Parc naturel régional du Mont Ventoux, Regional natural park in Vaucluse, France
This regional natural park in the Provence region covers a large area that combines forested slopes, open meadows, and rocky terrain across multiple municipalities. The landscape shows distinct elevation zones where vegetation changes from lower Mediterranean forests to sparse alpine plants near the summit, while numerous villages and trails are scattered throughout.
The park was formally created in 2020, though efforts to protect the mountain region began in 1965 when surrounding communities first united for joint conservation. This decades-long cooperation shows how the area has consistently worked toward preserving this important landscape.
The villages within the park reflect centuries of human presence, with stone houses and narrow streets that shape how people move through the landscape. Residents practice traditional crafts and maintain local food customs that continue to define daily life in these mountain communities.
Visitors will find marked hiking trails of varying difficulty leading through forests and villages, with information available at several entry points. It is wise to bring sturdy footwear and be prepared for changing weather, especially at higher elevations where conditions can be windy and cool.
The region has inspired artists and writers across centuries who sought creative fuel from its distinctive landscape. This artistic legacy now intertwines with modern farm-to-school programs that connect local farmers directly with community kitchens, promoting regional cherries and olive oil.
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