The panorama from the old village and the history of Notre-Dame de Porporières are two notable points of interest in Mérindol-Les-Oliviers. Local crafts and recommendations for outdoor activities round out the picture.
The commune’s landscape and crops
The old village sits high on the southern slope of Loubatière. From there, the panorama takes in Mont Ventoux, the ridges of Vaison-la-Romaine, the Rhône Valley and the mountains of the Gard. The view encompasses several landscape features: a distinctive mountain, ridges, a valley and other mountains. If you are choosing where to visit based on the scenery, you can use this expansive view as a guide.
The area’s agricultural character adds another dimension to the view. The commune’s main crops include grapevines, olive trees and fruit trees. While the panorama reveals the landscape from an elevated position, the crops point to specific features of its agricultural character. The view and local cultivation thus offer distinct ways of appreciating the landscape.
Notre-Dame de Porporières and its sundial
Notre-Dame de Porporières was a former Benedictine priory and has been protected as a historic monument since 5 December 2000. Its former function and its protected status are two distinct historical points of reference: the priory speaks to its former use, while the date marks the start of its protection.
A canonical sundial is located on the church’s south exterior wall and is considered the only one of its kind in the region. The building’s history as a former priory is thus linked to a specific architectural detail on its exterior. Those interested in architectural history can consider these aspects separately: its former function, the dated protected status and the distinctive sundial.
Crafts and regional products
La Forge du Ventoux in Mérindol-les-Oliviers is an artisan workshop. It produces unique, handmade works in wrought iron and wood. The workshop is open year-round by appointment, Monday to Saturday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Confirm the opening details before your visit and make an appointment.
The Le Petit Drômois soap factory is located in the old village. Its local shop offers locally made products and other regional specialties. The two craft businesses have different focuses: La Forge du Ventoux specializes in iron and woodwork, while Le Petit Drômois focuses on soapmaking and its shop’s products. This makes craftsmanship and regional products distinct themes to consider during your stay.
Hiking, horseback riding and cycling
Hiking and horseback riding are recommended in Mérindol-les-Oliviers. Routes for these activities may vary. If you are planning to cycle, “Abricots et vignes” is a named circular route covering 64.31 kilometres. The route description heads towards Mérindol-les-Oliviers and then returns to Buis-les-Baronnies via Propiac.
The distance refers to the circular route; the description also gives its direction and return leg. This makes it possible to assess the cycling tour based on its total distance and route. Hiking and horseback riding are other recommended activities, and their routes may vary. These differences can help you choose between a general focus on activities and a cycling loop with a specified distance, without assuming that the different options follow the same route.
Discover more destinations: Saulce-Sur-Rhône, Solérieux, Lachau, Grane, Albon, Saint-Roman, Rochechinard, Upie.
For an overview of the wider area: Drôme.
