Fontaine-de-Vaucluse is one of the most impressive natural sites in Provence, built around the source of the River Sorgue. Here, water emerges from deep underground at the base of towering cliffs, creating a powerful spring that feeds a bright, fast-flowing river.

The setting is dramatic. A short walk leads you along the river to the source, where water rises from an unfathomable depth beneath a 230-meter-high cliff wall. The volume varies with the seasons, but even at lower levels, the color and movement of the water are striking.

The village itself is small but busy, with cafés, shops, and several museums. It is also linked to Petrarch, the Italian poet who lived here and wrote about his love for Laura. You can visit the house associated with him, along with museums dedicated to speleology, local history, and World War II.

Nearby, the paper mill Vallis Clausa still produces handmade paper using traditional methods, adding another layer to the visit.

👉 Local Tip: Go early in the morning or late in the afternoon. Midday crowds can make the walk to the spring feel crowded and rushed.