best luberon villages to visit

A Nosy Local’s Guide to Picking the Best Luberon Villages for You (2024)

With dozens of lovely villages in Provence, how do you decide which are the best Luberon villages to visit? Which ones are you most likely to love? Maybe you’ve spent hours (or days) researching your Luberon trip, only to end up feeling overwhelmed with too many options and hard-to-pronounce French places.

Truth is, some places will vibe with you more than others. And someone’s favorite village might just be blah and meh for you.

As a Luberon resident and frequent village-hopper , I’m here to guide you through this corner of Provence—the A-listers, the underrated finds, and the “where-on-earth-is-that?” 

In this article, I cover 30+ interests and the villages that match them , so you can choose what’s right for you. My goal is to help you narrow down your itinerary, tailored to your curiosity with a dash of spontaneity.

Which Luberon Villages are Right for You?

When you plan your trip to Provence, ask yourself the five questions below. You’ll get a clear idea of what you want and what is doable based on your time, interests, and thirst for the unexpected.

• How much time do you have? (number of days or weeks)
• Name 3 themes that pique your interest (like archeology, wine, hiking). 
• What’s the ONE must-see or must-do experience you can’t miss (say, lavender fields)? State your non-negotiable. 
• Are you planning to rent a car or rely on public transportation? (If the latter, you’ll find my Ultimate Guide to Provence Without a Car really useful.)
• Rate your openness to unexpected delights from 1-10 (with 10 being all in for surprises).

It’s vital to have a map of Luberon villages , especially if you’ve never visited before. So you can get familiar with village names and locations. Then with map in hand…

• Read the rest of this article to help decide which villages/towns you find most interesting.
• Encircle them on the Luberon villages map.
• How near or far are they from one another?
• Cluster the villages based on the number of days you have.
• Don’t forget to leave room for spontaneity. 😉

Starting Point: The “Most Beautiful Villages of France” in the Luberon

When getting the lay of the land, the most obvious place to start is with Luberon’s “Most Beautiful Villages of France” (yep, it’s an official title). These places have earned their fame for good reason, and they have the tourist crowds to prove it.

All photos in this article are my own unless otherwise stated.

Here’s a mnemonic acronym (I made it up!) to help you remember them… GRAM-L which stands for: G ordes  R oussillon  A nsouis  M énerbes  L ourmarin

In French, these villages are called Les Plus Beaux Villages de France , a certification that recognizes the prettiest French villages based on 30 criteria, including population size (max: 2,000) and presence of at least two heritage sites.

FUN FACT : As of this writing, there are 176 “Most Beautiful Villages of France.” Five of them are in the Luberon area, 7 in the Vaucluse department, 22 in the region of Provence-Alpes-Côte-d’Azur.

In a separate article, I wrote a quick overview of Luberon’s beauty queens acclaimed villages , along with tips and some honest opinions I think you should know about (e.g. why I think Gordes is like the Eiffel Tower in Paris but not in a good way).

TIP : If it’s your first time in Provence (or the Luberon), you’d want to hit some of the famous villages and mix it up with lesser-known ones. This way, you get to see a little bit of everything.

Choose the Best Luberon Villages Based on Your Interests and Curiosity

Below is a list of 30+ possible things you might like and the matching Luberon village/s for each. The general themes are:

• Food & Wine
• Hiking & Nature
• Luberon Markets
• Heritage Sites & Architecture
• Art & Savoir-Faire
• Convenience Hubs
• Random Curiosities
• Surprise Finds

To keep things simple, you’ll notice I only highlight one village/town in each heading (e.g. For Lavender Fans: Saignon). But below it, you’ll read about other places I’ve handpicked.

LUBERON LAVENDER FIELDS

For lavender fans: saignon.

Lavender (and lavandin*) fields dot the Luberon.

(*Quickly, lavender is commonly known as “fine lavender” that grows in high altitude. Lavandin is a natural hybrid of two varieties, and usually grows in plains and valleys.) The Luberon villages map below shows the concentration of champs de lavande in certain areas. See the purple parts? This means, if you drive around these areas, you will have a high chance of seeing the fields.

The Luberon Spy Favorites: The serendipity of “finding” lavender fields is an experience in itself. It’s easy to drive around, spot bluish purple fields, and stop the car for a quick photo (or sniff!).

But please, remember to respect the plants. Never pick the flowers. Our lavender farmers work very hard to grow them.

To see or visit the fragrant fields, we usually drive around the three (3) village clusters below:

1) Saignon + Buoux : Between those two villages is the Plateau des Claparèdes , where endless rows of lavender fields grow. You can visit from the ground or you want an elevated view, climb Saignon’s big rock ( Roche de Bellevue) . 2) Saint-Saturnin-lès-Apt + Villars 3) Apt + Auribeau Popular: Gordes : Abbaye Notre-Dame de Sénanque , a 12th-century Cisterian abbey, is a fave among lavender lovers. It truly is a postcard shot when fields in front of the church burst into purple blooms (usually from late June to July). 

It is an actual abbey, so please be respectful especially when there’s an ongoing mass. Also, go early to avoid the crowds.

Very Popular: The famous places to see lavender fields in Provence are slightly beyond the Luberon valley– Sault and the Valensole plateau. Both hold annual lavender festivals on August 15th and July 20th, respectively.

Optional: If you have extra time, go to Les Agnels , a lavender distillery in Apt , to learn more about the process of growing, harvesting, and distilling the perfumed plant. 

If you visit in July, there may be tons of lavender in bloom right there on the property. You can also buy souvenirs there.

Another option is visiting the Musée de la Lavande (Lavender Museum) in Coustellet . Their boutique carries the Le Château du Bois brand (more below). 

Lagarde d’Apt, a small village at over 1,000 meters above sea level, is known for its vast fields of lavande fin (fine or “real” lavender that grows in high altitude). It is here that Le Château du Bois , a brand of premium lavender since 1890, cultivates and distills their products.

FUN FACT : Did you know Lagarde d’Apt produces 20% of France’s fine lavender? Source: Discovery Guide 2021 – Pays d’Apt Luberon Tourist Office

FOOD & WINE

For luberon wine lovers: ménerbes.

Ménerbes is not only among the most beautiful villages in Luberon but also a fab destination for wine lovers . For wine tastings, visit the Wine and Truffle Museum ( Maison de la Truffe et du Vin ), Domaine de la Citadelle and its corkscrew museum, and Domaine de Marie .

From Ménerbes, drive five minutes to Oppède to visit the newly opened Mas des Infermières owned by English director Ridley Scott. The wine estate includes sets, costumes, and props from Scott’s movies.

I find it ironic that unlike Scott’s blockbusters ( Alien, Gladiator, Black Hawk Down ), A Good Year , the Luberon-set film starring Russell Crowe and Marion Cotillard, tanked. 

In Lauris, go for wine introduction sessions and tastings at Domaine de Fontenille . They offer a walk through the vineyard, wine tasting, or picnic. The grounds and restaurant are nice – visit anyway.

Want to mix wine tasting with sightseeing? Read my curated list of 21 Amazing Luberon Wineries worth visiting.

For Gourmets (and Gourmands): Cucuron

When it comes to food, I prefer villages where I don’t have to starve before I can find a place to eat. If a village has at least 10 food places, it means it will likely not be dead come 7pm (except during winter months).

Many would say Bonnieux has the best restaurants in Luberon. It has many options, including crowd favorites L’Arome and Le Fournil. But for me, my preferred go-to’s for eating out are Cucuron and Lourmarin . Not only do these villages have a dozen or more dining options , but they also have restaurants I frequent.

Cucuron : For regular dinners, I love the friendly atmosphere and amazing in-season dishes at La Dame Jeanne . For special occasions, it’s La Petite Maison de Cucuron , a one-star Michelin restaurant. Of course, it’s always nice to sit by Cucuron’s refreshing pond that’s lined with restaurants and cafés.

Lourmarin : Choose from about 20 restaurants and cafés in this village. Perfect for those who enjoy the simple pleasures of sipping, munching, and soaking up the slow-paced Provençal lifestyle.

I usually go to Café Gaby for breakfast, Gina Café for homemade, hearty lunches, and Le Moulin de Lourmarin for dinner or special occasions.

For Michelin Star Shooters: Various

There are many Michelin restaurants in the Luberon. For 2024, Manosque’s two restaurants bag both a one-star Michelin and a Bib Gourmand. Technically, L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue is not part of the Luberon but it is the gateway to it, so I’m making an exception and adding its restaurants to the list. List of Luberon Michelin restaurants as of February 2024 :

One-Star Michelin Ansouis : La Closerie (traditional) Bonnieux : La Bastide de Capelongue (Provençal and modern) Cadenet: Le Goût du Bonheur – La Fenière (creative) Cucuron : La Petite Maison de Cucuron (classic) Joucas : La Table de Xavier Mathieu (creative and Mediterranean) Manosque : Restaurant Pierre Grein (modern, farm to table) L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue : Le Vivier (modern)

Bib Gourmand: Michelin’s more affordable, ‘best value for money’ restaurants Les Taillades: L’Atelier l’Art des Mets (traditional) Manosque : La Loge Bertin (modern) L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue : Solelh (modern) Villars: La Table de Pablo (local, Mediterranean)

For Café Lovers & People Watchers: Lourmarin 

Lourmarin : The best spot for a terrasse breakfast (and people-watching) is at Café Gaby . I go there for my little coffee corner; breakfast is so-so.

You can choose from two French breakfast sets: sweet ( tartine with butter and jam, orange juice, coffee) and savory (baguette, egg, ham, coffee, orange juice). Served with coffee and orange juice.

Goult : For a tiny place, Goult surprises with about a dozen dining spots. It’s one of those places that you visit without expectations, only to be thrilled with how lovely it is. Grab a seat at the cozy main square and chill. I usually go to Le GOULTois or Café de la Poste , but there are pricier options. 

When you’re done, walk through Old Goult to see its stone walls, arches, château (for rent), and windmill.

HIKING & NATUR E

For hikers: bonnieux.

Bonnieux : This hillside village offers a variety of trails, from leisure walks to challenging hikes. Explore Forêt des Cèdres (Cedar Forest – my favorite!) and walk under 100-year-old trees.

Rustrel : Also known as Colorado Provençal. Wander through the ocher hues, striking rock formations, canyons, and fairy chimneys. But don’t wear anything fancy (or new shoes). Get ready for some red-orange-yellow marks, which are part of the adventure.

Vaugines : At the edge of the village, behind the Romanesque Church of Saint Barthélémy Church, is a hiking trail. It’s a sweet, green route with elevated views. Look for shell fossils on the path!

Do you like ancient ruins with killer views? Check out my guide to Luberon’s epic ruins with viewpoints — where I’ve crawled, climbed, and maybe even tripped, just for you.

For Rock Climbers: B uoux

The cliffs of Buoux (pronounced with the ‘x’) are legendary for its limestone pockets and extreme slabs. World-famous in the 80’s, Buoux was once considered one of the best crags in the world. Today, its 300+ pocketed routes still attract climbers from around the globe.

TIP: Auberge des Seguins is a simple, rustic restaurant at the foot of the cliffs. If you’re tired of eating in hotels or restaurants, come here for some comfort food. Sample their huge plate of appetizers while sitting in a sunny terrace. Many locals (including us) come here.

For Panoramic View Explorers: Saignon

Saignon: In the old times, this village served as a lookout post and sounded off alarms for the town of Apt. Saignon is said to have come from the Latin word “signum” or sign.

Today, you can climb the Rocher de Bellevue (Bellevue Rock) for a sweeping view of the valley. If you visit in June-July, you can also see the lavender fields below. Since you’re already there, why not dine at Un Jardin Sur Le Toit for a meal with a view?

Buoux: The ruins of Fort de Buoux will give you a glimpse of a bygone community. Hike up the fort and be rewarded with a stunning scene such as the famous rock-climbing cliffs, caves, and Mont Ventoux. 

Tip: The best part? There’s a hidden staircase on the side of the cliff. Wear comfy shoes and oh, avoid the secret stairs if you have vertigo.

Saint-Saturnin-lès-Apt: Hovering above the village are castle ruins that are mostly walls but still fascinating. From up there, you will see superb views of the valley, village, and a man-made lake (reservoir).

Near the ruins is the 11th century chapel, Castel’s Castral. In 1850, it is said that a Marian apparition happened there to a little girl named Rosette Tamisier. The event paved the way for spiritual passions in France, including the famous Lourdes miracle in 1858.

For Plant Passionates: Pertuis

Just like Les Plus Beaux Villages de France , another title you might encounter is Jardin Remarquable . It’s a distinguished label given to gardens and parks that are of cultural, aesthetic, historical, or botanical interest.

In the Luberon, these gardens are usually within private estates or boutique hotels, but you can visit for a small fee. Pertuis : At the Château Val Joanis , you can admire this French garden with a potager (vegetable garden), orchard, and flowers. Entrance fee: 3 euros.

Ménerbes: Within the high-end Domaine de la Citadelle is a botanical garden. It has six 18th century terraces that grow many kinds of medicinal, aromatic, wild edible plants…and herbs that were used for ancient witchcraft (aphrodisiacs, anyone?). Cucuron : Should you fancy a boutique hotel with its own remarkable garden, check out Pavillon de Galon . Unfortunately, you must be a guest at the hotel to view the garden. If you have time to venture further, between the massifs of Mont Ventoux, Luberon, and Lure, visit L’Abbaye de Valsaintes in Simiane la Rotonde. Jardin de L’Abbaye de Valsaintes has more than 550 kinds of roses, a dry garden, and a permaculture vegetable garden.

Wander around, view the 17th century Cisterian abbey, and listen to Gregorian chants. Best time to visit is spring when the roses are blooming.  

For Waterside Strollers: Fontaine-de-Vaucluse

Fontaine-de-Vaucluse: As the original point of the Sorgue River, Fontaine-de-Vaucluse is the largest spring in France, with about 630 million cubic meters of flowing water per year. 

The “source” (or le gouffre )  looks like a large hole at the foot of a 230-meter (755-foot) cliff (truly impressive!). No one knows for sure how deep the water is. Even the legendary Jacques Cousteau tried to measure it in 1948. He only reached 308 meters deep, and it wasn’t even the bottom yet.

Mysterious and a tad slippery, walking down to the “source” was prohibited when I visited in winter. (When I saw others walking past the barrier, I did the same. I know, horrible. Please do not emulate me. For your own safety, please follow the rules.)

Along the riverbank, enjoy the emerald-green waters (and many ducks, if you’re lucky), lush greenery, and nature walks. There are also many restaurants and souvenir shops.

L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue: The Sorgue River flows through this busy town, also known as the “Venice of Provence.” Enjoy its charming waterwheels, canals, and waterfront cafés, perfect for a leisurely stroll.

L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue is famous for its Sunday fair, which is a mix of fresh produce, local crafts, and a huge flea market that attracts massive crowds.

Beaumont-de-Pertuis: Located in the far southeast of Vaucluse, Beaumont-de-Pertuis has two lakes: 7 Lacs (7 Lakes) and Lac de l’Aillade (Aillade Lake). The “7 Lakes” is an artificial nature reserve intended for protecting avifauna and migrating birds. Perfect for picnics and nature strolls (even with dogs), though bathing is prohibited. Lac de l’Aillade is ideal for a fishing trip (bonjour trout and carp!). It is open from February 1 to November 30, all week except Tuesday. Enjoy refreshments by the lake.

For Stargazers: Saint-Michel-L’Observatoire

Years ago, I lived in Paris and in Normandie, France. We didn’t get clear, starry skies there as often as we do now in Provence. All I’m saying is, while you’re in the Luberon, do not forget to look up.

Saint-Michel-l’Observatoire : Known for its clear skies and star-gazing opportunities, Saint Michel offers an exciting evening activity for the whole family.

Visit Le Centre d’Astronomie (centre-astro.com) for stargazing, solar observations, and planetarium sessions conducted by their scientific guides. You can also book tickets at the official tourist site, Planetarium de Haute-Provence (planetarium-hauteprovence.fr). 

Good to Know : I called them up and learned that during the summer (on Monday nights), they have a guide who speaks English. Unfortunately, their print materials are only in French for now. To be sure, please contact them before your visit.

FUN FACT : Swiss astronomers Michel Mayor and Didier Queloz received the 2019 Nobel Prize in Physics. In 1995, they discovered the first exoplanet, a planet outside our solar system, from the Observatory of Haute-Provence. Cool, huh?

Lagarde-d’Apt : Observatoire Astronomique Sirene (obs-sirene.com) is a small observatory run by volunteers. It is located in a former nuclear missile launch area boasting 360-degree panoramic views. Cash payments only. 

For Bird Watchers: Mérindol

Mérindol : On the banks of the Durance River is Observatoire Ornithologique , a large wooden cabin that allows you to discreetly observe wildlife. There are information panels that will help you identify the birds. Beavers also come out to play. Be patient, bring your own binoculars, and enjoy!

For Fossil Trackers: Viens

Viens : Slabs of mammal footprints are rare. But in Viens*, there are nearly 300 prints, including footprints attributed to Ronzotherium (group of Rhinoceros) and chevrotains. * pronounced like “young with a v at the start and s at the end” – vyoung s Viens is one of the 28 sites in the Luberon Natural Geological Reserve. Other paleontology sites are Saignon , Céreste , and Manosque . For more information, visit the website of the Natural Regional Park of the Luberon .

LUBERON MARKETS

For market mavens: ap t.

In the Luberon, every day is a market day somewhere. But the biggest, baddest, and oldest of them all is Apt . You can go there on Saturdays, 8 am to 12:30 pm, all year round. This weekly market has been alive for hundreds of years (hello, since the 12th century!). Thanks to its authenticity and long history, the Apt market is recognized as “ marché d’exception français ” (exceptional French market).

Wander through 300+ stalls offering fresh produce, lavender and spices, cheeses, crafts, and regional specialties. It’s the perfect place to sample the flavors of Provence and stock up on edible souvenirs.

And when you’re done, sit at a café while people-watching or listening to local musicians. Yes, it’s crowded. Yes, you will sweat in the summer. But it feels authentic and alive.

Personally, I love that it’s also a market where locals go. Unlike some Luberon markets that, dare I say, are overdone for tourists, Apt is the real deal.

Don’t miss out on Luberon market days. Check out the weekly marché schedules and save the images to your mobile phone.

For Fruit Junkies: Cavaillon

Cavaillon : Famous for its juicy, sun-ripened melons. Visit the weekly Monday market to sample the Cavaillon melon. Seriously, you have to taste it. Apt : Renowned for candied fruits ( fruits de confits ) or the colorful, sugar-coated treats made from cherries, melons, orange and lemon peels, pineapple, and more. It is a Provençal specialty that goes back to the High Middle Ages. Drop by La Maison du Fruit Confit (lesfleurons-apt.com) to shop for sweets to bring home to your loved ones. Everywhere in Provence: Well, tomato is a fruit so I’m including it here. Each year, I look forward to tomatoes in season. Thanks to the Mediterranean sun and short farm-to-table trips, les tomates are so juicy and flavorful. 

After I tasted Provençal tomatoes, the bar was set so high. Life’s too short to eat mediocre tomatoes again. Not in the Luberon but still near and within the Vaucluse department, Carpentras holds an annual Strawberry Festival ( Fête de la fraise )  in April. It might be worth checking out if you’re in the Luberon in spring.

For Antique Hunters: L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue

L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue: A paradise for art collectors and shoppers. The river, waterwheels, and charming streets create an inspiring atmosphere for artists and vintage lovers. Visit Quai de la Gare (91 avenue Julien Guigue), a mansion that houses 24 antique dealers that sell furniture, jewelry, books, art, and more. 

You have to experience the Sunday flea market at least once. It is one of the largest and most famous in France, second to the Saint-Ouen antique market in Paris.

Also, twice a year in April and August, L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue hosts the International Antiques and Flea Market Fair ( Foire International Antiquités et Brocante ), where 200+ exhibitors and dealers come from all over Europe. 

If I’m being honest, most stuff is overpriced. But it’s a fascinating experience so if you get the chance, just go!

HERITAGE SITES & ARCHITECTURE

For castle conquerors: lourmarin.

Heads up: If you’re looking for a grandiose, mind-blowing castle like the iconic Château de Versailles , sorry, we don’t have it here in the Luberon. Or at least, it’s not open to the public. 

Many of the Luberon châteaux are either private, in ruins, or turned into hotels, but there are a few you can still visit. Open to the public: Lourmarin : Château de Lourmarin (chateaudelourmarin.com) is a Renaissance-style castle that almost got demolished until Laurent Vibier, an industrialist from Lyon, bought and renovated it in the 1920s.

Today, the château hosts artist residencies, exhibitions, and cultural events. You can visit it anytime during the year (except Christmas and New Year). Videos and information panels have English translations.

Mane : At the door of the Luberon, between the villages of Focalquier and Saint-Michel-L’Observatoire, is the little-known village of Mane. 

Château de Sauvan (chateaudesauvan.fr) or le petit Trianon provençal has been wonderfully restored to its French classical style. It earned two titles: Monument Historique Vivant (Living Historic Monument) and Jardin Remarquable (Remarkable Garden). Private but sometimes public: Ansouis : The medieval Château d’Ansouis (chateauansouis.fr) is one of the most well-preserved castles in the region. Open in April to October, the castle features pretty gardens, 17th-century interiors, and a collection of antique furniture and artwork. What’s interesting is, people actually live in the castle. When you book a tour, the owner herself will show you around her home. It’s in French, but you will get a leaflet with some information in English. Reservation required.

Vitrolles-en-Luberon : Château du Grand Pré (chateaudugrandpre.com) is a listed Historic Monument. Thanks to new owners who took on the gigantic task of ongoing renovation, the château now offers guided tours. By reservation only.

For Ruin Trekkers: Oppède-le-Vieux

Oppède-le-Vieux: This is the old, medieval part of the village of Oppède. Perched on a rocky mountain, the ruins of Oppède-le-Vieux have stood the test of time. The location is as atmospheric as it gets: cobblestone streets, medieval castle, ancient ramparts, arches, and the (restored) 12th century Church of Notre Dame d’Alidon. You can only park at the bottom of the village. Stroll through the Jardins de Sainte-Cécile , pass by the main square, and walk up to the ruins. Once you’re on top, take in the spectacular sights of the Luberon. Buoux: The Buoux Fort sits high up on a rocky mountain that gives a crazy good view, including that of Mont Ventoux.

On the fort grounds, you’ll see ruins of a church, troglodyte habitat, some ancient silos, and my favorite…the steep, secret staircase on the side of the cliff. Warning: If you have vertigo, please avoid the stairs.

Lacoste : A hilltop village that’s famous because of an infamous person, Marquis de Sade (as in ‘sadism’) who did questionable, unspeakable things in the château . Lacoste has that “frozen in time” vibe–from the cobblestone streets to what remains of Château de Lacoste ’s haunting past.

For Ancient Dwelling Seekers: Gordes

Gordes: The Village des Bories (levillagedesbories.com) has around 30 huts or “bories” that look like igloos but are made with stacked, dry stones. These old dwellings served as shelter to shepherds and homes to a community.

Did you know bories were made with only one tool: the mallet? For an average borie, it took about 120 tons of stones!

The architecture is a masterful technique of assembling stones, one placed above the other in such a way that the upper row exceeds the lower one. 

How these structures withstood the harsh climate of Provence (think strong Mistral winds and heat waves) astound me. 

Bonnieux: Not far from Forêt des Cèdres , spread out on a four-hectare land, is a small village of bories . In the Enclos des Bories (enclos-des-bories.fr), there are more than 20 dry stone structures including water reservoirs ( auguiers ), ovens, and an apiary.

Cadenet : Not postcard-pretty and not groomed for tourists, but authentic. It’s an active Luberon town where you can observe local life. 

A nice 15- to 30-minute walk from the center leads you to the Site de Château–on top of the cliff and offers a panoramic view of the Durance. Not much is left of the castle, but you can still see the remains of passages, an ancient well, and troglodyte habitats dug into the rock. I used to not pay attention to Cadenet, but since visiting the ruins, I’ve been fascinated to have a glimpse of the labyrinthe-like lives of an ancient tribe. I bet they had secret passages!

For Door-Enchanted Wanderers: Saint-Saturnin-lès-Apt

There’s no shortage of beautiful doors (and windows) in the Luberon. But it’s not often you see ones that are labeled “ Monuments Historiques ” such as those in Saint-Saturnin-lès-Apt . There are three beautiful doors along Rue de la République.

Other eye-catching sights in the village include: the castle ruins, fontaine du Matheron , hilltop chapel, ancient windmill, and the rather bizarre statue of Joseph Talon (the progenitor of truffle cultivation).

Roussillon : Did you think Luberon’s most colorful village forgot to have pretty doors? Of course not! I especially love how wooden doors contrast against the village’s trademark ocher-red palette. If you’re looking for Medieval-looking doors, Ansouis and La-Bastide-des-Jourdans have what you’re looking for.

For Fountain Fanatics: La-Bastide-des-Jourdans

La-Bastide-des-Jourdans : This perched village, once a bastion of The Templars, has several beautiful stone fountains: the fountain of Jeanne erected around 1793, the column fountain on Place de la République, the village washhouse ( lavoir ), the fountain of Fiol, and more. If you wander the narrow streets of the village, you will find more fountains.

Saignon : Known for its picturesque charm, Saignon boasts the lovely Fontaine de l’Aire , a beautifully restored 19th-century fountain. Surrounded by a lovely square, it’s the perfect spot to unwind and enjoy the quaint atmosphere of this village.

Bonus: Not in the Luberon but still in the Vaucluse department and worth a visit …

Pernes-les-Fontaines : Located north of L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue is this fountain-crazy town. How crazy, you ask? Well, it has 41 public fountains and over a hundred private ones. Among the must-see fountains are Fontaine du Cormoran and Fontaine de L’Ange. This town carries the “ Ville et Métiers d’Art ” label. For more information, visit the tourism site (porteduventoux.com).

ART & SAVOIR-FAIRE

For artists and creatives: ménerbes.

Ménerbes : A perched village that inspired Peter Mayle’s famous book, A Year in Provence , this place was beloved by artists like Picasso and Nicolas de Staël. The Dora Maar House, former residence of surrealist artist Dora Maar (Picasso’s muse), now serves as an artists’ retreat and cultural center. 

Lacoste: With its cobbled streets and the Marquis de Sade’s castle, Lacoste is home to the Savannah College of Art and Design’s (SCAD) study abroad program. The village also hosts the annual Festival de Lacoste that is dedicated to dance, theater, and opera.

Lourmarin : Strolling the café-lined streets, you’ll discover art studios, specialty shops, and ateliers.The Château de Lourmarin hosts concerts, art events, and artist residencies. Perhaps the village’s pride and joy is the fact that Nobel Literature Prize winner Albert Camus lived here. He is buried in the village cemetery.

Roussillon : Famous for its ocher cliffs, Roussillon has inspired artists for centuries. The village’s narrow streets are filled with galleries and workshops where you can find creations of local artists. In addition to these villages, Saint-Remy-de-Provence (technically not a Luberon village but close) is also known for its interesting art galleries.

For the Ceramics-Crazy: Apt

Apt: This town is renowned for its centuries-old tradition of producing exquisite faience , a type of glazed pottery that features intricate designs and bright colors. 

This traditional know-how dates back to the 18th century, when skilled artisans started using locally sourced clay and ocher, which quickly gained popularity and became a symbol of the town’s craftsmanship.

For Sculpture Stans: Joucas

Joucas : Here’s something different and a tad philosophical: Le Labyrinthe D’Art, giant wooden and stone sculptures of man displayed in the village’s public spaces and in the atelier of artists Mieke Heybroek and Ulysse Plaud.

For Cinéphiles: Cucuron

Gordes : On Netflix’s Emily in Paris , there was a restaurant called L’Esprit du Luberon . In real life, it’s actually the Clover Gordes restaurant at the five-star Airelles Gordes, La Bastide.

Cucuron : Can we forget for a sec that Ridley Scott’s A Good Year was a terrible movie? Remember when Max (Russell Crowe) and Fanny (Marion Cotillard) went on a date? That was in Place d’Etang beside Cucuron’s popular pond.

When I first started learning French, I watched a couple of French classic movies with my (French) husband. Surprisingly, I really enjoyed watching these old films!

The first I watched was La Gloire de Mon Père , an adaptation of Marcel Pagnol’s novel, featuring Vitrolles-en-Luberon as one of the locations.

Another Pagnol movie, Le Château de Ma Mère, showcases a castle with stunning gardens, which happens to be the château in Ansouis .      

Mirabeau is a charming village that was shown in Jean de Florette and its sequel, Manon des Sources . In honor of Manon, there’s now a bronze statue of her sitting by the village fountain.

CONVENIENCE HUBS

For families with small kids or seniors: l’isle-sur-la-sorgue.

