South-east of Avignon, the pretty little town of L’Isle sur la Sorgue lies on the River Sorgue in the Vaucluse region. Dubbed ‘Venice of the Comtat’ due to its many canals, the town has a fascinating history of fishing and milling. Nowadays, however, it has gained famed as the biggest antiques hub in France outside Paris. With both intimate B&Bs and restaurants-with-rooms clustered close to the old centre, L’Isle sur la Sorgue is a wonderful destination for couples, friends and families. Popular amongst antique-hunters and art lovers, the best places to stay in L’Isle sur la Sorgue boast long and curious histories of their own.

L’Isle sur la Sorgue has played host to a weekly antiques market since 1596, and you’ll find over 300 stalls to peruse on Sundays, along with the many shops and galleries which line the streets of the town itself. Pop into La Collegiale Notre Dame des Anges, the town’s Baroque masterpiece of a church, visit the Fondation Villa Datris’ extensive art collections, and feast on local wine and seasonal produce in restaurants and cafés aplenty.

Expert dealers to flock to the city during the annual International Antiques Fair at Easter and in August — expect the best places to stay in L’Isle sur la Sorgue to book up quickly at those times!

The Best Places to Stay in L'Isle sur la Sorgue

For an Intimate B&B

• B&B Artishow is a restored 15th-century townhouse with slick modern interiors, an indoor swimming pool and a rooftop hot tub. Each of the five suites has been individually decorated, and guests are offered breakfasts as well as access to a shared kitchen. Great fun for couples or friends.
• La Maison sur la Sorgue has just four classic suites, each furnished with antique pieces and heaps of charm. There's a lovely garden, pool and courtyard, and three-course breakfasts are very special. A boutique haven in an 18th-century residence.

For Foodies

• La Prévôté began life as a 17th-century convent, and has since been tastefully renovated to offer five guestrooms and a gourmet restaurant. Specialising in French and Mediterranean cuisine, the courtyard eatery is a foodie favourite, with a particularly delicious evening tasting menu. A real treat.
• Grand Hotel Henri is a sophisticated historic property near the heart of town. Think chic French style in 17 sumputous rooms, and evenings of champagne at the hotel bar, followed by fine dining delights at Chef Olivier Bouzon's Le Petit Henri restaurant. Luxurious refinement.

For a Rural Escape

• Hotel du Poète promises an elegant escape in a family-run former mill to the east of town, in the village of Fontaine-de-Vaucluse. A delightful hotel with an intimate feel, lovely gardens and a refreshing swimming pool. Great for keen walkers, wine lovers and cyclists.

FOR AN APARTMENT OR HOLIDAY VILLA

• If you'd prefer a self-catering option, we suggest that you visit our online partner Booking.com.

TRAVEL INFORMATION

• Fly to Avignon-Provence Airport, 40 minutes' drive away, or to Marseille-Provence Airport, 50 minutes from L'Isle sur la Sorgue.
• Alternatively, catch the Eurostar from London — you'll be in Avignon in under six hours, and it's just 40 minutes onwards from there.
• Provence is brilliant for a road trip! Contact our online partner Rentalcars if you would like to hire a car.
• In the path of the famed Mistral wind, L'Isle sur la Sorgue is clear and sunny throughout much of the year. The heat hits its peak between June and September, averaging at around 28°C. Come during the spring for cooler weather and a quieter atmosphere, or in full summer to see Provence in bloom. Easter and August are especially busy.

STILL NOT SURE?

• Explore our list of all the best places to stay in Avignon.
• Alternatively, expand your search to see our pick of the best places to stay in Provence.
• Or contact one of our friendly Gurus for advice.

Weather

Monthly Weather in L'Isle sur La Sorgue