Observatoire Ornithologique de Mérindol

The Luberon


This bird reserve on the Durance River is home to some 243 species, including herons and great cormorants. Hides are strategically positioned along the 3km trail (1½ hours), marked with yellow blazes. The site is near the Mérindol-Mallemort dam (signposted 1.5km from the roundabout at the entrance to Mérindol on the D973).


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby The Luberon attractions

1. Couleur Garance

5.4 MILES

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2. Abbaye de Silvacane

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3. Fôret des Cèdres

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In the scrubby hills about 6km south of Bonnieux, a twisty back road slopes up to this wonderful cedar forest, whose spreading boughs provide welcome…

4. Musée du Tire-Bouchon

6.87 MILES

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5. Château de Lacoste

7.06 MILES

This part-ruined, 9th-century château once belonged to the scandalous Marquis de Sade (1740–1814) but was bought in 2001 by the couturier Pierre Cardin…

6. Musée de la Boulangerie

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7. Château de Lourmarin

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8. Cave de Bonnieux

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Sample local wines at this superior cellar, 5km from Bonnieux on the D36. Tastings are free.

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