If you’re traveling in the Luberon with kids or elders, it is best to avoid villages that have difficult steps, steep inclines, and cobblestone streets (definitely not for strollers/prams). Examples of such hilltop villages are Bonnieux, Gordes, Lacoste, and Oppède-le-Vieux.

For family-friendly Luberon destinations that are relatively flat, easy to navigate, and have areas (i.e., cafés, benches, parks, stores) where you can catch your breath, consider: L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue : Known as the “Venice of Provence” because of the River Sorgue flowing through it, this town (not a village) has a relatively flat terrain. It makes it easy for families to explore the streets, see the waterwheels, and cross tiny bridges. Browse through stores and antique shops, dine in restaurants and cafés, or simply stroll. It can get very crowded on Sunday’s big market, but it’s a nice experience if you go early in the morning.

Lourmarin: One of the Luberon’s “Most Beautiful Villages of France,” Lourmarin is flat and makes for a great stroll. It brims with cafés and restaurants for leisurely breaks and stores for souvenir shopping. It even has a children’s playground.

For Digital Nomads: Lourmarin

Lourmarin : La Fruitière Numérique (lafruitierenumerique.fr) is a coworking space that offers high-speed internet, meeting rooms, event space, and even a cinema. Co-working fees are super affordable: 20 euros per day or 28 euros (yes, you read that right!) per month. For more remote working options, you can also go to towns L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue , Apt, and Cavaillon .

RANDOM CURIOSITIES

For eclectic museum goers: ansouis.

Ansouis: Dive into The Extraordinary Museum ( Le Musée Extraordinaire) , where a man’s lifelong passion is brought to life. Be fascinated by a pro diver’s peculiar finds from the ocean and his sea-related artwork, including a blue corals grotto that almost feels like you’re underwater.

Ménerbes : Uncork the fun at Domaine de Citadelle’s Musée du Tire-Bouchon (Corkscrew Museum) by celebrating the humble yet vital tool. Worth a peek if you’re going for wine tasting at the property. This cheeky museum houses over 1,200 corkscrews from the 17th century until the present. You’ll probably laugh at the funny, risqué ones.

For Quirky Village Questers: Beaumont-de-Pertuis

Beaumont-de-Pertuis : When I first visited this village, I said, “Wow, was there a competition for “best home front decor?” Because almost every doorstep or home facade has been prettified with plants, flowers, paint, and handmade decorations.

The most passionate villager is the one who owns the whimsical “Disney” house, decorated with a hodgepodge of characters and animals such as lions, cicadas, dwarves, and other colorful things. You can find this red house at the Place de la Colonne near the fountain.

For Chandelier Admirers: Gargas

Gargas : Did you know the granddaddy of chandelier brands is right here in the Luberon? Okay, maybe “granddaddy” was an exaggeration. 

How about the “trusted chandelier maker” of the ultra-wealthy? Mathieu Lustrerie (mathieulustrerie.com) is a renowned chandelier workshop and museum located in Gargas. Their light fixtures are hanging in the Palace of Versailles, Louvre Museum, and showrooms of luxury brands Hermès, Cartier, and Louis Vuitton.

Every day, there is one guided tour, free of charge. If you can’t join the tour, visit the showroom anyway. It’s a fascinating peek into the craftsmanship and design of this niche art.

For Sundial Seekers: Goult

Provence boasts around 300 days of sunshine per year. So it’s not surprising that sundials (or cadran solaire ) are a ubiquitous decor. When you visit the villages of the Luberon, keep an eye out for these beautifully designed timepieces on the walls of public buildings, churches, and homes. You can spot a sundial in almost every village. If you’re interested in buying sundials as gifts or souvenirs, visit these two artisans: Philippe Yves (pierreduvaucluse.com) in Goult and Martine Guimet (martineguimet.com) in Saint-Saturnin-lès-Apt .

For Sunkissed Nudists: Forcalquier

Now, now, you might be weirded out why I’m including this. Hear me out. I’m not a naturist, but by some twist of fate and much to my fascination, I ended up among nudists twice in one year . This is Europe, and I know there are those who wish to come here for some clothes-free R&R.

If that’s you, then you’ll be pleased to know there’s a 4-star naturist campsite (camping-lauzons.com) in Forcalquier , a small Luberon town, west of the Alpes de Haute-Provence.

SURPRISE FINDS

Big surprises come from small villages. Beware of those places that seem flat, boring, and unassuming. Believe me, they have some real hidden gems.

Here are some of my favorites…

Robion: Above the village, at the foot of the cliffs, there are two surprises: 1) an open-air theater with great acoustics, and 2) a hidden staircase that soars to the sky. Where does it lead? You’ll have to climb to find out.*

*If you’re really itching to find out, ask me via email. But come on, if I tell you, it’ll spoil the surprise.

Tip: If you have vertigo, do NOT climb the stairs. You know how cats climb trees like pros, but they can’t go back down? This is exactly how I felt the last time I climbed those narrow, slippery, earth stairs. And I don’t even have vertigo.

Maubec: Stroll through the narrow streets until you see old stone stairs. Walk down until you reach the concrete road. Across it is this tiny village’s very own lavender fields (best seen in June-July). You’re welcome. 😉

Villars: Look for the Luberon’s cutest little post office. And dine at Cafe des Amis , a friendly bistro.

Puyvert. There’s a small restaurant called Le Puyverre . Run by a young couple, this tiny but mighty restaurant serves up creative dishes that everyone seems to love (check out their glowing Google reviews). I’ve eaten here a few times and have chatted with the owners (Virgil is the chef, Tiffany is the sommelier – great duo!).

This is a place I’d personally bring guests. The food is good, the ambience cozy, and service friendly. I would just caution that food may take a while as the owners run everything themselves. They do not have extra staff, though I think they prefer it that way.

The Wrap-Up: Best Luberon Villages to Visit

Aaand there you have it! I’ve dished out the best villages in Luberon, catering to every taste and fancy. From the award-winning “Most Beautiful Villages of France” to obscure areas, there’s a Luberon village for you.

Below is a summary of The Luberon Spy’s top picks. Remember, I only mention one destination per headline but feel free to reread the previous sections for more suggestions.

THE LUBERON SPY’S CURATED PICKS

For Lavender Fans : Saignon For Wine Lovers : Ménerbes For Gourmets (and Gourmands) : Cucuron For Michelin Star Shooters : Various For Café Lovers & People Watchers : Lourmarin  For Cooking Class Devotees : Maubec For Hikers : Bonnieux For Rock Climbers : Buoux For Panoramic View Explorers : Saignon For Plant Passionates : Pertuis For Waterside Strollers : Fontaine-de-Vaucluse For Stargazers : Saint-Michel-L’Observatoire For Bird Watchers : Mérindol For Fossil Trackers : Viens For Market Mavens : Apt For Fruit Junkies : Cavaillon For Antiques & Flea Market Hunters : L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue For Castle Conquerors : Lourmarin For Ruin Trekkers : Oppède-le-Vieux For Ancient Dwelling Seekers : Gordes For Door-Enchanted Wanderers : Saint-Saturnin-lès-Apt For Fountain Fanatics : La-Bastide-des-Jourdans For Artists and Creatives : Ménerbes For the Ceramics-Crazy : Apt For Sculpture Stans : Joucas For Cinephiles : Cucuron For Families with Small Kids or Seniors : L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue For Digital Nomads : Lourmarin For Eclectic Museum Goers: Ansouis For Quirky Village Questers : Beaumont-de-Pertuis For Chandelier Admirers : Gargas For Sundial Seekers : Goult For Sunkissed Nudists : Forcalquier For Surprise Finds : Robion, Maubec, Villars, Puyvert

How to Best Enjoy the Most Beautiful Villages in Luberon

Slow down. Try not to rush. And don’t be afraid to get lost. You really can’t make a wrong detour in this piece of Provence.

While the hilltop villages are amazing, the scenic drives connecting them sometimes steal the show. Or is it the food and wine? Or the new memories you’ll make? I hope you find the best Luberon villages for you. Happy trip!

Now that you know which Luberon villages you’d like to visit, it’s time to decide where to base yourself. I have just the article to help you decide – my 8 top recommendations for the best base in Luberon .

Jenny Austria is the Provence-based founder and author of THE LUBERON SPY. Before becoming a travel writer, she analyzed numbers and crafted killer copy for global brands and online entrepreneurs.

A soon-to-be French citizen, Jenny has called a tiny Parisian apartment, a 20-hectare Normandy farm, and now a "just right" Luberon stonehouse her home.

After exploring 300+ villages in France and walking 600 km of the French Camino, Jenny is now focused on a fresh, juicy mission: To help you plan a fantastic Luberon vacay with honest, first-hand, no-BS content.

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The Best Villages of the Luberon

People often ask 'which Luberon villages should I visit?' The answer is: it depends. What do you like? Every Luberon village will reward a visit, so here are the best Luberon villages depending on what you are looking for.

Best-Kept Secret: Goult

Although not exactly a secret - the glowing reviews afor its restaurants are testament to that - Goult is not on the tourist trail in the way that other Luberon villages are. Yet it has probably the best outdoor cafés in the north Luberon, the aforementioned restaurants, and the narrow streets and squares you want in a village, culminating in a windmill and a walk along the old terraced hillside that used to feed the village. Goult is in short a gem of a village.

Discover Goult

Most Beloved by the Cinema: Cucuron

Cucuron has two standout cinematic backdrops. One is its unique water basin in the centre of Cucuron, 61m/200ft long with towering plane trees along the sides, shading the restaurants and village market. You will have seen this in the Russell Crowe adaptation of Peter Mayle's 'A Good Year' (2006) in a particularly lovely night-time evocation. The other aspect of the village that made it to international cinema is Cucuron's rooftops, especially photogenic seen from the dungeon tower at the western end of the village - as seen in the French movie 'The Horseman on the Roof' (Le Hussard Sur Le Toit), a period drama from 1995.

Discover Cucuron

Best Luberon Village for Eating Out: Bonnieux

Bonnieux is one of the biggest Luberon villages and in our view has the best selection of restaurants and cafés, going from the simple village bar to the gastro blowout of Bastide de Capelongue. L'Arome and Le Fournil are Bonnieux staples that deliver reliably excellent food. La Bergerie is the more affordable restaurant at Capelongue and is a delight. Bonnieux's village centre has several other eateries with outside summer seating or cosy winter interiors, and if you want that iconic Luberon view to Lacoste head for Les Terrasses, César (indoor only) or the La Terrazza pizzeria.

Discover Bonnieux

Most Picturesque Luberon Village: Gordes

All perched hill-top villages of the Luberon are very photogenic, but Gordes is the best arranged of the lot. Its distinctive honey-coloured stones tumbling down the rock from the castle at the peak make the first sighting of Gordes a must-photograph moment. Now there is actually somewhere to stop and park so you can do this. The village itself is not too bad either, and best seen on market day, which is Tuesday morning.

Discover Gordes

Best for Outdoor Cafes (and people-watching): Lourmarin

Bonnieux may be recommended here as the best place to eat, but many will argue that this should be awarded to Lourmarin . So let's say Lourmarin has plenty of good restaurants, but more uniquely it is the best village in the Luberon for sitting outside a café watching the world go by. There are several cafés to choose from in the centre, to sip a pastis and watch the fancy Parisians on holiday. And if you really want to see the beau monde at play go to Lourmarin for the Yeah! Festival, a vibrant electronic music weekend based at the beautiful Lourmarin castle (tickets sell out in minutes).

Discover Lourrmarin

Most Insta-Friendly Luberon Village: Roussillon

There is nowhere else like Roussillon , with its 17 shades of ochre from the adjacent quarry. You can find spectacular images here, especially where the greens and blues of shutters and doors contrast with the technicolour reds and oranges. Needless to say the rest of the world comes here for that reason so in summer you should come early or late.

Discover Roussillon

Most Frozen in Time: Lacoste

If you dropped the Marquis de Sade back in the centre of Lacoste , the village he dominated in the 1700s, he would not notice anything out of place or different. Until he got to his castle at the top of Lacoste, where he would remark on Pierre Cardin's renovation work. Lacoste is remarkably preserved, its streets still cobbled, you still enter through the medieval gateway, centuries have passed without anyone noticing.

Discover Lacoste

The Village with the Highest Views: Saignon

Saignon , like an eagle's nest on high, was born as a lookout post for the town of Apt, with its peerless vantage point down the length of the Luberon valley to the west, as far as the Rhone valley, and the hill ranges of the Cevennes and Alpilles. The fortress-like rock of Saignon is its most striking feature, and once was topped by a castle - now that would have been a sight to behold.

Discover Saignon

Most Unexpected Luberon Village: Ansouis

Although tiny, Ansouis is home to both a Michelin-starred restaurant and the one-off Museum of the Unexpected. Ansouis is also officially one of The Most Beautiful Villages of France, and has that rarity among villages - a perfectly preserved castle - so it is well worth a visit.

Discover Ansouis

Best for Doorways: St-Saturnin

St-Saturnin-les-Apt is one of those 'real' villages with a year-round population, but that is not to say it is not worth a visit. For example St Sat has three doorways in the central Rue de la Republique that are so notable as to be listed historic monuments. See if you can find them all. The most obvious one is pictured here, the Porte aux Atalantes. St Saturnin also has remarkable fountains, and most unexpectedly a water reservoir creating a seeming lake hanging over the village. Not to mention the fantastic Luberon view from the castle ruins on high.

Discover St-Saturnin-les-Apt

Most Unaffected by Tourism: Viens

The truth is that many Luberon villages are quite unaffected by tourism, especially east of Apt and in the south Luberon. But let's say Viens , as it is definitely on the road less travelled, east of Apt, where vineyards give way to wild hillsides of lavender and maquis, home to as many goats as people. You can see that Viens was something of a medieval stronghold, with its high, dominant position, and you still go through the gateway in the ramparts to enter the village. Once inside, the narrow roads wind towards the castle and distinctive castellated tower, there is a small bar/snackery and you can buy some excellent local honey. Otherwise there is nothing for you but a stroll round a real village with real people, and scarcely a holiday home among them.

Discover Viens

Most Harmonious Luberon Village: Vaugines

Tiny Vaugines is a delight, the notion of sleepy does not do justice to this place. In the centre are a bar, grocery/bakery with excellent tarte tropézienne, a couple of eateries including the highly-rated Le P'tit Resto, and these are clustered round the little square with mossy fountain. Explore a little further and you will discover a picture-perfect 1000-year-old church under towering plane trees that have each seen well over 100 summers. It's all so traditional and harmonious that Vaugines was used as a location for both Jean de Florette and Manon des Sources (and if you haven't seen those movies you really should!)

Most Haunting Luberon Village: Oppede-le-vieux

It's incredibly hard to do any sort of restoration work in the old part of Oppede-le-vieux , if you want to do any rebuilding of fallen down houses you have to use original stones, and those are not available at the local building supply stores. Consequently Oppede-le-vieux, once you step through the main gateway into the oldest part, is frozen in time. Some houses are habitable, others have walls or roofs missing. Take the walk up to the castle and church at twilight and you will imagine all sorts of whispers from down the ages. The view from the top is amazing, looking north over the Luberon to the Mont Ventoux. In the village square are a couple of restaurants to recover from your exertions.

Discover Oppede-le-vieux

Most Arty Luberon Village: Menerbes

You may know of Menerbes as the place where Peter Mayle came to write A Year in Provence and his other best-selling books about life in the Luberon. You may not know that Menerbes has been a haven for several notable artists, from the expressionist Nicolas de Stael, to Picasso's mistress Dora Maar, more recently the Americans Jane Eakin and Joe Downing, and the contemporary Philip Hughes. The Maison Jane Eakin is her house and studio turned into a little museum. Menerbes today is still rich in artists in residence, and at the Galerie Pascal Lainé you can see the current output.

Discover Menerbes

Most Authentic Luberon Village: Cadenet

Cadenet is a very picturesque Luberon village on the south side of the mountain that pays no heed to tourism. It has all the ingredients of a medieval Luberon village - castle ruins, church, winding streets and sunny squares - with no particular attraction to visit. A perfect place to walk around and take in Provencal village life.

Discover Cadenet

Most Understated Luberon Village: Maubec

Maubec is not an obvious choice for the best villages of the Luberon, and it would not feature at all in guidebooks. It is tiny, even by Luberon standards, and when you drive through on the way to somewhere else you don't even notice there is anything there but newish housing. But turn in towards the Luberon mountain, past the football field, and you come to the real Maubec, the one that has topped its modest ridge for at least 800 years. Again, your breath will not be taken away, unless it is from walking up the short, sharp climb to the top layer. But something about the cobbled street, the bell-tower and the way that Maubec dissipates into the surrounding vineyards and hiking paths on all sides, may fill you with the spirit of the Luberon.

Discover Maubec

And finally...the Tiniest Luberon Village: Gignac

Gignac is literally a 'blink and you miss it' place. It answers the question: when is a village a village and not a hamlet? It's when it has a mairie (town hall). Gignac has that, to look after its population of 69 people. It also has a modestly-sized but perfectly preserved (and private) 18th century chateau, which is what will catch your eye as you drive out east from Rustrel. The curious will have a quick look around. You cannot buy anything in Gignac, you can only gaze, maybe that is reason enough to drop in.

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7 Best Luberon Villages to Visit For a Charming Road Trip in Provence

The Luberon Valley is considered the heart of Provence with its captivating landscapes, hilltop villages, local markets, wine culture and renowned culinary scene. If you're looking for a serene location with a rich cultural heritage, the Luberon won't disappoint.

We list the best Luberon villages to visit that capture the charm of Provence, each for a unique reason.

7 Best Luberon Villages

1. Best overall: Roussillon

Roussillon village in the Luberon Valley

Roussillon was our favourite village we visited in the Luberon - it had it all with its striking ochre cliffs, gourmet restaurants, boutique shops, and historic buildings adorned with colourful shutters and blooming flower pots. We found this village to be more colourful and bohemian than others.

Both, our favourite hotel and restaurant were in Roussillon.

Where to eat: Restaurant David

Rarely you come across a restaurant as unique as this one. Not only is its food fantastic and recognized in the Michelin Guide, its view of the ochre cliffs set it apart from anything else. When we dined at sunset and the rocks started to glow, people got up in awe from their table to take pictures outside on the terrace. We even saw a rainbow!

Where to stay: Le Clos de la Glycine

See our list of the 9 best things to do in Roussillon .

2. Best for the atmosphere: Lourmarin

Lourmarin village

Come to Lourmarin for its creative atmosphere, fashionable crowd, and vibrant arts and cultural scene. The village has a rich history, with artists, writers and intellectuals, like Albert Camus, living here throughout history. Lourmarin is best visited on Fridays when the village comes alive with its bustling market and live music in the streets.

Our favourite things to do in Lourmarin

🍷 Snag an outdoor table at Cafe Gaby overlooking the charming old-town square and order a demi-bottle of rosé for some excellent people-watching.

🛍️ Take time to walk through the village to shop the boutiques and admire the medieval buildings that have been immaculately restored. Don't miss the tea shop, La Calade De Lourmarin. We sniffed four types of loose-leaf tea and picked one to have as ice tea in their garden space.

🧺 Gather picnic supplies from the Friday Market and have lunch at Chateau de Lourmarin. Walk up the stairs at the back of the castle to find an excellent picnicking area in an olive grove. Find shade under one of the olive trees and enjoy!

🎵 Drink cocktails, listen to tunes and dance at La Maison Cafe. This upstairs space has a cool vibe.

See our list of the 10 best things to do in Lourmarin .

3. Best for a viewpoint of the Luberon Valley: Bonnieux

The drive from Lourmarin to Bonnieux is one of the most beautiful in the region, with its winding road taking you through the gorge. At the very top, you are greeted by the majestic village with panoramic views over the Luberon Valley. Pull over to the side and stretch your legs while you take in the surroundings.

4. Best for lunch with a view: Menerbes

Exploring the village of Menerbes

Situated up high on a hill, this quiet village is filled with galleries and wonderful places for lunch with views of the countryside. Its relaxed ambience and slower pace of life capture the true essence of Provence. Walking the narrow cobblestone streets past old stone houses brings you to tucked-away gems throughout.

Eat lunch on the terrace of Cafe Du Progress for lovely views overlooking the countryside. The restaurant may look unassuming at the front, but it's a locals' hot spot with excellent farm-to-table dishes. Book far in advance to ensure you get a table on the terrace.

Afterwards, take a stroll through the village up to Maison de la Truffe , and pop into the art gallery upstairs.

Save yourself for a pastry and tea at Chez Auzet , which also has views overlooking the valley. I ordered iced peach tea, which comes freshly brewed in a teapot and poured into a carafe with ice.

5. Best for a local feel: Saint-Saturnin-les-Apt

Saint-Saturnin-les-Apt

Saint-Saturnin-les-Apt should be on your list if you're looking for an off-the-beaten-path village with a good local vibe. You're less likely to run into tourists here.

Walking down the main strip, you'll see locals reading the paper and talking amongst friends at sidewalk cafes. On Tuesday, the town comes alive with their weekly market. Browse the stalls and pop into Boulangerie Patisserie Chafik for their apricot pastry.

The unhurried town has recently been put on the map by its restaurant, Le Saint Hubert. Featured in Conde Nast, this restaurant exemplifies the changing tide of big-city chefs moving to the countryside, where they have the opportunity to work with fresh, locally sourced ingredients and live a relaxed way of life.

It's worth making a stop in Saint Saturnin-Les Apt to dine at St. Hubert. They offer three-course tasting menus for 48 € and their dining room overlooks the valley and mountains. Everything was so fresh.

6. Best for the culinary scene: Goult

Goult village

Many highly-acclaimed restaurants are found throughout the Luberon, however, Goult has two restaurants right in the village that serve some of the best Provencal-inspired cuisine in the region. They are both recognized in the Michelin Guide and are a great value for the calibre of dishes.

Le Carillon is a wonderful spot for lunch. They offer a few set menus with different tiers of pricing and have an outdoor terrace you can dine on. Our scallop starter with green apple was so refreshing.

La Bartavelle is a local hot spot that attracts regulars for dinner. Run by a husband and wife duo, the old stone house has a cozy atmosphere and books up fast.

7. Best to look at from afar: Gordes

Since Gordes is arguably Luberon's most famous village, it can feel quite touristy and crowded. The best way to see the village is from afar, with its stone houses cascading down the terraced hillside.

After viewing Gordes, keep driving towards Abbaye Notre-Dame de Sénanque to see the lavender fields . Even if the lavender isn't in bloom, it's a gorgeous drive. Afterwards, loop around to Aire de pique-nique Route de Murs, for a lovely view and picnic spot .

Closest Airport to the Luberon

We recommend flying into Marseille and renting your car at the airport. From there, it's under an hour's drive to Lourmarin, the closest of the seven villages on this list.

Get started on booking your trip to Provence

• 🌃 Book your accommodation: Booking.com is our go-to for finding places to stay. Sort by top reviewed.
• 🤠 Browse tours with local guides: through GetYourGuide
• 🛫 Book your flight: use Skyscanner to compare flights across different airlines (we recommend booking direct with the airline, however).

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• 7 Days in Paris and Provence
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• 12 Days in France and Italy for food, wine and culture
• How to spend 4 days in Provence
• 3 Day Provence Itinerary
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• How to spend a day in Paris

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Luberon, France: Ultimate Guide to the Picturesque Villages

Europe · France · Travel

Luberon, France was one of our favorite areas we visited during our 3 week France road trip. If you’re dreaming of visiting Provence, most likely what you’re imagining is Luberon, France. It was what I was picturing. Long leisurely lunches, endless beautiful countryside, picturesque hilltop villages, daily markets, and fields of lavender – all this is found in Luberon, France. This Provencal region that lies east of Avignon and north of Aix-en-Provence was made famous by Peter Mayle’s adventures in Provence and the movie “A Good Year” . Since then, a rush of tourists have made their way to Provence, dreaming of the life described in the Peter Mayle’s stories. What not all visitors realize is that the region they are looking for is Luberon, France. The Luberon is characterized by a series of picturesque villages perched on a rooftop. Each village has a distinctly unique personality and slightly different charm to offer. We fell in love with each one we visited and would be hard pressed to choose a favorite. Here’s our ultimate guide to exploring the picturesque villages of Luberon, France.

Luberon, France:

Ultimate guide to the picturesque villages, tips for visiting luberon, france.

1.  Consider narrowing down your south of France itinerary to just the Luberon

The south of France, and even just Provence, are very large regions. It can be difficult to see the entire region during a week long trip. If you have a shorter period of time, we recommend focusing your trip to one portion of the region. The Luberon would be a great choice!

2. Luberon, France makes for a great home base

If you are planning on having a home base while visiting Provence and taking day trips, we recommend the Luberon as your home base. It’s a delightful area to stay in and relatively central to all the parts of Provence that you’ll most likely want to visit. We chose the Luberon village of L’Isle Sur La Sorgue as our home base and wrote here about why it’s the perfect place to stay when visiting Provence .

3. Getting to Luberon, France

We drove from Paris to the Luberon as we were enjoying a beautiful French road trip with lots of stops. If you aren’t planning on undertaking such a road trip {which takes about 7 hours}, there are a few easier ways to get to the Luberon. The region is best navigated by car, so whichever option you choose, we do highly recommend renting a car. Public transportation in the Luberon is limited.

From Paris:

By Train – Take the train to Avignon {about 3 hours}, then drive to the Luberon. You can also take a bus to L’Isle Sur La Sorgue from Avignon

By Plane – Fly into Nice or Avignon, rent or hire a car, and drive to the Luberon

From Most Countries in Europe:

By Plane – There is a small airport you can fly into in Avignon and a larger airport in Nice. Flights into Nice will most likely be cheaper. With either option you’ll need a car to get to the Luberon. If you will be based in L’Isle Sur La Sorgue, you can take a bus from Avignon

From Outside of Europe:

By Plane – There is an international airport in Nice you can fly into. If flights are expensive, it may be more cost effective to fly into Paris then book a separate flight to Nice or Avignon. From there, the best method would be to rent a car to the Luberon

4. Have realistic time expectations

Some of the villages are relatively smaller and others can take a full day to visit. We listed suggested time frames to set aside for each village. Keep in mind a large part of the charm in Luberon, France is the slow pace of life. You can easily take a full day or more to explore each of the villages as you indulge in a luxurious 3 hour lunch, slowly savor a pre dinner aperitif, or simply just wander the charming cobblestone streets without an agenda and being open to the possibilities that can arise around each corner. Part of what made these regions so famous by Peter Mayle and other books and movies set in Provence is exactly this slow pace of life.

We totally understand the feeling of wanting to cram as much as possible in and that is what we typically do, but we suggest you take at least a day or two to just immerse yourself in the slow pace of life, fully enjoying and savoring every small moment. Part of the magic of this region is taking the time to be fully present, moving slowly, and keeping your eyes open to opportunities and experiences you might miss if you’re just rushing through each village to check it off your list. Also, keep in mind that others won’t necessarily assist you in rushing through your jam packed agenda. The locals move slowly, fully present in each moment. They will not appreciate you rushing them and you may get labeled as a rude tourist if you do.

I will share two stories with you to illustrate the pace you can expect when visiting Luberon, France. Much of the south of France is like this, but we noticed the slower pace is to be the most salient in the Luberon. While these are very simple stories, they taught us a very big lesson. In France, especially in Provence, you do not rush. What matters most is the present moment and squeezing every bit out of whatever that moment has to offer, no matter how routine is seems. This attitude of giving importance to an experience and the current moment is one that really resonated with us and that we have tried to keep in our minds even after we came back to our hectic daily lives in the states.

Story 1: The Cheese Shop

We visited a cheese shop to stock up on “essentials” for our apartment just minutes before closing time. We tried to be polite to the shopkeeper by rushing through our order so that she wouldn’t have to stay late, but she told us to slow down, she didn’t mind at all. She took her time to ask us what types of flavors, aromas, and tastes typically appeal to us. As she asked us questions she gave us samples of try. It seemed she really wanted to make sure that we went home with our ideal cheeses. As this was happening, a line began to form behind us. We began to feel uncomfortable again in continuing to take our time when we knew so many people were waiting. We tried to just choose a cheese quickly, but the lovely cheese lady said, “Non!”; the people could wait. They would get the same service when it was their turn. By this point we had narrowed down that we really love comte. The cheese lady had us try every single year of aged comte she had available before letting us choose which one to buy. She gave us one small piece at a time, waiting patiently for us to savor the bite and focus on the flavors, then asked us to tell her what we liked and didn’t like about it. This process of slowing down and really focusing on the flavors was unlike any other cheese buying experience we’ve ever had. We ended up purchasing a comte aged for 32 months and it was the most magical cheese we’ve ever eaten.

