Places to Go in the Luberon Valley¶

Provence is home to the beautiful region of Luberon, where there are countless charming towns and villages to visit. If you're trying to decide which places to visit, here are some suggestions:

Gordes¶

This beautiful hilltop village is one of the most picturesque in the region, with narrow cobblestone streets, beautiful stone houses, and stunning views of the surrounding countryside. Be sure to visit the castle, the Saint-Firmin Palace, and the nearby Abbey of Sénanque, known for its beautiful lavender fields.

When visiting Gordes, make sure to stop by Senanque Abbey, also known as the Abbaye Notre-Dame de Sénanque. This is a Cistercian abbey located in the heart of the Luberon region in Provence, France. The abbey was founded in 1148 by a group of Cistercian monks, who were looking for a peaceful place to live and pray. The abbey is known for its beautiful Romanesque architecture and lavender fields. Today, the abbey is still home to a small community of Cistercian monks, who follow a simple and austere way of life, centered around prayer, work, and study. The monks welcome visitors to the abbey, who can attend Mass and visit the church and cloister. The abbey is also known for its lavender fields, which bloom in the summer months and are a popular attraction for visitors to the region.

Roussillon¶

This colourful village is known for its vibrant ochre cliffs, which have been mined for centuries to produce pigments used in painting. Be sure to take a walk along the Sentier des Ocres, a scenic trail that winds through the ochre quarries.

Ménerbes¶

This charming village is perched on a hilltop and offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside. Be sure to visit the Maison de la Truffe et du Vin, a museum dedicated to the local truffle and wine industries, and the nearby Fort de Buoux, a historic fortress with impressive views.

Bonnieux¶

This hilltop village is known for its elegant architecture, beautiful views, and charming shops and cafes. Be sure to visit the Vieil Oppidum, an ancient Roman site that offers excellent views of the surrounding countryside.

Lourmarin¶

This picturesque village is known for its beautiful castle, charming streets, and excellent restaurants. Be sure to visit the Château de Lourmarin, a historic fortress that now houses a cultural center and hosts regular exhibitions and concerts.

Aix-en-Provence¶

Although this city is not in the Luberon Valley, it’s close enough that it’s definitely worth a visit for a day! This charming town is known for its elegant architecture, beautiful fountains, and lively markets. Be sure to visit the Cours Mirabeau, the Atelier de Cézanne, and the Musée Granet.

Gorges du Verdon¶

This is another place that’s near Luberon that’s worth a visit. Gorges du Verdon is a spectacular natural canyon often referred to as the "Grand Canyon of Europe" due to its impressive size and stunning beauty. The canyon is approximately 25 kilometers long and up to 700 meters deep, with towering limestone cliffs and crystal-clear turquoise waters that flow through it. It was formed over millions of years by the Verdon River, which has carved its way through the rocks to create this breathtaking landscape.

If you're looking to explore some lesser-known destinations in the Luberon, here are some suggestions:

• Apt: It is known for its beautiful historic center, local markets, and picturesque surroundings.

• Rustrel: This small village is located near the town of Apt and is known for its colourful ochre quarries. Be sure to visit the Colorado Provençal, a stunning natural park with vibrant red and orange cliffs.

• Cucuron: This village is known for its picturesque square, which is surrounded by a beautiful 16^th-century church, an ancient fountain, and several cafés and restaurants.

• Lauris: This village is located on the southern edge of the Luberon valley and is known for its beautiful castle and gardens. Be sure to visit the Jardin Conservatoire, a beautiful botanical garden that specializes in Mediterranean plants.

These are just a few of the many wonderful places to explore in the Luberon that are off the beaten path. Whether you're looking for quiet villages, scenic hikes, or cultural attractions, this special region has something for everyone.