Gignac

Discover the charming village of Gignac in the Luberon

Gignac is the smallest village in the Vaucluse with only 73 inhabitants. Perched at an altitude of 450 meters and dominated by its castle, which is classified as a historical monument, this village invites you to discover authentic Provence.

No shops, restaurants, or hotels disturb this timeless atmosphere. Your vacation in this haven of peace will allow you to explore the exceptional surroundings of the Luberon.

Located at the eastern end of the Ochre Trail, Gignac places you in the heart of the Regional Nature Park. The ochre cliffs of the Colorado Provençal are just a stone's throw away. The town offers privileged access to hiking trails and mountain bike circuits.

Your stay will allow you to discover a remarkable heritage. The 12th-century Romanesque church with its semicircular apse bears witness to the past. The inhabitants still cultivate vines and cherry trees according to Provençal traditions. The proximity of Apt and Rustrel makes it easy to visit these pretty villages.

How to visit Gignac and its surroundings?

Visiting Gignac immerses you in the authenticity of the Luberon. This village invites you to relax and explore in a haven of peace. Tourism leads you to a discreet village with a wild charm.

Hiking trails include the GR6, which crosses the village. The Gorges d'Oppedette offer a 7 km hike accessible to all. Walks in the Luberon offer views on both sides. You can take long walks in the nature surrounding the village.

Gignac's heritage is well worth exploring. The 12th-century Romanesque church has a semi-circular apse listed in the General Inventory. The wash house and ruins bear witness to local history. The remains of the defensive walls once surrounded the village.

The Château de Gignac dates from the 18th century and was built between 1760 and 1780. The old fireplaces and stucco decorations have been listed as historical monuments since 1997. This private residence was rebuilt after the Wars of Religion. Its courtyard, terrace, and park staircase complete the heritage protection.

The Luberon Regional Nature Park surrounds Gignac with superb landscapes. The ochre cliffs of the Colorado Provençal are just a stone's throw away. The site offers two trails: the Sahara (2.1 km) and the Belvédères (3.9 km).

The surrounding nature reveals all its diversity. Vast fields of lavender are not far away. The wooded hills to the south contrast with the rugged terrain to the north. The holm oak forests offer welcome shade on hot days.

The landscape changes as you travel through this unspoiled area. The 360° panoramic views from the ridges reveal the Pre-Alps and the Vaucluse mountains. The view extends over the Aigues and Durance valleys. The Doa, the river of the ochre miners, flows through this area linked to the ochre industry.

What activities are there to do in Gignac and the surrounding area?

The area around Gignac offers a remarkable range of activities to suit all tastes. Leisure activities include hiking, pétanque, mountain biking, and cycle touring. The Luberon region is an exceptional playground for outdoor enthusiasts.

The Colorado Provençal, a natural spectacle not to be missed

The Colorado Provençal in Rustrel offers two trails: the Sahara (2.1 km, 40 minutes) and the Belvédères (3.9 km, 1 hour 45 minutes). This fascinating experience offers a guaranteed escape and change of scenery just 15 km from Gignac. An electric charging station is available in Gignac for electric vehicles.

Access to the site costs between €2 and €12 depending on the vehicle. Reservations are required in July and August, with slots opening at around 6 p.m. for the following day. Pedestrians, bicycles, and motorcycles do not need to make a reservation.

Hiking and mountain biking in the Luberon

The Luberon's mountain bike trails are suitable for athletes of all levels, from beginners to experts. The varied terrain offers challenging climbs and exhilarating descents. The Luberon is a fabulous playground with its rolling trails on limestone rocks.

The Gorges d'Oppedette offer a 7 km hike accessible to all with good shoes. The Colorado Provençal hike via Gignac from Rustrel is 17.5 km long with a 715 m elevation gain. Gignac is connected by a dozen trails to Caseneuve, Rustrel, and Viens.

The Bruoux Mines, an underground journey

The Bruoux Mines reveal a spectacular network of ochre galleries. These 40 km of underground galleries, which are kept at a temperature of 10°C all year round, offer a refreshing visit. The 650 m trail passes through galleries over 15 m high.

Prices range from €9.50 for an adult to €25 for the “Wine & Adventure” experience. Booking is recommended to avoid waiting for several slots. The guides combine technical explanations with humorous anecdotes.

Discovering the local heritage

The nearby village of Rustrel is worth a stroll through its shady streets. Its 16th-century castle offers a superb view of the Colorado Provençal. The Promenade de l'Eau allows you to discover fountains, a wash house, and a church.

The local vineyards produce renowned wines thanks to their ancestral know-how. The small river La Doa crosses the Colorado Provençal before joining the Calavon. This diversity of activities makes the Gignac area a privileged destination for an authentic stay in Provence.