Story 2: The Delivery Man

Part of our time in Luberon, France was spent hunting down Bassam’s drone which had gone missing in the French postal system {don’t ask}. Bassam decided to hunt down a delivery man to ask his questions since we weren’t getting any answers at the post office. {The one thing we don’t like about France are the frustrating systems, but that’s beside the point of this story.} We found a delivery man who had parked his large truck in the middle of a small village street and had to left to go buy a sandwich. Keep in mind, these small village streets are SMALL. No other cars could drive around him and so a line of cars had formed behind him. If this had occurred in the States, the cars would most likely be going crazy honking at him and trying to drive around him. The delivery man sauntered out of the sandwich shop 10 minutes later with his lunch in hand. We approached him to tell him we wanted to ask him a few questions. I expected him to say, “okay, let me move my car”, but he said “go ahead”. We asked him our questions and he proceeded to explain the entire French postal system to us. All the cars that were waiting just kept patiently waiting as they watched this interaction. No one seemed upset or bothered at all. Just another day of life in the Luberon.

Best Villages in Luberon, France:

With over 30 villages in Luberon, France, exploring the whole region would take you a long time. We’ve narrowed down the absolute best ones to visit, as well as included their market day and suggested amount of time to dedicate to each village. Keep in mind the markets generally end by 12:30pm. You’ll find that we didn’t include many recommendations per village as the best thing to do is simply to wander and let the village unfold its charms to you. There’s something interesting and charming around each corner, making the villages of Luberon, France perfect for the traveler who loves to wander and explore. From little ice cream shops selling cones of lavender ice cream to charming little art galleries, there are many magical treasures to uncover. Take your time in each village to see what you will find.

Time to spend: Full day

Market day: Tuesday

Closest other villages: Goult and Roussillon

Search for accommodations in Gordes

Gordes just may be Luberon, France’s crown jewel. It’s a compact town that was chosen as one of the most beautiful villages in France. The drive to Gordes is stunning, as is the whole village and the views from its hilltops. The entire village is made from stone, even the gates! Just outside of Gordes is the picturesque Senanque Abbey, which was made famous by its stunning lavender fields. We went in the fall, so the lavender were just stubby little bushes, but it was still a beautiful sight.

Don’t miss:

• Senanque Abbey – 12th century monastery with beautiful lavender fields in the summer. Stop by to view the gorgeous property even if the lavender isn’t in bloom
• Village de Bories – An open air museum of stone huts
• Dining at Les Bories –  This was one of our favorite dinners! Everything was absolutely impeccable: service, presentation, and food. We couldn’t get enough of the bread basket and made a French faux pas of taking seconds {okay and maybe thirds}. This is super random, but I had the most incredible jasmine tea here and I absolutely loved how they served the sugar to go along with the tea. I ended up purchasing it from their gift shop as I felt it would make a beautiful statement when we are entertaining at home
• Drinks at La Bastide de Gordes – Pricey, but OMG THE VIEW!

Time to spend: Half day

Market day:  Friday

Closest other villages: Lacoste, Goult, Menerbes

Search for accommodations in Bonnieux

Built on a plateau above the valley, Bonniuex has some of the best views in the region. We think this is one of the villages you can’t miss. From the picturesque cobblestone streets and the amazing views to the fabulous dining and the fantastic market, Bonnieux offers so much Provencal charm. We wish we had time to try some more of the dining options as we didn’t really like where we chose, but there’s always next time.

• Boulangerie Museum – If you have some extra time, this museum all about bread baking is actually pretty interesting and it’s located in a beautiful old building that was used as a bakery until the 1920s
• Vieille-Eglise-de-Bonnieux –  A 12th century church and the landmark of the town. Climb up to the top for a stunning view of the valley
• Market – The Bonnieux market may be one of the best in the Luberon. It’s not as large as the one in Apt, but it is said to be just as great
• Wine tasting at Chateau la Canorgue – The gorgeous winery where “The Good Year” was filmed. Please don’t go just to take photos, the owners really don’t like that, go to taste the wine!

Not worth the hype:

• Dining at Edouard Loubet – 

Let’s talk positives first. The restaurant is absolutely gorgeous. Edouard Loubet  is easily one of the most beautiful places we dined at in Provence with a breathtaking view of Bonniuex, the gorgeous garden on property, and the impeccable design and decor. All of the food is presented creatively and beautifully. Finally, the cheese cart is the most beautiful thing you’ve probably ever seen. All that being said, we did not find the food to be remotely worthy of 2 Michelin stars or worth the cost. We do not mind paying high prices for amazing food that’s worth it, but we didn’t find any of the dishes we tried to taste as good as they looked. We had much better food every single other place we ate at in Provence and yet this was our most expensive meal {even more expensive than the 3 Michelin star restaurant we dined at outside of Provence!} Our bill at Edouard Loubet came out to around €450 for a lunch of 4 courses, aperitifs, and wine.

Funny story: the menu for women didn’t have any prices on it, so I ordered a ridiculously expensive appetizer as Bassam just looked at me in shock. After the waiter walked away I told Bassam, “I wonder how much (xyz) is” and he looked at me and said, “what do you mean you wonder how much it is? Didn’t you look?!” That’s when we realized only his menu had prices on it. It’s an old fashioned custom not to provide women with prices on their menu so they can blissfully enjoy their meal without worries of things like money {eye roll} and one that the restaurant adopted. I felt so horrible having ordered something so ridiculously expensive when it wasn’t even extraordinarily delicious! It’s quite possible we went on an off day, as the reviews on TripAdvisor seem to be more favorable than our experience. If you absolutely must try it, we suggest going for lunch and limiting your drinks to keep the cost down. The ambiance is really very lovely.

Time to spend:  1-3 hours {Oppede is a very small village and an easy add on to other villages. Go early in the day, there’s not much here in the evening}

Market day:  Saturday

Closest other villages: Menerbes and Maubec

Search for accommodations in Oppede

An old village dating back to the 12th century with picturesque cobbled streets and plenty of french blue shutter windows. It’s a very quiet town and perfect to explore for just a few hours.

• The Old Village – Oppede is known to be two villages – the old and the new. Park your car at the “new village” which is the entrance to Oppede and walk up to the Old Village. You’ll see ruins of the castle and several chapels. It’s a beautiful walk with with lots of Roman ruins and historic charm
• Grab a small bite at Le Petite Cafe – If it’s open while you’re there, this is a very cute, colorful, and whimsical spot to sit for a bite to eat. We don’t recommend having a full meal here as there are many better dining options in the nearby villages, but they offer a wonderful little basket full of small bites for two to share. We enjoyed sitting down to this small meal as we didn’t have breakfast and were going to do quite a bit more exploring before lunch

Roussillon:

Time to spend: Half to full day

Market day:  Thursday

Closest other villages: Bonnieux and Gordes

Search for accommodations in Roussillon

It’s easy to understand why Roussillon was proclaimed one of the most beautiful villages of France. The entire village appears to be sun soaked in a myriad of orange, red, and dusty pink hues. This village in Luberon, France originated from a castle in 987 and has long attracted artists.

• Les Sentier des Ocres – This looped walk is a must so be sure to make time for it! There is a 30 minute loop and a 50 minute loop, each one offering equally beautiful panoramic views. You’ll also get to see the ochre the village is famous for and what gives it the beautiful orange and red hues. The ochre deposits in Roussillon are the largest in the world!
• Art Galleries – Roussillon is full of art galleries and has long been home to many artists. You may see the artists at work in their galleries; many of them creating their masterpieces with pigments from the village

Read more about Roussillon here

L’isle sur la sorgue:.

Market day:  Sunday {the whole town turns into an antique market}

Closest other villages: Gordes and Menerbes

Search for accommodations in L’Isle Sur La Sorgue

L’Isle Sur La Sorgue is one of the busier towns in Luberon, France and is best known for its antique market. Antiques hunters from all over the world come treasure hunting here. It’s also known as the Venice of Provence as a river runs through the charming town. This is where we set up our home base while in Provence and we absolutely loved it. So many great dining options here as well as charming streets and shops. We spent a lot of time here and still couldn’t eat our way through all the spots we wanted to try.

• Sunday Antique Market – Although there are antique stores all week, on Sundays the entire town turns into one big antique market. It’s quite a sight! Even if you aren’t planning on doing any shopping, it’s fun to do a bit of exploring and see what kinds of French treasures you may find
• Dine at Le Vivier – This is a Michelin recommended restaurant and one of the best meals we had. Our dinner was about $60/person and so delicious. We also had our favorite wine of the trip here and it was priced lower than anywhere else
• Pasta at Bella Vita – This is just a tiny little hole-in-the-wall Italian restaurant owned by an older Italian lady. It’s not fine dining in the slightest, but all the pasta is made in house {except for the gnocchi} and may possibly be the best pasta we’ve ever had

Read more about L’Isle Sur La Sorgue here

Time to spend: Few hours – half day

Closest other villages: Oppede, Goult, and Lacoste

Search for accommodations in Menerbes

Menerbes is an incredibly charming little town and we regretted that we weren’t able to spend very much time here. It’s another one of the charming Luberon villages that is designated as one of the most beautiful villages in France. Most of Peter Mayle’s stories take place in Menerbes and he lived just outside of the village until he finally moved away due to all the tourists that would come to try to see his house. Mayle isn’t the only one who called Menerbes home, Picasso also purchased an 18th century home here for his lover, Dora Maar.

• Truffles and wine at Maison de la Truffle et du Vin – An amazing spot to try local truffles and sample some delicious wine of the region
• Castellet – A beautiful 15th century fortress
• Musee Du Tire Bouchon – This quirky museum is all about corkscrews! If you have some extra time, it could be a fun experience, plus you’ll learn some facts about wine making

Note: We did not make it to the following villages, but we wish we did!

Closest other villages: Bonniuex and Boux

Search for accommodations in Lourmarin

Lourmarin is one of the few villages in Luberon, France that is not perched on a hill-top but it looks absolutely beautiful. This village is known for its dining culture with tons of cafes and restaurants to choose from on the cobbled streets. You’ll find lots of wine tasting here, as well as horse back riding. If you’re a fan of pretend “house hunting” when you travel, you can take a walk to admire all the cozy cottages with beautiful gardens here. Writer Albert Camus lived in Lourmarin and was buried in this part of the Luberon.

• Chateau de Lourmarin – a beautifully maintained renaissance castle in the heart of the town

Time to spend: 1-3 hours

Market day:  Tuesday

Closest other villages: Bonnieux and Menerbes

Lacoste is a perched on a hill top and offers stunning views. It’s a charming medieval village that cars aren’t allowed to drive through. Keep in mind there aren’t many dining options in Lacoste, so don’t visit here when you’re hungry! You can actually walk here from Bonnieux via a 45 minute path. If you are visiting when the weather is cool, this would be a wonderful activity!

• Explore the old village – Start by walking up the hill from Place de l’Englise and walk through the stone gateway into Lacoste. From there you can explore the cobblestoned old village that is said to have maintained its historic atmosphere. it’s one of the least renovated villages in Luberon, France

Time to spend:  A few hours to half day

Closest other villages:  Roussillon

Search for  accommodations

This old town has plenty of character, but the BIGGEST reason to visit is for its impressive Saturday market. It’s also the capital of candied fruit, so be sure to try some while you are here. Although we haven’t visited here ourselves, we have heard it is not exactly the prettiest town in Luberon, France.

• The market! – This is the largest market in the region, with over 300 stalls. We very much regret not making it here and hope to on our next trip
• Industrial museum – If you have extra time, this museum showcases the development of pottery in the region as well as the history of the ochre pigment found in Roussillon

Looking for more towns in Luberon, France? Here’s a full list

Sample Luberon, France Itinerary:

It’s very possible to combine several villages in Luberon, France in one day, especially since they are very close together. If you tend to move at a faster pace, you can do 2-3 villages in a day. If you like to move at a slower pace and explore all the twists and turns, plan for 1-2 villages a day. Make sure to budget time to enjoy the drive through the countryside and pull over for stops at anything that may catch your eye. Driving through the Luberon, France is absolutely gorgeous! You can do any combination you like, but here’s a sample itinerary for Luberon, France:

Day 1: Gordes

Day 2: Oppede, Bonniuex, and Menerbes

Day 3: Isle Sur La Sorgue and Fontaine de Vaucluse {Try for a Sunday, as most of the charm is the antique market}

Day 4: Apt and Roussillon {try for a Saturday to visit the Apt market}

Day 5: Lacoste and Lourmarin

Where to stay in Luberon, France

While each village in Luberon, France has its own charm, we recommend staying in one that has more going on in the evening and ample dining options. We also recommend renting an apartment or staying at an Airbnb so you can cook for yourself after shopping the markets and feel a bit more like a local. If you are visiting in the summer, try to find a place with a pool as it gets HOT! If you prefer a more authentic feel, Roussillon is a good option. If you prefer a slow paced village with not a lot of crowds, Oppede would a good choice. Here are some recommendations of busier towns:

L’Isle Sur La Sorgue

This is where we stayed for our entire Provence trip. We wrote here about why we feel it is the perfect home base. L’Isle Sur La Sorgue is the only village in Luberon, France that has a public transportation system, so if that is a concern for you, this will be the best place to stay. L’Isle Sur La Sorgue also has the most variety of dining options in terms of cuisine and price point. It has also has the most open restaurants and shops on Sunday. We loved that it gave us a taste of village life while also being busier than the other towns. It’s pretty centrally located, so we never felt we were driving too much.

Search for accommodations

This is a very popular town to stay at as it is the most well known town in Luberon, France and has fantastic views and dining. It’s also home to the incredible 5 star hotel La Bastide de Gordes .

Menerbes is another popular town to stay at as it has a lot of great dining options. It doesn’t seem to get as crowded as the other towns do and doesn’t feel like it caters to tourists. It’s my fantasy to stay HERE . Maybe one day we’ll be able to make it happen!

Recommended for your trip to Luberon, France:

Comfortable shoes.

Many of the villages in Luberon, France are visited by foot and do not allow cars. We strongly recommend wearing comfortable shoes so that you can explore all day. We have a post on cute and comfortable shoes for women here . Here are a few options other options I have personally tried and love.

Books to Inspire

I love reading about a destination before I go there to get excited for the trip. Here are some wonderful books that are great reading and will get you inspired and excited for your trip.

We hope you found this guide to Luberon, France helpful!

We loved visiting this part of Provence so much and are dreaming of the day when we can go back to Luberon, France!

Did you like this post on Luberon, France? Please pin it!

September 7, 2018 at 6:36 pm

I love cute lil European villages! And Le Petit Cafe looks so so good!!

September 7, 2018 at 7:05 pm

It was such a cute little spot! I took way too many photos, haha

September 7, 2018 at 9:52 pm

What an incredible post – the photos are beautiful, but I really enjoyed learning about so many different villages in France! “Village” is not what pops into mind when I think of France, so it’s refreshing to see this remote side of the country. Since I live in Bali, my perception of a “village” is also quite different from European villages, which I would LOVE to explore one day!

September 8, 2018 at 10:01 am

I’m so glad to hear you enjoyed reading the post and learning about the French villages! I totally get you on how different villages are in each country, Bassam is from Lebanon and the villages there are very different than European villages. We would love to explore Bali someday!

September 8, 2018 at 12:02 am

Your photos look absolutely stunning! I adore the south of France but have spent much more time in the southwest than Provence. And I have to agree, narrowing down your travel to a smaller area makes you fall all the more in love with it as you can get a little more under it’s skin. As a life-long lover of French markets, which was your favourite? Did you stumble across any great ones?

September 8, 2018 at 10:00 am

Thank you! We have not spent very much time in the southwest and would love to! There is just so much to explore in France, I want to go back again and again! We unfortunately didn’t get to plan our days according to market days like I would’ve liked to, but based on what I’ve read, I think I would like the one in Bonnieux the most! Do you have a favorite? I’m always looking to add to my list!

September 8, 2018 at 9:55 am

Luberon looks amazing. I really like your style of photography. Up until now I have remained blissfully unaware that there was such things as “womans menus.” When I read that phrase I just did not know what to make of it. I would be less than pleased to discover mine didn’t have prices.

September 8, 2018 at 9:58 am

Aw thank you so much! Right?! It’s very strange. I had heard of them before but that was the first time I had encountered it in real life! I’m a person who hates not knowing things so not having the prices listed wasn’t my cup of tea! Plus, I contribute to our finances just as equally as my husband so it is slightly offensive.

May 5, 2019 at 2:13 am

Lovely article. The pictures are dreamy, but the writing is even more beautiful. We are heading to the region in July, mainly for lavender fields, but wanted to do 1 town or village on the way and you sum it up beautifully. We are ot so much into wine drinking but looking forward to sampling the cheeses. Thanks. Are the parking places for these villages and panaromic vistas for photo ops obvious like Gordes or Bonniuex, or do you have recommendations for them?

May 7, 2019 at 12:17 am

Hi Sheetal. Thank you for stopping by! I’m so glad you enjoyed the post! I hope you have an absolutely amazing trip! Yes, the parking lots and panoramic views are very easy to find. For both Gordes and Bonniuex, as soon as you enter the main part of the town you’ll find the viewpoint and also parking. You can also drive through both of the towns and park closer to wherever you’re going. I hope you enjoy your trip and let me know if there’s anything I can help with!

May 14, 2019 at 5:21 pm

I have been reading heaps of blogs about Provence and this was one of my favorites! I especially loved the book recommendations. While dining out, did you come across any places that had live music?

May 19, 2019 at 9:31 pm

I’m so so happy you liked it! We didn’t, but we are going back to Provence in a week and I’ll let you know if we find any spots!

May 16, 2019 at 1:55 pm

Great post! I was just wondering were was the cheese shop that you talk about at the begginig? The service sounds great I would like to go buy some cheese there

May 19, 2019 at 9:29 pm

I actually can’t remember! But we are going back in about a week and I will update you then!

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A Guide to the Villages of the Luberon

When we think of Provence, chances are we’re thinking of the Luberon. This historic region between Aix-en-Provence and Avignon is perhaps the most beautiful in France, with rolling hills streaked with lavender and medieval villages perched atop ancient rock formations. The Luberon has long been a favourite destination for those seeking  la belle vie   in the south of France, and with good reason; year after year the villages here never seem to lose their charm.

Perhaps the most well known of the Luberon’s hilltop villages, thanks in part to Ridley Scott’s truly awful film A Good Year,  Bonnieux is also one of the most picturesque in France. A spiral of cobbled streets wind their way up to the medieval church that sits at the highest point in the village, rewarding those who make the arduous climb with fantastic views of the valley below. On a clear day you can expect great views of Mont Ventoux , the infamous chalk topped mountain feared and revered by cyclists and followers of the Tour.

photo: Salva Barbera

A market is held each Friday in Bonnieux, where local produce is sold, from fresh goat’s cheese to authentic Provencal soap. This market makes for an altogether more relaxing experience than in other, busier villages in the Luberon, taking just half an hour or so to stroll around. There are a number of restaurants and cafes in Bonnieux, ranging from the up-market to the easier-on-the-wallet. A beer or a coffee overlooking neighboring Lacoste never goes amiss.

Over the plain from Bonnieux, perched atop a similarly sized hill, lies Lacoste. This is a village steeped in history, both old and contemporary. In the 18th century the Château de Lacoste, the castle that dominates the village, was home to one of the most notorious figures in French history: the Marquis de Sade. It was here in Lacoste that de Sade carried out his debauched acts which led to his writing of The 120 Days of Sodom , bringing the word ‘sadist’ into our dictionaries. The castle is now owned by fashion royalty Pierre Cardin, who holds cultural events here, showcasing his latest creations.

photo: Reidobandito

The village of Lacoste has the sleepy feel of a village frozen in time, where the click-clacking of footsteps on cobblestones and the gentle murmur of wind through cypress trees are the only sounds disrupting the silence. There is a pathway that leads all the way to Bonnieux, taking roughly 45 minutes: a perfect way to spend an afternoon.

Awarded the ‘ plus beaux villages de France ‘ title, Lourmarin is another enchanting town in the Luberon with a history of famous residents. Albert Camus , one of the most influential 20th century writers, is buried in Lourmarin where he spent his last years, and Winston Churchill chose this village after the war to pursue his lifelong interest in oil painting. Today Lourmarin is a fantastic place to visit for its wealth of cafes and restaurants, which offer some of the most authentic Provençal food in the Luberon.

By Vi..Cult…

East of Bonnieux and Lacoste, Cucuron is another village best visited on its market day, held every Tuesday. Stalls congregate in the village centre, around an impressive stone bassin , selling farm produce and delicacies from around Provence. After a coffee outside the local cafe, there is a crumbling walled fortress to explore, free of charge.

Apt and Saignon

While not specifically a hilltop town, Apt is worth an honorable mention here as one of the larger towns in the Luberon. The market held on Saturday is probably the biggest in the area, and can take a couple of hours relaxed sauntering to complete. As Apt is not generally considered a tourist town, there is an interesting diversity of people, shops and restaurants here as well as a vibrant v ide-grenier,  or carboot sale, where bargains can be had. Apt has a thriving cafe scene, with tables spilling out on to every street; here you will be serenaded by Django Reinhardt-esque three-piece buskers, providing a jaunty little soundtrack to the laid-back atmosphere.

photo: Pierre Bona

Follow the road south-east out of town, climbing up steep, winding roads, and you will find the enchanting little commune of Saignon. This tiny little village is built into, and around, a monolithic rock formation resembling a towering stone castle, accessible by an iron-age pathway. At the top, expect to be blown away by the panoramic views of the Luberon, and a nifty little circular map allows the identification of pretty much all the villages mentioned in this guide.

Castellet and Auribeau

If you continue up the same road leading from Apt to Saignon, you will eventually come to the villages of Castellet and Auribeau. Life in these isolated outcrops at the foot of the Mourre Nègre mountains has remained fairly unchanged for the last hundred years, with local farmers steering nomadic herds of goats across the rocky countryside. There are two reasons why these villages receive a mention in this guide; firstly because Castellet contains one of the oldest lavender distilleries in the country still working today. Lavender is taken from the surrounding fields which bloom deep purple in early summer, and boiled down to create essential oil for soaps and perfume. Bottles can be bought by the liter for a fraction of the price you would pay in any boutique, and as you watch the farmer fill them straight from the still you know its the good stuff.

View from the Mourre Negre, photo: Jean-Marc Rosier de http://www.rosier.pro

The second reason is because Auribeau marks the starting point for the breathtaking Mourre Nègre hiking route. This old smugglers trail takes you 1,125 meters above sea level through the mountain range, taking between 4 and 10 hours depending which route you chose. On the trail you can find artifacts from the days when donkey carts would carry salt through these wild passes to avoid highwaymen and bandits.

photo: pixabay

Just half an hour away from Avignon , Gordes is the jewel in the Luberon’s crown. This compact hilltop town at the foot of the Vaucluse Mountains has become one of the trendiest places to live in Provence, with artists such as André Lhote, Marc Chagall, Victor Vasarely and Pol Mara all living here at some point in their lives. A favourite sight to see in Gordes is the ancient Borie village which was lovingly restored in the 1970s by a team of archaeologists and locals. These impressively complex stone houses were once the homes of shepherds and agricultural communities before the industrial revolution, and make for a fantastic place to take a picnic.

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Most Beautiful Hilltop Villages in Luberon, Provence

Article written by Elisa - Travel Writer & Local in France This article may contain compensated links. Please read disclaimer for more info.

The Luberon region is one of the must places to visit in Provence . It is 70 km north of Marseille and includes parts of the Vaucluse and the Alpes-de-Haute-Provence departments. This is an area of extreme landscapes, as well as picturesque hill towns that guard sleepy valleys and vineyards.

The hilltop villages of the Luberon are steeped in history: some of them date back to the Middle Ages and the Roman Empire! Each of these Luberon villages is uniquely different, but you can expect to be wowed by countryside vineyards, vibrant lavender fields, cobbled streets, and authentic old French charm.

The best way to explore the hilltop villages in Luberon is by car, on a Luberon road trip . Driving around this gorgeous region is a revelation and a great way to see as much as possible. You can also set your base in the medieval city of Avignon and explore the Luberon region on day trips or with a guided tour. Guided tours are also available from Aix-en-Provence .

We’ve researched some of the most beautiful hilltop villages Luberon has to offer to give you a real taste of Provence : Medieval histories, walled towns, and Renaissance stylings await.

Are you planning a last-minute trip to Luberon, Provence?

Below are some of the best Luberon tours, hotels, and more!

• Book your train to Avignon
• Book a rental car in Avignon

Top Experiences and Tours in the Luberon

• From Avignon: Luberon hilltop villages guided tour
• From Avignon: Luberon hilltop villages half-day guided tour
• From Avignon: lavender villages day tour (seasonal)
• From Aix-en-Provence: Hilltop villages in Luberon guided tour

Top Avignon Accommodation & Lodging

Hotel Central (mid-range), Hotel Cloître Saint-Louis Avignon (luxury), and Avignon Grand Hotel (luxury). Other great hotels in Avignon .

Don’t forget your travel insurance!

SafetyWing  offers travelers insurance that combines medical and travel-related coverage for long and short trips (minimum of 5 days)

Luberon Villages Map

On this Luberon villages map, you will also find the cities of Avignon and Aix-en-Provence pinpointed for reference.

Click here to view this Luberon Villages Map on Google

Best Luberon Hillotp Villages

1. bonnieux.

The first of these hilltop villages of Luberon is Bonnieux . Bonnieux is located on the northern slopes of Luberon.

Throughout the village’s history, countless dignitaries, lords, and counts have called this place home. This is one of the less touristy spots in the Luberon region, with the village having kept many of its unique village attractions.

The village is characterized by slopping cobbled streets, fountains, washhouses, and the old church. The villages’ architecture is a mix of Gothic and Romanesque.

The Tour Philippe is one of the village’s main attractions. This tower was designed by a dreamer who wanted to see the Mediterranean Sea from Bonnieux. Due to a lack of money and the early death of its author, the tower was never finished, but we are sure you will appreciate the history of the monument and its particular architecture.

Bonnieux is also known for its fragrant lavender fields, which turns Bonnieux into one of the most picture-perfect small towns in Provence . Check out the best time to see lavender in Provence .

2. Forcalquier

Forcalquier is located between the Luberon and the Lure mountain ranges in Alpes-de-Haute-Provence. Forcalquier sits on the slope of a hill and boasts a Mediterranean climate.

There’s so much to discover when wandering the narrow streets of Forcalquier. If you happen to be in the village on a Monday, head to the Forcalquier market . Spread across the village, it’s one of the biggest markets in the region, and there’s a vibrant atmosphere.

Another interesting thing to do whilst in Forcalquier is to visit the European University of Scents and Flavours . Yes, who knew such a university even existed? Here you can enroll in a workshop to learn about the properties of plants.

This is another of the best hilltop villages in the Luberon and one not to be missed.

TIP: During the lavender season, don’t miss this hot air balloon flight from Forcalquier!

Gordes is perhaps the most famous village in Luberon, Provence. You simply cannot beat the hilltop views looking across the village. The beige-brown houses seem to be perched on the hillside, with vibrant green trees filling in any gaps.

Gordes is a maze of narrow streets that are just waiting to be explored. There are plenty of restaurants and small boutiques lining these cute streets. Not only is the view of the village spectacular, but the views of the surrounding Luberon Valley are expansive and breathtaking.  

During the lavender season, Gordes is one of the best Luberon villages to visit on this lavender route in Provence .

Located between Ménerbes and Bonnieux, Lacoste is best known for its beautiful castle perched on top of the hill, which belonged to the Marquis of Sade. Its partially ruined state only adds to its intrigue and lure.

Lacoste has had quite a bloody history, with the 1545 massacre being one of its defining points in history. In 1545, an army led by Jean Maynier, Baron of Oppède, undertook a “crusade” against the heretics: he brutally murdered every last resident of Lacoste!

One of the best things about this Luberon village is that Lacoste presents its own view through history. At the bottom of the village, there are small restaurants and art galleries reflecting the modern era. Then as you ascend, the streets turn into cobbles, and the stone arch of Portail de la Garde really shows Lacoste’s ancient history.

If you like atypical places steeped in history, don’t miss the old underground stone quarries. You can also admire the belfry with its wrought iron campanile, a 12th-century church, an old 19th-century Protestant temple, and many bories, the dry stone huts typical of the fields in Provence.

5. Ménerbes

Ménerbes is a commune within a walled village in the Luberon Mountains right at the foothills of the French Alps .

When you first set eyes on Ménerbes, it looks almost as if the village is clinging to the hillside. Cute houses are staggered almost haphazardly on the side of thick greenery.

The streets of Ménerbes are long, steep, and narrow, with a church at one end of the village and a château at the other. During Roman times, Ménerbes played an important role on the Roman highway, which stretched from Rome to the south of Spain.

Wandering the narrow streets of this Luberon village, gazing at the cute blue shutter houses with creeping vines, and taking artistic pictures will have you fanaticizing about living in this hilltop village.

6. Roussillon

Roussillon is one of the prettiest hilltop villages in Luberon and a must for any Luberon villages tour . Roussillon sits near one of the largest ochre quarries in the world.

