The Provençal Colorado
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Provençal Colorado - by Management
Description
The Colorado provençal is a far-west-like site made of ochre sand of lateritic origin in the Luberon range in South Eastern France. It was created when the sea withdrew several million years ago and left behind iron-rich clay and sand. It was exploited to extract ochre from the second half of the 19th to the beginning of the 20th century when synthetic colorants took over the market. The site covers 30ha and includes 2 tracks: Sahara (2.1km) and Belvederes (3.9km)
Access & Transport
The site is about 10km northeast of Apt, next to the village of Rustrel. It is best reached by car: 70km north of Aix-en-Provence, 100km north of Marseille and 65km east of Avignon. There are no public transport options.
Instructions & Recommendations
In the summer, the risk of fires is taken very seriously in the area and the site can be partially or even fully closed depending on the risk level rated and communicated by the prefecture. Visitors are thus strongly advised to check the evening before: https://www.risque-prevention-incendie.fr/vaucluse/ Smoking onsite is an absolute NO.
Environmental & Social
Eco-friendly activity and entrance fee helps to preserve the site and infrastructure. Also positive for the small economic influx it brings to the surrounding villages
Conclusion
The Provençal Colorado is a technicolour experience with its canyon-like quarries and small valleys. It is genuinely enjoyable - especially when the sun is out - without being spectacular though. As such it is best experienced as part of a discovery of the Luberon massif and the surrounding Provence.
Key positive
Uncommon landscape
Inexpensive entrance fee
Key negative
Need some time to get there
Suitability
Suitable for all ages although best for > 6yrs old so they can walk the entire paths by themselves. Not suitable for wheelchair users due to the sandy nature of the soil
About this Rating
TYPE
Desktop
RESEARCHED IN
June 2024
PROVIDER
Koreval
av. transport time:1h 15m
est. visit time:1h 45m
Start of Season 1:Jun, 01
MONDAY08:30 - 19:30
TUESDAY08:30 - 19:30
WEDNESDAY08:30 - 19:30
THURSDAY08:30 - 19:30
FRIDAY08:30 - 19:30
SATURDAY08:30 - 19:30
SUNDAY08:30 - 19:30
Start of Season 2:Sep, 01
MONDAY09:30 - 17:30
TUESDAY09:30 - 17:30
WEDNESDAY09:30 - 17:30
THURSDAY09:30 - 17:30
FRIDAY09:30 - 17:30
SATURDAY09:30 - 17:30
SUNDAY09:30 - 17:30