Seniors Discover Gargas and the Ochre Mines

Gargas is a commune that seniors can find in the Vaucluse department in the Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur region in southeastern France. Gargas is the site of old ochre mining operations. In 2009 the Mine d’Ocre de Bruoux was opened for tourists.

I would image that few of us have ever heard of Gargas. Even though I have been to Provence many times, Gargas is new to me. Located 5 km northwest of Apt, between Luberon and Vaucluse mountains, 600 kilometers southeast of Paris, Gargas is a neighbor to Roussillon.

I know that town as my professor at Harvard (Dr. Wylie) spent a year living there with his family. I have told my wife many times… “If you can’t find me anywhere, look for me in Provence.” It is my favorite area of all of France…after Paris.

Seniors Visit Ocher Mines

Ocher is an earthy pigment containing ferric oxide, typically with clay, varying from light yellow to brown or red. Former ocher mines of Bruoux are presently equipped to welcome visitors. While the quarries of Rustrel and Roussillon are open, those of Bruoux are underground.

Gargas is the last village of the Vaucluse to possess ocher quarrying. The mines of Gargas are unique in all of Europe. Senior visitors can travel nearly 650 meters of galleries up to 15 meters high.

Throughout the course, one can admire the wide array of impressive colors. The underground quarry has been converted into an imposing cathedral.

The Luberon ocher was once exploited in mines, carved into the cliffs in the light of the carbide lamp, the deck hand. From 1880 to 1950, more than 50 km of galleries have been shaped. As isolated as it be, wouldn’t just know that TripAdvisor has paid a visit to Gargas. Touch the All Visitor Photos link on this site for some awesome views of the mines.

The “mines” are carved into the hillside: you don’t descend significantly to enter inside. Up to 15 meters (49 feet) high, the soaring, vaulted interior chambers resemble the nave of a cathedral.

Seniors Enjoy Provence

The village of Gargas is a pleasant and somewhat typical villages in Provence. There’s a large central square with a few shops, including a pharmacy, tabac-magazine shop and a café-restaurant with a large, shady terrace where you can enjoy a Ricard Pastis.,  perfect in Provence, especially the late afternoon.

The old stone fountain, set back in the shade opposite the terrace café, is quite nice, and a nearby iron windmill adds a touch of interest. Enjoy Provence, Gargas and the Mines of Bruoux. Seniors set your GPS for Gargas and take in “Marvelous Provence” and the famed mines.-jeb