The old, characterful houses of Roussillon are all colored in different shades of red and orange, following a local law that stipulates that residents must maintain the ochre color on their properties. Because of the earthy colors of the buildings, a warm and welcoming atmosphere is created, particularly when the sun is beating down.

Take your time to wander around this pretty town. Whilst in Roussillon, you’ve got to head up to the village fortifications. You will be treated to a spectacular view of the valley that surrounds the village.

You should also check out the Le Sentier des Ocres or the Ochre Trail. The 1.5km walk is just around a 1.5 kilometer out of the village and heads right through the ochre quarry.

TIP: If you prefer to stay in the heart of Luberon for your Luberon villages explorations, the B&B Bastide des Demoiselles always has excellent reviews.

Saignon is one of the smallest villages Luberon has to offer, with just a bakery, two restaurants, and a convenience store. It might be small, but it’s also one of the most beautiful villages in Luberon and one of our favorite places to see lavender in Provence .

One of the things you must do whilst in Saignon is to climb the Rock of Saignon. From the top, you will get outstanding views of the Luberon Valley . On a clear day, you can see Mont Ventoux and the Alpes de Haute Provence.

Set out to stroll around the narrow streets, and you’ll soon arrive at a 12th-century Roman church. Whilst walking, you’ll come across charming houses with ancient doors. This is one of those places where you must keep your eyes peeled for quirks and small pieces of ancient history.

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Ultimate Luberon France Villages Guide & 1-Day Luberon Tour

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The Luberon France villages are nothing if not picturesque. There are limestone cliffs and gorgeous views from the hilltop village of Gordes. Picture the red and burnt orange hues of the hills and homes in Roussillon. And you cannot forget the lovely chateaux, vineyards, and, of course, lavender fields in this section of Provence.

To visit the Luberon villages is to absolutely fall in love with the place. And after an early autumn visit to this part of France during my 7-day South of France road trip , I can honestly say that it was well worth it and a highlight of my vacation. 

So that is why I want to give you a run-down of the best villages of the Luberon in France as well as key items like when to visit, how to get around, and more. 

And, as a bonus, I’ll give you my ultimate 1-day Luberon tour itinerary that you can steal for yourself! 

What is the Luberon in Provence?

The Luberon region is a massif located in Provence in the South of France in the Vaucluse department. There are three mountain ranges here called the Lesser Luberon, Greater Luberon, and Eastern Luberon. There are also several valleys where you’ll find plenty of vineyards, dreamy villages, and more.

It is particularly famous as a place to visit during the lavender season in the summertime, especially for its sprawling lavender fields and charming towns in between. 

And many of the Luberon towns actually have been awarded “Les Plus Beaux Villages de France,” or the “Most Beautiful Villages of France.” 

It is a great place for a day trip to admire all there is to see in the Luberon!

Luberon Villages Map

See below for my Luberon Provence France map! 

Getting to & Around the Luberon Valley in France

The Luberon isn’t really easily connected via airport or train station. However, you can fly into Paris, Marseille, or Nice and either take a train to Avignon or Aix-en-Provence and/or rent a car and drive. For flights, I love checking Skyscanner ! Then, when it comes to renting a car, I like Auto Europe .  

We ended up renting a car from the Avignon train station for our road trip and spent a day in the Luberon villages. 

There is an alternative option if you do not want to rent a car. There are several Luberon tours you can take from either Avignon or Aix-en-Provence. 

From Avignon, you can take a full-day Luberon hilltop villages trip , a lavender day tour during the season , and even a full-day Provence tour that includes stops in the Luberon. 

From Aix-en-Provence, you can take a Luberon market and villages day trip , a Cassis and Luberon day trip , a hilltop villages tour of the Luberon , and even a lavender trip to Sault and Gordes . 

I love these day tours of the Luberon if you’re short on time and don’t want to rent a car, especially if it is just for the day. 

However, if you want to go at your own pace and see smaller towns that these tours may not cover, it is a good idea to rent a car . 

If you choose to rent a car, definitely download offline Google maps in case you lose service and/or don’t want to pay for a data plan for the day. 

When to Visit the Luberon, France

I really can’t think of a bad time to visit the Luberon. Maybe in the wintertime, it is a bit chillier, and some more touristy things may be closed. However, the Luberon is truly scenic year-round! 

If you want to come specifically for the lavender fields and want to see them at peak bloom, opt to visit between mid-June through mid-July . This is the prime time to enjoy the fields and take beautiful photos! 

Just note that this is the most popular time of year to visit, so expect to pay higher prices for hotels and rental cars. Also, it can be crowded, and hard to find parking. Not to mention that it is the hottest time of year to visit Provence. 

I ended up visiting in late September/early October during my Provence road trip, and it was perfect! There were hardly any crowds (except in towns with the weekly market!), parking was easy, and the weather was lovely. 

The only downside was that lavender season was over. However, it was still stunningly gorgeous during this time of year with plenty of other flowers and even some of the leaves changing! 

Best Luberon Villages in France

There are several little charming villages that dot the hillsides and valleys throughout the Luberon in France. These are some of the best Luberon villages in France to visit during your time there!

This is such a scenic town. In fact, it is so scenic that there is a viewpoint for taking photos of this little village.

Perched atop a hill, this limestone village can be seen from many angles, with its church and castle dominating the scene. But even within the city itself, the little alleys and cafes are endlessly charming. 

It is no surprise, then, that is it on the list of Les Plus Beaux Villages de France. 

Aside from the town itself, it is a short drive from the iconic Sananque Abbey that is known for its sprawling lavender fields in the summertime. 

Where to Stay: Airelles Gordes, La Bastide

Market Day: Tuesday

2. Menerbes

Full of ancient stone buildings, this village is not only beautiful, but the views of the cherry orchards and vineyards below are next-level stunning. 

Another on the list of Les Plus Beaux Villages de France, it comes as no surprise that you’ll be instantly charmed by its winding alleys and a 16th-century fortress. 

This is also a great town for wine and truffle lovers, not only because of its surrounding vineyards but also because there is a wine and truffle museum as well as a corkscrew museum.

For another truly unique abbey nearby, be sure to check out the 13th-century Saint-Hilaire Abbey.

Where to Stay: Mas Des Cedres

Market Day: Thursday

3. Roussillon

It is absolutely insane how much the villages in the Luberon can change in a short distance. At one point, you’re admiring the hilltop limestone village of Gordes, and at another point, you’re rounding a corner to see an equally impressive village sitting atop vibrant red and orange ochre hills. 

Roussillon is a very lovely, colorful village to visit and a must-stop on your Luberon tour. Not only is the city full of the gorgeous shade of ochre, but the ochre quarry is right next door, and there is even a path you can take to enjoy all the splendor yourself. 

From the path, you’ll be able to admire the combination of fresh pine trees amongst red, yellow, pink, and orange shades of ochre along the path. There are also stunning views of Roussillon from the hike, and afterward, you’ll definitely want to wander around the town itself and admire the scenery and lovely architecture. 

Like other towns on this list of the best Luberon villages, it is one of the Plus Beaux Villages de France. 

Where to Stay: La Maison des Ocres

This gorgeous hilltop village is known for its beautiful castle of the Marquis de Sade which is the focal point of the town.

And while this is a lovely town with sundrenched 15th-century buildings, the castle was actually home to the person that the word ‘sadism’ comes from. Yep, there’s definitely some naughty history with the Marquis de Sade. 

There was also a devastating massacre that happened here back in 1545. So while there is a dark past, this town is scenic to visit and feels like stepping back in time. 

Where to Stay: Les Clos des Lavandes

5. Bonnieux

This town is full of lovely cafes and restaurants, making it a good stop during a day trip to the Luberon villages. 

The village boasts amazing views of the vineyards and orchards in the valley, and it is also known for its two churches named “Vielle Eglise” and “Eglise Neuve” which mean “Old Church” and “New Church” respectively. While you can’t go inside of the older church, you can enjoy the lovely paintings in the new church. 

It is well worth wandering around the village of Bonnieux to admire the architecture as well as enjoy some people-watching at a nearby cafe. And for bread lovers, definitely head to the Musee de la Boulangerie, which is a museum dedicated to baking. 

Where to Stay: Les Terrasses du Luberon

Market Day: Friday

Slightly lesser known and lesser visited than many of the other Luberon villages like Roussillon and Gordes, it is a beautiful place with a gorgeous 17th-century castle and an old Medieval church. 

Have some lunch at the Cafe de la Poste while people watching, and then walk around the agricultural terraces nearby. It takes about an hour to walk and is full of views. 

Where to Stay: Villa Lumieres

7. Lourmarin

Another on the list of Les Plus Beaux Villages de France, this lively village sits in the center of olive and fruit trees. There is also a Medieval and Renaissance castle from the 15th and 16th centuries to visit called the Chateau de Lourmarin. 

And for wine lovers, this town is known for great wine, and there are quite a few vineyards and places to go wine tasting nearby! 

Where to Stay: Ancienne Maison des Gardes

Market Day: Friday, but there is also an evening farmer’s market on Tuesday.

Known for having the largest weekly market, its Saturday market is bustling with vendors selling local soaps, cheeses, nougat, fruits, veggies, and more. 

It is a lovely place to wander around and see locals and visitors alike tasting and purchasing delicious food and locally made crafts to take home. 

This town is nestled right in the heart of the Luberon and is a little larger, making it a great place to spend some time wandering around and taking photos. 

And if you’re a fan of candied fruit, then this is the place for you; the town is known as the capital of candied fruit!

Where to Stay: Hotel Sainte Anne

Market Day: Saturday

While there are many villages that feel like stepping back in time in the Luberon valley in France, Oppede may be the most authentic feeling. 

This once abandoned town due to the crusades and conflict took its time to slowly grow back, and now you can wander around old ruins as well as enjoy the charming stone buildings and streets. 

Admire the Notre-Dame-d’Alydon and castle as you take in views of the Luberon. It truly is like stepping back into Medieval France. 

Where to Stay: Domaine Les Roullets

10. Cucuron

This gorgeous village is known for its stunning water basin in the main square. It is lined with towering trees, and there are lovely cafes and restaurants surrounding the basin, making it quite a picturesque view.

It even hosts its Tuesday market along the basin, which is super cute. Curucon is a lovely tucked-away gem that is fun to explore, especially if you walk up to the old castle ruins for the most spectacular view of the town. 

This town is so pretty, it has even been featured in a couple of movies like A Good Year and The Horseman on the Roof.

Where to Stay: Le Pavillon de Galon

Best Things to do While Visiting the Luberon France

This area of Provence is so lovely to visit, but now let’s talk about some fun things to do in the Luberon France! 

1. Farmers Markets

I absolutely love a good French farmer’s market. Whether it is the lively Annecy farmers market or a tucked away market, there is something special about getting to sample local produce from the people who grow and make it. 

Several Luberon villages have weekly markets to visit, as I’ve listed above. They are typically open pretty early on in the morning and close around 12:30 pm. So you may want to tailor your Luberon tour based on market days because these are a must-see. 

We ended up visiting the Luberon on a Saturday, so we were able to go to the Apt market which was perfect with its fresh foods and cute decor…I wanted to buy everything! 

Here is a great website I’ve seen with details on when the markets take place! 

Some things to purchase in the area include Provence soap, lavender, local cheeses, fresh fruits and veggies, and all the beautiful textiles. 

2. Lavender Fields

I think that is what has made the villages of the Luberon in France so famous. Instagram made us all ask ourselves where we could find these dreamy lavender fields that seem to go on forever.

One of those answers is definitely in the Luberon. Lavender season is between mid-June to mid-July and just make sure you have permission to take photos in the fields! Many farmers harvest those flowers to sell or make lavender products for sale. 

While you’re driving around, there is also a Lavender Museum in the Luberon to learn all about lavender and how it got to be a big crop here! 

Some local lavender farms to visit include La Ferme de Gerbaud with guided tours and La Ferme Aux Lavandes. Aside from the lavender farms, you can also spot lavender fields around Sault, Apt, and Gordes, as well as at the foot of Mont Ventoux. 

There is even a Lavender Trail in Sault! And you cannot miss the lavender fields in front of Senanque Abbey. 

Love cycling? This is, of course, a lovely place to do it! We actually saw a bike tour while we were at the Gordes Lookout! 

Companies like Cyclomundo offer multi-day tours of Provence including time in the Luberon! Or you can rent a bike and head to see the area for yourself. 

As the Luberon is the Luberon Natural Regional Park, there are definitely plenty of hiking opportunities. Aside from walking along the Ochre Path and Lavender Trail, there are ample hiking trails in the area. 

Some fantastic hikes include the nice and easy but lovely Ceder Forest hike near Bonnieux, the Colorado Provencal hike that has views of more ochre, and the Gorges d’Oppedette hike. 

5. Kayaking

Rent a kayak or canoe and float along the Sorgue River. You can book one at Kayak Vert and enjoy all the stunning scenery of the Luberon via the water. 

6. Go Wine Tasting

You’re in Provence, so you know you can get some delicious wine! Grapes that are grown here include Grenache and Syrah, and you can find delightful red, white, and rose wines. 

Some great wineries include Chateau Constantin near Lourmarin and Chateau la Canorgue near Bonnieux. 

7. Explore Castles

We know there are so many great castles all over France, so, understandably, the Luberon in France is no exception. There are castles still in use to this day like the Chateau de Lourmarin and castle ruins like the Oppede-le-Vieux castle or Fontaine-de-Vaucluse Castle. 

8. Senanque Abbey

Aside from its famous lavender fields, this is a lovely abbey to visit during your time exploring the villages of the Luberon. Just outside of Gordes, this Cistercian abbey dates back to 1148 AD. 

It is stunningly beautiful even if you go outside of the lavender season, and you can tour the inside for €8.50. It includes a histopad which you can hover over certain signs and get more information on the rooms and even animated photos of what it looked like back in its day. 

And, on your way out, you can even purchase some lavender products. 

Ultimate Luberon Tour Itinerary in One Day

Okay, we’ve discussed all the best Luberon villages, things to do in the Luberon, and even getting there and around. Now, let’s lay out an awesome Luberon tour itinerary that you can do in a whole day. 

I’ll preface this by saying that I really enjoyed using the Luberon villages day to transition from our time in Avignon to our stay in Aix-en-Provence. So in this itinerary, we’ll start in Avignon and end in Aix-en-Provence. 

Note that we did this on a Saturday, so that dictated where we went for a farmer’s market. In this case, we visited Apt which was fantastic! But if you want to go on another day or your schedule permits something else, then by all means replace Apt with another town on their market day! 

Stop 1: Depart Avignon and Head to Senanque Abbey

Grab a coffee and head out from Avignon and straight to Senanque Abbey to kick off your full-day tour of the Luberon villages. 

You’ll quickly pass by Gordes Lookout and then descend into a steep valley where the abbey lies. There is a small lookout before you get to the abbey, and you’ll be dazzled by all of the sprawling lavender fields. 

It is a good idea to get to the abbey when it opens to have fewer crowds and get your day started at a good time to make it to a market! 

It opens at 10 am, and it took us about 45 minutes to explore that and admire the fields. 

Stop 2: Gordes Lookout

Next up on the Luberon itinerary is to stop at Gordes Lookout for some photos. It is a gorgeous place to sit and enjoy the views, but be mindful, as the parking next to it is small and it can get busy. 

But take some photos and enjoy the scenery before hopping back in the car to the farmers market! 

Stop 3: Apt Farmer’s Market

As we did this trip on a Saturday when the Apt market was open, we decided to add Apt next. However, if you’re here on a Tuesday, then you could go to Gordes and explore their market. Again, just alter this a bit depending on which day of the week and market you want to visit. 

Us, we got to Apt before noon and had plenty of time to walk around, sample various kinds of cheese, smell freshly made soaps, and even purchase some tasty things to snack on later. 

Apt has quite the market, and you can certainly find plenty of great things to try, buy, and enjoy. But don’t forget to take a bit of time to wander through the town as well! There are beautiful little alleys and lovely buildings to see!

Stop 4: Roussillon

You can’t come to the villages of the Luberon in France and not visit this amazing ochre village. There is ample parking down the hill, and once you reach the top, your jaw will drop at the views. 

Be sure to take some time to wander the town and hike along the Ochre Path . They have a trail that lasts about 35 minutes and another that lasts 50 minutes.

Stop 4: Bonnieux

Drive through the charming town of Bonnieux and stop at Chateau la Canorgue for a wine tasting. This chateau is super beautiful and the wine is a delight, making it a great stop on your itinerary. 

The tastings here are also free which is amazing! But it is a good idea to buy a bottle or two of wine to have later on when you get to Aix-en-Provence. 

I loved the AOC Luberon Rose as well as the La Canorgue IGP Mediterranee.  

Stop 5: Lourmarin

I’ll be honest this town was my favorite town to drive through. It really is stunning! The tree-lined street that ran through the town was incredible, and the Chateau de Lourmarin was large and beautiful. 

But we mostly drove through here, which I recommend, so as to get to Chateau Constantin for another small tasting.

Tastings here are €15 each but is free if you purchase 2 bottles of wine. The wines here were certainly delicious, and they even age some in terracotta! 

I enjoyed the Rose, Chardonnay, and the AOP Luberon with Grenache and Syrah. 

Stop 6: Cucuron

I’ll be honest, we were about to wrap up our time in the Luberon when we stopped at Lourmarin and Chateau Constantin, but when the woman leading our tasting told us about the charming town of Cucuron nearby, we couldn’t miss it. 

It was a short drive from the chateau, and we fell in love with the place. There were next to no tourists when we went in the late afternoon in October, and we enjoyed the peaceful basin. 

Also, the views of the late afternoon sun over the city from the castle ruins were spectacular. It was a great place to end before heading to Aix-en-Provence for the night. 

This is everything you need to know about the Luberon France including how to get there, the best ways to get around, things to do, the best villages, and even a full Luberon tour in a day you can do on your own! 

I fell head over heels for the Luberon villages in France, and I know with a visit there you will too! 

Which village would you most like to visit?

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5 breathtaking Hilltop Villages in Provence's Luberon

Villages in Provence always conjure visions for me of isolated hilltops, narrow streets and the scent of lavender. My latest visit to Provence was in winter – only the lavender was missing. But these five villages in the Luberon were just perfect. 

There's a certain quality to the villages in Provence, and more so to those of the Luberon, located in the Pre-Alps of central Provence ( see the map below ). This Provence countryside of lavender and light has long been a magnet for artists and writers and lovers of beauty.

I know I was captivated.

The area is dotted with magnificent villages, some heavily touristed, some virtually untouched (but I suspect it's only a matter of time).

Here, I'm looking at the five most visited － because of their gorgeousness, of course, but also because they happen to carry the prestigious label of most beautiful villages of France . In another life (the one in which I win the national lottery) I would have tried to visit all 176 of these villages scattered across France.

But for this trip, these five will do just fine, thank you. 

These 5 magnificent villages are considered among the Luberon's most beautiful:

• Ansouis, its chateau and authentic streets
• Gordes, viewed from below, its bories and its cobblestones
• Lourmarin and its quirkier vibe
• Ménerbes, popularized by the books of Peter Mayle
• Roussillon and its Ochre Trail

NOTE: Pages on this site may contain affiliate links, which bring in a small commission at no cost to you.

1. Ansouis 2. Gordes 3. Lourmarin

4. Ménerbes

5. roussillon.

Map of the Luberon

Travel tips for your Luberon visit

FAQ Luberon

Sticking to the five "most beautiful" may sound like treachery towards the other delightful hamlets of the Luberon – places like Goult, Bonnieux, Oppède-le-Vieux – but I had to start somewhere.

Three are perched on hills, two are lower down. One is built using the local dry stone technique, another has walls plastered with ochre. Some are crowded with tourists and souvenir shops, others look more authentic and laid back. 

To avoid any jealousy, I've listed them in alphabetical order. But, we all have our favorites!

Each Luberon village has its personality and one word that would aptly describe Ansouis is "authentic". Perhaps it was because I visited in winter or at a time of few tourists, but deep inside the village, removed from the attractive eateries of the entrance, a certain untouched, ungentrified calm permeates the streets.

Next to a fountain, two art students reproduce a classic scene of shutters and vines, a black and white shepherd dog gazing peacefully as I walk by.

Two of France's most loved films, Jean de Florette and its sequel, Manon des Sources, were partly filmed here, and helped put the Luberon on the map as a tourist destination.

Ansouis is the southernmost of the five and to get here,  you'll follow a winding (but spectacular) road through the mountains from the north.

For half an hour, you'll be transported into a landscape so different from the lush lavender fields and rows of olive trees that accompanied you in the north that you may think you've left the Luberon behind... Not so.

The Château d'Ansouis

As is the case in most of these fortified villages, the castle sits at the pinnacle, atop a hill, as it should in order to scan the horizon and repel invaders. It is strategically positioned on the route between Apt and Aix-en-Provence, perfect for defense.

Of course it has all the trappings: a dungeon, four watchtowers and ramparts, but what is most surprising is that it is two castles in one: at its core, a medieval fortress, with a proper Renaissance château built around it a few centuries later. Once inside, you can clearly see where the Middle Ages end and the Renaissance begins.

This particular home  was built by the powerful Forcalquier family, whose reign over the village lasted until 1178, after which the equally powerful Sabran clan took over.

There's an intriguing story about the early Sabrans: a family scion of the late 13th century, Elzéar, was married young to an equally young lady, Delphine. They fell in love, but were fervent in their faith, so fervent that in 1316 they took a vow of chastity (not great if you are trying to assure your descendancy) in the small village chapel. And so they lived, spending their nights in prayer rather than in connubial bliss.

Not unreasonably,  Elzéar's parents worried about the lack of an heir, and assigned servants to spy on the couple. The young pair would feign sleep and pretend to snore, and when the servants would fall asleep, they would rise and begin their night of prayer. Even the best spies reported that although Elzar and Delphine shared a bed, they slept side by side and never once removed their clothes.

When accused of not consuming their marriage,  Elzéar replied: "I have a fine and lovely wife and that is more than enough."

Both  were evetually canonized as Catholic saints, but what is less clear  is how the family line was continued. This entry about their genealogy neglects any reference to descendants... yet the château appears to have stayed in the family.

The years passed, the structure fell into disrepair, and restoration only began in the 1930s. But in 2008, the château was sold off in a messy auction, its heirs unable to agree on their inheritance. The new owners have refurbished the interior lovingly  and with authenticity and offer guided tours, which you can book through the Luberon Côté Sud  tourist office .

The Eglise St Martin

From the outside, the church looks a bit forbidding, more like a walled fortress than a place of worship. But push the door and the feeling of welcome envelops you.

No one really knows how old it is, but it was probably built in the 12th century, when the village was at its largest.

If you've seen Manon des Sources , you might recognize it as the site of Manon's wedding...

The greatest pleasure to be derived from Ansouis is simply to stroll along its quiet streets. Some of the stone houses are more than 500 years old, and you may forget which century you are in for a moment. Quiet, peaceful, true.

When in Ansouis...

• While visiting the château d’Ansouis, don't forget to admire their French-style gardens.
• If you like these formal gardens, not far from Ansouis you'll find the 17th-century Château de Sannes . Wine tasting or plenty of other things to try, from yoga in the vineyards to country walks with a druid.  
• Fancy a Michelin-starred restaurant? Try Olivier Alemany's cuisine at La Closerie.
• Book your accommodation in Ansouis , one of the loveliest small towns in France.

LUBÉRON TOURS AND TICKETS

➽   Half-day best of the Lubéron from Avignon

➽   Full-day highlights of the Lubéron from Avignon

➽  Lubéron from Aix-en-Provence, including wine-tasting

➽  Private exclusive full-day guided visit of the Lubéron

You cannot possibly enter Gordes without being utterly charmed.

It has been listed as one of France's favourite villages – there is actually an official competition and television show in which we get to vote! So the town has had its share of camera crews and flashes of fame.

And with good reason.

The first thing you'll notice in Gordes, on arrival, are the long walls of dry stone, an ancestral technique now protected as an intangible asset by UNESCO World Heritage. On and on they stretch, steadfast in their uniformity, as though they had risen from the ground in perfect little lines. I was easily sidetracked by them, almost hypnotized by their patterns.

While stunning up close, the village is just as beautiful from afar. If you're driving here, before you start your climb is a small lay-by: this is the place to stop for "the" iconic photograph.

Dominating the center of town is the towering Château de Gordes. Already in existence in 1031, it was rebuilt 500 years later during the Renaissance. Mostly uninhabited, its owners used it for storage or as a prison – getting to Gordes on horseback cross-country wasn't quite so simple a few centuries ago.

The château was somewhat roughed up during the French Revolution (what wasn't?) but at least it wasn't destroyed. During World War II, Gordes was an active player in the French Resistance and several hiking paths now commemorate the fighters, known as the maquis .

The village's artisans lived in the lower town (it was known for its weaving and leatherwork), with the nobility on the hill, looking down. Many of the houses are hidden from view, with only a doorway apparent. You'll need a drone to see the turquoise swimming pools or landscaped terraced gardens...

After World War II, Gordes began attracting visitors. Artists moved here, captivated by the picturesque narrow streets but also by the sweeping views over the Provence region. Most famous of these were Marc Chagall and Victor Vasarely.

The narrow alleys of Gordes are a joy to explore. (Please make sure you've got the  right walking shoes  – this is NOT the time to test your new Italian heels). The most beautiful villages in Luberon are often hilly, as is Gordes, with plenty of bumpy ups and downs. Even the cobblestones have cobblestones: you'll notice that some cobblestone streets have steps going up the center; donkeys used these, their cartwheels crawling alongside on the flatter surfaces.

On market days you'll be able to pick up local produce, but it's also the most crowded day and with parking at a premium, you may wish to choose your battles.

A steamingly hot day is the perfect time to visit the underground caves of the Palais St Firmin, a Renaissance palace which went from abandoned to listed as a Historical Monument, and is now a private home. Its tunnels are part of a vast underground network that pierce the mountain below Gordes, seven storeys deep in places. Given the lack of space above ground, the village dug deeper to increase its storage capacity, although many of the town's subterranean passages have yet to be explored or even rediscovered.

In addition to the Château de Gordes and the Palais St Firmin, there's another intriguing site near Gordes: the  Village des Bories , built with that same stone technique you will have seen on the way in. These huts were used by seasonal farm workers during the 18th century, abandoned, and eventually rediscovered during the 1950s, overgrown and decrepit. After years of restoration, they are now as pristine as when they were first built.

When in Gordes...

• Are you a fan of stained glass? If so, you must visit the Musée du Verre et du Vitrail (and don't miss the monumental sculptures of Frédérique Duran in the gardens...)
• Nearby, the Moulin des Bouillons is an ancient olive press which dates back to the 16th century; there has been some kind of press on this site since Antiquity.
• If you cycle, there are wonderful routes throughout the Luberon but especially  around Gordes . And if you'd rather take it easier, you can rent an electric bike.
• While you're in Gordes, the iconic Abbaye de Senanque , built in 1220, is nearby. If it's summer, you'll be overwhelmed by the sight of lavender. You can walk here in 45 minutes (or drive in ten).
• Book your accommodation in Gordes , one of the best places to stay in Provence if you're visiting the Luberon.

3. Lourmarin

Be careful when you drive into Lourmarin: the sight of the castle immediately on your right is so breathtaking you might take your eyes off the road for a moment.

Interestingly, it  would seem that the original "owners" of Lourmarin were the Forcalquier and then the Sabran families, the same ones we first met in Ansouis, but from different branches.

The château is an unusual construction, built in two parts like that of Ansouis: a medieval section from the late 15th century, and in the early 16th, a Renaissance addition. 

The castle had fallen into ruin but in 1920 it was bought and restored by a rich merchant and art lover from Lyon, Robert Laurent Vibert. After his death, the castle was turned into a foundation for young artists. Also, it may be haunted ...

The narrow gorge which opens up into Lourmarin made things practical for the Romans: they could keep a keen eye out for invaders and protect the village's ever-growing population.

With the ousting of the Romans by the Moors who swept in from Spain, many villages, including this one, would be abandoned, and then rebuilt. 

Then, during the 12th century, the village crossed paths with a group of Catholic dissidents, the Vaudois, whom no amount of persecution had been able to stamp out. They had found refuge in  what is now northern Italy, eventually joining the Protestant reform movement. A group of these Vaudois were invited to settle in Lourmarin, turning the village into a Protestant enclave.

During the wars of religion, in mid-16th century, this was a mostly Protestant village and was at one point set on fire and partly destroyed. It would be rebuilt bigger, better and more luxuriously, along with the wonderful Renaissance structure we know as the château today. 

By 1685, the Edict of Nantes (which had given Protestants certain freedoms in this very Catholic country) was revoked and many (though not all) Protestant families fled, from here and from across France.

Lourmarin eventually became a prosperous little town, relying on  manufacturing, handicrafts and agriculture. In addition to the olives and vines, the village was known for its textiles. In fact,  Philippe de Girard, an illustrious (and local) engineer, invented the first flax spinning frame.

