84 – Vaucluse

84 – Vaucluse

Vaucluse sits at the crossroads of Mediterranean lowlands and upland landscapes, with Mont Ventoux forming a major ecological landmark. The department supports a diverse range of species linked to limestone plateaus, river systems and dry grasslands, reflecting strong gradients in altitude, exposure and climate.

Wild Places

These are listed by order of importance, National, Regional Parks, Reserves and local hotspots that should be of interest to all nature lovers, whether serious listers or casual observers.

Waiting To Be Discovered Are:

The Luberon Regional Park

The Luberon has exceptional biodiversity: 1,800 species of plants (35% of French flora) including 70 protected by statute, 135 species of birds (50%), 2,300 species of butterflies and moths (40%).

The Luberon has exceptional biodiversity: 1,800 species of plants (35% of French flora) including 70 protected by statute, 135 species of birds (50%), 2,300 species of butterflies and moths (40%).

Mont Ventoux Regional Park

Rising into the stratosphere this iconic peak gives a false impression of always being covered in snow.  Around the summit the vegetation gives way to a desert of exposed limestone which gives it, (on the south side), its white colour.

Rising into the stratosphere this iconic peak gives a false impression of always being covered in snow.  Around the summit the vegetation gives way to a desert of exposed limestone which gives it, (on the south side), its white colour.

Additional Wildlife Hotspots

These sites fall outside formal protected area boundaries but are widely recognised for their ecological significance.

A deeply incised limestone gorge forming one of the most important cliff and raptor systems in the department.

Why this site matters
The sheer rock faces and quiet upper slopes provide secure nesting and roosting habitat for large raptors and specialised cliff species, largely free from intensive development.

Species of interest
Eurasian Eagle-Owl · Golden Eagle · Griffon Vulture · Egyptian Vulture (irregular) · Peregrine Falcon · Wallcreeper (winter)

Jagged limestone ridges rising sharply above vineyards and farmland, forming a mosaic of cliffs, scrub and open slopes.

Why this site matters
The Dentelles act as a refuge for cliff-nesting birds and Mediterranean scrub specialists, with strong raptor movements along the ridge system.

Species of interest
Peregrine Falcon · Eagle-Owl · Blue Rock Thrush · Crag Martin · Mediterranean scrub passerines

Clear, fast-flowing rivers with rocky beds, shaded banks and limited channel modification.

Why this site matters
These valleys support high water quality and provide key habitat for species dependent on clean, well-oxygenated rivers.

Species of interest
White-throated Dipper · Grey Wagtail · Kingfisher · Dragonflies (including late-season Sympetrum species)

A network of spring-fed rivers, channels and wet meadows north of Avignon.

Why this site matters
One of the department’s most important freshwater systems, supporting aquatic mammals, amphibians and invertebrates often absent from intensively managed lowlands.

Species of interest
European Beaver · Water Vole · Kingfisher · amphibians · dragonflies and aquatic insects

A landscape of dry plateaux, sinkholes and wooded gorges beyond the main protected cores.

Why this site matters
The karst system supports discreet but ecologically rich habitats, including bat roosts, nocturnal raptors and specialised flora.

Species of interest
Eagle-Owl · bats · Mediterranean woodland birds · orchids and limestone flora

Mixed farmland with hedgerows, orchards and irrigation channels.

Why this site matters
Where traditional practices persist, these landscapes still support declining farmland birds and pollinators.

Species of interest
Cirl Bunting · Corn Bunting · Hoopoe · pollinating insects · amphibians in irrigation networks

Best Times to Visit

Spring (March–May)
The most productive period for wildlife observation in Vaucluse. Breeding activity increases rapidly across wetlands, river corridors and limestone plateaus, with peak bird song and visible territorial behaviour. Amphibians are active around springs and streams, while reptiles and invertebrates emerge as temperatures rise. Wildflower diversity is at its highest across open habitats.

Early Summer (June)
A strong continuation of spring productivity, particularly during mornings and evenings. Invertebrate diversity is high, reptiles are regularly encountered on warm slopes and rocky ground, and higher elevations such as Mont Ventoux remain favourable. Heat builds quickly in lowland areas, reducing activity during the middle of the day.

Autumn (September–October)
One of the most rewarding periods in the department. Cooler temperatures bring increased mammal activity and renewed movement among birds, including passage migrants following river valleys and ridge lines. Landscapes retain structure and colour, and conditions are well suited to walking and observation.

Winter (December–February)
Quieter but still worthwhile, especially for resident and wintering birds associated with wetlands, rivers and open farmland. Mammal tracks and signs are more easily detected, while higher ground can experience cold conditions and occasional snow. Visitor pressure is low, offering a calmer experience overall.

Field Notes & Responsible Practice

Please refer to our code of conduct page for responsible recording and observation.