Not every unforgettable travel memory comes from a cathedral, a museum, or a centuries-old ruin.
One of the biggest highlights of our time in Provence came from something completely unplanned and wonderfully modern: a day spent climbing, jumping, swinging, and flying through the trees at Bollène Aventure.
Lost in the Woods (Or So It Felt)
Getting there was part of the adventure.
As we drove farther and farther off the main road, the landscape changed quickly—dense trees, winding turns, no buildings in sight. At one point, I genuinely wondered if we were headed to the wrong place entirely. There were no cafés, no crowds, no obvious signs of civilization. Just forest.
It had that slightly ominous, are-we-sure-about-this feeling—like the opening scene of a movie where you’re not quite convinced everything will turn out fine.
And then suddenly, tucked deep in the woods, we arrived. Harnesses. Platforms. Laughter. Relief. What felt like “Deliverance” two minutes earlier turned out to be one of the best days of the entire trip.
A Different Kind of Provence
After days immersed in Roman bridges and ancient stones, Bollène Aventure was the perfect contrast. Set entirely in the forest near the town of Bollène in the Vaucluse region, the park feels wild, physical, and refreshingly uncurated.
The experience centers on parkour-style movement, high ropes courses, climbing elements, and zip lines, all built high among the trees. The moment we arrived, Josephine’s eyes lit up. Helmets went on. Harnesses clicked. Any lingering jet lag or museum fatigue disappeared instantly.
Climbing, Jumping, Flying
The ropes course was substantial—suspended bridges, swinging logs, ladders, and platforms high above the forest floor. It required balance, focus, and a little courage. Watching Josephine move through it with determination (and visible pride) was one of those moments that stays with you long after the trip ends.
And then there was the zip line.
Strapped in, she stepped off without hesitation and flew across the clearing, laughing the entire way. No phone. No posing. Just pure exhilaration.
Fun for the Sake of Fun
What made Bollène Aventure so special wasn’t just the activity—it was the feeling. Being deep in the woods. Using our bodies. Breathing hard. Laughing loudly. Not learning anything in the traditional sense, and not needing to. And although she’s an amazing sport about all my touring and shopping, Josephine really needs this kind of activity, too – sweaty, chaotic, joyful. Honestly, we all do.