Today, Lourmarin Provence is a much-visited and quirky little village, with plenty of offbeat shops and surprising corners.

When in Lourmarin...

• Drop by Lourmarin market on Friday mornings – it's large for a town this size.
• The  summer music festival at the château welcomes artists in residence every summer, with jazz, classical, ensembles...
• Wood sculptor Matthias de Malet has a specialty: he only uses certain types of local wood and each piece he carves is unique. Have a look .
• Book your accommodation in Lourmarin .

How to pronounce Luberon – or is it Lubéron?

My entire life I've pronounced the region Lubéron (lew-BAY-roh). And when I visited, it turns out I may have been saying it all wrong. Locally, people call it the Luberon, no accent: lew-BUH-roh. So which is it?

Locals say 'foreigners' (meaning Parisians) can go ahead and pronounce it with the accent on the "e"; I mean, they're foreigners and everyone knows it. But that doesn't end the debate.

Several French dictionaries allow both versions, so that doesn't help. According to certain stories of origin, the name comes from the Greek Louerio, which might hint at Lubéron. But then, in early literature, especially in the Provençal tongue, you'll find the use of the word Léberon, different yet again.

Another theory holds that to 'Frenchify' some Provençal words, the "é" (from Léberon) might have been switched to "eu" or simply "u", hence the "u" in the first syllable. Confused yet?

The consensus is that there is no consensus. With accent, without accent, pronounced one way or the other, it remains a fairy-tale land of suspended villages and medieval castles, cocooned by the cry of cicadas and the breeze drifting up from the Mediterranean.

Coming upon Ménerbes is a bit like encountering a village clinging to the sky, high up a hill and built all along its crest. Expectations are high for this hamlet, given its status as an artists' magnet.

Unlike many other Luberon Provence villages whose dwellings crowd around a castle, Ménerbes is long and narrow, with the château at one end and the church at the other. 

In Roman times, Ménerbes held a strategic position on the Via Domitia, the Roman highway that led from Rome to southern Spain. It is also famous for the Abbey of Saint-Hilaire, just outside town, which may have been founded by Saint Louis (Louis IX) upon his return from the 7th Crusade.

Because of its hilltop position, Ménerbes was long thought impregnable. But in a surprise attack, it was stormed and captured by Protestant Huguenots, who held it for five years from 1573 and were only driven out when a Catholic siege starved them of supplies.

Today, Ménerbes has its place in the sun. Perhaps the best known contemporary advocate of Ménerbes was author Peter Mayle, who wrote  A Year in Provence , his memoir set in the village.

But well before Mayle, artists had recognized the beauty of this south France village.

Like Dora Maar, a photographer and painter who became Picasso's muse and whose house (which he bought for her) is now an art foundation; the American painter Jane Eakin, whose home has been converted into a museum dedicated to her; or the French-Russian painter Nicolas de Staël.

We shouldn't be surprised, then, to find out the village's name may have come from that of Minerva, the Roman goddess of the arts.

Walking the streets (and looking out upon the valleys on either side) of the village, you can get a sense of the brilliance that brought so many creatives here. The quiet winding streets and blue shutters, the houses with greenery creeping up the walls, all of it under a crystal blue sky... the kind of languorous illusion these villages of the Luberon seem so able to provide.

When in Ménerbes...

• For plants of all types, visit the Citadelle Botanical Garden ( Le Jardin de la Citadelle ): five hectares of truffles, aromatic and medicinal plants, herbs, edible plants... wander around and inhale.
• Then drop by the quirky  Musée du Tire-Bouchon , the Corkscrew Museum, a fitting addition to a land so covered with vines. Who knew there is even a global association of helixophiles, or corkscrew enthusiasts!
• This area is known for a variety of products, like the black truffle or the much-loved AOC  Côtes du Luberon wine. Drop by the  Maison de la Truffe et du Vin  to try both.
• Book your accommodation in Ménerbes  Provence.

Think of Roussillon and you'll think of gold. Not the metal, the color.

Or ochre, because this is its birthplace: you'll see it on the walls, on the hills (and if you've been hiking the Ochre Trail, on your shoes).

Shades of yellow and gold and rust and deep blood red, as though ochre weren't a color but a hue, a slight hint of spark and fire.

Roussillon is one of those hilltop villages of Provence which is as beautiful from afar as it is up close. Watch the sun's rays play along the village walls, especially at sunset.

But from its streets, the progression of ochres will keep your eyes glued (and your feet tripping) as you try to understand how a single color can be so diverse.

Interestingly, there's a local law obliging residents to paint their façade in ochre; this makes perfect sense, because a blue or green wall could severely mar the village's harmony. That said, I did pass by houses which, although painted ochre, were adorned with  different-colored shutters, so these are clearly allowed.

Walking on ochre

If the village's explosion of colours – from beige to deep, burnt red – envelops you in an embrace of wellbeing (psychologists attribute the emotions warm, energetic and sunny to this colour), you might want even more of it, more than the buildings can offer.

If that's the case, jump into your car and head for Rustrel and the Colorado Provençal half an hour away, where the earth changes colour with the arc of the sun.

If you can manage to visit when the crowds have gone, you'll be rewarded with cliffs and dunes that, were it not for the trees, might remind you of a desert.

In fact, this particular path (40 easy minutes) is called the Sahara, but a longer one will take you further in, and up above jagged tips of the hills. And if you arrive near sunset,  the magic becomes a miracle and the cliffs glow with deep rusts and sparkles, their yellows and reds that seem too unnatural to be real. ⠀⠀⠀

No one knows why Roussillon has all the ochre, and the other villages of the Luberon do not.

While  there are a few legends  that might explain this, what  IS known is that during the 1780s, a native of Roussillon first studied the local phenomenon, and then started mining it commercially. He invented a process to extract the pigment from the sand, but it would take another century before the mining became widespread.

At first, individual miners produced ochre. But with the industrial revolution, big business got involved.

In its heyday, the tiny village of Roussillon had 16 quarries and ochre production plants! Things boomed with the arrival of the railway in Apt, the nearest provincial center, in 1880.

But by the 20th century, artificial colourings were the rage, competition became fierce and the mining industry disappeared.

Today, a single ochre mine is left in the region, in Gargas, a ten-minute drive from Roussillon.

When in Roussillon...

• Roussillon is the ideal place to learn more about ochre, whether on the trail or at the  Conservatoire des Ochres , a cultural cooperative designed to keep this knowledge alive. 
• Okhra , the Ochre Eco-Museum, promotes and protects the traditions linked to ochre and natural pigments. Hands-on workshops and guided visits.
• The Ochre Trail is a great way to experience ochre right in the heart of Roussillon: Just  cross the main street of Roussillon (there really is only one) to the cliff and follow the path to the trail. Choose the 30min or 60min trail.
• Book your accommodation in Roussillon .

LUBERON TOURS AND TICKETS

Travel tips if you visit the Luberon

Here are a few travel tips and additional facts about the Luberon...

• The best way to see the towns of Provence and the Luberon is by car. Most of the villages don't have trains, and bus transport is sporadic. The roads are lovely (although a very few can be narrow in winding) and driving around here is a true pleasure. You can compare car rental prices here . The other option (but only if you're really good at it) is cycling. 
• Plan your itinerary: the villages are small and quite close to one another. You can see several on a day trip if your time is limited.
• Look around at the amazing stonework. Not only is southern architecture harmonious, but it is compounded by the use of natural materials.
• Don't be surprised if you feel an air of Tuscany among these small French villages... the cypress trees are responsible!
• Vines, olive groves, lavender. Rinse and repeat.
• Wherever you go in this region, you'll be surrounded by the most beautiful villages in Provence. Below is a map of Provence in France, with a focus on the Luberon – the villages I described above, and many more worth a visit if you have the time!

Map of the prettiest towns in Provence

The Luberon region is part of central Provence, north of Marseille and to the east of  Avignon , capital of the Vaucluse département. As for the Luberon, it is shared between the Vaucluse and the Alpes-de-Haute-Provence.

The entire Luberon is contained within the Luberon Regional Natural Park, which is filled with cycling and hiking trails.

What is Luberon known for?

It is a stunning part of Provence famous for its hilltop villages and its lavender.

How long to stay in Luberon?

If you don't have time, you can visit on a day trip from Avignon , but you'd only be seeing a few of its stunning villages. With 3-4 days, you could visit the best towns in Luberon.

What are the Luberon villages?

These are the many villages that dot the area of France known as the Luberon, in Central Provence. Many of them are on top of hills, which adds to their authenticity and attractiveness.

Where is Luberon France? Is Luberon in Provence?

The Luberon is in central Provence, partly in the Vaucluse and partly in the Alpes-de-Haute-Provence.

Is Luberon worth visiting?

The Luberon is a delightful region which many people make a detour to visit. It has all many things people love about France – ancient hilltop villages, lavender fields, impressive vistas and quiet, winding roads.

How far is Luberon from Paris?

It takes about 7 hours to drive from Paris to Gordes, one of the closest Luberon towns, for a distance of 720 km/447 mi. You can also take the train to Avignon – the high-speed train takes about 2hrs 40m. Since you'll need a car to visit the Luberon, you can rent it in Avignon and drive about 50 minutes to Gordes.

Before you go...

Did you know that like the pandemic of 2020, an epidemic hit Provence in the 18th century – and they too built a wall , right here in the Luberon?

And if you're in the region for a bit and are interested in Vincent van Gogh, remember that he spent several years in Provence, one of them in Saint-Remy, barely 40 minutes' drive from the Luberon. You can follow in van Gogh's footsteps , which are signposted throughout the town.

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Bonjour! I’m Leyla - I was born in Paris and now live in the bucolic mountain foothills of Eastern France between Lyon and Annecy. My days are spent exploring my country. 

I'm rediscovering my own back yard after years of living abroad as a journalist and diplomat - and I'm loving every minute.

Passionate about history and culture, I’ve created Offbeat France to seek out my country’s mysteries and legends, less-traveled destinations, along with plenty of food stops and many castles – I am French, after all!

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Beautiful Hilltop Towns In Provence’s Luberon Valley

Here’s my guide to visiting the most beautiful hilltop towns and villages in the Luberon Valley of Provence.

The Luberon features some of France’s most stunning landscapes — rolling hills, gnarled vineyards, mountains of limestone, crumbling castles, and lavender fields galore.

Five Luberon villages have the official label “Les Plus Beaux Villages de France,” designating them one of France’s most beautiful villages.

Many of these Luberon towns are secret hidden gems in France . This region is where you come to experience a more authentic, rural, step-back-in-time region of France on an idyllic Provencal road trip.

You may already be entranced with the Luberon Valley if you read Peter Mayle’s best selling book, A Year in Provence . Mayle bought a stone farm house in Ménerbes to escape the rat race in London. He moved in and proceeded to sip rosé in blissful peace and tranquility.

That’s how to enjoy village life in the Luberon. There’s no mandatory museums or landmarks.

Just savor a leisurely lunch or stroll down cobbled streets, reveling in the Luberon’s unspoiled beauty. There’s charm around every corner.

Where Is The Luberon Valley?

The Luberon is a small collection of town in northern Provence. It’s a mountain range consisting of the Grand Luberon, the Petit Luberon, and the Luberon Oriental.

The nearest airports are Avignon and Marseille. The nearest train station is Avignon. Marseilles and Avignon are only a 40 minutes drive from the region.

As a rural region, it’s easiest to explore the Luberon by car. There’s not much public transportation in the Luberon.

Buses aren’t regular, taxis are very limited, and Uber doesn’t operate there yet. The roads are easy to drive and well sign posted.

READ : Tips for Renting a Car and Driving in Europe

The Luberon is a small region. It’s only 1:15 drive from L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue in the west to Manosque in the east. L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue, Gordes, Bonnieux, and Menerbes all make good bases for exploring the Luberon.

If you are short on time, you can book a full day best of the Luberon tour leaving from Avignon or a half day tour from Avignon . You can also book a guided tour fro m

Beautiful Towns of the Luberon Valley

Here’s a rundown on the most beautiful hilltop villages (village-perché, in French ) in the Luberon Valley. You should put these lovelies on your southern France road trip itinerary or bucket list for Provence.

Although picturesque-ness is a defining feature of the Luberon, each village has a distinct personality.

Most of the villages are relatively small. But they can take a day each, if you’re in a languorous “live in the moment” relaxation mode.

1. L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue: Antique Paradise

Dubbed the “Venice of Provence,” L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue is one of the most beautiful towns in the Luberon Vallely. It’s a lively market town that’s split in two by the Morgue River.

The town’s crystal clear water babbles under pedestrian bridges adorned with flower boxes. It’s not as adorable as the classic Provencal villages , but still cute enough with mossy waterwheels and geraniums.

The town revolves around its church square and two pedestrianized streets, Rue de la Republique and Rue Carnot. There are plenty of shops, eateries, and museums to entertain.

The town erupts in a carnival-like market frenzy each Sunday and Thursday.

Held along the quay of the Morgue River, the Sunday market is world famous for its antiques. Outside of London and Saint Ouen in Paris , it’s one of Europe’s largest flea and vintage markets. But you likely won’t find any bargains.

L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue makes a good base for visiting the Luberon. It’s the only Luberon town that can be accessed by train or bus.

If you are spending the night, you should consider making a reservation at the Michelin-starred Le Vivier .

2. Gordes: Cinematic Beauty

The photogenic village of Gordes is the Luberon’s most impressively situated hill town and perhaps its crown jewel.

A long winding road takes you there. And you won’t be the only one. Gordes gets crowded in the day.

Though it’s hard to imagine, Gordes was once a ghost town of derelict buildings. It was revivified by Avignon’s theater festival. Directors clamored to find picture- perfect Provencal villages for their films.

Today, Gordes is a beauty, epitomizing rural French charm. Its homes are fully restored.

Gordes is chock full of luxury hotels, like Hotel La Bastide de Voulonne. Pop into one with a terrace for wine and stunning views over the Luberon Valley.

Stolling Gordes’ cobbled streets is a feast for the senses. There’s not much to do, except for its Tuesday market. The 11th century Gordes Castle also houses contemporary art exhibits.

A few miles outside Gordes, you’ll find Les Bories . It’s a luxury hotel with a restaurant that is formal country dining at its best.

3. Abbey Notre-Dame de Senaque: Lovely in Lavender

Just outside Gordes lies remote Abbey Notre-Dame de Senaque. This famous landmark in France is set in a picturesque sea of lavender.

It’s long been discovered by tourists just for its bucolic setting. Visit in July or August for the most glorious purple views.

The abbey is still a functioning Cisterian aby. It was built in 1148 in reaction to the excesses of the Bendictine abbeys and their fat monks.

The utterly simple abbey church is always open. You can tour the abbey and its cloisters.

4. Lacoste: Charming Stone Village

Little Lacoste is fetchingly perched on a hilltop, overlooking the nearby (and much larger) village of Bonnieux.

Lacoste isn’t an “orange city” like Roussillon. But in the sunset glow, it’s a nice rusty coral hue.

Lacoste is paved with stone and is full of cobbled narrow alleyways and picturesque houses. Its oldest building, the Mason Forte, dates from the 9th century. Most other buildings date from the 16th century.

The Chateau du Marquis de Sade is a must visit. It’s also known as the Chateau de Lacoste

The chateaux gets its name from the infamous French libertine. He stayed at the chateaux on and off while he was scandalizing 18th century society.

Now, the chateau is privately owned by French designer Pierre Cardin. But it’s open to visitors in July and August or by reservation.

All this makes Lacoste a must visit village in Provence for history buffs. But Lacoste is also a center of SCAD, the Savannah College of Art and design. Art lovers can visit the impressive gallery and gift shop.

5. Bonnieux: Panoramic Views

The village-perche of Bonnieux is especially spectacular from a distance. It’s one of the few Luberon towns that isn’t pedestrianized.

Still, it has cobbled film set alleyways for you to wander and artsy galleries for you to explore.

Friday there’s a local market with the usual tasty produce. If you’re interested in bread, the Boulangerie Museum is housed in an ancient stone building. Or if fine dining is on the menu, reserve a spot at the two Michelin star Edouard Loubet.

But the best reason to visit Bonnieux is for the panoramic views from the church at the town’s tip top. You look out over the valley and Mt. Ventoux.

Nearby, there’s a 2,000 year old Roman bridge, Pont Julien, and an excellent winery, Chateau La Canorgue, where the Ridley Scott film The Good Year was shot.

6. Menerbes: a Wonder to Wander

Pretty Menerbes is another one of France’s “les plus beaux villages.” It was the village that launched a thousand book sales.

Menerbes is famous as the setting for Peter Mayle’s book A Year in Provence .

The pretty town is dressed in French blue shutters and pink bougainvillea. It’s fairly upscale with tony shops, wine bars, and chic cafes.

Rue Corneille lead to the town’s cute chateau, which you can admire from the outside. Stop in at the House of Truffles and Wine for dinner or a tasting or try Le 5, a cute outdoor bistro.

Menerbes is also home to the beautiful 18th century Dora Maar House . The lothario Pablo Picasso purchased it in 1944 for his former lover and muse, Dora Maar, a Surrealist photographer.

He did it out of guilt. Maar had a mental breakdown after Picasso dumped her. The house is now an art foundation.

READ : Guide To Picasso Museums in Europe

7. Joucas: Well Manicured Silence

If you want complete silence during your Provencale flaneuring, try the quiet and largely overlooked village of Joucas. It slumbers below tourist-fly Gordes. You may feel like you’ve stepped into an Impressionist painting.

In Joucas, you’ll find vertical stone lanes flanked with restored homes and bright flower boxes. There’s not much to do here except have a wander and a bite to eat.

Joucas is crowned with a fortress (now private) and has an 18th century church. Plain on the outside, it has some lovely tromp l’oeil paintings on the inside.

8. Lourmarin: Chic Chateau Village

Loumarin is a beautiful secret village in the Luberon not too far from the much more popular Gordes. Aside from its 15th century castle, there’s delightfully not much to see or do in Lourmarin.

Just soak up the quaint town center and views. Its narrow lanes spiral up to the belfry.

After your walkabout, indulge at one of Lourmarin’s chic eateries or boutique stores. Lourmarin is known for its dining culture. The cafe culture clusters around the Place de l’Ormeau.

Lourmarin also has a 15th century Gothic-Renaissance chateau. The Chateau decayed into ruin and was scheduled for auctioned and demolition.

But it was rescued in the nick of time by Robert Laurent-Vibert, a rich industrialist and literary scholar, who restored it. The chateau now hosts wine tasting and performances in the evening.

Lourmarin has some literary cache to boot. Existentialist writer and philosopher Albert Camus lived in Lourmarin in the 1950s and is buried there.

Author Peter Mayle moved there from Menerbes. Winston Churchill chose Lourmarin to pursue his oil painting hobby after WWII.

9. Ansouis: Hidden Gem Beauty

Ansouis is another of France’s les plus beaux Luberon towns that just oozes charm. It’s a typical Luberon village. It clings to a craggy outcrop and is stuffed with stone houses, cobbled streets, and well worn window shutters.

Anouis is just 30 minutes north of Aix-en-Provence. It’s definitely worth a detour or half day trip.

Ansouis first appears in the records around 963. It’s crowned with a 12th century medieval castle, Chateau d’Ansouis .

You can only visit on a guided tour in French. But its terrace, you’ll have sweeping views of Mount Saint-Victoire — the mountain that famously inspired French Post-Impressionist artist Paul Cezanne.

Ansouis’ old town is filled with houses, artisan shops, and boutiques, housed in buildings from the 15th century.

La Closerie serves up excellent food. L’Art Glacier offers 50 flavors of ice cream, including lavender, sage, and lily of the valley flavors.

Built into the town’s original ramparts, the 12th century St. Martin Church is worth a visit. The church has an imposing facade of creamy stone. The austere exterior belies the ornate treasures awaiting you inside.

10. Rousillon: the “Orange City”

Roussillon is a beautiful hilltop village in the Luberon valley in eastern Provence. It’s nicknamed the “Orange Town.” Roussillon is easy to fall for.

It’s not what you typically expect to find in Provence. The tiny hamlet is nestled in a striking ochre ridge, more Sante Fe than Provencal.

Legend holds that the cliff’s orange color resulted from a medieval squabble. The town beauty, Seramonde, fell in love with a troubadour.

But the Lord of Roussillon loved Seramonde too and dispatched his rival by murder. Distraught, Seramonde threw herself off the cliff. Her blood stained the cliff forevermore.

Or so they say. It’s a compelling tale, no doubt. But the cliff was actually stained by the ochre pigment used to build the town.

The adorable town itself gleams with a spectrum of yellow, pink, orange, and red shades. While there, you can visit Roussillon’s Sentier des Ocres, the Ochre Trail.

It’s a nice hiking trail (with 30 and 50 options) where you’ll see the rock formations up close. Don’t wear white!

11. Fountaine-de-Vaucluse: “the Source”

Like L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue, Fountaine de Vaucluse is set on the pretty green Sorgue River and sports water wheels. It’s a lovely medieval village tucked in the southwestern corner of the Plateau de Vaucluse.

It’s about 30 minutes from Avignon. You can combine it with a day trip or visit to L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue.

Fountaine-de-Vaucluse has a true village square, Place de la Colonne. In it, you’ll find the tall, marble column that honors 14th century Italian poet Petrarch. Petrach spent ample time in Fountaine and is dubbed its “first tourist.”

While there, hike up to the “source,” a giant spring that that created the Sorgue River. There’s a series of underground water networks. In a whim of nature, they emerge only as this spot in a chasm.

12. Seguret: Stony Charm

Seguret is a small village east of Mount Ventoux. It’s also officially classified as one of France’s “les plus beaux villages.”

But you’d never know it. It’s a beautiful, but secret, town in the Luberon. When I was there, virtually no one else was. I guess the hype of the other Provencal hilltop villages outweighs the simple beauty of Seguret.

You enter the cobbled town via an archway called the Porte Reynier. Inside is a village full of character and charm. Naturally, the charm is magnified by the lack of tourists. Stone houses line narrow stony streets.

The main square boasts a 17th century bell tower and similarly aged fountain called Fonaine des Mascarons.

Be sure to visit the small 12th century Romanesque Church of Saint-Denis and the Chapel of Notre-Dame des Graces.

You can walk to the nearby ancient castle ruins via a footpath. The nearby village of Cairaine is also charmingly stoney. If you’re road tripping in Provence, and have flexibility, you should stop there too.

13. Vineyard of Chateau Val Joanis

The Luberon is home to one of France’s most impressive vineyards, the Chateau Val Joanis . Its first vines were planted over 2,000 years ago.

In 1978, Jean Louis Chancel, a naive of the Luberon, bought the vineyard with the goal of making Luberon wines famous. Today, the vineyard produces magnificent red, white, and rose wines.

With the help of a landscape designer, Chancel also created three terraces of gardens, with lavender, roses, and irises. It became known as “Jardin Remarquable.” In 2008, it won “garden of the year.”

14. Forcalquier: Provencal Hidden Gem

If you want to really get off the beaten path, try the ancient village of Forcalquier. It’s a picturesque town, but vastly less crowded than showstoppers like Gordes or Roussillon.

Forcalquier dates to Roman times. Its historic streets have plenty of interesting architecture — convents, chapels, bell towers, and Gothic fountains.

One 15th century fountain commemorates the wedding of Henry III and Eleanor of Provence.

Forcalquier hosts the biggest market in the area on Monday in the Place du Bourget opposite the Cathedral. Thursday, there’s a farmer’s market.

15. Oppede-le-Vieux: Medieval Provence

Oppede-le-Vieux is an ancient medieval village dating back to the 12th century. Oppede is two villages, the old one and the new one.

Park your car in the new village and walk up.

Oppede has been named an “Outstanding Heritage Site” with ancient ruins of a chateau perched high on the rocks. Oppede has the classic French blue shutters and stone and pastel homes.

But what sets it apart from other Luberon villages is its medieval feel.

I hope you’ve enjoyed my guide to the most beautiful towns in the Luberon Valley. You may enjoy these other travel guides and resources for France:

• 3 Day Itinerary for Paris
• 5 Day Itinerary for Paris
• Best Museums In Paris
• Hidden Gems in Paris
• 10 Day Itinerary for Southern France
• Beautiful Towns in Northern France
• Secret Towns in France
• Hidden Gems in Provence
• Historic Landmarks in Southern France
• Beautiful Villages in Occitanie

If you’d like to explore the prettiest towns in the Luberon Valley, pin it for later.

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Last Updated on March 6, 2023 by Leslie Livingston

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10 MOST BEAUTIFUL LUBERON VILLAGES

Provence is one of France’s most popular regions, and for very good reasons. The landscape is very diverse: from the famous lavender fields to the turquoise waters of the Gorges du Verdon , the hilltop Luberon villages overlooking the valley to the warm Mediterranean sea, and of course the unique Camargue ecosystem. Provence also holds important cultural significance, with towns dating back from the Middle Age, ruins from the Roman Empire and even the palace that was once the Pope’s main residence. Also, let’s not forget the region is a key wine producer in France! In the heart of Provence, the Luberon valley is without a doubt one of the most pleasant and picturesque regions in the south of France and is attracting French and foreign tourists alike with its medieval villages, endless wineries, and historical and cultural associations.  If you think you have never heard of the Luberon valley, think again. The Ridley Scott movie “A Good Year” was filmed in one of the prettiest villages of the region. If you don’t know this movie, drop everything you are doing right now, and go watch it!

The Luberon region is home to many beautiful villages, including 5 with the official label “Les Plus Beaux Villages de France” (France Most Beautiful Villages), and driving or biking from one village to the next is one of the nicest activity you could do in Provence.

HOW TO GET TO THE LUBERON?

The Luberon valley is easily accessible from two international airports and two train stations:

Nearby Airport: Nice International airport is around 200 km (±2 hours drive) from the southern border of the Luberon Natural Park. Most of the drive is on the A8 highway, so it is a quick and easy drive.  Marseille International Airport is only 40 mins drive away (with a mix of highway and secondary roads)

Nearby train stations: Avignon TGV train station is a 40 mins drive from the eastern border of the Luberon National Park, and so is Aix en Provence TGV to the southern border.

HOW TO GET AROUND IN THE LUBERON REGION?

Like most rural regions in France, unfortunately, it is not easy to get around Provence and the Luberon valley by public transport or taxi. Buses are not regular and might not drive at all on Sundays, taxis are very limited and Uber doesn’t operate there yet. The best way to explore the Luberon villages is definitely by car.  If you rent a car, don’t hesitate to pick a small one (w e drove around in a Fiat 500 and loved it ! ), as the roads can be very narrow in some areas.  There are also a lot of biking trails that are pretty well indicated, however, the region is very hilly which makes biking challenging if you are not used to it. My best piece of advice: electric bikes !! You can rent some from Sun-E-Bike in Bonnieux. Check out some nice biking itineraries around Provence here .

THE MOST BEAUTIFUL LUBERON VILLAGES

Saignon is a tiny medieval hilltop village of around 1000 inhabitants. The winding cobbled streets lead to the beautiful village center, a square with a picturesque fountain surrounded by old flowering houses. Climb to the Rock of Saignon, and you will get a beautiful view of the Luberon valley and nearby villages. There is not much to do in Saignon except walking around and having a nice lunch. There is also a small market of local specialties every Thursday from April to October.

Where to eat in Saignon: Le Comptoir Baltazar is a small restaurant near the church with a menu of delicious homemade local specialties and local rose wine. Don’t mind the grumpy looking owner, he is actually very kind and his food is so tasty (just don’t bother his cat!)

FIND THE PEFECT PROVENCE HOLIDAYS LOOK

Well known and more touristy, Lourmarin is one of the 5 villages in the. Luberon region to have the official label Les Plus Beaux Villages de France.  It has a typical architecture provençale , with narrow streets, colorful houses, and lots of cafes and restaurants with terraces.  There is also a castle from the Renaissance era to visit just outside the village. Albert Camus, the famous French laureate of the Nobel Prize of Literature is buried in the village cemetery.

A few shops not to miss in Lourmarin:

• Atelier Gerad Isirdi:   colorful illustrations of Lourmarin and the Luberon villages in general.
• Atelier Buisson Kessler:  all kinds of colorful ceramics tableware, manufactured in Apt since the late 80s.
• Le Petit Lourmarin:   luxurious (and slightly overpriced) lavender-filled wands and orbs.
• Le Petit Commerce : for the best selection of clothes and accessories from American Vintage, Maison Scotch, Mya Bay, Petite Mendigotte etc.

Where to eat in Lourmarin: L’Insolite Cafe is a classic French brasserie with a cozy interior decoration and a shaded terrace at the back. The staff is young and friendly and the food is delicious. Try the Boeuf “Ailleurs”, a steak tartar with an Asian twist. It is to die for. They also have different platters (cheese, cold cut, duck etc.), ideal to share with friends.

