We have driven past the sign to Fontaine de Vaucluse many times on our way to L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue and other Luberon villages but we never turned off until one day this spring…
Fontaine de Vaucluse
We had not visited Fontaine de Vaucluse in a very long time because the village has a reputation for being overrun with tourists and because it is Disney-like and apparently there are no good restaurants.
WRONG!!!!
The village of Fontaine de Vaucluse is squeezed into the end of a narrow valley and takes its name from the mysterious spring at the foot of the Vaucluse Mountains that feeds the Sorgue River not far from L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue. As you can see the color of the water is bright emerald green, especially with the reflection of the sun rays on a perfect warm spring day!
Truly Magnificent! ♥
The source of the Sorgue river is fed by collective rainfall throughout the Plateau de Vaucluse. If there is a very dry summer like in 2017, there isn’t much water but at maximum, this source produces water at an amazing 200 cubic meters a second, making it one of the most powerful springs in the world!
Restaurant Philip
Restaurant Philip has been operated in this location by the same family since 1926. Chef Philip is assisted in the kitchen by his daughter Camille. Restaurant Philip is divided in two parts. One side (the far end of the terrace) is Bib gourmand and the other side is a casual bistro. We ate a the bistro since the other one was fully booked so make reservations in advance if you want to eat there!
Shortly after we were seated, we ordered a ‘pichet’ of lovely rosé while we enjoyed the bright emerald green Sorgue river and decided about lunch.
Since it was a very hot day we decided to go ‘light’ and we believe the best way to see if the quality of the food is any good is by ordering the most simple dishes. We can honestly say it was delicious, fresh, well presented and the waiter was very attentive, friendly and quick!
Along the Sorgue river
Souvenir stands and refreshment stalls line the path along the Sorgue river. You can click on each photo to see enlarged!
Some more impressions of the village
After lunch we decided to wander a bit more through the beautiful authentic village with its 7 museums, many more restaurants and gorgeous facades.
And ended up relaxing in the grass alongside the Sorgue River…
A Happy Ending to a wonderful day!
♥♥♥
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