Roussillon Ochre Trail
Explore a disused ochre quarry with vibrant red and yellow cliffs, offering stunning natural beauty and a unique geological experience.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better light
Roussillon Ochre Trail
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better light
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore a disused ochre quarry with vibrant red and yellow cliffs, offering stunning natural beauty and a unique geological experience.
"An absolute MUST when in Provence. Get there early before 9 (at least 10 am) if you can - trust me, you will thank me later."
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The sandy, rocky terrain requires sturdy footwear. Avoid sandals or flip-flops! :athletic_shoe:
💰 Parking Fee
Expect to pay around €4 for parking near the village entrance. :parking:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Red Trail's Vibrant Hues
Ochre Quarry
Experience the breathtaking, fiery reds and oranges of the disused ochre quarry on the longer, more scenic path.
Panoramic Village Views
Along the trails
Catch stunning vistas of the picturesque village of Roussillon nestled amidst the colorful landscape.
Unique Geological Formations
Ochre Quarry
Marvel at the sculpted cliffs and natural formations created by centuries of ochre pigment extraction.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds: Go Early!
Choose Your Adventure: Red vs. Yellow Trail
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The sandy, rocky terrain requires sturdy footwear. Avoid sandals or flip-flops! :athletic_shoe:
💰 Parking Fee
Expect to pay around €4 for parking near the village entrance. :parking:
🚶♀️ Take the Longer Trail
Don't miss the best views! The 50-minute red trail is worth the extra time and effort. :walking:
💧 Bring Water
Especially during warmer months, stay hydrated on your walk. :droplet:
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The sandy, rocky terrain requires sturdy footwear. Avoid sandals or flip-flops! :athletic_shoe:
💰 Parking Fee
Expect to pay around €4 for parking near the village entrance. :parking:
🚶♀️ Take the Longer Trail
Don't miss the best views! The 50-minute red trail is worth the extra time and effort. :walking:
💧 Bring Water
Especially during warmer months, stay hydrated on your walk. :droplet:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the Roussillon Ochre Trail, calling it a 'MUST' in Provence for its stunning, vibrant colors. The longer red trail is highly recommended for the most spectacular views, though comfortable shoes are essential due to the sandy and rocky terrain. While parking can fill up, arriving early or opting for the longer walk is well worth the experience.
"An absolute MUST when in Provence. Get there early before 9 (at least 10 am) if you can - trust me, you will thank me later. Parking fills up fast at the top so you will have to walk up from the parking at the foot of the village. The entry is like 3.5 euros per person. There are two trails, one that takes about 30 min and one that takes 50. Unless you are physically unable to, you must take the longer path otherwise it's useless you will miss the most beautiful spot because only the long trail brings you there. The short trail will allow you to see some of it but bring you in a loop in a forest so you won't see much! Don't get intimidated by one long set of steps up, it's really mostly that and then flat and downhill! Gorgeous colors. Put comfy shoes on, sand is slippery and lots of rocks/roots to watch out for. See my photos, most of them are from the long red trail of 50 minutes, not the yellow one of 30! TAKE THE RED TRAIL!"
Elana Podvalniuk
"An excellent little walk starting from the township, which goes through an old Ochre quarry.
We were lucky, as we walked through the quarry at evening which brought out the true colours of the Ochre.
The walk is relatively easy with few steps along the way.
The whole walk took about 45minutes."
Adie Klein
"Beautiful place, easy hike, parking nearby (€4 a day). Recommend taking the longer route to see more of the beautiful ochre colours."
Southpaw
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Roussillon Ochre Trail (Sentier des Ocres) is located in the village of Roussillon, Provence. Driving is the most common way to reach it. Parking is available near the village entrance, though it can fill up quickly, especially during peak season.
Public transport options to Roussillon can be limited. Buses may connect from larger towns like Avignon or Apt, but schedules can be infrequent. It's advisable to check local bus routes and timings in advance if relying on public transport.
There are parking areas available close to the entrance of the Roussillon Ochre Trail, typically costing around €4 per day. Arriving early is recommended to secure a spot closer to the trail entrance.
Yes, the Roussillon Ochre Trail starts directly from the village of Roussillon. It's a short walk from the village center to the trail entrance, making it easily accessible for most visitors.
The Roussillon Ochre Trail is primarily a walking path and is not suitable for cycling. The terrain is uneven with sandy and rocky sections, making it best explored on foot.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The entry fee for the Roussillon Ochre Trail is typically around €3.50 per person. This fee helps maintain the trails and preserve the unique geological site.
Advance booking for the Roussillon Ochre Trail is generally not required, as tickets are usually purchased on-site. However, during peak tourist seasons, it's always a good idea to check the official website for any updates or recommendations.
The Roussillon Ochre Trail is typically open daily, but hours can vary seasonally. It's best to check the official website or local tourist information for the most up-to-date opening and closing times before your visit.
Yes, there are two main marked trails: a shorter yellow trail (approximately 30 minutes) and a longer red trail (approximately 50 minutes). The red trail is highly recommended for its more spectacular views.
Due to the uneven, sandy, and rocky terrain, as well as numerous steps, the Roussillon Ochre Trail is not suitable for wheelchairs or strollers. Sturdy walking shoes are essential.
📸 📸 Photography
The best time for photography at the Roussillon Ochre Trail is during the early morning or late afternoon. The golden hour light enhances the vibrant red and yellow hues of the ochre cliffs, creating stunning photographic opportunities.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive landscapes of the ochre quarry. A telephoto lens can be useful for isolating details in the rock formations or capturing distant village views. Don't forget a polarizing filter to enhance the colors and reduce glare.
Drone usage is typically restricted in natural parks and protected areas to preserve the environment and visitor experience. It's advisable to check local regulations or signage at the site before attempting to fly a drone.
The most photogenic spots are found along the longer red trail, where the cliffs display the most intense colors. Look for areas with dramatic rock formations and sweeping vistas of the quarry and surrounding landscape.
Yes, there are several viewpoints along the trails that offer picturesque views of the village of Roussillon perched on the hilltop. These provide a beautiful contrast between the natural ochre landscape and the charming Provençal architecture.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ Active Explorers & Hikers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Geology and History of Ochre
Visitors can learn about the extraction process and the importance of ochre to the local economy and culture. The trails are designed to showcase these natural wonders while respecting the fragile environment. It's a fascinating glimpse into how natural resources have shaped a landscape and a community over generations. The colors are particularly vivid in the early morning and late afternoon light, making these times ideal for appreciating the geological artistry.
Navigating the Trails: Red vs. Yellow
The Red Trail, on the other hand, is a longer circuit of about 50 minutes and is widely recommended by visitors for its superior views. This path leads you deeper into the quarry, revealing more intense ochre colors and breathtaking panoramas. While it involves a set of stairs and some uneven terrain, most find it manageable and well worth the effort for the unparalleled visual experience. Comfortable walking shoes are a must for both trails, as the ground can be sandy and slippery.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit