With a population of 9,426, Valréas is the central town of the Enclave des Papes, which has historically been an enclave within the Drôme department since the popes acquired the town in 1317.

The historic town of Valréas is built on a natural high point overlooking the vast plain of the Coronne, the region’s main river. The variety of its landscapes—from the wine-growing plain to the high, wooded hillsides—means that its elevation ranges from 158 to 530 meters.

The rotation with other crops—such as lavandin, olive trees, and truffle groves—along with the presence of numerous wooded areas and hedgerows, adds a welcome touch of variety to this predominantly vinicultural landscape.

Another characteristic of the region is an extensive network of small streams and ditches known as “riailles.”

From a cultural perspective, Valréas is fortunate to have a rich and varied heritage, featuring buildings designated as historic monuments—such as Simiane Castle, the Chapel of the White Penitents, the Ripert Tower, the Church of Notre Dame de Nazareth, as well as smaller landmarks such as the mill and the chapel at Pied Vaurias, numerous statues on the facades of private buildings, and the crosses marking the town’s main entrances.

Valréas’s economic history reached a major turning point in the 19th century. Linked to sericulture, the cardboard industry began around 1840 with the manufacture of cardboard boxes used to export “silkworm eggs,” evolving by the end of the century into a full-fledged cardboard industry dedicated to the production of packaging. At the same time, the printing industry developed to accommodate printing on cardboard. The town of Valréas became France’s largest center for cardboard manufacturing, achieving worldwide renown by the early 20th century. At that time, 1,000 people were employed in the cardboard industry.

This industry is gradually losing market share due to intensified competition and the onset of globalization. Today, there remains one company employing 140 people in the production of pharmaceutical packaging.

The history of bookbinding is chronicled at the Museum of Bookbinding and Printing, which was established by the Vaucluse Department and is strongly supported by local elected officials.

Lannion is the perfect place to stay if you want to savor the true delights of Brittany. This multifaceted town, located near the Pink Granite Coast, will welcome you into its historic and legendary heart. An extraordinary experience awaits you, with its half-timbered and slate-roofed houses, its cobblestone streets and alleys, its mansions, manor houses, and chapels.

Every year, the city undergoes a transformation throughout the four seasons, offering a rich and varied array of flowers. Thanks to its Parks and Recreation Department, Lannion has successfully showcased its heritage through colorful, airy floral arrangements, beautiful planters, and numerous flower beds designed to beautify roadways and roundabouts.

Nestled in the heart of the Alsatian vineyards, Ribeauvillé is part of the Ballon des Vosges Regional Nature Park. The town covers more than 3,000 hectares and consists of three distinct geographical areas: the vineyards, the mountains, and the ried.

A historic town whose origins date back to the 8th century, Ribeauvillé has preserved its urban layout as well as most of its medieval architecture, which gives it undeniable charm. The four castles and the Hanaps’ treasure still bear witness today to the power of the lords of Ribeaupierre, who ruled the town until the 18th century. A vibrant calendar of events throughout the year also helps to enhance the town’s appeal.

Ribeauvillé’s remarkable natural and historical heritage has earned it the designations “Classified Tourist Resort,” “Green Resort,” and “4-Flower Town.” This designation, held since 1983, serves as a wonderful calling card for the town, which welcomes many visitors throughout the year. It is a source of pride for its residents, who contribute greatly to it.

Since 2011, the focus has been on an approach to preserving biodiversity within the municipality. The ecological transition guides the municipality’s decisions regarding the management of green spaces and floral displays. In 2018, the city was awarded “Three Dragonflies” in the “French Capital of Biodiversity” competition. Resource conservation is a central theme of municipal action, with a focus on striking a balance among users of natural and cultivated spaces (hikers, anglers, wineries, etc.).

Biodiversity, quality of life, cuisine, culture, various events… “Life is beautiful in Ribeau,” say the locals!

A commercial and industrial city at its core, Valenciennes has always placed great importance on the arts and artists, thanks to which its influence now extends far beyond its borders. A good quality of life means ensuring the daily maintenance and enhancement of public spaces, where all users and visitors can experience a sense of “good living and well-being.”

In 2019, the National Council of Villes et Villages Fleuris the city of Valenciennes’ fourth flower and awarded it the “Special Prize for the Enhancement of Greenery in Public Spaces.”

These two awards recognize the significant efforts made to beautify the city with flowers and, more broadly, to improve the city’s living environment.