Saint-Auban-sur-l'Ouvèze

This pretty perched village is best viewed from the north-west, coming from Buis-les-Baronnies, rather than from the south-east, where it is hidden by a mountain separating it from La Rochette-du-Buis.

Located 16 kilometers from Buis-les-Baronnies, Saint-Auban-sur-Ouvèze is built on a rocky spur overlooking the confluence of the Ouvèze and Charuis rivers, at the entrance to the upper Ruègne valley. The commune is also watered by the Ennuyé river. All around, on the plains, you'll find lavender fields and cypress hedges, while on the mountain side, you'll see chestnut trees growing in the siliceous soil: a phenomenon that dendrologists can't explain.
The commune's relief is rugged, with two valleys surrounded by hills and mountains. The village lies at an altitude of 640 m, with the highest point being the Montagne de Clavelière, 1,352 m above sea level to the north. It was on this side that the valley was named "Ruègne", meaning "ruin", due to the monotonous landscape and poor soils it once possessed. Today, the valley is a natural and authentic place where lavender fields can be seen.
A stroll through the village reveals its evolution. The feudal castle bears witness to its medieval past, when the village was fortified. Comprising three towers and a square keep, it was also known as the "Maison forte", the residence of the lords of the domain, as well as the consuls in charge of administration. Today, the well-restored Porte Basse remains, as do the towers of the former château (some of which have been converted into apartments), a number of tall, tightly-packed houses, narrow, winding streets, small wooden doors, etc. These are just some of the features that characterize the medieval layout that the people of Saint-Albanais still enjoy.
A linden-growing village, you can enjoy the shade of these trees along the lanes. Very picturesque, it offers a number of streets and calades for strolling. You'll discover beautiful houses dating from the Renaissance to the Age of Enlightenment, some in ruins overgrown with brambles, others restored. The village is also home to many modest dwellings. On the Place de la Mairie stands the former home of Chevalier and Rear-Admiral François-Hector d'Albert, Comte de Rioms. He played a major role in the American War of Independence. A commemorative plaque beside the front door recalls his exploits.
The hidden charm of Saint-Auban doesn't end there. As you wander through its narrow streets, you'll come across some very pretty vaulted passageways known as "soustets", some of which have retained their wooden beams, and fountains that have replaced the cisterns of yesteryear and from which clear water flows.