Also one of the Plus Beaux Villages de France , and relatively similar to Saignon, it is a quiet village, with lovely streets but really not much to do. I guess that’s what makes the charm of the village to some, but that let me down a little! Still, don’t forget to take a look at the Saint Martin church and its surprisingly rich paintings, and visit the village castle. It was closed when we went, but this privately-owned castle and its gardens are supposed to be very beautiful.

Lacoste is best known for its castle, once upon a time the residence of the Marquis de Sade. For my non-French readers, the marquis de Sade was a French nobleman, politician, and writer from the 18th century, infamous for his libertine sexuality and most likely sadism. Now you know!

Its residence sits on the top of the village and offers an incredible point of view over the surrounding Luberon valley and all the way to the Mont Ventoux. The castle now belongs to French designer Pierre Cardin, and hosts some modern sculptures, that contrast sharply against the ruins of the castle.

Did you know ?

In such a traditional rural village,  you will surely be surprised to find the “campus” of the Savannah College of Art and Design. This American School has invested in the renovation of the villages, transforming abandoned houses and shops into classrooms, libraries and art studios, and overall contributing to the economic revival of the village.  Students who come to study in Lacoste live in the Maison Basse, a massive property nearby and by far one of the coolest student houses of all time! Check it out here.  

Menerbes is one more cute little village of the Luberon region and although I didn’t find it that interesting (it was really empty when we visited …) it is making the list because we had a really great lunch there! To be honest, it is listed as one of the most beautiful villages in Luberon, so you should probably visit it anyway, I might just have visited on the wrong day/time.

Where to eat in Menerbes:  Right at the entrance of the village, with a terrace overlooking the Luberon valley, you will find Le 5. In a very casual outdoor bistro atmosphere, you can taste the best of French cuisine. Price-wise it is definitely on the higher side (100 EUR for 1 starter, 2 main courses, 1 bottle of rose, 1 bottle of Badoit and 1 coffee) but the food was absolutely worth it.

OPPEDE LE VIEUX

For the real medieval village feeling, visit Oppede Le Vieux. Leave your car or your bike at the bottom of the village and start climbing the streets uphill, all the way to the 12th-century church dominating the surrounding Luberon valley. Just like other hilltop villages, the view is beautiful, but it is really the medieval feel of the village, and the thick vegetation taking over in some places that sets this village apart.

Roussilon is easily one of the prettiest villages in the Luberon region. Built nearby one of the largest ocher quarries in the world,  Roussillon is famous for its pretty house facades colored in a thousand shades of red.  Explore the village, walk through the Beffroi and up to the village fortifications for a spectacular view of the surrounding valley.

One of the ocher quarries can be visited through 2 trails, the longest being approximately one hour walking.

SAINT SATURNIN LES APT

Although the village itself and its pastel color houses are very cute and typical of Provence, the most impressive area of Saint Saturnin Les Apt is the castle ruins sitting 450 m above the village on a rocky peak.  It takes around 15 min (and a good pair of shoes) to walk up the rocky trail to the castle and the chapel (from 1056). Once you reach the top,  the surrounding view of the Luberon valley is truly exceptional,  the best I have seen in the region. .

Another high perched village, Bonnieux and its houses spread on the hillside of the village can be spotted from afar. The “bottom ” part of the town is lively with lots of restaurants and shops, while on the upper part  you can admire the old church and some very impressive cedar trees. Once again a beautiful village in Provence and a beautiful view over the Luberon valley. 

This list wouldn’t be complete if I didn’t mention one of the most famous villages in Provence. For a showstopper view, head over to Gordes . Its labyrinth of narrow streets going up and down the village are lined up with small shops and nice restaurants, and from everywhere you have a great view of the surrounding Luberon valley. There is a 10th-century castle to visit, and some outstanding hotels to stay at (check out la Bastide de Gordes ).

The best view though might be from across the valley, looking at the village. You can’t miss the viewpoint: on your way to the village, you will notice all the cars and buses stopping by for people to take pictures.

Where to eat in Gordes: We had lunch in La Trinquette, and I was very pleasantly surprised. We were very lucky to score the only table on their 1st-floor balcony that has a gorgeous view over the valley, but it is really the food that made an impression on me. The menu was rather simple, but everything we tried was super tasty, well seasoned, and just perfect really! It was a really good find and I can’t recommend it enough! If you want that one table on the balcony though, you should probably book ahead.

WHERE TO STAY IN THE LUBERON, PROVENCE

Saignon: L’Auberge du Presbytere L’Auberge du Presbytere is a big beautiful house, in a garden with a pool. The rooms are large, with a simple but authentic Provence decoration. Le Rimayon serves a typical and delicious French breakfast (croissant, bread, butter & jam, fresh fruits etc) either in the garden or in the dining room. They also have a restaurant (available to non-staying guests), with a limited but delicious menu that changes daily.

Gordes: La Bastide de Gordes Member of the Leading Hotel of the World, La Bastide de Gordes is a sumptuous chateau in the heart of Provence most famous village, with a panoramic view over the Luberon valley. The rooms are decorated in traditional and opulent 18th century, with most of the furniture coming from high-end antique dealers. There are 2 restaurants, both serving French cuisine with a Provencal flair, that are open to non-staying guests.

Lourmarin: Le Moulin de Lourmarin.  Located just across the Lourmarin castle,  Le Moulin de Lourmarin is set in a 18th-century former oil mill. The bedrooms are very comfortable and cozy but definitely not as large as I had imagined. In the summer, breakfast can be enjoyed in a very pretty courtyard. The buffet breakfast is fresh, homemade and delicious.

Goult: Traditional stone mas  If you are staying with friends and family and want to rent a house, I recommend this beautiful villa in Goult. It is actually an old silkworm farm dating back to 1619, so the building is antique but has been beautifully renovated in a traditional Provencal way with some modern twist. The massive kitchen and dining area are ideal for a family, and the terrasse (with bbq) and pool are perfect for a relaxing afternoon. Accommodates 8 adults + 2 children.

Here you go,  I hope you find this round-up of the most beautiful Luberon villages useful, and that you will get to visit Provence very soon. If you have any questions or suggestions, please drop me a message in the comment box below!

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17 Top-Rated Attractions of Parc Naturel Régional du Luberon, Provence

Written by Lisa Alexander Updated Dec 25, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

A wonderfully off-the-beaten-path area of Provence , the Luberon beckons you to slow down and enjoy life. The area's enchanting small towns and unspoiled countryside burst with beauty and joie de vivre. These alluring destinations are some of the top attractions of Provence .

The entire Luberon falls within the boundaries of a UNESCO-listed biosphere reserve/regional park based around the Montagne du Lubéron (Luberon Mountain range). The Parc Naturel Régional du Lubéron encompasses rugged limestone mountains, gently rolling hills, lush woodlands, verdant valleys, and more than 70 communities.

Quaint medieval villages and historic stone farmhouses are scattered throughout the patchwork of lavender fields, orchards, and olive groves.

Exploring this picturesque area requires a car, but a driving itinerary is easy to do. Many of the region's tourist destinations are only about 10 to 30 kilometers apart . With a car and one week of vacation time, you could easily visit all of the villages and towns on this list.

Whatever your holiday schedule, be sure to visit a mix of tiny villages (such as Gordes, Gargas, Joucas, and Lacoste) and larger towns (like Cavaillon, Bonnieux, and Apt).

In the small villages, you will enjoy wandering the cobbled lanes, soaking up the relaxing Provençal ambience at outdoor café terraces, and savoring the authentic regional cuisine. The larger towns have more energy and cultural attractions, such as bustling open-air markets, museums, and lively summertime festivals.

Also not to be missed are local specialties, such as the melons of Cavaillon, renowned for their delicate flavor, and the prized black truffles, which are found on truffle hunts outside the village of Ménerbes and in the surrounding terrain.

Discover favorite regional dishes of the Luberon like ratatouille (seasonal stewed vegetables), pistou (similar to minestrone soup), pissaladière (onion tart), tapenade (olive spread), chestnut soup, and cherry clafouti (a custard dessert baked with cherries).

Plan your trip with our list of the best places to visit and things to do in the Parc Naturel Régional du Lubéron.

1. Gordes: A Picture-Perfect Hilltop Village

2. ménerbes from a year in provence, 3. lourmarin: provençal festivals and art de vivre, 4. roussillon: a village perched on an ochre cliff, 5. abbaye notre-dame de sénanque, 6. cavaillon: a melon festival and rich jewish heritage, 7. the bustling market town of bonnieux, 9. archaeology and artisan crafts in apt, 10. tiny hilltop village of gargas in the "route de l'ocre", 11. cadenet: culture, cuisine, and festivals, 12. abbaye de silvacane, 13. cucuron, 14. quiet and charming village of joucas, 15. lacoste: a dreamy village renovated by pierre cardin, 16. coustellet, 17. abbaye saint-hilaire, where to stay in the luberon region: best areas & hotels, map of attractions of parc naturel régional du luberon, provence.

This picture-perfect hilltop village is justifiably listed as one of the Plus Beaux Villages de France . Thanks to its beauty, the village began to attract artists in the mid-20th century, including Victor Vasarely, Marc Chagall, and Pol Mara.

As a typical village perché (perched village), Gordes stands dramatically on a steep promontory. (40 kilometers from Avignon ). Its nearly inaccessible location protected against invasions during the Middle Ages. Today, the elevation of the town delights tourists with sweeping panoramic views.

The Château de Gordes dominates the village with its enormous defensive walls and crenellated towers. This well-preserved Monument Historique is now a cultural center that displays temporary exhibits. Nearby at the Place du Château are many cafés, restaurants, and souvenir shops.

It's possible to enjoy an ultra-luxurious overnight stay within the historic village of Gordes. The Airelles Gordes, La Bastide resort offers five-star accommodations overlooking the landscape of olive groves, forests, and mountains. Guests rooms are decorated in the classic French style of the 18th century, complete with antiques and fine art. The property includes an outdoor swimming pool and several gourmet restaurants.

Read More: Top Attractions & Places to Visit in the Haut-Vaucluse, Provence

Ménerbes clings to a rocky outcrop (about 15 kilometers from Gordes) overlooking the Luberon Valley, Mont Ventoux, and the Vaucluse mountains. The village is listed as one of the Plus Beaux Villages de France because of its gorgeous scenery and small-town charm.

This winsome country village began to attract writers and artists (such as Picasso and Nicolas de Staël) in the 20th century. But it was author Peter Mayle who really put the village on the tourist map with his novel A Year in Provence (published in 1989), which was set in Ménerbes.

The village's atmospheric streets are lined with old stone houses and historic monuments. Highlights are the 16th-century Eglise Saint-Luc ; the 18th-century Chapelle Saint-Blaise; and Le Castelet , a medieval château built on the ruins of a 12th-century fortress.

Renowned for its gastronomy, Ménerbes hosts a traditional open-air Provençal market every Thursday morning, with stalls selling vegetables, fruits, cheese, bread, specialty food products from local farms, artisanal ceramics, and colorful Provençal linens. The village also has a handful of restaurants that serve gourmet fare and casual cafés with sunny outdoor terraces.

Additional culinary experiences await at the Goat Cheese Market in May and at the Truffle Market held on the Sunday between Christmas and New Year's Day. Other truffle markets are held in Carpentras (40 kilometers away) and in Richerenches (90 kilometers away).

For those intrigued by the idea of truffle hunting, the Maison de la Truffe (an upscale restaurant that serves cuisine based on truffles) may on occasion organize outings to search for the prized Truffe du Périgord - also known as "black diamonds."

Several hiking trails depart from the village into the scenic countryside, alongside cherry tree orchards and vine-covered fields.

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In a protected valley at the foot of the Luberon Mountains, Lourmarin is sheltered from the Mistral winds. That means the town enjoys many pleasant, sunny days.

This picturesque community, another one of the Plus Beaux Villages de France , offers a taste of the Provençal art de vivre (art of living). A traditional Provençal market is held on Friday mornings in the center of town.

The village is filled with outdoor cafés, bustling bistros, excellent restaurants, and inviting hotels, as well as artisan boutiques and art galleries. Atmospheric cobblestone streets lead to peaceful fountain-adorned squares and historic monuments.

The Eglise Saint-André et Saint-Trophime , a church founded in the 11th century and renovated in the 16th century, is an interesting blend of Romanesque and Gothic style. The village also has a Protestant temple , an austere house of worship built in the early 19th century.

An architectural highlight of Lourmarin is its Renaissance Château de Lourmarin , standing majestically on a hilltop overlooking the Lourmarin Valley, the Durance Plain, and the Montagne Sainte-Victoire. Views from the château's tower are exceptional.

The château and its art collection are owned by the Academy of Arts and Sciences of Aix-en-Provence, which collaborates with the Robert Laurent-Vibert Foundation to support an Artist in Residence program, bringing talented painters, sculptors, and musicians to the château during the summer months.

During the summer, the Château de Lourmarin hosts the Festival des Musiques d'Eté . This prestigious classical music festival includes piano recitals, jazz concerts, and opera performances.

A stunning village perché , Roussillon enjoys a magnificent setting above an ochre cliff. The charm and beauty of Roussillon have earned it a designation on the Plus Beaux Villages de France list.

To enter the historic village, visitors must walk through the Clock Tower . From here, it's an uphill walk along the narrow steps of the Rue de l'Arcade to the Place de la Mairie.

Near the village church, the Eglise Saint-Michel, is the Place du Castrum , where a terrace affords spectacular panoramas of the countryside. More amazing vistas can be seen from the Rue des Bourgades .

Roussillon is found between the Plateau de Vaucluse and the Montagne du Lubéron (17 kilometers from Ménerbes and 10 kilometers away from Gordes) in a distinct landscape. To discover the spectacular scenery, take a hike along the Sentier des Ocres (Ochre Trail), a walking path where ruddy ochre cliffs and outcrops punctuate the landscape.

Just outside of the village are impressive ochre rock formations, the Chaussée des Géants (Street of the Giants), and the Val des Fées (Valley of the Fairies).

One of the most fascinating ochre sites is the Colorado Provençal (10 kilometers from Roussillon), found between the Luberon Mountains and the Monts de Vaucluse. Here, you can see the old quarries where the ochre deposits were once mined for commercial use (as natural pigments for stucco, paints, and dyes).

Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Languedoc-Roussillon

An iconic landscape and serene spiritual ambience await you at the Abbaye Notre-Dame de Sénanque, five kilometers from Gordes. This 12th-century Cistercian abbey nestles in a narrow valley, encircled by a peaceful environment of lavender fields and rolling hills.

The abbey is still a working monastery (the community lives according to the Rule of Saint Benedict) but is open to the public year-round. You may visit the abbey church, chapter house, former dormitory, and exquisite arcaded cloister to admire Romanesque architecture.

The Rule of Saint Benedict requires monks to participate in a life of prayer and work. At the Notre-Dame de Sénanque Abbey, the monks dedicate a considerable amount of time to work in farming activities: growing olive trees and lavender plants. The olives and lavender blossoms are gathered by hand to create olive oil and lavender honey, which is sold on-site at the abbey's boutique.

You may attend religious services in the abbey church; services are held seven times every day.

Spiritual seekers are welcomed for silent retreats, which include meals, community prayer services, and accommodations. You may arrive for a retreat any day except Sunday morning or Monday. Retreats are up to eight days in length.

In the sun-soaked countryside at the edge of the Luberon Natural Regional Park, the little provincial town of Cavaillon is the center of melon-growing in Provence. The village also has an interesting cultural heritage.

The Cathédrale Saint-Véran , built in the 12th century, exemplifies Romanesque Provençal style. Its exterior is austere, but the interior is beautifully decorated with capitals in the apse and an exquisite cloister.

Cavaillon also has a splendid synagogue (on the Rue Hébraïque), a masterpiece of Jewish-Provençal (Comtadin) architecture built in the 15th and 18th centuries that is classified as a Monument Historique . Although it is no longer used as a synagogue, the building has been well preserved and now houses the Musée Juif Comtadin (guided tours only), which illustrates the history of the local Jewish population going back to the 13th century.

Another must-see cultural attraction in Cavaillon is the Musée Archéologique de l'Hôtel-Dieu . This impressive archaeology collection displays artifacts uncovered in the Cavaillon area, from the Gallo-Roman period, the Roman era, and the Middle Ages.

To celebrate the melon season, Cavaillon hosts a Melon Festival in early July. The festival includes two days of melon tastings, banquets, recipe demonstrations, a cooking competition, and a parade accompanied by brass bands.

Cavaillon's weekly outdoor market is held on Monday mornings on the main street in the center of town.

Read More: Top-Rated Things to Do in Avignon

A hub of activity in the Luberon, the hilltop village of Bonnieux brims with restaurants, cafés, and hotels. The village is found on the northern slope of the Luberon Mountain, about 10 kilometers from Ménerbes and 12 kilometers from Roussillon.

Be sure to visit the Vieille Eglise (Old Church), a Romanesque monument built between the 12th and 15th centuries and dedicated to Saint Gervais. The Vieille Eglise is open to the public year-round (on weekends during low season and daily during high season), free of admission charge.

The Vieille Eglise is reached by a flight of steps from the Place de la Liberté. Surrounded by mighty cedar trees, the church stands high above the town with spectacular views of the landscape. The panorama extends from the Bassin d'Apt to Gordes and Roussillon and across the Plateau de Vaucluse to Mont Ventoux.

Bonnieux also has a noteworthy museum, the Musée de la Boulangerie (12 Rue de la République) which explores the history of bread and its role in civilization from antiquity to the present day.

On market days (Friday mornings), Bonnieux becomes a bustling scene of colorful stalls selling fresh fruits, vegetables, jams, local cheese, quiches, specialties such as tapenade, and Provençal fabrics.

A bucolic landscape of vineyards, orchards, and olive groves surrounds the perched village of Ansouis. In its lovely, elevated locale, the town looks out to the Grand Lubéron mountain range. Listed as one of the Plus Beaux Villages de France , this medieval walled village features narrow cobblestone lanes and old stone buildings with pastel-painted shutters.

The majestic Château d'Ansouis presides over the town. Built between the 12th and 17th centuries, the castle has been completely refurbished, which is unusual for a medieval fortress in France. The rooms are decorated with furniture and tapestries from the 17th and 18th centuries. The castle is privately owned but is open to the public for guided tours (in French only).

Another historic monument not to be missed is the Eglise Saint-Martin , which dates to the 12th century. The somber exterior of this Romanesque church contrasts with its splendid interior, featuring an ornate altarpiece.

A wonderful addition to any Provence tour itinerary, Ansouis is about 10 kilometers from Lourmarin and about 30 kilometers from Aix-en-Provence .

This captivating little village perches on a hilltop in the heart of the Luberon. The town's size and location make it a good base for exploring the region.

Apt was on the Via Domitia (the old Roman road), and this heritage can be seen at the Musée d'Histoire et d'Archéologie , which displays Gallo-Roman antiquities.

The fascinating layers of the town's multifaceted history are revealed at the Cathédrale Sainte-Anne , originally a Romanesque church that was altered in the 14th and 17th centuries. In the cathedral's Baroque Chapelle Sainte-Anne is a reliquary of Saint Anne. The Treasury possesses reliquaries from Limoges and illuminated manuscripts.

Apt draws crowds to its Saturday morning open-air Provençal market , which is one of the largest and busiest in the region. At the many stalls spread throughout the town's streets and squares, vendors sell fresh fruits and vegetables; local food products; as well as flowers, fabrics, soaps, perfumes, and other locally made specialty items.

About five kilometers away from Apt , the tiny village of Gargas is found in the forested rolling hills of the Luberon's ochre landscape.

Ochre mining was once an important industry of the area. Although production has declined, ochre deposits from nearby quarries are still used to produce stucco, ceramics, pigments for paint and textiles, and other products.

Tourists can visit the Mines de Bruoux in Gargas to take a guided tour of the ochre caves (650 meters of maze-like galleries) that were carved out by miners while exploiting the valuable mineral.

Other attractions in the town include the 17th-century parish church, the Eglise Saint-Denis , which is adorned with lavish tapestries and paintings, and the stately Château des Condés , now the Hôtel de Ville (Town Hall).

Foodies will appreciate the culinary heritage of Gargas. The town is known for its artisanal preserved fruits and jams. Nearby in Beaumettes (17 kilometers away) is the Confiserie Saint-Denis , an artisanal confectionary shop that has crafted fruits confits (candied fruit) in the old-fashioned way since 1873. In fact, candied fruits have been a local tradition since the 14th century.

Another regional gastronomic specialty is Banon cheese . Designated with an AOC ( Appellation d'Origine Contrôlée ) label for its guarantee of quality and authenticity, Banon cheese is made from unpasteurized goat's milk and encased in chestnut tree leaves. This unique cheese is prized for its slightly sweet, thoroughly creamy, and delicately nutty flavor.

For those who would like to further discover the local food culture, it's recommended to visit Gargas on a Wednesday, when the town hosts a traditional outdoor Provençal market .

Five kilometers from Gargas is the Coquillade Provence , a five-star resort hotel tucked away in the vine-covered rolling hills. This Relais & Châteaux property boasts two large outdoor swimming pools, an upscale spa, and three restaurants plus a poolside snack bar.

This medieval hilltop village presides over the banks of the Durance River about five kilometers from Lourmarin. Steeped in history, Cadenet has the alluring ambience of a Provençal village perché with its idyllic views and quiet, old streets.

The village spirals out in concentric circles around the hillsides and is dominated by the ruins of an 11th-century château , while Cadenet's 17th-century parish church is outside the historic center. The church features a room filled with sacred relics and unique baptism fonts, which were made from fragments of an ancient Roman marble sarcophagus.

Cadenet is a great place to soak up the local culture and savor the cuisine. Throughout the year there are many cultural events and festivals .

On Monday mornings year-round, the town's traditional Provençal market attracts residents who come to shop for fresh fruit, vegetables, and other culinary items, as well as kitchenware. At the Cadenet farmers market , held on Saturday mornings from May through November, farmers and artisans sell seasonal products and handmade items.

Gourmands may want to stop for a meal at the Auberge La Fenière (Route de Lourmarin), a luxury hotel with a Michelin-starred gastronomic restaurant, Le Goût du Bonheur . During spring and summer, the restaurant's outdoor terrace is a delightful place to enjoy a leisurely meal.

At the foot of the Montagne du Lubéron, the village of La Roque d'Anthéron conceals this remarkable 12th-century abbey. The name of the abbey comes from the Latin words "silva cannorum" (meaning "forest of reeds") and indicates that the area was formerly marshland.

Founded in 1144 and completed in 1230, the abbey is a gem of Cistercian architecture blending Romanesque and early Gothic styles. The cloister and monastery buildings were built from 1250 to 1300, while the refectory dates to the 15th century, revealing a later Gothic style with more elaborate vaulting.

Thanks to its inspiring architecture and serene setting, the abbey is popular as a venue for weddings, as well as other events. Throughout the year, and especially during summertime, the abbey hosts art exhibits, music concerts, and festivals.

The Abbaye de Silvacane is open to the public every day except Mondays from October through May (except Christmas, January 1st and May 1st) and every day from June through September. The admission fee includes an audioguide (available with English-language commentary) that you can use for a self-guided tour.

After visiting the abbey, you might want to get a snack or meal in the village of La Roque d'Anthéron . Less than two kilometers away, La Roque d'Anthéron has many restaurants, cafés, and ice cream shops.

The abbey is also just seven kilometers from Cadenet, another great dining place. The Auberge La Fenière (hotel) in Cadenet has a Michelin-starred restaurant.

Continuing about seven kilometers away from Lourmarin is the village of Cucuron at the foot of the Luberon Mountain, the starting point of a hike up to Le Mourre Nègre summit.

Near the village of Lourmarin, a scenic viewpoint on the crest of the Grand Lubéron mountain range offers a magnificent panorama and fabulous photo ops.

Other attractions in Cucuron are the Romanesque and Gothic parish church and the Musée de Cucuron (also known as the Musée Marc Deydier), which displays Marc Deydier's archaeology and photography collections in the 17th-century Hôtel des Bouliers (mansion).

Joucas offers bucolic scenery and Provençal charm. Set on a wooded hillside, this village perché is distinguished by its traffic-free labyrinth of quaint cobbled streets, pedestrian staircases, narrow alleyways, and terraces with views of the surrounding landscape.

The houses feature characteristic architecture of the region: stone buildings with pastel shutters and red-tile roofs. You could easily spend a few hours wandering around to discover the charming hidden corners and quiet squares with refreshing fountains.

Looking out beyond the village, you can admire a patchwork of farmlands and vineyards in the plains. If you'd like to discover the scenery further, there is a trail just outside the town for hiking and nature walks.

Joucas is five kilometers from Roussillon and eight kilometers from Gordes.

This tiny village perché delights you with its old-world charm. Characteristic features of the village include winding pedestrian lanes, medieval gateways, historic stone buildings with floral adornments, and a 12th-century parish church.

Lacoste owes much of its present beauty to renovations funded by the famous designer Pierre Cardin. The 11th-century Château de Lacoste , which crowns the village, was purchased by Cardin in 2001. The designer restored the castle from a state of ruin and redecorated the grand rooms in an eclectic designer style. The château is open to the public for visits in July and August.

During summertime, the château hosts two prestigious cultural events. The Festival de Lacoste (late July through mid-August), a festival of classical music, opera, theater, and dance; as well as the Festival de Cinema (early July), are held at outdoor performance venues within the castle grounds.

From the château as well as from other vantage points in the village, you can admire amazing views of the surrounding countryside. Panoramas extend to the Monts de Vaucluse and Mont Ventoux.

Several outdoor cafés in the village have scenic terraces. The Café de France serves classic French cuisine, coffee, refreshments, and desserts on an outdoor terrace with breathtaking vistas.

Lacoste is located about six kilometers from Bonnieux and eight kilometers from Ménerbes. From Lacoste, there is a gentle walking path through the Forêt des Cèdres (Cedar Forest).

The Musée de la Lavande in Coustellet (eight kilometers from Gordes) educates visitors about the heritage of lavender farming; lavender-distilling techniques; and the botanical properties of the fragrant flowers. The museum's boutique sells soaps, cosmetic products, and fragrances made with Appellation d'Origine Protégée lavender essential oil.

Just outside of the Luberon Natural Regional Park are two top tourist destinations: the freshwater springs of Fontaine de Vaucluse (10 kilometers from Coustellet) and the town of Isle-sur-la-Sorgue (12 kilometers from Coustellet), which delights with its scenic canals, traditional Provençal market, and antique shops.

Designated as a Monument Historique , the Abbaye Saint-Hilaire dates back to the 12th century. In the 13th century, the abbey welcomed Louis IX (Saint Louis) on his return from the Crusades in the Holy Land.

This former Carmelite monastery has the calming ambience of a spiritual retreat. Although the site is privately owned, tourists may visit from April through November.

The Abbaye Saint-Hilaire is about four kilometers away from the village of Ménerbes.

Address: 2950 Route de Lacoste, 84560 Ménerbes

Most of the accommodations are rural retreats that will appeal to travelers who prefer a quiet, romantic countryside destination geared towards relaxation and sightseeing by car. Many of the resort-like properties offer spas and opportunities for outdoor sports. A few of the hotels are found right in villages. Below are recommendations of highly rated boutique hotels and resorts in several different categories.

Luxury Hotels:

• Discerning travelers will appreciate the relaxing environment and upscale accommodations at Le Mas des Herbes Blanches , a five-star Relais & Châteaux hotel nestled in a wooded parkland (three kilometers from Joucas). Guest rooms feature terraces with breathtaking views of the bucolic landscape. Amenities include a gastronomic restaurant, spa, and outdoor swimming pool.
• La Bastide de Marie gives travelers a taste of the good life in Provence. The four-star hotel occupies a restored 18th-century farmhouse near Ménerbes. Everything about the property reveals the region's famous art de vivre , from the lavender-filled gardens and pleasant outdoor terraces used for al fresco dining to the quaint French country interior.
• In a serene pastoral landscape outside of Joucas village, Le Phébus & Spa is a five-star Relais & Châteaux property. The hotel occupies an old stone farmhouse surrounded by lovely gardens. Amenities include a Michelin-starred restaurant, an outdoor swimming pool, a spa, and tennis court.

Mid-Range Hotels :

• La Bastide de Soubeyras is a charming bed-and-breakfast hotel set on a 2.5-hectare wooded domain, overlooking Mont Ventoux and the village of Ménerbes. The property includes an outdoor swimming pool surrounded by a beautiful garden.
• Five kilometers from the village of Roussillon, the three-star Hôtel La Clé des Champs offers spacious accommodations in a dreamy setting, surrounded by lavender fields and vine-covered hills. The hotel has a garden, outdoor swimming pool, spa facilities, guest rooms with private terraces, and a restaurant with patio seating.
• The four-star Domaine de Capelongue offers guests an authentic Provençal experience at a rural retreat, just two kilometers from Bonnieux. This Relais & Châteaux property occupies a renovated farmhouse with a swimming pool, spa, two-star dining room, a casual Provençal restaurant, and snack bar. Cooking classes are also available.

