Provence Travel Guide

by Natalie Becci

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.

Photos by: @lezbroz

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.

Photo by: @smigielski.studio

Where To Eat

La Bastide de Capelongue

Les Claparèdes, 550 Chemin des Cabanes, 84480 Bonnieux
 
At La Bastide, facing Bonnieux and the Luberon, Noël Bérard makes the moment prevail, drawing his cuisine on the land with vivacity and depth.
 

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.

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