Barthelasse Island in Avignon

Situated between Avignon and Villeneuve-les-Avignon, between the two branches of the Rhône - the Grand Rhône on the Villeneuve side, the petit Rhône on the Avignon side – it covers 700 hectares of peaceful greenery just a few minutes on foot from the historic centre.

Only a thousand people live on the island, which has been protected from urban development because it is flood-prone. Much of it is farmland. Many areas are also devoted to leisure and relaxation, including a skatepark, a soccer field, swimming pools, a lake, a children's recreation centre and a youth hostel.

The peaceful and pleasant towpath offers an exceptional, unobstructed view over the Avignon bridge, the Rocher des Doms and the Popes' Palace and it is ideal for a stroll, jogging or just lounging on the grass. 

And if you want to tour the island, nothing is better for that than a bicycle: the island is flat and there are many cycling paths! You will be able to buy produce direct from the farm, visit the Manguin distillery or just simple ride through the orchards. For those who like peace and quiet, the island of Barthelasse has ample accommodations: hotels, bed & breakfasts, gites and campsites. 

Some of the island's banks are classed Natural Riches and listed as ZNIEFF, natural zones of ecological, fauna and flora interest. They are home to nesting birds, hedgehogs, shrews, beavers, badgers, dormice and martens and also hawks, grey herons, cormorants, mallards and diving ducks. 

You can use the free boat service (cable ferry) or go by car by way of the Daladier bridge. A great way to relax for the whole family.