Rocher des Doms Gardens (Doms Rock Gardens), Avignon (must see)

Just above the Palace of the Popes, the Doms Rock Gardens offer a welcome break from the busy streets of Avignon. Set on a limestone hill about 30 meters above the Rhône River, this shady park combines peaceful walking paths, a decorative pond, and some of the finest views of the surrounding countryside.

To reach the gardens from Palace of the Popes Square, look for Avignon Cathedral, immediately beside the palace. You can recognize it by the golden statue of the Virgin Mary crowning its bell tower. Head toward the cathedral and follow the steps leading uphill to the garden entrance. Alternatively, you can reach the park via Saint Anne's Steps, behind the palace, or take the little tourist train.

Once inside, follow the tree-lined paths into the park to find winding walkways, lawns, mature trees, and decorative sculptures. The garden was laid out in the 19th century, although the hill has a much longer history. Its elevated position made it an important settlement and defensive site in ancient and medieval times.

As you explore, look for the large ornamental pond, one of the garden's main attractions. In its center stands a bronze sculpture known as Venus with Swallows, depicting a nude female figure. You'll often see waterbirds around the pond, and there's a café nearby where you can stop for a drink in the shade.

From the pond, continue along the paths toward the outer edge of the hill until you reach the panoramic viewing platform. Check out the orientation table, which helps identify the landmarks below.

First, look down toward the Rhône River. You'll easily spot Saint Bénézet Bridge, also called the Bridge of Avignon, by its four surviving stone arches extending partway across the water. Beyond the river lies the green island of Barthelasse.

Now, look toward the opposite bank, where you'll see Villeneuve-lès-Avignon. On the hill beyond, identify Fort Saint André by its imposing medieval walls and towers. Closer to the river stands the square-shaped Philippe-le-Bel Tower. On clear days, the panorama extends across the Rhône Valley toward Mont Ventoux.