Budget Hotels:

• The Hôtel Le Palais is found in the historic center of Apt, convenient for walking to restaurants and cafés. This two-star hotel provides basic accommodations and a small on-site restaurant. Guest rooms are on several floors, and there is no elevator.
• Just outside the village of Ménerbes (about one kilometer away), the three-star Hostellerie Le Roy Soleil feels like a resort because of its tranquil natural surroundings. Nestled amid pine trees and olive groves overlooking the Luberon mountains, the property is a renovated 16th-century farmhouse with a lush garden, outdoor swimming pool, and gourmet restaurant.

More on France

8 Most Beautiful Luberon villages (Provence, France)

• Post category: Provence & French Riviera
• Post author: Nassie Angadi

Nestled in the scenic region of Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur in southern France, the Luberon valley boasts an astonishing amount of little towns and villages. If you are looking for “typical Provence”, this is it.

Exploring the most beautiful villages of the Luberon is like stepping into a world where time stands still. It’s a region I know well, having family in the area. Exuding charm and history, the ancient stone houses line flower-filled streets, with picturesque landscapes surrounding it all.

From the iconic hilltop village of Gordes and ochre trails of Roussillon, to the hidden gems of Bonnieux and Ménerbes, each village in the Luberon tells its own story. So let’s have a look at the most beautiful villages of the Luberon valley, shall we? Allons-y!

Officially recognized as one of the plus beaux villages de France (meaning one of the “ most beautiful villages in France”), Gordes a tiny gem of a town that attracts quite an exclusive clientele.

The village of Gordes is in a stunning location on a clifftop and offers some expansive views of the valley below. The village itself is tiny and much of it is built on a slope.

With a 5-star hotel in its midst known as the Bastide in Gordes, this is a town that tends to attract the wealthy, looking for a getaway that can last all summer.

You can take a tour from Avignon that will bring you to Gorde s or choose to stay in the village. You can read more about visiting Gordes here.

Where to stay in Gordes

• €€€ –  Mas des Romarins, The Originals Relais
• €€€€€ –  Airelles, La Bastide de Gordes  (with amazing views of valley below)

2. Roussillon

About 40 miles (65 km) from Aix-en-Provence , is Roussillon, the town officially recognized as one of the “plus beaux village de France”.

Roussillon is famous for being surrounded by the orange and yellow ochre hills of an old quarry. They are a sight to behold, and are so popular that reservations are needed to visit during certain times of the year.

The town sits atop the hill, and its lower part is lined with all sorts of artisan shops. The main commodity here is pottery and pigments, from the nearby ochre trails.

There are several organized tours that visit Roussillon and the nearby lavender fields from Avignon and nearby Aix-en-Provence . You can read more about visiting Roussillon here.

Where to stay in Roussillon

• €€€ – La Maison des Ocres
• €€€ – Le Clos de la Glycine

3. Bonnieux

The perched hilltop village of Bonnieux is located on the northern slope of the Luberon massif, just a few miles away from Gordes and Roussillon and about an hour away from Aix-en-Provence .

The village’s main road cuts through its center. Most of the village’s stores and businesses are located in its lower section, while its higher section has meandering lanes that lead to the church perched on a hill.

There is also a small vinery called Château La Canorgue nearby, if you are looking to indulge in some Côtes du Rhône wines . And if you are looking for stunning views over the Luberon, a visit to the village of Bonnieux is a must.

Where to stay in Bonnieux

• €€€ – Le Clos Du Buis
• €€€€ – La Ferme du Haut Trigaud

4. Lourmarin

Lourmarin has been labeled “une des plus beaux village en France” (one of the most beautiful villages in France) to visit.

The village owes its existence to its strategic location near a route to Aix-en-Provence, around the Massif of Luberon. Aix-en-Provence has always been a bustling town due to its natural thermal springs, so the route to Aix needed to be defended.

A fortress was built in the area in the 12th-century to protect that route, and gradually the village around it expanded to what it is today, with a population of approx. 1000 people.

There is a beautiful château in the village to an exhibition to French philosopher and writer Albert Camus who lived in area for several years. Along with bustling cafés and small boutiques, this is the quintessential French village in Provence.

You can take a tour to the village from Aix-en-Provence and read more about visiting Lourmarin here.

Where to stay in Lourmarin

• €€€ – Le Moulin
• €€€€ – Hotel Bastide

5. Ménerbes

The hilltop town of Ménerbes is larger than some of the other towns on the list, and it is easy to see why. The town attracts plenty of visitors all year around, with a vibrant local community and many cultural events.

It is located near the ancient Via Domitia and the 2000 year old Roman Pont Julien bridge which is still standing nearby. It is also within 20 minutes of two other attractions, the Château du Marquis de Sade in Lacoste and the Abbaye Saint Hilaire .

In the 1960, the village of Ménerbes became a cultural favorite after Dora Maar took up residence. She was an artist as well as a lover and muse of Pablo Picasso, and the widow of artist Nicolas de Staël.

In addition, the British author Peter Mayle moved to Ménerbes writing many books about a British expatriate who settled in the village of Ménerbes. You can read more about visiting Ménerbes here.

Where to stay in Ménerbes

• €€€ – Hôtel particulier de Tingry – Pierres d’Histoire
• €€€€ – La Bastide de Marie, Maisons et Hôtels Sibuet

Located in the heart of the Luberon region, the small village of Ansouis is famous for its most prominent landmark, the Château d’Ansouis. This medieval fortress stands proudly atop a hill, offering panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.

Its imposing architecture and beautifully landscaped gardens provide a glimpse into the village’s feudal past. Inside, you can explore the castle’s interior and admire its antique furnishings. The Château is privately owned and guided visits are available only during certain times of the year.

Strolling through the narrow streets of Ansouis, The village is adorned with beautiful stone houses, colorful shutters, and cascading flower pots that add to its idyllic allure.

Along the way, you’ll also discover charming boutiques, art galleries, and local artisan shops that showcase the region’s craftsmanship. Additionally, the Église Saint-Martin, a Romanesque church with its beautiful stained glass windows, is another architectural gem worth visiting.

Where to stay in Ansouis

• €€€ – Un Patio en Luberon

7. Venasque

With ancient buildings made of stone, the lovely little village of Venasque feels like it belongs to another era.

Perched on a rocky edge of a cliff, it is about 24 miles (38 km) from Avignon. It has been officially recognized as one of the “plus beaux villages de France” (one of the most beautiful villages in France), welcoming thousands of visitors every year.

When the sun is shining, this little village is a stunning place to visit, with its medieval stone buildings and historic church.

The stunning Gorges du Verdon are also close by, for those that enjoy a good balade (walk) in the mountains. You can read more about visiting Venasque here.

Where to stay in Vénasque

I would recommend staying in the village next door, Gordes which is slightly bigger. It is about 10 miles (16km) away, with equally lovely views of the valley. Crucially, it has more cafés and restaurants for visitors, while keeping that same village feel.

8. Fontaine de Vaucluse

The small village of the Fontaine de Vaucluse is not quite as large as the others, but it is a very popular tourist attraction in the Luberon Valley . It is a natural spring, and one that is considered the 5th largest in the world.

Located in at the foot of the Vaucluse Mountains, between the towns of Saumane-de-Vaucluse and Lagnes, this little corner of the Natural Park of Lubéron is one of the most visited sites in Provence.

The spring itself is situated at the feet of a steep limestone cliff 230 metres high, and has an annual flow of 630 million cubic metres. It is a beautiful area, with a few provençale restaurants dotted all around.

You can take a tour from Avignon that will bring you to Fontaine de Vaucluse and read more about visiting Fontaine de Vaucluse here.

If you enjoyed that article, you may like to read more about the local foods and drinks specialties in Provence . A bientôt!

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The Prettiest Luberon Villages in Provence

The Luberon valley is characterised by its picture-perfect Provence villages. It is characterized by its hilltop villages, marvelous castles and ruins, and mountains framing the vistas from side to side. Here you can hike, cycle, explore, eat, and simply get lost in the charming atmosphere of the villages and surrounding countryside. Here are 10 of prettiest Luberon Villages you need to visit on your journey through southern France. 

The Prettiest Luberon Villages

In terms of beautiful villages, Luberon is blessed with many choices. In fact, 4 of the Provence villages mentioned below make it into the official list of Most Beautiful Villages of France.

Like many of the Provence best villages, Menerbes sits perched on a hill from where it once served as a stronghold and lookout point during the French wars of religion between the Catholic establishment and the Huguenot (Protestant) minority. Menerbes held out for 14 months against a Catholic force of 12,000 troops.

Vineyards and cherry orchards spread out surrounding Menerbes transforming the landscape as the seasons pass. Ancient streets remain peaceful and unchanged and only a trickle of eateries, bakeries, and shops serve the population of fewer than 1000 people. 

Impressionist painter, Nicolas de Stael once lived here at the chateau du Castellet. Pablo Picasso used to visit his mistress who lived here in Menerbes. More recently, Menerbes shot to fame as the home of Peter Mayle who in his best-selling 1989 memoir, A Year in Provence, mythologised life in the Luberon villages.

Make your way through the charming 16th-century alleys to see why it’s on the official list of the Most Beautiful Villages of France.

Isle Sur La Sorgue

This is one of the larger Luberon villages and the focal point is the tranquil Sorgue River that meanders through the heart of the village. You will be hypnotized by the water wheels still diligently powering away as the stream passes by. 

The café’s lining the waterside lend a romantic atmosphere to the already enchanting village but what draws the most attention are the antique stores strewn across town.

Isle Sur La Sorgue is renowned for its produce markets, flea markets, bargain shops, and vintage finds but also has plenty of chic boutiques. Isle Sur La Sorgue is one of the best Luberon villages for shopping.

Fontaine de Vaucluse

The Vaucluse Mountains serve as the backdrop to this tiny village and it is also here where the Vaucluse spring originates that becomes the River Sorgue that flows through the village.. The spring is over 200m up in the mountain and is one of the top places to see in the area. 

Hikers love the rocky surroundings but in the village, there is also plenty to see and do. Visit local craftsmen or the various museums and ruins. One of the attractions in the town is a house belonging to the poet Petrarch .

The Tour de France 2021 went through Fontaine de Vaucluse this summer on one of its stages.

Easily one of the most beautiful villages in Provence, Roussillon sits in the central northwest of Luberon. It is unmissable and the towering cliffs packed with ochre deposits make for a spectacular feature. These red cliffs are starkly contrasted by the surrounding lush greenery and remnants of the quarries can still be visited. 

The town is bursting with art galleries and restaurants hidden in its alleyways. Make sure to visit the “Conservatoire des Ocres et des Pigments Appliqués” in an old ochre factory to understand more about this natural substance which made this town famous.

Local Color!

Legend says the area’s red tint is a result of a tragic love story. The Lord of Roussillon had a wife who cheated on him with a troubadour. The husband is unamused and serves her the lover’s heart for dinner. When she finds out what her amuse bouche really was, she’s aghast. She throws herself from the top of the cliff colouring the area below with shades of red blood for all time.

Gordes is one of the most iconic hilltop villages in the valley and spills down the side of a massive calcareous hill. The focal point at the top of the hill is the Chateau de Gordes , standing proud after more than 500 years. 

In the valley below, vineyards dominate the landscape with interspersing small forests opposing the manicured farmland. It’s another one of the official Most Beautiful Villages in France.

The Gordes town market is one of the most popular events and takes place every Thursday morning. Vendors take to the streets around the castle to sell an assortment of linens, produce, crafts, and treats.

Peeking out just past the yellowing vineyards you will see provincial clay roofs, a couple of distinct belfries, and a dramatic framework of mountains in the back. The town is situated on two slight elevations, the village on the one and the Villa Medicis de Provence (a Renaissance chateau) on the other.  Lourmarin is another one of the official Most Beautiful Villages in France.

Once in the village, you will fall in love with the cobbled streets lined with cafes and restaurants, everything from simple local cuisine to renowned Michelin-star dining.  Like many villages in the area, Lourmarin also has a famed market which is held on Friday mornings. 

Lourmarin is famous for being the home of Albert Camus , Nobel Prize winning French philosopher and author. He is also buried in Lourmarin after dying in a car crash at the age of 46 on his way from Lourmarin to Paris with his publisher.

Time stands still in the village of Lacoste, one of Luberon’s smallest. Here you will wander aimlessly through the labyrinth of cobbled streets to admire the carefully restored houses and buildings that date back centuries.

The main attraction is the Château de Lacoste that sits at the top of the village overlooking the valley below. A hulking ruin, The Chateau de Lacoste was the home of the Marquis de Sade who spent considerable time practicing what he preached in its walls. When he wasn’t locked up in Paris, he spent time at his chateau pursuing the art of pleasure.

The Chateau was purchased by Pierre Cardin in 2001 and restored to be used as a concert space. It is open to the public from July to August and hosts art walks, concerts, and cultural events. 

Other notable things that happened in Lacoste over the years:

• Lacoste was part of the French Wars of the Religion and the site of a well-known massacre of Huguenots.
• The narrow streets of Lacoste made it perfect as a hideout for the French Resistance during World War 2.
• More recently, Lacoste was the home of Sir Tom Stoppard, British playwright and screenwriter, who wrote Academy Award winning, Shakespeare in Love.

You can’t miss the beacon of Bonnieux’s church tower, visible from miles away. Fitting, seeing as this has been a papal town for almost 500 years. The steep streets lead you through classic provincial houses and close to 100 steps take you up the Old Church, or La Vieille Église . 

A quirky attraction here is the Boulangerie Museum , dedicated to the art of baking and bread making. If that leaves you hungry, visit any of the marvelous restaurants in the town center serving delicious and fresh traditional meals. 

Bonnieux is officially one of the most beautiful villages in France as well. From the top of Bonnieux, you have a clear view of Mount Ventoux , nicknamed the Giant of Provence. Mount Ventoux has been made famous through its inclusion in the Tour de France.

Director Ridley Scott filmed A Good Year (2006), the screen version of Peter Mayle’s memoir A Year in Provence, in Bonnieux.

On the southern slopes of the Luberon mountain range is one of the liveliest small Provence villages in the area. Year-round the village attracts visitors who want to explore its medieval streets. You enter the old town through fortified gateways, like something out of a fairy-tale. 

The Church of Notre Dame de Beaulieu has a decorative bellower and magnificent nave that are not to be missed. The gardens of the Pavillon de Galon are also a hit, showcasing a contemporary take on iconic French gardens. In Place de l’Etang , the busiest part of town, you can enjoy the postcard-perfect image of colorful houses lined up around the pond. 

Cucuron also appeared in the 2006 movie, A Good Year.

When in Provence, you will seldom grow tired of the spectacular castles, fortresses, and ruins that most villages were built around. The castle of Ansouis is a splendid and well-preserved structure that is 1000 years old. The Sabran family that owned this castle were also powerful and well-connected in medieval times having produced, e.g., two saints, a Queen of France, Queen of England and a Pope.

Similarly, the gardens of the castle are tranquil and inspiring. Another of the village’s well known attractions is the quirky Musée Extraordinaire , a whimsical exploration of science, art, and geology through the eyes of painter and diver, Georges Mazoyer. It houses things he found on his dives as well fossils from the area.

Map of Luberon Villages

Here’s a map of Luberon Villages for your road trip in France planning purposes.

France Travel Tips

We stayed in Gordes and did day trips in the Luberon visiting Provence villages that were located close together. For example:

• L’isle Sur La Sorgue and Fontaine de Vaucluse are a natural day trip from Gordes.
• Menerbes, Lacoste and Bonnieux make another good cluster to visit.
• Lourmarin, Cucoron and Ansouis are a good day trip on the far side of the Luberon Nature Park.

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A Guide to the Best Luberon Villages | Planning Your Provence Holidays

We all agree, that the Luberon Regional Nature Park couldn’t be skipped when diving deep into Provencal culture and nature. With about 70 villages the Parc naturel régional du Luberon offers a pretty vast opportunities, which might not fit in the amount of days you have for the trip. But do you need to visit them all? In this guide to Luberon villages we share our personal favourites with you, to help you plan your ideal holidays in Provence.

“What a marvelous sunset,’ she said. ‘Yes,’ replied her husband. ‘Most impressive for such a small village.”  ― Peter Mayle, A Year in Provence

Things We talk About in This Post

• 1 A Guide to Luberon Villages
• 2 Lourmarin Village
• 3.1 Things to Do Around the Luberon Village of Bonnieux
• 4.1 Food Options in l’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue
• 5.1 Things To See and Do Around Gordes
• 6 Roussillon – A Unique Luberon Village

A Guide to Luberon Villages

Parc naturel régional du Luberon is a Provencal gem. Within almost 600 square km of the Luberon Regional Nature Park you will find charming small villages side by side with gorgeous nature and thousands of exciting specialties to explore.

There are about 70 villages within the Luberon Regional Nature Park, which might give a headache when planning your trip.

With 70 villages on offer, we hear you asking: where to start? A very legitimate question! So let us help you out.

After spending 3 months in Provence we have visited Parc naturel régional du Luberon several times and got to learn quite some villages. So here are our favourites.

Please note, that since we are traveling with kids, our travel speed might differ a bit from yours, but in any case with our tips you will get a good start.

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Lourmarin village.

Lourmarin is one of those stereotypes of a perfect Provencal village.

It’s narrow streets with cafes along them together with small shops selling lavender are a joy to live and breathe. Vineyards, olive groves and a city square with a bustling fountain sure adds extra charm to an already perfect composition.

Château de Lourmarin – a castle dating back to the 12th century, surely adds romantic vibes to the already perfect picture.

Lourmarin has also seen some prominent peopl e walking it’s streets and getting inspiration from this charming Luberon village. Albert Camus , the famous philosopher and author the 20th century , who won a Nobel Prize in Literature, is buried on the Lourmarin cemetery.

And remember the movie ‘A Good Year’ with Russel Crowe? It is based on the book with the same name, which Peter Mayle, a British author, wrote in Lourmarin. The movie itself was filmed nearby.

We have visited Lourmarin in the middle of Marc h with very little visitors and spring vibes and blossoms – an experience hard to forget.

– >OUR FOOD TIP : During the off season times many of the restaurants and brasserie are closed. This means you will need to plan your lunch break other than walking in and having all the options, like in summer. This said, Lourmarin has some good choices. You will find nice eateries serving daily menu and lunch at the l’Ormeau square. We chose Cafè Gaby and were happy with the food.

Bonnieux Village

Thanks to the geographical position, Luberon mountains are quite hilly. So that most of the villages are settled atop a hill. Thus providing for incredible views over the Parc naturel régional du Luberon .

Bonnieux is no exception. Narrow alleys, Provencal houses with century old history – this village is worth spending an hour or two. You don’t need to do much, just walking up and down it’s streets and savouring the Provence at it’S best!

The best view of this Luberon village itself you will find it on our cover photo of this post. It is to be found if you are arriving from the Lourmarin and following the D36 to Bonnieux.

Things to Do Around the Luberon Village of Bonnieux

• Visiting the largest Cedar forest of France. Just a short drive from Bonnieux, you will find yourself surrounded by large cedars. The cedar forest is a blessing in summer – are trees provide enough shade. You can wander the paths on your own, or follow one of the 4 routes marked as A, B, C and D and in colours. It all depends on your time limit. We have chosen the route A and at some point reached incredible views over the Luberon Regional Nature Park.

-> OUR TIP for Visiting the Luberon Cedar Forest . The paths are quite rocky at some parts, so it’s better to have proper shoes.

-> OUR Tip for Families traveling with small children : . As we have mentioned above, the paths of the Luberon Cedar Forest could become quite rocky at some point, therefore we recommend you either using a baby carrier or a stroller with thicker wheels.

• Pay a visit to Pont Julien – aa great example of Roman art of building stone arch bridges. Pont Julien’s history goes back to 3 BC. The bridge is worth a stop – it is about 5 km drive away from Bonnieux.

L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue – the Dream Luberon Village for the Fans of Antique s

If you like French antiques and busy flea markets you have to visit L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue . The village is famous for it’s antique shops.

Every Sunday the whole village turns into a huge flea market , with people coming from all parts of France and outside to dig in the treasure chest.

Thursday is another flea market day, but the scale is less.

From what we heard, about 300 antique sellers showcase their products – an atmosphere hard to skip on!

Please note, that due to the current pandemic situation of Covid-19 there might be a change in the operating hours and time schedules of markets and restaurants. Please check the official government regulations in advance and stay safe!

The Luberon village of L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue is a great stop for a lunch, people watching and roaming the streets surrounded and riverside by the river Sorgue.

Food Options in l’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue

• Cafe de France is a very Provencal place. This is where the whole village meets to talk about the latest news, to have a Café au lait  in the morning. After midday you will see locals ordering favourite Provencal aperitif – Pastis . Most likely from the Ricard brand, since it is manufactured in Marseille. The common custom is to get yourself a crispy buttery croissant from a bakery nearby and devour it with a cup of coffee. You can bring your snacks along. But you can also try the meals from Cafe de France itself. This cafe is the best place to stop and enjoy the pace of the Luberon villages at it’s best.
• Au Chineur is great for dining outside next to the river Sorgue. At Au Chineur the price-quality-atmosphere equation is well met.

Gordes – Probably the Most Popular of All the Luberon Villages

Gordes is not a secret gem , but a rather popular Luberon Village, which you will find in the the guidebooks. Therefore it might get very busy, especially during the summer months.

But you can’t visit Parc naturel régional du Luberon without stopping by at Gordes . When arriving by car, you will see the village like a ‘wedding cake’ rising above the valley and will definitely recognise this popular sight from postcards and movies.

When walking the streets of Gordes it is quite easy to understand why it is so popular. It simply is beautiful!

The village is usually visited on the daily bus tours, so a rrive early or late to have some peace and quiet . Gordes is also quite calm during the off season months.

Things To See and Do Around Gordes

If you have some extra time on your Luberon villages tour, we’d highly recommend you have a stop at the Notre-Dame de Senanque . You will recognise this Abbey immediately – it has made covers of many travel magazines!

It’s perfect set up between two mountains and a lavender field in front of it attracts visitors and photographers from all over the Globe.

The Senanque Abbey is about 15 minutes away by car from Gordes.

You can either stop and go, or you can schedule a visit to the abbey to learn more about the regions history. There is also a shop selling local produce as well as souvenirs.

Roussillon – A Unique Luberon Village

When exploring the beautiful villages within the Luberon Regional Nature Park . Roussillon is a true Provencal gem which every traveller should place on top of it’s Provence bucket list! Roussillon is probably the most unique of the Luberon villages, because of it’s colours.

The area around Roussillon has been cultivated for it’s ochre deposits. Back in the days, ochre has been derived from the mines to feed the textile industry supplies, which was in high demand in the 18th century. The same ochre’s been used for painting the houses. The earth and the area around Roussillon has different ochre tones. The tones are especially during the sunset hours, when lit by the going down sun.

The deep brown-burgundy colours of houses in combination with colourful doors and wooden window shutters provide for a unique experience no other Luberon village can compete with.

Roussillon is a small village and you won’t need more than two hours to walk up and down it’s streets and have a coffee. There are several viewpoints around Roussillon, marked as Belvedere . It is worth checking them out to enjoy the views over the city and the surrounding area of Parc naturel régional du Luberon . To have a glimpse into the history of Roussillon, be sure to visit the ochre deposits and follow the  Le Sentier des Ocres – the Ochre Path.

Our tip: Try not to wear white clothes and shoes. The ochre color is quite intense and it is difficult to wash it out.

Check out our other posts about France to help you plan your family travels.

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The Ultimate Luberon Valley Guide – The Heart of Provence, France

The Luberon valley is, in my experience, the most authentic and intriguing area of Provence. It’s a place where time has seemingly stood still for centuries and you can still sample the alluring Provençal charm that has captivated countless visitors throughout the years.

It’s an area of France that deserves to be savoured. But if you’re short on time, it’s absolutely possible to see many of the highlights in a weekend too. Here’s my guide on the best things to do in the Luberon Regional Natural Park in Provence.

What is the Luberon Regional Natural Park?

You may well be more familiar with this area of France than you think you are…

The Luberon spans over 600 square kilometres and is home to several stunning villages – 5 of which have been officially classed as ‘Les Plus Beaux Villages de France’ (The Most Beautiful Villages of France).

Perhaps you’ve heard of Gordes , Roussillon and Ménerbes? Or indeed, if you’re a fan of author Peter Mayle’s books , or you’ve seen the movie A Good Year – then you’ve heard of the Luberon.

The Luberon valley is a massif made up of three mountain ranges. The Petit Luberon, the Grand Luberon and the Luberon Oriental. It’s a place bursting with history, and rich in agriculture.

Looking for more Provence travel inspiration? Don’t forget to join our free Facebook group  Provence Travel Planning !

Where is the Luberon Region?

The Luberon is located in central Provence. It borders the Durance River in the South and reaches out towards the towns of L’isle-sur-la-Sorgue in the West, and Manosque in the East.

Map of the Luberon, France

How to get to the Luberon

The Luberon is conveniently located near many of Provence’s main airports and train stations. Avignon train station is the closest port of call, followed by Aix-en-Provence station, the Nîmes/Arles airport and Marseille airport.

Where you start your tour of the Luberon will depend on which direction you are travelling from. From either Avignon or Aix-en-Provence , the entrance to the Luberon valley is a little over half an hour’s drive away.

Getting Around the Luberon

If you want to stay in the Luberon region and explore your surroundings, you’re going to be far better off if you hire a car . Alternatively, you could stay in either Avignon or Aix-en-Provence and enjoy the region through a series of pre-arranged  day tours.

Driving in the Luberon is fairly straightforward. Directions are well signposted, and the roads are well paved. Just be aware that the village streets in this corner of France can be very narrow, so it’s advisable to hire a smaller vehicle to avoid mishaps!

Check rental car prices here .

Where to stay in the Luberon

The Luberon is large, so if you want to see as much as you can while minimizing long days in the car, staying central is the way to go.

Goult is a lovely village that is slightly less busy than some of the more well-known villages, while still being very authentic and charming. Gordes is known as ‘the’ place to stay if you’re seeking luxury, and Ménerbes is home to some exquisite Luberon gites and villas.

See my favourites below or read my guide on the best places to stay in Provence for a more in-depth guide to the region.

Luberon Accommodation

• La Bastide de Gordes – Luxury Accommodation in Gordes
• Villa des Roses – Beautiful B&B in Roussillon
• Mas Ménerbes – Holiday villa in Ménerbes
• Mas Belle Source – Beautiful holiday home in Goult

Things to do in the Luberon

The Luberon is best explored without a set plan of attack. There’s nothing more satisfying than coming across the perfect picnic spot, a bucolic village tucked away down a lane, or calling into a vineyard to sample the local wines spontaneously.

So map out your main points of interest by all means, but allow time to get wonderfully sidetracked on the way!

Luberon Villages

The Luberon valley is home to some of the most beautiful villages in Provence , if not the country. You could easily spend a few days simply driving from village to village and noting both the similarities and stark differences between each one.

Don’t miss Roussillon for its wonderfully bright pastel-coloured houses, Gordes for the most breathtaking views (stop before you get to the village for the best vantage point), Lacoste to see the hilltop sculptures around Cardin’s castle , Ménerbes for its rich history and preserved heritage, Lourmarin for its laid-back vibe and well-preserved château, and L’isle-sur-la-Sorgue for its antiques and moss-covered waterwheels.

Walks in the Luberon

Pack your walking shoes when you travel to the Luberon as the diverse landscapes can be best appreciated on foot.

The short but breathtaking walk through a former ochre mine in Roussillon is a must-do. The aptly named Ochre Trail  will dash your preconceived ideas of what Provence should look like as you marvel at the rust-red coloured earth and the towering natural pillars and canyons.

The Forêt des Cèdres is another fantastic location for a walk with a view. There are a number of trails to choose from – ranging from a quick and easy stroll to a multi-hour ramble through the forest.

If you want to discover more walks throughout the Luberon, I’d highly recommend picking up a copy of a detailed Luberon Walking Map to help navigate you through the undulating landscape.

Luberon Cycling

The Luberon valley is an ideal location for cycling enthusiasts. The scenery is unmatched, the routes are interesting, and there are plenty of amazing places to catch your breath along the way.

There are several marked cycling routes within the Luberon, you can make it up as you go, or you can follow any of the routes in this handy brochure.

Love the idea of cycling in the Luberon, but not sure if you have the fitness required? Rent an electric bike to make the journey more enjoyable!

Tasting Luberon Wine

Rosé is the wine of choice in Provence, but the Luberon also produces some fine reds and white wines. You’ll invariably come across many a wine-producing château as you tour the Luberon. Pop in to sample the vintages on offer. For a less random approach, you can book a wine tour and learn what makes the Luberon wine region so special.

Luberon Wine Tours

• Private Full Day Wine Tour
• Provence Wineries and Luberon Villages Tour
• Half Day Luberon Wine Tour from Aix-en-Provence

Luberon Markets

There are markets on every day of the week in the Luberon valley. On Monday you’ll find them in Cadenet , Cavaillon and Lauris.

