Top 10 things to do in Pierrelatte

Top 10 things to do in Pierrelatte

1- Stroll through Pierrelatte

The town has preserved some traces of its past and is a pleasant place to walk around . The main square is home to the postern, an old gate that pierced the rampart. In the center, you pass in front of the Chapelle des Pénitents but also the gate of the stately home…. The very narrow Rue d'Amour leads to the Cours d'Amour. Treasures are hidden all over the town: an inscription almost erased by time, a stone with many notes… To visit the town in a fun way, simply download the game map with many challenges to take on as a family.

2- Gargantua's rock

Gargantua , tired, is said to have sat down on Mont Ventoux to remove the stone from his boot and throw it. Falling in the middle of the plain, it gave birth to Petralatta or Pierrelatte. Today it is a site of artistic character which hosts symphonic concerts, plays, etc.

3- The Chapel of the Penitents

The Penitents' Chapel is the oldest monument in Pierrelatte. It was built in the 13th century on the site of the old cemetery before becoming the parish church. It served as a meeting hall for members of the Brotherhood of the White Penitents. From 1791 to the present day, it was closed to worship. In 1960, the municipality purchased it and uses it for shows and events.

4- Lake Pignedoré, an essential relaxation area

In addition to swimming, this lake offers a wide range of water sports in a superb setting. Two areas are available: one for all non-motorized water sports such as windsurfing, paddleboarding, rowing, pedal boats, canoeing, and more, while the other is reserved for swimming. The lake is surrounded by a 2.5 km paved cycle path and a nearly 3 km pedestrian path. This is an opportunity to try out the skate park, children's playground, fitness trail, and to organize picnics and beautiful days out with family or friends.

5- The Yvon Gueret municipal museum

Housed in the former 18th-century prison, itself built on the ruins of the medieval castle destroyed during the Wars of Religion, the municipal museum, archaeology, paleontology and mineralogy, offers several collections that allow you to learn more about the history of the city. This charming little museum also houses the model of the old castle and its walls as well as the animated Provençal nativity scene that is installed each year from mid-December to mid-January.

6- The windmill

The Pierrelatte windmill was built in 1839. It is a typically Provençal building that was in operation between 1839 and 1880 and then used as a stable. Completely restored by the Association Les Ailes du Moulin de Pierrelatte, it is now a beautiful sight. Thanks to an electric motor added during the renovations, the seven-ton roof pivots without human intervention. Its 13-meter diameter sails continue to turn thanks to the mistral wind, despite its location on the plain. It is possible to visit it during the summer season, during the European Windmill Days in May and the European Heritage Days in September.

7- The Provençal village of Aimé and Simone Brun

Marvel at the miniature village and its 341 figurines. Everything is present and seems extremely real. You'll see animated figurines, old-fashioned crafts, a game of pétanque, sheep and their shepherd... This village was started by Aimé and Simone Brun in 1983 and has grown over the years. Covering an area of 40 m², 341 figurines, including 114 animated ones, transport you to Pierrelatte's past. Admission is free.

8- The Tricastin nuclear power plant

To better understand electricity, you should visit the Tricastin power plant , just next to Pierrelatte. This EDF nuclear power plant allows you to discover the industrial facilities throughout the year by appointment. Accompanied by a speaker, you will learn more about the operation of the power plant, the energy mix and learn about the actions implemented to promote biodiversity. An information area is open to the public with an interactive, fun and educational scenography.

9- The Friday morning market, one of the largest in the region

The Pierrelatte market takes place every Friday morning in the town center. It offers a wide variety of stalls, offering a wide variety of delicious treats. Enjoy the olfactory, visual, and gustatory delights. In a Provençal atmosphere, you'll find fruits, vegetables, local cheeses, and other regional and organic products. It's a great opportunity to stock up on garlic, caillette, black truffles, cardoon, and Picodon, the local cheese, not to mention olive oil, sweet wine, and honey.

10- Activities to do around Pierrelatte

Saint-Paul-Trois-Châteaux

Saint-Paul-Trois-Châteaux is the capital of Tricastin. This ancient fortified town is home to a beautiful medieval heritage, including the 12th and 13th century cathedral, more recent Renaissance-style mansions, and Roman remains. Opposite the cathedral's apse, the Maison de la Truffe et du Tricastin (House of Truffles and Tricastin) retraces the history of this highly prized mushroom. Saint-Paul-Trois-Châteaux also boasts numerous local products and an exceptional landscape.

The Adhemar Guard

This medieval village is typical of the Drôme Provençale region with its white stone facades, vaulted passageways, and narrow streets. It is perched on a rocky spur and has preserved its fortified walls. It is one of the "Most Beautiful Villages of France." In the heart of the village, the 12th-century Saint-Michel church is a typical example of Provençal Romanesque art. Below, enjoy the scents of the Herb Garden, where aromatic and medicinal plants mingle. This Remarkable Garden offers a superb view of the Tricastin.

The Crocodile Farm

This park, unique in Europe, houses a landscaped greenhouse of 8,000 m² and a 4,000 m² open-air trail allowing you to discover more than 400 animals. You will come across 10 species of crocodiles, giant tortoises from the Seychelles and Galapagos, tropical birds... The Crocodile Farm is also a botanical and horticultural garden with more than 600 exotic plant species.