This charming little village lives up to its name. It is perched on a crest at the northern edge of the Dentelles de Montmirail mountain range. Before arriving at Crestet, you will be able to see the old village from afar, proudly positioned along the crest facing Mont Ventoux.
Where to park
To discover this picturesque medieval village at first-hand, leave the D938 and follow a small road (D76) that winds its way up the hill until you see the sign below.
Once you get to the village, you can leave your car on the visitor’s parking and work your way up on foot through its charming narrow climbing streets. I guarantee you, it’s a Perfect workout because NONE of the streets are flat! 🙂
Where to walk
A small medieval fortified village built on a rocky hill, Crestet is dominated by the breathtaking ruins of one of the Comtat’s oldest castles, built in the ninth century. The best way to explore Crestet is on foot, wandering through its narrow cobbled streets, arcades and vaulted walkways. You can click on each image to enlarge.
Crestet castle
Walk up to the medieval castle sitting atop Crestet where there is a spectacular view towards Mont Ventoux. The castle is one of the oldest castles in Provence. It was renovated and enlarged in the 14th century and for a while the bishops of Vaison-la-Romaine resided there. What remained of the castle was restored in 1984. It is now privately owned and NOT open to the public.
Fabulous views
Don’t leave Crestet without visiting the highest point of the village. The village offers superb views on the Dentelles de Montmirail and Mont Ventoux.
An orientation table will help you identify and put a name on the different peaks, crests, hills and valleys you can see. Very interesting!
Le Panoramic
There is NO commercial activity whatsoever in the village; only one restaurant at the top called ‘Le Panoramic’.
I must say the VIEW is STUNNING!
…the food a bit less and quite overpriced but I guess that’s the compromise you have to make. However, to us it was truly worth spending some time up here!
Crestet lavoir
We have seen many ‘lavoirs’ in the meantime but to us, this is one of the prettiest we’ve ever seen!
And our dog Diesel enjoyed it too! 🙂
Au revoir Crestet!
This is not immediately a village you’d want to visit and re-visit but we consider it a ‘must-do’ whenever you’re in the area of Vaison-la-Romaine, Entrechaux, Séguret or Sablet!
Merci et à la prochaine!
Leave a Comment