What is the Best Base in Luberon? My 8 Top Picks to Help You Decide
Your Provence itinerary is finally taking shape but you’re still stuck on one thing: “What’s the best base in Luberon?”
This detailed guide will help you choose the perfect Luberon base that fits your interests, preferences, and time.
I’ll share with you:
- Six (6) things to look for in a good Luberon base
- Best practices when choosing a base
- My eight (8) top choices for a home base–if you’re driving a car
- Pros and cons of each place
- Handpicked Luberon accommodations (see ‘Where to stay’ under each place)
- Tips, tips, and more tips!
A neighbor who has lived in Provence his entire life once told me, “You’ve seen more villages than I have!” (It’s true. Due to my flexible remote work schedule, I’m often exploring the best Luberon villages. And I’d like to help you by sharing what I know.)
As a long-time resident of France, I have visited Provence many times before finally becoming a local of the Luberon. So I know the area well, and I can give you insights and tips—both from the POV of a (former) tourist and as a current villager.
In a rush? Skip to the summary.
What to Look for in a Good Luberon Base
Ideally, you should look for:
✅ Location: Probably the most important factor—the more central, the better
✅ Accommodation: Offers a wide range of options—budget, middle, high-end
✅ Attractions: Does it have its own must-see attractions…or has easy access to places of interest?
✅ Dining: Has at least 5 restaurants or cafés in the center. So you’ll never go hungry.
✅ Parking: Ample (free, paid, or both)
✅ Amenities: If you get stuck there for a week, will you have access to basic needs? Must have a bakery, grocery store, pharmacy…or all of the above.
Bear these six (6) criteria in mind as you read through my top base picks.
Best Practices for Selecting Your Luberon Base
As a Luberon local who has logged enough day trips to rival a tour guide, I have tips to spill. Here are the best ones:
- Choose a base somewhere in the Gordes-Bonnieux-Roussillon area. Notice I said “area” so this includes less popular villages in the vicinity which you might want to consider.
In my opinion, this “golden triangle” is the best choice for first-time visitors in the Luberon. It’s central enough to let you explore any direction without spending too much time in the car.
- Have you decided which Luberon villages to visit?
You’ll want to find a base that is not only central but also near places that vibe with your passions and interests. Once you’ve chosen your villages, you can easily cluster them and plan your driving route.
- Are you already familiar with the map of the Luberon villages?
A common mistake I see is tourists choosing a base that is so far from the places they’d like to visit. The risk is spending more time driving than exploring.
- Before booking your accommodation, make sure to ask about parking.
You’ll want your hotel or rental to give you a clear answer about where you can park. You don’t want to stress about finding a parking spot, especially in a hilltop village (see my tip under #2: Bonnieux below).
- If you’re visiting for 5 days or less, stick to one base.
This avoids wasting time on packing and unpacking; checking in and out of hotels. It’s only when day trips become too far that you might want to split your Luberon stay into different bases.
- Spend the next few days on day trips.
Cluster places that are close to one another. You can drive from end to end (see Luberon map), from west to east Luberon (e.g. Cavaillon → Manosque) in about 1hour and 30 minutes.
- If you’re visiting in high season (June-September) and you don’t like crowds at all, avoid staying in the popular and most beautiful Luberon villages. Instead, base yourself in small villages nearby.
- If you’re visiting in low season (November-March), many hotels, restaurants, and shops will be closed.
Consider basing in larger towns like Aix-en-Provence, Apt, Avignon, and L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue. You’ll find more establishments open there.
- If you’re traveling with babies, expectant mothers, seniors, or anyone with mobility challenges, rethink hilltop villages. They often involve uphill or downhill walks on cobblestones.
If you’re comfortable with this, great! If not, target flat places like Apt, L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue, and Lourmarin for your visits or stays.
- Worried about driving back to your base after dinner?
Check the time for sunset. If you’re not comfortable driving on dark, winding roads, return “home” before sundown.
Oh, and be careful of wildlife. You might see deer or wild boars. And of course—you know this already—do not drink and drive.
Wondering about things to do in Luberon? Here’s my list of top Luberon experiences for your senses, especially if you’re a first-time visitor.
Best Base in Luberon: 8 Ideal Places to Set Up Camp
A smart way to use this list is to pin each place on the map, and draw a circle that covers an area with a radius of 10-15 km (6-9 mi).
That will give you a good idea of nearby small villages where you can also find accommodation. You might want this option if you want a quieter home base, away from the crowds in more popular villages.
And now, here are the best Luberon bases in alphabetical order:
1. APT
Stroll the legendary market in Luberon’s capital town
Apt is best known for its 2000-year-old Roman history, candied fruit, and Saturday market (one of the biggest and oldest in Provence).
