The terrain varies significantly. Within Eygalières and the immediate Alpilles area, you'll find paths through olive groves and vineyards, and some trails like 'Le Pas de Figuière' with fragrant pine trees and herbs. For more challenging routes, the climbs to Mont Ventoux summit, whether from Malaucène or other approaches, are known for their significant elevation gain and can be very demanding, especially the final scree desert section. Many routes are rated 'moderate' to 'difficult'.

To experience the authentic Provençal atmosphere, stroll through the old village with its traditional architecture and visit the Friday morning market. The Café de la Place is also a popular spot frequented by locals, perfect for enjoying a coffee or a glass of rosé and observing village life.

The most iconic cycling challenge in the region is undoubtedly the ascent to the Mont Ventoux summit. Cyclists often aim to conquer this outpost of the Alps, with routes like Climbing Mont Ventoux from Malaucène offering a tough but rewarding experience. The descent, such as the Descent of Mont Ventoux to Malaucène, also provides an exhilarating ride.

Eygalières is situated within the Alpilles Natural Regional Park, a protected area known for its diverse ecosystems. While specific wildlife sightings are not guaranteed, the park offers opportunities for wildlife spotting amidst its dramatic landscapes, especially in quieter areas and during less busy times.