Explore Aurel through its landscapes and local history: a 20-kilometre circular hike leads through forests and lavender fields, while the church, old houses and castle remains offer their own historical highlights. Near Les Crottes, a botanical nature trail focuses on the plants of the landscape. These attractions differ both in subject and in how they take you through the surrounding area.
Hiking with different points of focus
The circular hike “AUREL – Terre de lavande” starts in Aurel and passes through forests and lavender landscapes. It is 20 kilometres long and goes through the hamlet of Les Crottes. This gives you the distance and circular route format for planning; check trail conditions and markings before setting out. The alternation between forest and lavender landscapes describes the route in terms of its scenery, not just its distance.
A botanical nature trail also starts near Les Crottes, at a signposted picnic area. An information board at the beginning explains the flora and route; wooden markers and additional signs guide you along the trail and provide information about various plants. The starting point is in the shade of a pine forest. Check the trail conditions and signage here too before setting out.
The different focus of each hiking option can help you choose: the circular route combines a clearly stated distance with forest and lavender landscapes. The botanical nature trail focuses on information about plants and finding your way along the route. You can therefore choose based on whether you are more interested in distance and scenery or in plant life, without assuming that both routes offer the same kind of hike.
Church, old houses and castle remains
The Church of Saint Aurèle dates from the 12th century. Its bell tower is square and topped with glazed tiles. Aurel’s old houses also tell the story of the village’s past: their stone window surrounds bear witness to its medieval origins.
The remains of the 13th-century castle include a square tower, originally used as a keep, and a polygonal curtain wall with loopholes. The castle tower and the church’s square bell tower offer a tangible comparison: their similar shape reflects different functions and periods of construction. The surviving architectural forms make it possible to distinguish several periods in the village’s history without confusing the church with the castle.
Ceramics and chapels
Visitors are welcome year-round at the studio of ceramic artist Patricia Lechantoux in Aurel. An exhibition of unique and original works is on permanent display. Visitors can also learn about how ceramics are made, from conception and decoration to firing. The studio therefore combines finished works on display with an insight into several stages of their creation.
The Notre-Dame-des-Anges Chapel, also known as the Chapelle du Ventouret, is on the road to Mont Ventoux. Visitors can see it while driving uphill towards Mont Ventoux. The chapel was faithfully restored between 2000 and 2003. If you plan to stop there, check the opening arrangements on site. The Chapel of Saint-Esprit is also located in the hamlet of Les Crottes.
Discover more destinations: Beaumettes, Velleron, Apt, La Tour-D'aigues, Saint-Pierre-De-Vassols, Cavaillon, Gignac, La Roque-Alric.
See the regional travel overview: Vaucluse.
