The Gorge de Nesque is the most spectacular gorge in Provence after the Gorge de Verdon.

Whether you are a hiker or cyclist it offers breathtaking views and even in the height of summer is not over run with either so you can still enjoy it’s beauty in peace.

Mont Ventoux above with the Gorge de Nesque in the foreground .

I recommend going clockwise, from St Saturnin les Apt take the D943 towards Sault turning off onto the D5 to Methamis , above.

From here take the D14 crossing the Nesque and passing the vineyards and head for Villes sur Auzon where the café de soleil makes an ideal coffee stop.

Follow signs from here to D942 taking you around and through the Gorge.

I should add that if you would rather drive the route the surface is excellent and there are plenty of stopping points to enjoy the views and scenery. Why not take a picnic?

Ventoux behind for another day.

Stop at the viewing point and you might meet the sanglier

Once you descend into Monieux you can either pick up the D96 which climbs to the D5 and then back to D943 or you can come back via Sault. Both are lovely routes.

And then it’s back into the Luberon on the D943

Enjoy!