Les Gorges de la Nesque
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Gorges de la Nesque - by Ben_Kerckx from Pixabay
Description
The Gorges de la Nesque are a canyon created by the Nesque river in the Monts de Vaucluse mountain range in south-eastern France. The gorges are about 25km long (18km of which can be followed on the D942) starting near the village of Monieux (625m) and ending near Methamis (270m). The river ploughed through limestone mostly and formed cliffs up to 200m high. The area is part of the Ventoux Biosphere area and is home to several protected species such as the peregrine falcon, the golden eagle and the spotted salamander. The GR9 hiking route crosses the gorges at the Saint-Michel chapel.
Access & Transport
You will need a car, or a bicycle, to explore the gorges. Methamis, at the western end, is about 18km east of Carpentras, 40km east of Avignon and 90-100km northwest of Aix-en-Provence (depending on which route you take). There are no public transport options.
Instructions & Recommendations
We suggest combining this activity with a climb up the Mt Ventoux (hiking, riding or driving). There are also some hiking options in the gorges themselves.
Environmental & Social
Environmentally neutral. Tourism brings some economic activity to the surrounding villages
Conclusion
The Gorges de la Nesque are an attractive touristic sight and the opportunity for a hike or bike ride. It isn't the most spectacular such topographical feature in the South of France though, so we would not recommend a long dedicated drive; rather it fits perfectly as part of a regional itinerary taking on the Ventoux and the other Vaucluse attractions.
Key positive
Beautiful and impressive landscapes
Not busy
Key negative
Need some time to get there
Suitability
No restrictions
About this Rating
TYPE
Desktop
RESEARCHED IN
June 2024
PROVIDER
Koreval
av. transport time:1h 15m
est. visit time:1h 15m
Sunrise / early morningOk
MorningOk
Lunch timeOk
AfternoonOk
Sunset / eveningOk
Night – bef. midnightNo
Night – aft. midnightNo