As a “living and breathing town”, it offers an authentic slice of Provençal life—making it an ideal base if you’re seeking a local experience (e.g. watch locals banter, set up shop in the morning). Of course, the popular market attracts expats and tourists, too.
Since Apt is bigger than a village, it has everything you need in terms of convenience such as restaurants, supermarkets, shops, and services.
Pros:
- Location: Perfectly positioned for day trips to east and south Luberon, while ‘hotspots’ in west Luberon (e.g. Gordes, Ménerbes) are only about 30 minutes away
- Market town: Its renowned Saturday market is an absolute treat for food lovers and souvenir hunters
- More affordable accommodation: You’re likely to find more affordable places to stay in Apt compared to sought-after hilltop villages (a week’s stay can cost a few thousand euros)
Cons:
- Less atmospheric: Don’t stay in Apt if you’re looking for tiny French village charm
- Busy: Because it’s a real town
Best for:
- Market and food lovers who are excited by the idea of strolling a centuries-old market just outside their door
- Multi-generational travelers who prefer to have something for everyone—from the oldies to the kiddies
- Travelers who prefer practical amenities over postcard-perfect scenery
Where to stay
- Budget: L’Aptois Hôtel – centrally located hotel for budget travelers who prefer to be near restaurants and hiking/cycling trails
- Apartment: Le Petit Delphia – a central two-bedroom apartment with air conditioners and a balcony. Perfect for two couples or a family of four.
- Bed & Breakfast: La Possibilité d’une Île – an adults-only B&B with mountain views, a private pool, and stylish rooms. Perfect for couples seeking a romantic getaway. Quietly hidden in the hills and only less than 2 km from Apt center.
- Villa: Cottage facing the Luberon with swimming pool – a charming two-bedroom house in a 5000m2 property. Lounge by the pool or dine under the tree. Ideal for a family with kids or group of 6.
⭐️Local tip:⭐️
Apt is the “World Capital of Candied Fruits.” These sweets have been in Provence since the High Middle Ages.
If you’d like to taste fruit confits, go to La Maison du Fruit Confit. Taste different fruits (my favorite is cherry) and learn about the savoir-faire of making this specialty.
Popular villages you can visit near Apt: Bonnieux (15 km or 9 mi), Roussillon (12 km or 7 mi)
Small villages near Apt where you can find accommodation: Buoux (7 km or 4 mi), Gargas (6 km or 4 mi), Saignon (4 km or 2.5 mi), Saint-Saturnin-lès-Apt (9 km or 5 mi)
2. BONNIEUX
Enjoy the views and good restaurants
Bonnieux is a small hilltop darling with a population of less than 1,200. It boasts views of vineyards and orchards, the Petit Luberon mountains, the nearby village of Lacoste, and amazing sunsets.
There’s an old hilltop church, a new church at the base, and cascading terraces between. Do you know what this means? It means you should be ready for a leg-and-butt workout as you climb up and down the hill. Woohoo!
Some claim this tiny village has the best restaurants in the Luberon, which include Michelin-starred restaurants La Bastide de Capelongue (one star) and La Table des Amis by Christophe Bacquié (two stars).
Pros:
- Central location: Bonnieux makes up the “Luberon triangle” along with Gordes and Roussillon. If you’re based here, it will be easy to explore any direction
- Views: Offers great views of the Luberon valley and mountains
- Rare tourist buses: Bonnieux isn’t set up to accommodate parking for huge vehicles. This means most visitors come by car or two wheels, or just passing through
- Village life: A year-round active village, so it’s a nice place to observe local life
- Dining: Amazing restaurants, including two Michelin restaurants and a few with almost 5-star Google reviews such as L’Arôme, La Bastide, and Le Kosy
- Nature: Near Forêt des Cèdres (Cedar Forest), Véloroute du Calavon cycling path, Pont Julien, and hiking trails
- Historical charm: The old hilltop church, old doorways, and cedar forest are steeped in history and allure
- Amenities: Has bakery, small grocery store, butcher shop, and Friday morning market
Cons:
- Hilly Terrain: A lot of ups and downs. Steep streets can be challenging for those with baby strollers or issues with mobility
- Steep: Some tourists complain about the steepness of the village, especially those who are not comfortable driving and parking on inclined or uneven surfaces
Best for: Those seeking a central base with panoramic views, a forest, and a thriving restaurant scene
Where to stay
- Luxury: Capelongue, a Beaumier hotel & spa – a One-Key Michelin hotel with its own one-star Michelin restaurant
- Luxury: Le Mas Les Eydins – surrounded by vineyards and lavender fields, this property boasts of having the only two-star Michelin dining in the Luberon: La Table des Amis by Christophe Bacquié.
- Villa: La Ferme du Haut Trigaud – a 4-bedroom villa with stunning views and chic Provençal decor. Perfect for a family or a group of 8 who wish to have their own home, pool, and BBQ area during holiday.
