Guide to Vaucluse & Property for Sale in Department 84

Vaucluse is an alluring department located in the southeast region of France, popularly known as 'La Provence'. This picturesque area combines natural beauty, historical significance and cultural heritage. The department is bordered by the Rhône River to the west and the Durance River to the south, and is mainly divided into two distinct regions: the eastern part, which is mountainous, and the western part, which is predominantly flat. The mountainous region of Vaucluse is home to Mont Ventoux, also known as the "Giant of Provence", which is a famous peak that stands tall at an elevation of 1,912 metres. This mountain range is a popular destination for hikers and cyclists and is often featured in the Tour de France race. Other notable mountain ranges in this region include the Dentelles de Montmirail, the Monts de Vaucluse and the Lubéron.

Fertile with Abundant Agriculture

The flat region of Vaucluse is one of the most fertile plains in southern France, with extensive fruit and vegetable cultivation. The lower-lying parts of this department of Provence are abundant in olive and lavender plantations, famous for producing some of the finest oils and fragrances in the world.

Historical Heritage of Vaucluse

The department is steeped in history and boasts numerous well-preserved Roman structures to this day. The Ancient Theatre of Orange and the Triumphal Arch are two of the most notable Roman sites located in the department. Avignon, the capital of Vaucluse, is renowned for its 14th-century fortress, the Palace of the Popes, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The remains of the medieval Avignon Bridge can also be found near the Rhône River.

Topography and Attractions

Vaucluse is also famous for its karst, a topography formed by the dissolution of soluble rocks, such as limestone, dolomite, and gypsum. The karst spring Fontaine de Vaucluse is a renowned tourist attraction that attracts visitors from around the world.

The Vaucluse department also has a large exclave within the Drôme department, the canton of Valréas (Enclave des Papes). Other essential urban centres in the department include Carpentras, Cavaillon and Apt, apart from Avignon and Orange.

Key Information about the Vaucluse Department (84)

• Main City/Prefecture: Avignon
• Nearest Airport: Avignon-Provence Airport (approx. 10 km from Avignon)
• Population: Around 566,000 (as of the latest census)
• Area: 3,567 sq. kilometres and 1,377 sq. miles
• Landmark: Palais des Papes (Palace of the Popes), a Gothic fortress and former papal residence in Avignon.
• Number of Tourists/Year: Approx. Three million people are drawn by its festivals, vineyards and historical sites.

Types of Properties for Sale in Vaucluse

Most Common Property Styles

• Stone Houses – A hallmark of Provençal architecture, these traditional homes are found throughout the villages and countryside, showcasing local craftsmanship and timeless charm.
• Contemporary and Luxury Villas – In sought-after areas like Gordes, L'Isle-sur-la-Sorgue, or near the Mont Ventoux foothills, you’ll find elegant modern villas designed for comfort, privacy, and stunning views.
• Apartments – Concentrated mainly in urban areas such as Avignon, they offer a practical and often elegant lifestyle close to shops, restaurants, and cultural landmarks.
• Mas and Character Homes – Larger country properties, often converted from old farmhouses, with generous plots, swimming pools, and outdoor living areas that embrace the Mediterranean lifestyle.
• Prestige Properties – The region boasts outstanding homes, including mansions, country houses surrounded by vineyards and private country estates.
• Gîtes and Holiday Rentals – Thanks to the area's high tourist attractions, there are plenty of gîtes and rental options available.

Property Prices in Vaucluse (84) in 2025

• Houses: the average price per sq. metre: €2,871 (source: Le Figaro - October 2025)
• Apartments: average price per sq. metre: €3,032  (source: Le Figaro - October 2025)
• Price trends: +4% over the last 12 months, +29% over the last 5 years (Le Figaro)

2025 House Prices in the Main Towns in Vaucluse

• Average House Price in Avignon: €2,383 per sq. metre
• Average House Price in Orange: €2,494 per sq. metre
• Average House Price in Cavaillon: €2,589 per sq. metre
• Average House Price in L'Isle-sur-la-Sorgue: €3,497 per sq. metre

Five Reasons to Buy Property in the Vaucluse

• Provençal Prestige & Value: Situated between the Lubéron’s golden hills and Mont Ventoux’s vineyards, the Vaucluse features stone mas farmhouses, elegant mansions, and modern villas, typically 20–30% cheaper than the Riviera.
• Strong Rental Income: With Avignon’s Festival d’Avignon (over 1 million visitors annually), Luberon’s UNESCO-listed villages, and wine tourism in Gigondas, properties here achieve annual yields of 6–10%, particularly for holiday rentals in Gordes, Roussillon, or L'Isle-sur-la-Sorgue.
• Unbeatable Accessibility: Avignon TGV (2h40m to Paris), Marseille Airport (1 hour), and A7/A9 motorways connect you to Provence, the Riviera, and beyond.
• Mediterranean Climate: Over 300 days of sunshine annually, with hot summers (30°C+) and mild winters (5°C avg.), featuring lavender fields, olive groves, and hilltop villages.
• Cultural & Gastronomic Lifestyle: A region of art, history, and terroir, featuring Avignon’s Palais des Papes, truffle markets and Côtes-du-Rhône wines.