Multisensory and authentic, Provence is France at its most spellbinding.
From postcard-perfect villages, awe-inspiring vistas, and local produce, come with us and fall for all of Provence’s charms.
Pretty Villages
cucuron
84160 Vaucluse
Outdoors enthusiasts will love Cucuron’s extensive hiking trails, including up to Mourre Negre – Luberon’s highest point (1 125 m). Or explore the village itself, including Notre-Dame de Beaulieu and its impressive belfry, before having a drink next to the Bassin de l’Etang – a 15th-century stone pond, that once powered the flour mills.
aurel
84390 Vaucluse
At the eastern border of the Vaucluse region, Aurel is a little perched village with glorious views of Mont Ventoux and the Sault lavender fields. Tour the 12th-century château and medieval ramparts in the village before enjoying a bike ride or hike in the mountainous region.
gordes
84220 Vaucluse
A circular mass of stone houses soaring up to a peak, you can’t help but be awe-struck by the view of Gordes – at dawn or dusk. Found just below the center of the Vaucluse region, the village summit offers unrivaled views of the landscape below. Pick a bar that looks out towards the horizon and enjoy the sunset.
lourmarin
84160 Vaucluse
There are few places as picture-perfect as Lourmarin. Tour Château de Lourmarin, a 16th-century Renaissance château (the first of its kind in Provence), visit the resting place of famed French author Albert Camus, and browse the legendary morning market enjoy before stopping for coffee at one of the many terraces.
Roussillon
84220 Vaucluse
Known for its distinctive ruddy color, due to being built from the surrounding ocher cliffs, Roussillon is loved for its trails through the old ocher quarries and a strong artistic scene. Famous former residents include playwright Samuel Beckett, who hid in Roussillon at the end of World War II.
seguret
84110 Vaucluse
Cobbled streets, pastel shutters and roses rambling on walls, Seguret is everything you imagine a French village to be. Part of the AOC Cotes du Rhone Villages appellation, Seguret has been a winemaking hub for hundreds of years. Visitors are encouraged to stop by and sample wines at one of the many local vineyards.
Vaison-la-Romaine
84110 Vaucluse
With the river Ouvèze swashaying through it, Vaison-la-Romaine is a charming Provençal town and one of the best places for history lovers. From the Roman archeological site, ruins of the 12th-century Château Comtal and the mediaeval town, Vaison-la-Romaine is a walk through the history books.
Where To Stay
Av. Raoul Dautry, 84160 Lourmarin
Route de Roquefraiche, 84360 Lauris
730 chemin de Massillan 84100 Uchaux
Route de Cavaillon, 84220 Gordes
2750 route de, 13610 Le Puy-Sainte-Réparade
Place de l’Eglise, 84410 Crillon-le-Brave
Things To Do
Hiking on or around Mount Ventoux
Nicknamed the Giant of Provence, you can spot Mont Ventoux’s nearly 2 000-meter summit from most corners of the Vaucluse region. Famous for its steep ascent, it is one of the most grueling stages of the Tour de France. But if cycling isn’t your thing, there are several ways to enjoy the climb (or descent), by hiking, on horseback, paragliding or rock climbing.
Watersports on Fontaine de Vaucluse
Crystalline emerald waters and picturesque scenery, the river Sorgue is the ideal place for canoeing. Rent a kayak or canoe from Fontaine de Vaucluse and cruise down to Isle sur la Sorgue for lunch.
Provençal charm at Lourmarin Village
Take a stroll through the picturesque streets and explore the small boutiques and restaurants.
Wine Tasting at Chateau Pesquier
1365Bis Route de Flassan, 84570 Mormoiron
Visit the wine cellars and sample a few vintages, and don’t forget to book their special picnic to enjoy in the grounds.
Abbaye Senanque at Gordes
The lavender fields in front of this 12th-century abbey are a sight to behold.
Where To Eat
La Bastide de Capelongue
chez bruno
2350 route des arcs, 83510 Lorgues
Connoisseurs know that Bruno’s restaurant is a real establishment! With simplicity and subtlety, the “Diamant noir” (black diamond) is available in all its forms. If you do pay Bruno a visit, you must try the baked potato with its truffle cream, the house’s signature dish !
la bastide de moustiers
Chemin de Quinson, 04360 Moustiers Sainte-Marie
The Maison de Coeur of Alain Ducasse is located in the middle of lavender fields and century-old olive trees, surrounded by the sun. Expect exceptional Provencal cuisine that captures the essence of the region’s produce.