The Sentier des Ocres in Roussillon, in the heart of Provence’s Luberon region, is a natural site of astonishing beauty, where the earth comes in an impressive range of warm colors. This landscape, unique in France, offers an enchanting walk through ancient ochre quarries, where shades of yellow, orange, red and brown create a vivid picture that changes with the sunlight.
History and Geology
The history of Roussillon ochres goes back several million years, to when the sea covered the region. The receding waters left behind sand deposits enriched with minerals and iron oxides, giving rise to these natural pigments. Quarried since ancient times, ochre reached its peak in the 19th century, before declining with the arrival of synthetic dyes. Today, the Sentier des Ocres (Ochre Trail) allows visitors to rediscover this exceptional natural and industrial heritage.
A Colorful Stroll
The Sentier des Ocres offers two marked trails: the short one, which takes around 30 minutes, and the long one, which takes around an hour. These trails wind through former open-pit quarries and pine forests, offering spectacular views of cliffs and ochre formations sculpted by erosion. Interpretation panels line the route, providing information on the geology, history and flora of the site.
Preserving the beauty of the site
The growing number of visitors to the Sentier des Ocres requires particular attention to the preservation of this fragile site. Efforts are made to make visitors aware of the importance of respecting the marked trails and not taking any ochre, in order to maintain the integrity of the landscape for future generations. Admission is charged, contributing to the upkeep and protection of the environment.
Around Roussillon
The village of Roussillon itself is well worth a visit. Perched on a hill and listed as one of France’s Most Beautiful Villages, Roussillon is built from the ochre stones that surround it, offering a dazzling display of color. Narrow streets, colorful houses, art galleries and café terraces make Roussillon a charming and relaxing place to visit after discovering the Sentier des Ocres.
