Protected by the foothills of the Mont Ventoux, at the entrance to the magnificent Nesque Gorge, Monieux was built right up against the rock in the Middle Ages. Dominated by the remains of a watchtower and ramparts that once encircled the town, the picturesque squares and narrow streets are a delight to stroll around.
In the village, a trail dotted with educational panels unveils its rich history. Every summer, old photographs depicting the daily life of past inhabitants are displayed on the stone walls. Art workshops and exhibitions bring the village to life, alongside the Ventoux Truffle Museum, where a multi-sensory table, educational panels and films offer an immersive journey into the fascinating story of the "black diamond."
The Nesque River, flowing at the foot of the village, once powered up to 20 mills in the 19th century before carving its way into magnificent deep gorges that can be explored in various ways:
On foot, via a beautiful 9 km loop—ideal for experienced walkers—offering the chance to discover the semi-troglodytic Saint Michel Chapel, dating back to the 12th century.
By car, taking the breathtaking overhanging road that winds along the cliffside at mid-height, leading to Villes-sur-Auzon.
At times, majestic birds of prey can be spotted, including the black kite, the Egyptian vulture, and even the golden eagle.
Nature lovers will also enjoy the wild trail near the Saint Hubert farm that hides some notable historical remains : the 17th-century Lausemolan farm, not far from the Aiguier de la Jaille (water cistern) and, a little further, the starting point of the Mur de la Peste, a wall built 300 years ago to protect the Comtat Venaissin from the plague.