Île de la Barthelasse Avignon - Walls, trees, blue sky, ruins.
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Île de la Barthelasse Avignon

4.6
·110 reviews·Avignon, France

Avignon's vast green island sanctuary on the Rhône, offering serene nature, wildlife, and stunning city views.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Spring & Autumn mornings

Pleasant weather for walks

CrowdLow
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Île de la Barthelasse Avignon - Walls, trees, blue sky, ruins.

Île de la Barthelasse Avignon

Best Time

Spring & Autumn mornings

Pleasant weather for walks

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Avignon's vast green island sanctuary on the Rhône, offering serene nature, wildlife, and stunning city views.

4.6
(110 reviews)

"A magnificent place to walk with a beautiful view of the Avignon Bridge and Palais des Papes."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚢 Free Ferry Ride

Take advantage of the free ferry for a scenic and easy crossing to the island. Check schedules!

🚴‍♀️ Bike or Walk

The island is perfect for cycling or long walks. Rent a bike in Avignon for the best experience.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Panoramic City Views

Panoramic City Views

Rhône River banks

Marvel at breathtaking vistas of the Palais des Papes and Pont d'Avignon from across the river.

Rhône Riverfront Strolls

Rhône Riverfront Strolls

Island pathways

Enjoy peaceful walks or bike rides along the scenic Rhône riverbanks, surrounded by nature.

Wild Nature Immersion

Wild Nature Immersion

Island interior

Explore over 700 hectares of greenery, observing diverse wild animal life in a serene setting.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the River Escape

Discover Île de la Barthelasse, Avignon's vast green lung. This island offers a refreshing escape with stunning views of the Palais des Papes and Pont d'Avignon. Plan for a leisurely stroll or bike ride to truly soak in its natural beauty and riverside tranquility.

Getting to the Island

Access Île de la Barthelasse via a free ferry, a charming way to start your adventure. Check the seasonal ferry schedule at the Avignon Tourism office to ensure smooth travel. The island is perfect for a half-day or full-day excursion, offering a peaceful contrast to the city's historic sites.

Best Times

When
Spring & Autumn mornings
Why
Pleasant weather for walks
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoons
Why
Golden hour views
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

Bonsoir! In December with some friends we will come to Avignon from Italy, spending one day there.

🚢 Free Ferry Ride

Take advantage of the free ferry for a scenic and easy crossing to the island. Check schedules! Reddit

🚴‍♀️ Bike or Walk

The island is perfect for cycling or long walks. Rent a bike in Avignon for the best experience. Reddit

reddit.com

France trip Avignon attractions?

📸 Stunning Photo Ops

Capture iconic shots of Avignon's landmarks from a unique riverside perspective. Reddit

🌳 Nature Lover's Paradise

Enjoy the vast green spaces and observe local wildlife in this expansive natural area. Reddit

Tips

from all over the internet

🚢 Free Ferry Ride

Take advantage of the free ferry for a scenic and easy crossing to the island. Check schedules! Reddit

🚴‍♀️ Bike or Walk

The island is perfect for cycling or long walks. Rent a bike in Avignon for the best experience. Reddit

📸 Stunning Photo Ops

Capture iconic shots of Avignon's landmarks from a unique riverside perspective. Reddit

🌳 Nature Lover's Paradise

Enjoy the vast green spaces and observe local wildlife in this expansive natural area. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.6
(110 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about Île de la Barthelasse as a peaceful, natural escape offering stunning panoramic views of Avignon's iconic landmarks. It's highly recommended for leisurely walks, bike rides, and picnics, providing a serene contrast to the city's historic sites. While facilities are minimal, the natural beauty and accessible free ferry make it a beloved spot.

"When you are in Avignon, you must walk or hike over to Île de Barthelasse. There is a free ferry to take you across practically the whole day. Ferry has a seasonal schedule that you can pick up at the Tourism office."

Wendy M

"Really cool place lots of fun"

Regis Biarrieta

"Place to stroll and see the Avignon bridge and the Palais des Papes from the outside…."

Alain Pillot

What People Like

Beautiful city views
Peaceful nature escape
Free ferry access

What People Dislike

Limited facilities

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The most popular way to reach Île de la Barthelasse is by taking the free ferry that operates from Avignon. This ferry offers a pleasant ride across the Rhône River. It's advisable to check the ferry's seasonal schedule at the Avignon Tourism office before your visit to ensure you don't miss it. Reddit

While the ferry is the primary access, there might be limited parking options on the mainland side near the ferry departure point. However, many visitors prefer to park in Avignon and use the ferry for a more immersive experience. Reddit

Île de la Barthelasse is an island in the Rhône River, so walking directly across is not possible without a bridge. The ferry is the designated and most convenient way to access it. Reddit

The ferry operates on a seasonal schedule, meaning hours can vary throughout the year. It's essential to consult the Avignon Tourism office or their official website for the most up-to-date operating times. Reddit

Generally, ferries are designed to accommodate passengers with strollers and wheelchairs, but it's always best to confirm directly with the ferry operator or the Avignon Tourism office for specific accessibility details. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, Île de la Barthelasse is a public green space and does not have an entrance fee. Access to the island itself is free. Reddit

The ferry service to Île de la Barthelasse is typically free of charge for pedestrians. This makes it an accessible and budget-friendly way to explore the island. Reddit

