Rock Climbing
^The long, south-facing gray limestone cliffs of Buoux, not far from Apt, are considered to be among the best and most difficult rock climbs in France - 100 m/328 feet high, they are classified 4 to 8c in the French system. They are also popular; most experts suggest going in spring or autumn to avoid crowds. Notable limestone climbing sites near Bédouin at Combe Obscure and the "four seasons" sites in Les Dentelles, near Gigondas, are well-equipped, with instruction and guides available. Information about climbs and guides can be obtained from Comité Départemental Fédération Française de la Montagne et d'Escalade (FFME) du Vaucluse, 54 route de Morières, Les Aubépines A1, 84000 Avignon, fax 33 04 90 14 6 10. Also contact roger.maurel@ wanadoo.fr or pierre.duret@wanadoo.fr. If you are confident in French, the FFME's website may be useful - www.ffme.fr. Local guide André Charmetant offers instruction and guided climbs of the Dentelles de Montmirail, including seven-day programs for children. (André Charmetant, 98 Avenue de Tarascon, 84000 Avignon, K 33 04 90 82 20 72, fax 33 04 90 14 96 03, andre@charmetant.org, www.charmetant.org.)
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