Sault

Sault, a village in the Vaucluse department of the Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur region of France, rests on a limestone plateau. It sits at an elevation of 765 meters, overlooking the Nesque valley and framed by Mont Ventoux and the Albion plateau. Often referred to as the capital of lavender, Sault is known for its expansive fields of fine lavender that blanket the surrounding landscape in hues of purple during the summer months.

Sault offers a blend of natural beauty and Provençal character, with its old fortified structures, wide squares, and a selection of cafés and shops. The village serves as a crossroads for visitors exploring the region, attracting cyclists tackling Mont Ventoux, motorcyclists enjoying the winding roads, and those drawn to the tranquil character of the Provençal countryside. It's a place where the aroma of lavender permeates the air, and the pace of life encourages leisurely exploration.

From Ancient Habitation to Medieval Fief

The history of Sault stretches back to prehistoric times, with Paleolithic, Neolithic, and Bronze Age artifacts discovered in the Bois du Défens to the northeast of the village. Vestiges from the Gallo-Roman period have also been found in the hamlet of Loges, west of Sault. The name "Sault" itself derives from "Saltus," a reference to the forests that once covered the territory. An ancient habitation called Aeria existed at this location but was destroyed and abandoned during barbarian invasions.

Feudal Rule and a Flourishing Market

Sault entered recorded history as a city in the 11th century. The seigneury belonged to the d'Agoult family, a prominent Provençal lineage, who maintained their rule for five centuries. In the 13th century, Sault became an autonomous fief, expanding into a prosperous county during the 16th century. A significant milestone in the village's history was the establishment of its Wednesday market in 1515 by an ordinance of the Baron of Sault, a tradition that continues to this day. In 1561, Sault was elevated to a county in favor of François d'Agoult.

Revolution, Industry, and Enduring Heritage

The old 11th-century fortified castle, which originally had four defensive towers, suffered significant damage during the French Revolution, and the family archives were burned. The last of the various rulers, the Duke of Villeroy, was guillotined during this period. In the 18th and 19th centuries, Sault was a center for a notable glass industry, though these works are no longer present. Today, remnants of Sault's feudal past, including the ruins of the castle and parts of the ramparts, can still be observed. The Notre-Dame de la Tour church, a late Romanesque edifice that began construction in the late 12th century and was restored in the 14th, has been classified as a historical monument since 1990.

Sault offers a range of sights and activities, particularly appealing to those who appreciate nature and Provençal culture. A primary draw is the Lavender Trail, a 5 km loop with informational panels that guides visitors through the celebrated lavender fields. For a deeper dive into lavender production, several distilleries, such as Distillerie Vallon des Lavandes, welcome visitors for tours and demonstrations.

The Wednesday Provençal market has been a village fixture since 1515, offering local produce, crafts, and lavender products. History enthusiasts can explore the Municipal Museum, which houses prehistoric, Gallo-Roman, and medieval collections, as well as more unusual items like an Egyptian mummy and an original Diderot encyclopedia. The Notre-Dame de la Tour church, a classified historical monument, is also worth a visit for its architectural significance.

For outdoor activities, the Albion plateau is ideal for hiking and mountain biking. Sault is also a popular starting point for cyclists ascending Mont Ventoux, with a less demanding but still rewarding route. The nearby Gorges de la Nesque offer dramatic canyon views and are popular with cyclists. Don't leave without sampling Sault's nougat, a traditional specialty made with lavender honey and almonds, with the Boyer nougat factory offering tours.

The best time to visit Sault for warm-weather activities and to witness the iconic lavender fields in bloom is from late June to early September. The lavender in Sault, due to its higher altitude, typically blooms later than in other parts of Provence, generally from mid-July to mid-August. The annual Lavender Festival, a significant event with parades and local products, takes place on August 15th. July is also the clearest month, with minimal rainfall.

Sault is accessible via several scenic routes, with driving times of approximately one hour from Avignon and one hour and forty-five minutes from Aix-en-Provence. If driving, be aware that roads into Sault can have narrow sections and hairpin turns. Free parking areas are available, including Parking des Aires, Parking des Écoles, Belle Vue, and P4 lots. Once in the village, Sault is easily explored on foot, and bicycles can be rented for exploring the surrounding lavender fields.

The Tourist Office, located on Avenue de la Promenade, can provide maps and additional information. Sault has a population of around 1,300 inhabitants, known as 'Saltésiens'. While the village offers a selection of restaurants and cafés, booking in advance is recommended during peak season.