L'Isle sur la Sorgue

Once a humble, rustic fishing village, l'Isle-sur-la-Sorgue has long since earned its letters of nobility and is now known as the "Venice of Comtadine". This nickname is the consecration of its unique charm, defined by its winding canals, nostalgic paddlewheels and ancient houses gracefully reflected in the water.

L'Isle-sur-la-Sorgue is more than just a village: it's a destination of choice for anyone wishing to discover the beating heart of Provence. It stands out not only for its rich history and cultural heritage, but also for its opportunities for leisure and exploration.

The birthplace of the poet René Char, l'Isle sur la Sorgue is a little paradise of greenery, crossed by numerous branches of the Sorgue on which old paddlewheels still turn. In the old town centre, narrow streets and canals intertwine. Stairs lead down to the wash-houses and quays line the river.

A former fishing village (until the 19th century), L'Isle sur la Sorgue has built up a strong image among lovers of art and antiques. More than 300 permanent antique and second-hand dealers are open all year round (Saturdays/Sundays/Mondays and sometimes longer), making the town one of Europe's leading antique markets.

The big fairs at Easter and 15 August bring together five hundred exhibitors and attract thousands of bargain-hunters from France and abroad.

Don't miss: the villages of antique dealers, the baroque collegiate church of Notre-Dame-des-Anges, the 17th-century Hôtel Dieu with its vestibule, chapel, pharmacy and fountain-adorned garden, the Hôtel Donadeï de Campredon, home to contemporary art exhibitions, the site of the water divide, the toy and antique doll museum, the great Provencal market on Sunday mornings, the floating market in August, old-time fishing in July, nautical fairs in July...