Tuesday is a busy day with markets in Lacoste, Cucuron, Gordes, La Tour d’Aigues, Saint-Saturnin-lès-Apt and an evening market in Lourmarin.

Wednesday is also popular with market days in Merindol, Sault , Gargas, Pertuis and Saint-Martin-de-Castillon.

On Thursdays , you can fill up your basket at the farmer’s markets in Goult, Robion, Cereste, Caumont, Menerbes and Roussillon .

Friday is a little quieter with just two markets in Lourmarin and Bonnieux.

In the weekend, you’ll find markets in Apt, Cheval Blanc, Pertuis, Oppède and Manosque on a Saturday .

And on Sunday you can combine the weekly farmers market with the antique market in L’isle-sur-la-Sorgue.

The Luberon Region’s Hidden Gems

Away from the usual tourist trail lays a number of amazing treasures that many visitors simply don’t have the time, or the guidance to discover. After living on the doorstep of the Luberon for a few years now, I’ve discovered many gems on my travels.

Here are a few of my favourite places to visit in the Luberon:

• Château de Cadenet
• Village des Bories, Gordes
• Fort de Buoux
• Colorado Provencal near Rustrel
• La Vieux Village Merindol
• Mines de Bruoux

Provençal Food

The French are undoubtedly proud of their food culture, and nowhere is this more evident than in the Luberon. Head straight to any boulangerie (bakery) to sample freshly baked delights including the regional specialities of fougasse and calissons.

Browse one of the daily farmer’s markets to fill your basket with fresh and delicious local produce. Dine at a cosy bistro, or try the fine food on offer at one of the many one and two-starred Michelin restaurants throughout the Luberon.

– Provence Food Festivals

In addition to the weekly farmer’s markets, there are a few local delicacies that are celebrated annually with a festival in their honor.

Cavaillon Melon Festival – every year in July, this town on the edge of the Luberon hosts a fun event in the name of the charentais melon . Expect cooking demonstrations, parades and music.

Carpentras Strawberry Festival – just north of the Luberon, you’ll find a town synonymous with the strawberry. And in April, a celebration of the succulent fruit. Expect fanfair, fun, and plenty of fraise .

Menerbes Truffle Market – Between Christmas and New Years, this Luberon village hosts an annual market dedicated to black truffles. Expect demonstrations, high prices, and a convivial atmosphere.

Luberon Lavender Fields

Provence is famed for its lavender fields and the Luberon is home to some of the most stunning examples. The Sénanque Abbey near Gordes is a must-see when the purple flower is in bloom. And you’ll find flowering fields popping up all over the Luberon landscape.

Find a complete guide to the Luberon lavender fields here!

Even if you’re visiting outside of the prime lavender season (end June – beginning August), you can visit the Musee de la Lavande to get your fix! The museum has a small but interesting display of lavender stills and you’ll learn the importance lavender has had in this region throughout the years.

Where to go from the Luberon

If you have time to continue your travels in Provence after visiting the Luberon, there are many towns, cities and attractions nearby that deserve your attention.

Aix-en-Provence is the historical centre of Provence and is affectionately known as the city of fountains. You could easily spend a day simply wandering the charming old town and counting how many fountains you can spot on the way. From the grandiose stature of the Rotonde, to the downright weird-looking ‘living’ fountains.

In Avignon , visiting the Pope’s palace is a must-do, and a trip to the covered market – Halles d’Avignon – should be at the top of any foodie’s bucket list when visiting Provence. Other notable towns in the area include Arles, Nîmes and Marseille , which are all distinctively different and worth getting to know if you’ve got more time up your sleeve. To help you plan your onward journey, have a read of my southern France itinerary planner.

The Luberon valley in France is one of the most beautiful places you’ll visit in your lifetime. It excites the senses with its sights, smells and tastes. It invigorates the soul. And it will leave you with a wonderful collection of memories from your time spent in the region.

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Luberon travel guide

Visit Luberon (Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur, France)

The Luberon region of Provence is famous the world over, for its outstanding natural beauty, with craggy limestone hills, olive groves and forested valleys but above all for the numerous beautiful medieval hilltop villages.

Luberon tourism

It is above all the Luberon villages that we recommend you explore for it is in these villages and the scenery you pass through when travelling between them that the highlights of this beautiful region of the French countryside are to be found.

Several of the villages are listed among the 'most beautiful villages of France', and although they are often small each village has its own particular appeal and character - and almost all are very worth visiting!

The Luberon is also well known because of the books set in the region by the Luberon's most famous resident - Peter Mayle - such as 'A Year in Provence'.

This region of Provence is about 40 kilometres east of Arles and Avignon and to the north of Aix-en-Provence and falls in two departments of Provence: Vaucluse to the west and the Alpes-de-Haute-Provence to the east. To help your planning we look at each area separately below.

Luberon in Vaucluse

The Petit Luberon region, a 'sub-region' that includes several of the main highlights, contains many of the most visited perched villages within about 30 kilometres of each other, and is situated here in the Vaucluse.

The Luberon Regional Natural Park contains a small road that runs east to west and en-route passes by four very attractive villages - each also has exceptional views across the Luberon countryside: Oppède-le-Vieux ; nearby Ménerbes , strung out along a hilltop; Lacoste , one street town leading to the castle of the Marquis de Sade; Bonnieux , tumbling down the side of a hill at the eastern end of the road.

Don't miss also the ochre mines and orange houses at Roussillon , best seen at sunrise if possible. A little way south is the ancient village of Lourmarin , also in a very attractive setting, and the small villages of Cucuron and Ansouis are nearby, and Saint-Saturnin-les-Apt is north of Roussillon

Luberon in the Alpes-de-Haute-Provence

Although it is true that there are less 'exceptional' towns and villages here there are also less tourists so it is a chance to see a more authentic Provence.

Among the highlights are the market town of Forcalquier , the nearby small villages at Lurs and the village of Mane , dominated by its citadel, the town of Manosque at the east of the region, and the hill town of Oppedette , best known for its scenic gorges.

France This way opinion...

The close proximity of the villages to each other means it is easy to visit several in one holiday.

While visiting the Luberon area is highly recommended, for both the villages and the magnificent scenery, I would suggest that you avoid high summer if possible, when the crowds of tourists can become a little intense at times.

Spring and autumn usually have very pleasant weather and are ideal!

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Map of luberon and places nearby, visit near luberon with france this way reviews.

Abbey of Senanque

Senanque Abbey is a roman style abbey in Provence surrounded by lavender fields and with many of the 12th century monastic buildings lovingly restored

The quaint medieval centre, the castle and the views from Ansouis make it one of our favourite Luberon villages

Less visited than some of the Luberon villages, the upper town in Bonnieux and the views from the top of the hill make it very pleasant to visit

Cadenet is a small town in the south of the Luberon Regional Natural Park

Chateau de Lacoste

The chateau de Lacoste is an 11th century castle in Provence, known for its connection with the Marquis de Sade

Chateau de Lourmarin

The Chateau de Lourmarin is a castle on the edge of the village of the same name, with both medieval and renaissance elements

Enter Cucuron through one of its medieval gateways to discover a picturesque old town and lots of interesting houses

Extraordinary Museum of Georges Mazoyer

Museum featuring an eclectic collection of objects discovered in the ocean and various works of art by Georges Mazoyer

Fontaine-de-Vaucluse

The highlight of your visit to Fontaine-de-Vaucluse is the wooded valley and river emerging from the rocks next to the village

Forcalquier

Forcalquier is a pleasant Luberon town with several interesting historic monuments

The exceptionally pretty-village of Gordes is also one of the most visited villages in France

The small village of Lacoste, one of the most beautiful in the Luberon, stands below the castle of the Marquis de Sade

Lourmarin is one of the most important scenic villages in the Luberon region

The village of Lurs is small but has a great deal of character

The citadel above the village is the principal monument in the small Provencal village of Mane

Ensure that your trip to the bustling town of Manosque includes a stroll up Mont d'Or for views back across the town

One of our favourite Luberon villages, the streets of old Menerbes are overflowing with charm

Oppede-le-Vieux

Oppede might be less visited than the more famous of the Luberon villages, but a visit is still recommended - and the crowds rather less!

After a stroll around the historic village of Oppedette you can visit the Gorges d'Oppedette, a lovely local landmark

As well as the orange houses of the village you can explore the ancient ochre mines just below Roussillon

Saint-Saturnin-les-Apt

It is true that Saint-Saturnin-les-Apt is larger and less visited by tourists than many of the Luberon villages, but find the time and you will discover another scenic small town

The Ochre Footpath of Roussillon

The Ochre mines of Roussillon are eroded into beautiful colours and shapes and fascinating to explore

Village des Bories

The Village des Bories, near Gordes in Provence, is a fascinating group of ancient stone dwellings and shelters

The French version of this page is at Luberon (Francais)

More information

Market towns & days in the luberon.

All markets in morning unless otherwise stated

Below we show most of the important markets that are held all year around - but be aware that many of the smaller towns and villages will also have markets, in particular during the summer months.

Night markets are also popular, and great fun, but perhaps a more recent innovation than the more traditional Provençal markets!

Markets in Luberon - Vaucluse

Apt : Saturday Avignon : every day except Monday Cadenet : Monday Cavaillon : Monday Gordes : Tuesday Le Thor : Saturday Lourmarin : Friday Maubec : Sunday Pernes-les-Fontaines : Saturday Pertuis : Friday Roussillon : Thursday Saint-Martin-de-la-Brasque : Sunday

Markets in Luberon - Alpes-de-Haute-Provence

Forcalquier : Monday Les Mees : Friday Manosque : Saturday Valensole : Saturday

French version: Luberon (Francais)

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The charm of the best villages to visit in Provence

the most beautiful villages in provence

From Isle sur la Sorgue, a flea market paradise, to Apt, the capital of candied fruit, and Gordes and its castle, the Luberon is full of some of the best villages to visit in Provence, each one more charming than the next. One of our favourite things to do in Provence is to go through the Luberon on our Provence holiday , and discover this land of culture that has attracted visitors since the dawn of time.

Coming from Paris, you arrive at the Avignon train station, where just 2 hours by car separate you from this French paradise. Your journey through the best villages to visit in Provence begins along country roads and continues into the charming Luberon, hidden in the prairies and perched on their rocky peaks. First stop: l'Isle sur La Sorgue.

L'Isle sur la Sorgue: provence fishing town

L'Isle sur la Sorgue, an old fishing town on the riverside, retains its old-fashioned charm with its peaceful canals. Stroll along the main streets along the Gothic and Renaissance facades. L'Isle sur la Sorgue is also a paradise for antique dealers, and has been famous for more than 60 years for its antique fair.

Thouzon Cave

While passing through Isle sur la Sorgue, make sure to make a detour to the Thouzon Cave. Discovered in 1902, the cave is a real underground treasure. This natural cave, adapted for tourism, is an enchanting sight. Here, the water has left its mark and created amazing golden yellow stalactites. Visiting this site is a must for Provence holidays in the Luberon.

Mas des Platanes

Enjoy the peace and quiet under the hundred-year-old plane trees of this traditional farmhouse. On sunny afternoons, enjoy the stone swimming pool and its ancient fountain. Have one of our chefs prepare meals in the kitchen worthy of a great restaurant and share them with your loved ones in the large dining room. At the end of the day, discover the wine cellar of Mas des Platanes where you can try the best bottles of the region.

a day trip to Fontaine de Vaucluse

A stone's throw from Isle sur la Sorgue, Fontaine de Vaucluse is a small, peaceful and sunny village nestled at the foot of the cliffs. After lunch, take a stroll along the riverside to the source of the Sorgue and enjoy the refreshing atmosphere. On the way back to the village, stop for a drink at the Hostellerie Le Château which overlooks an old waterwheel.

A fly fishing trip

A paradise for fly fishing, Fontaine de Vaucluse is the ideal place to discover this great activity. Accompanied by a professional fisherman on a flat-bottomed boat called nego-chin, learn the rudiments of the trade. Prepare to catch some trout, grayling and eels. Bring your prize home and let the chef create a whole meal around your catch of the day.

Bastide des Poètes 

At the end of a private path lined with plane trees, Bastide des Poètes embodies the modern and chic style of the region, with its stunning hangings and designer furniture. Isolated in the midst of the fields, the Bastide is the perfect place to recharge your batteries. In the evening, gather everyone in the pool room for a cocktail and a family competition.

visit the hilltop village of Gordes

Clinging to the heights of a rocky peak, Gordes is considered one of the most beautiful villages in France. This picturesque village has many historical monuments: two abbeys, water and windmills and hundreds of dry stone huts. It is also a cultural mecca in Provence with many museums, exhibitions, concerts and festivals. Visit the Cellars and Garden of the Palais Saint Firmin, little known to the general public. This semi-troglodyte site was built by man more than a century ago to work in the cool of the hottest months.

Notre Dame de Sénanque

Founded in 1148, the abbey is a Cistercian monastery and the pride of the region. Go back in time to the 12th century. Discover how priests still live there today with a visit to the cloister, the abbey church and the dormitories. After the visit, enjoy the surrounding lavender fields for an olfactory and visual experience. Visit the abbey of Notre Dame de Sénanque, it is a must during your Provence holidays.

Hameau de Gordes

Hameau de Gordes , as its name suggests (Hamlet of Gordes), is a small group of rural houses outside the village. It is a gem of Provencal architecture with its inner courtyard and fountain, its arches and its facade made of old stones typical of the region. In the morning, hop on one of the bikes at your disposal to pick up croissants in the nearby village of Les Martins.

Roussillon, classified as one of the most beautiful villages in France, is situated on the edge of the largest ochre deposit in Europe. Walk along the ochre path and discover a Wild West landscape in the depths of the vibrant cliffs. To learn more, take a tour of the ochre and colour conservatory at the former Mathieu factory.

A hot-air balloon flight

In the early morning, dare to soar over the Luberon. Admire the landscapes under your feet, the Vaucluse mountain and the Luberon villages scattered across the plain. Enjoy the peace and quiet. The mild weather of Provence is great for flying all year round. The conditions are perfect in summer: light wind and few clouds make for an unforgettable flight over the Luberon.

The wrought iron gate, the ancestral fountain and the facade of old stones of Mas Flavia are the embodiment of Provence. Inside, the exposed beams and the cabochon tiles give this authentic dwelling a touch of character. It's the perfect place for family reunions. In the morning, play a game of tennis, and when the day gets warmer, laze by the large swimming pool. In the evening, settle down in the cosy cinema room while enjoying a glass of wine from the estate.

the cobbled streets of Lourmarin

At the foot of the Luberon, the village of Lourmarin is a green paradise. Renowned for its restaurant "Le Moulin" which has 2 stars in the Michelin guide, it is an unmissable stop for gourmets who want to discover typical Provencal dishes. On Friday morning, come and stock up on local produce in one of the most beautiful markets in the region. This is a must for barbecues on your trip to Provence and it's best villages.

Gliding over the vineyards and wine tasting

As the sun sets at the end of the day, glide over the vines in a transparent cockpit. Upon returning to land, discover the different grape varieties used in the region, such as the Syrah of Greek origin or the Spanish Grenache. Enjoy this moment with your family and friends and finish the tasting with a great wine from the Côtes du Rhône. If you are travelling with friends, this is one of the experiences not to be missed during your tour of the best villages to visit in Provence.

Domaine Champêtre

Fields of organically grown lavender, olive and cherry trees stretch as far as the eye can see over the Domaine Champêtre . Nestled in the heart of the magnificent estate, the farm has been transformed into an idyllic holiday home. In the morning, pick your vegetables in the vegetable garden, then have lunch on the terrace surrounded by the hills, enjoying dishes prepared by Laure, one of our favourite chefs. In the afternoon, relax in the shade of the round sun-beds by the pool.

Apt, a quiet postcard of the south of france

Capital of candied fruit, the city of Apt is a whirlwind of colours and aromas. In the heart of the Luberon, the city is surrounded by vineyards, lavender and cherry fields. On the last Sunday of July, don't miss the feast of Saint-Anne, an offering of bunches of grapes to the town's patron saint. Apt is also famous for its fine earthenware. Take a trip to faïence d'Apt to discover this magnificent craft on your next Provence holiday.

In the kitchen of Reine Sammut

Provence is a region rich in culinary traditions. How about a private lesson with Reine Sammut, starred chef and papess of gluten-free cuisine? Learn how to cook good and healthy food by reinterpreting typical Provencal dishes. From ratatouille to pistou soup and salade niçoise, discover your hidden talents alongside this charming chef and her cuisine.

Domaine des Jardins

Surrounded by a formal garden and Mediterranean plants, this 16th century building is a haven of peace. In the morning, wake up to the gentle sun rays touching your skin. Have breakfast in the garden, surrounded only by the peace and quiet, and birdsong. At the end of the day, gather your friends around a glass of local wine on the terrace of the Domaine des Jardins . This is the perfect place to spend your Provence holidays in the Luberon.

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How to Spend 2 Days Driving Around the Idyllic Luberon

Mountains, Old Abbeys, Pretty Villages and a Roman Bridge

The Luberon in the Vaucluse boasts many charming villages, four of which are classified as Plus Beaux Villages . Moreover, there are wooded hills with plenty of good walking, great markets, excellent restaurants and a producer of quality wines—all in this relatively unspoiled corner of Provence.

While this itinerary can be done in a day if you stay nearby, I would advise spending more time in this beautiful region. If you plan to stay overnight, you will find plenty of reasonably priced accommodation in Apt-en-Provence, Bonnieux or Gordes – in the season; it is advisable to book ahead!

Day 1 Drive

Ménerbes and lacoste in the morning.

From the A7 Autoroute, take Sortie/Exit 24 and head east on the D900 direction Apt/Forcalquier for about 22km. Soon you will see the Luberon massif on your right and on your left, the Vaucluse Plateau. Keep heading east and at Beaumettes turn right onto the D103, and after about 3km, you will arrive at the village perché of Ménerbes. This is the first of our Plus Beaux Villages and was the home for a while of Peter Mayle, the much-celebrated author of A Year in Provence .

Ménerbes is the archetypical Luberon village perched on a bluff projecting from the Luberon’s north side. Set amongst vineyards and orchards, this charming village stands proud, suggesting the formidable stronghold this once was.

The village and its 16/17th-century architecture make for a very interesting stroll. Enjoy the views of the Vaucluse Plateau and Mont  Ventoux to the north and the Luberon Mountains to the south.

The perched village of Ménerbes

Captured by Calvinists during the Reformation, the villagers held off 12,000 Catholic troops for over a year. A more recent invasion came from tourists who flocked to the village after the publication of Peter Mayle’s best-selling book set near here. Unlike his predecessors in the town, Mayle could not fend off the visitors and eventually, he had to move!

At the western end of the village, check out the small 13th-century citadel which held the catholic troops at bay and the Château du Castellet, home to the expressionist painter Nicolas de Stael for a while. Picasso and Albert Camus were also regular visitors.

Don’t miss the Musée de Tire-Bouchon (Museum of the Corkscrew) located on the Cavaillon road just outside the village.

Take the D109 out of Ménerbes towards  Bonnieux, and in 6km, you’ll arrive at   Lacoste .

Before you left Ménerbes, you may have noticed that, like many villages, the church sports a wrought-iron belfry on its church tower, which acts as a defence against the notorious Mistral or Master wind, which blows in these parts. You’ll see another equally splendid example at Lacoste. This particular perched village was home to the notorious Marquis de Sade, whose castle has been restored by fashion designer Pierre Cardin who lives nearby.

Tour d’Horlage in Lacoste

Indeed Cardin bought up much of the old village, which the locals had deserted, and had it restored. While many ‘incomers’ such as wealthy Parisians (including Cardin himself) and Londoners migrate here for the summer, the population reduces considerably in size during the Winter as only a few local artisans remain.

Arches and old buildings abound. The streets, narrow and cobbled, befit an ancient perched village in this part of the world. However, the old Château still dominates the scene, a reminder of the time when the local lord was none other than the notorious Marquis.

Before you leave, make sure you call into the Café de France located on the D106 at the entrance to the village and enjoy fabulous views from the terrasse.

Continue along the D109 for 5km till you reach Bonnieux. Several good restaurants here make this village a good choice for lunch.

Lunchtime in Bonnieux

Perhaps the best-known Luberon’s perched villages Bonnieux, while not officially a Plus Beaux Village , certainly deserves the title! This very attractive terraced settlement offers an amazing panorama from the Terrasse in its upper part. Enjoy views of nearby Lacoste and, across the valley, Gordes and Roussillon with the majestic white peak of Mont Ventoux in the distance.

Bonnieux is a great place to stay and an excellent centre for exploring the Luberon. Moreover, there are some very nice restaurants and hotels here.

Afternoon in Lourmarin and beyond

Leave Bonnieux on the D36, and after 5km, turn right onto the D943. Cross the Luberon Mountain being sure to enjoy the magnificent scenery before dropping down into the Plus Beau Village of Lourmarin with its fine Renaissance Château.

Café in Lourmarin

Lourmarin stands in a small indentation carved by the River Aiguebrun at the foot of the southern slopes of the Luberon Mountains. Long associated with artists, the cemetery here constitutes the last resting place of the authors  Albert Camus and Henri Bosco. Meanwhile, check out the fine Renaissance church and narrow winding streets furnished with fountains.

The village is dominated by the Château, a part late medieval and part Renaissance structure. Constructed on the site of a 12th-century fortress, the older part of the Château contains a library and student accommodation. Furthermore, the Fondation Lourmarin Robert Laurent-Vibert,  which helps promote the creative arts, bases itself here.

The magnificent Renaissance wing is renowned for its Grand Staircase decorated with a salamander, the emblem of Francois I. Moreover, don’t miss the ornate chimneypieces decorated with Corinthian columns and the heads of Aztecs and Incas or the view of the Durance Valley and the village from the Château.

Silvacane Abbey

You can make a short excursion from here by continuing south on the D943 towards La Roque d’Anthéron and following the signs to the Abbaye de Silvacane. Located on the banks of the River Durance, this Cistercian Abbey is known as one of the ‘Three Sisters of Provence’and well worth a detour.

The Abbey was constructed in 1144 by the monks of Morimond Abbey and named Silvacane after a nearby forest of canes. Moreover, like its two sisters, Le Thoronet and Sénanque, it was famed for the austere beauty of its architecture. However, it later fell into disuse, and following the Revolution, it became a farm. In 1945 it was designated as a historical monument and administered by the town of La Roque d’Anthéron since 2008. Don’t miss the Monk’s Fish Tank – a long strip of water at the front of the Abbey.

Late Afternoon/Evening Day 1

Retrace your steps across the Luberon Mountain and turn left on the D36 to Bonnieux. Take the D149 out of the village, heading towards the D900. You will pass the vineyards of the Château Canorgue, made famous by the movie ‘A Good Year’ starring Russell Crowe, on your right and eventually arrive at a traffic island.

Pont Julien

The Romans in the Luberon

On the other side of the ‘rond-point’ park up, walk a few meters and gaze in awe at the amazing Pont Julien, which only recently closed to vehicular traffic. Back in the day, Pont Julien carried the Roman road the Via Domitia over the Calavon River . It even features in Peter Mayles’ A Year in Provence’!

Absolutely precise construction meant that the blocks needed no mortar and pierced portals between the arches allowed flood water through. The continued existence of this wonderful structure testifies to the genius of the Roman engineers who built it.

Built during the time of Julius Caesar in the year 3 BCE, it served the Romans and generations of Provençaux right up to 2005 when the last car crossed over it. Then, an expatriate Irishman living in nearby Lacoste, local celebrity author Finnbar Mac Eoin, drove proudly over the magnificent structure. A plaque on the bridge declares, “We do not know who was the first person to cross, but an Irishman was the last.”

Perhaps you have only one day for this trip – if so, be sure to visit the nearby Chaussée-des-Géants, Roussillon and Gordes (see below) before you leave this beautiful region!

If you are taking the recommended two days to complete this itinerary, then this would be an ideal opportunity to choose somewhere to eat and stay for the night if you have not already done so. Apt, Bonnieux and Gordes (see Day 2) are easily reached from here and, as mentioned earlier, have several good hotels and restaurants.

Day 2 Driving Plan

Roussillon & the chaussée-des-géants.

Why not start the day by checking some giants and Colorado Provence?

Return to the rond-point by the Pont Julien and take D108 north signed Roussillon, cross the D900 and continue on the D108/149 for 4km. Soon you will reach the amazing Plus Beau village of Roussillon . It is not surprising that this red ochre village is classified as such – when viewed in the early morning or evening light, it positively glows red. This effect results from using the local ochre stone in its buildings.

A cautionary tale – there is a legend involving the local Lady Sermonde, her husband, Lord Raymond d’Avignon and her Ladyship’s lover. At any rate, you should know that all does not end well for Lady or boyfriend. Moreover, it may help explain why the earth is so red around these parts!

Adjacent to the village is the strikingly beautiful Chaussée-des-Géants , or Giant’s Causeway, accessed by the Sentier des Ocres from the town. Soon you will encounter the amazing Aiguilles des Fées or Fairy Peaks. Sculpted by erosion, these peaks surround the path and the various hues of ochre from red to yellow create a wonderland of colour.

Travel Tip: The Chaussée gets very busy in summer, as does the village itself, so try to arrive early in the morning.

The seam of ochre which makes everything red around here stretches east and, if you have time, follow the D227 to St-Saturnin-lès-Apt and then the D179 to the nearby grandly titled Le Colorado Provençal de Rustrel.

Return via the pretty village of St-Saturnin-lès-Apt, follow the D2 for 17km, and you will come to the striking village perché of Gordes, your final plus beau village of the trip. The best view of Gordes is on your right as you climb the hill leading to it. Unfortunately, there is limited parking both here and in the village itself.

Lunchtime – Day 2

Gordes is an excellent place to have lunch, and there are several excellent restaurants around the village centre. La Trinquette on Rue des Tracapelles is highly recommended.

Afternoon in Gordes

Facing the Luberon and clinging to the side of the Vaucluse Plateau, Gordes is a Provençal gem and deservedly one of the Plus Beaux Villages of France .

Like many hilltop villages in Provence, Gordes was a refuge throughout the centuries after the Romans left. During WW2, it served as a centre for the French Resistance and, in 1944, suffered reprisals by the Germans.

White, stone houses, arranged in tiers and accessible only by a maze of calades , are a feature of the village. At the top stands a splendid Château which has its origins in medieval times but was restored during the Renaissance. The Château can be visited, and the upper floors have works by the contemporary artist Pol Mara. The village was also home to Marc Chagall.

Abbey of Sénanque near Gordes

Situated not far from Gordes and the final attraction on this itinerary is the second of the three sisters, the Abbaye-de-Sénanque, founded in 1148 with the help of the Bishop of Cavaillon and the Count of Provence. If you can time your visit for late June, you will be rewarded with one of the most striking and well-known views in France with the lavender field before you juxtaposed with the austere stonework of the Abbey.

Cistercian monks from the Ardèche came to run the Abbey and built the Abbey Church consecrated in 1178. The Abbey reached its peak during the later Middle Ages, operating four mills and estates throughout Provence. Together with the Abbeys at Silvacane and Le Thoronet, it constitutes one of the ‘Three Sisters of Provence’.

During the French Revolution, the Authorities nationalised the Abbey. In recent years, a new community of Cistercians manage the estate by growing lavender and selling honey.

If you wish to extend your visit, why not visit and even stay in the local town Apt-en-Provence, which has a fine selection of restaurants, hotels and other accommodation . There is an excellent market here which takes place on a Saturday morning if you’re still around!

© Paul Shawcross Words and Images

Itinerary adapted from the author’s best selling travel app, Provence’s Best .

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Affiliate information, alyscamps the roman burial in arles is a must-see, provencal feta and sardines a recipe for wine pairing, related posts, provencal charm 10 villages to visit in the luberon valley, holiday escape to rustrel: village life in the luberon valley, explore rustrel, a charming village for your luberon itinerary, my ideas for enjoying a few days in marseille, paul shawcross.

Paul Shawcross is a Francophile, a travel writer and a Photographer who first fell in love with France when passing through on the way to Spain way back in 1979. Paul has revised and written new text for several Michelin Green Guides to the French Regions as well as penning several Thomas Cook Pocket Guides and contributing articles to leading periodicals including Living France and France Magazine. He has authored several apps for smart devices and has a new one for the Dordogne in preparation. Paul is also the European Acquisitions Editor for Bindu Trips , a recently launched travel planning website which features Provence along with many other European destinations Paul also has a large photo library much of which is hosted by Alamy Images Further details of Paul’s work can be found here Visiting Nice? Checkout his Nice's Best Travel App Discover his PROVENCE'S BEST App with essential trip-planning information and an overview of key destinations so you can decide where to stay. Follow Paul on Twitter @PaulShawcrossUK (below)

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