At the Château de Lauris, garden culture and landscape are closely connected: seven terraces overlook the Durance Valley from a rocky promontory. The château gardens, including Jardin Neuf and Grand Jardin, add a distinct theme from the town’s history to this view: the design and use of water.
Historic Gardens and Water Engineering
The gardens of the Château de Lauris were listed as historic monuments by decree on 23 June 2003. A historic hydraulic system is preserved in Jardin Neuf. It includes tunnels, reservoirs, decorative or functional basins, and two monumental fountains. Here, the gardens and water engineering can be explored together, rather than focusing the visit solely on the view over the valley.
Churches and Local Tradition
The parish church of Notre-Dame-de-Purification, Notre-Dame-de-la-Chandeleur, was built between 1702 and 1708. Its wrought-iron bell tower was added in 1857. The two dates distinguish the church’s construction period from a later addition. The Chapelle Saint Roch, by contrast, is also notable for a continuing tradition: the chapel was rebuilt in 1789 and remains a pilgrimage site for the people of Lauris twice a year.
A virtual tour of Lauris with 20 stops is available online. It offers a way to learn about the town in advance; check the current online interface before using it.
Nature in Town and Hiking
Parc du Grand Jardin is a natural area covering more than one hectare. It supports education and awareness about local biodiversity, as well as its preservation. The park also offers a public woodland walk in the heart of Lauris. This means the same natural area combines a walk with the promotion and preservation of biodiversity.
Two hikes offer different experiences. “Du vallon de Recaute à la combe de Sautadou” is an approximately 8 km circular route starting from Lauris. Its description mentions woodland sections, dry-stone walls and panoramic views of the Luberon and the Durance Valley. Check current trail conditions before setting out.
“Portalas et biodiversité en chemin” is approximately 7.5 km long and leads through hills, garrigue and terraced landscapes; the focus is on the region’s ecological diversity. The approximate distances are similar. The landscapes and themes described are the main points of difference: the route from Lauris features woodland, dry-stone walls and panoramas, while the Portalas route features hills, garrigue, terraces and biodiversity.
Market and Getting There
The Marché Paysan de Lauris is a seasonal offering. During the 2026 season, it takes place regularly on Thursdays from 6 to 8 pm and offers local produce. Visitors can put together a picnic on site. Check the date for your trip within the season to make sure the market fits your stay.
RĂ©seau Zou! bus routes serve Lauris from the nearby towns of Cavaillon, Cadenet and Lourmarin. As transport information can change, check the current timetable before travelling. This makes it possible to plan your journey regardless of whether your stay focuses on the gardens and churches, the natural area or a hike.
Discover more destinations: Cabrières-D'avignon, Vaison-La-Romaine, Vitrolles-En-Lubéron, Rochegude, Lapalud, Mazan, Jonquerettes, Maubec.
For the overview of the wider region: Vaucluse.
