Follow the spiritual path
Pilgrimages and sacred sites
The Sainte-Baume Regional Nature Reserve has been a hub of Christianity and spirituality for centuries and you’ll love learning about Greek myths in the sacred forest of Plan d’Aups, the pilgrims who travel to the Troglodyte church of Saint Mary Madeleine every year and the Gothic architecture of Saint-Maximin-la-Sainte-Baume Basilica… Our local legends are set against a backdrop of spectacular scenery and wondrous ways: the Chemin des Roys leading to Nans les Pins unveils an ancient cult of goddesses of fertility, together with a section of the Camino de Santiago pilgrims’ route.
Next, let’s head to the Ventoux and Carpentras, the ancient capital of the Comtat Venaissin area marked by 5 centuries of papal presence. Today, the culture and history of its former Jewish communities are carefully safeguarded. Take a moment to visit France’s oldest working synagogue on the main square where you can admire a Mikveh ritual purifying bath in the Jerusalem room, before heading down the monumental staircase to the sumptuous prayer hall.