| FR
the most beautiful villages in provence
From Isle sur la Sorgue, a flea market paradise, to 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: A 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.
Where to Stay: 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.
Gordes: hilltop villages
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.
Where to Stay: Mas des Lavandes
Mas des Lavandes is nestled in the heart of the peaceful countryside around Gordes, surrounded by fields stretching as far as the eye can see. This Provençal farmhouse combines rustic simplicity with refined comfort, featuring a swimming pool, a pétanque court and a private gym. Throughout the day, enjoy the tranquillity of the countryside before gathering round the barbecue for an al fresco dinner under starry skies.
Roussillon: colorado in provence
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.
Where to Stay: Mas Flavia
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.
loumarrin: cobbled streets meets nature
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.
Where to Stay: Bastide des Collines
Set in the heart of a 15-hectare estate, the Bastide des Collines blends seamlessly into the Luberon landscape, nestled amongst endless fields and hills. In the morning, take a stroll along the shaded paths before enjoying a coffee on the terrace. In the afternoon, take a dip in the cypress-lined swimming pool, then settle down in the shade of the fig trees for a well-deserved nap. As night falls, gather round for an al fresco dinner and let the gentle Provençal evenings wash over you.
Want to discover more houses for your next Provence holiday? Explore our most beautiful Provence villa rentals.