As a natural park and green space, Île de la Barthelasse is generally accessible during daylight hours. There are no strict opening or closing times posted for the island itself, but the ferry service will have its own operating schedule. Reddit

While there might not be official guided tours specifically for the island, you can explore it independently. For historical context of Avignon, consider guided tours of the Palais des Papes and Pont d'Avignon before or after your island visit. Reddit

There's no need to book anything in advance for Île de la Barthelasse as it's a public park. However, if you plan to visit other Avignon attractions like the Palais des Papes, booking tickets online in advance is recommended, especially during peak season. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Île de la Barthelasse is ideal for leisurely activities. You can enjoy walking, hiking, and cycling along its extensive paths. It's also a fantastic spot for picnicking, birdwatching, and simply relaxing amidst nature while enjoying unique views of Avignon. Reddit

The island is a haven for wildlife, with over 700 hectares of greenery. Visitors can spot various bird species, and other small animals that inhabit the riverside ecosystem. It's a great place for nature observation. Reddit

Facilities on Île de la Barthelasse are generally limited as it's a natural area. It's advisable to use restrooms before you depart Avignon and bring your own food and drinks for a picnic. Reddit

Yes, Île de la Barthelasse is very family-friendly. The open spaces are great for kids to run around, and the gentle paths are suitable for strollers. It offers a safe and natural environment for a family outing. Reddit

The riverbanks facing Avignon offer the most iconic photo opportunities, providing stunning views of the Palais des Papes and Pont d'Avignon, especially during sunrise or sunset. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The 'golden hours' – shortly after sunrise and before sunset – offer the most magical light for photography. The soft, warm light beautifully illuminates the Palais des Papes and Pont d'Avignon across the river. Reddit

A versatile lens, such as a 24-70mm or a similar zoom range, is ideal for capturing both wide landscape shots and details of the historic landmarks. A wide-angle lens can be great for emphasizing the vastness of the island and river. Reddit

The western bank of the island, directly opposite Avignon, provides the classic postcard views of the Palais des Papes and the Pont d'Avignon. Look for open clearings along the river for unobstructed shots. Reddit

Drone regulations can be strict in historic areas and near cities. It's crucial to research and comply with French drone laws and any local restrictions before flying a drone over Île de la Barthelasse or near Avignon. Reddit

The most popular subjects are the panoramic views of Avignon's skyline, particularly the Palais des Papes and the Pont d'Avignon. The natural landscape of the island, including the Rhône River and its flora, also makes for beautiful nature photography. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Île de la Barthelasse is a fantastic destination for families. The vast open spaces are perfect for children to run and play freely, and the gentle, flat paths are ideal for strollers and young cyclists. It offers a safe and natural environment for a family outing, away from the crowds of the city center. Pack a picnic and enjoy a relaxed afternoon by the river. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Walkers and Hikers

For those who love to walk, Île de la Barthelasse provides miles of scenic paths along the Rhône. You can embark on a leisurely stroll or a more vigorous hike, taking in the natural beauty and the ever-present views of Avignon. It's a refreshing way to explore the area and get some exercise in a beautiful setting. Reddit

🚴‍♂️ Cyclists

Cycling enthusiasts will find Île de la Barthelasse to be an ideal playground. The island offers extensive, well-maintained paths perfect for a bike ride. Renting a bicycle in Avignon allows you to easily access the island and explore its full 700 hectares at your own pace, enjoying the riverside scenery and open spaces. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring Île de la Barthelasse by Bike

Île de la Barthelasse is a cyclist's dream, offering over 700 hectares of relatively flat terrain crisscrossed by dedicated paths. Renting a bike in Avignon is highly recommended to fully experience the island's scale and natural beauty. The paths wind along the Rhône riverbanks, providing constant scenic views of the historic city across the water. It's a refreshing way to escape the summer heat and enjoy a more active exploration of the area. Reddit

Many visitors find that cycling allows them to cover more ground and discover hidden spots they might miss on foot. The gentle gradients make it accessible for most fitness levels, and it's a popular activity for both locals and tourists seeking a peaceful outdoor experience. Remember to bring water and perhaps a small picnic to enjoy at one of the many scenic spots along the river. Reddit

The Natural Haven of Île de la Barthelasse

Beyond its recreational appeal, Île de la Barthelasse is a significant ecological area. Its extensive greenery and riverside location support a rich diversity of wild animal life, particularly bird species. The island acts as a vital green lung for the urban environment of Avignon, offering a sanctuary for both wildlife and people seeking tranquility. Reddit

Visitors often remark on the surprising sense of wilderness they encounter, a stark contrast to the bustling city just across the river. It's a place where you can truly disconnect and appreciate the natural rhythms of the Rhône. Observing the local flora and fauna adds another layer of enjoyment to any visit, making it more than just a scenic viewpoint. Reddit

Iconic Views and Riverside Perspectives

One of the primary draws of Île de la Barthelasse is the unparalleled perspective it offers of Avignon's most famous landmarks. From its riverbanks, you get a magnificent, unobstructed view of the imposing Palais des Papes and the historic Pont d'Avignon. This vantage point allows for some truly memorable photographs and a different appreciation of the city's grandeur. Reddit

Many reviewers highlight the beauty of seeing these iconic structures from across the water, especially during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset when the light casts a warm glow. It provides a sense of scale and context that is hard to grasp when standing directly beneath them. The peaceful riverside setting enhances the experience, making it a perfect spot for contemplation and photography. Reddit

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