- Boutique: Le Clos du Buis – a 3-star hotel at the village entrance. With a garden, pool, and great views of the Luberon. Often sold out due to superb location. For bread lovers, you’ll be happy to know that the bakery is a one-minute hop away.
- Apartment: Location Bonnieux Provence – clean, tiny apartment with a lovely balcony. Great if you want to know what it’s like to live in the village center of Bonnieux.
- Budget: L’Ecurie – a one-bedroom house for two with a terrace and vineyard views. Do note it’s not a hotel, so self-service tasks such as putting and removing bedsheets and disposing of trash may be required (normal procedure for gîte rentals in France).
⭐️Local tips⭐️
- Always check parking options with your accommodation. Bonnieux spills down the hillside and can be steep.
While there’s plenty of free parking in and around the village, you might not snag a parking spot right next to your accommodation. You’ll have to walk to and from it.
So if this village is your base, expect daily walks in your routine (good for the heart!).
- (Almost) secret parking. Bonnieux has a few parking areas. If you park at the Église Neuve (New Church) at the base of the village, you will need to climb all the way up to the old church.
If you’re feeling lazy, did you know there’s a place where you can park halfway up? When my husband and I go to Bonnieux, we always park there.
The only thing is, you must come from the direction of Lourmarin/Aix-en-Provence to access this parking lot. On Google map or your GPS, type “Parking des Croix Bonnieux.”
It’s a parking lot near the cemetery that will lead you closer to the Vieille Église (Old Church) on top of the hill. And from there, you can descend to explore the rest of the village.
Popular villages you can visit near Bonnieux: Apt town (14 km / 9 mi), Lacoste (7 km / 4 mi), Ménerbes (11 km / 7 mi), Lourmarin (13 km / 8 mi)
Small villages near Bonnieux where you can find accommodation: Buoux (12 km / 7 mi), Goult (8 km / 5 mi), Saignon (16 km / 10 mi), Sivergues (17 km / 11 mi)
3. GORDES
Stay in the Luberon’s most photographed hilltop village
Gordes is the hilltop village that everyone seems to want to visit, thanks to postcards, films, and Emily in Paris. It is perched on a rocky outcrop with amazing views of the Luberon valley. Its honey-colored stone buildings and labyrinthine streets have been a magnet for artists and film crews for decades.
Officially one of Les Plus Beaux Villages de France (“The Most Beautiful Villages of France”), the village is well-built for tourism and has plenty of accommodations, restaurants, and amenities.
Pros:
- Views: Perched village with amazing sunset views
- Central location: Convenient access to other Luberon towns and villages
- Attractions nearby: Sénanque Abbey (a favorite among lavender fans) and Village de Bories
- Well-equipped: Plenty of restaurants, cafés, and shops
- Luxury options: Home to some of the best high-end hotels and villas in the Luberon
- Photographer’s delight: Great photo opportunities because of calade streets, hillside views, and sunset
Cons:
- Tourist traffic: Very crowded in peak months. Attracts large numbers of day trippers. So finding a parking place or a free table for lunch can be very difficult. Bring a lot of patience
- Parking: Extra difficult in peak season. There’s paid parking in the village, though you may need to park outside the village when it’s crowded
- Expensive: Accommodations and dining in Gordes can be pricier compared to other villages
- Cobblestones (calades): Not ideal for baby strollers or those with reduced mobility
- May overpromise, under-deliver: Gordes is best seen from the hills below the village, not in the town itself
Best for: Travelers seeking luxury (especially if you’re staying in a 5-star hotel like Airelles Gordes), love strolling through cobblestone streets, and are willing to be patient when it’s overcrowded
Where to stay
- Provençal estate: Fontblanche – rent the 11-bedroom country estate that sleeps up to 20 people. Your own piece of private luxury in the south of France. Perfect for family reunions and friend get-togethers.
- Luxury: Airelles Gordes – La Bastide – the first 3-Key Michelin hotel in the Luberon. A staple on “dream stay” wishlists.
- Bed & Breakfast: Le Clos de Gordes – an adults-only B&B with a Provençal country atmosphere yet close enough to the village center. Ideal for couples looking for some tranquility.
- Bed & Breakfast: Le Mas Justin – another adults-only B&B with air conditioned rooms, swimming pool, and garden. Free bicycles for guests.
- Bed & Breakfast: Mas Val-Chênaie Gordes – homemade breakfasts and warm welcome by owners Sophie and Laurent
⭐️Local tips⭐️
- The best view of Gordes is from this spot. There’s 5-minute free parking, so visitors can take photos and videos.
- In the summer months, day trippers are usually in the village from 10 am – 5 pm. If Gordes is your base, go on a day trip elsewhere and come back to enjoy the village when other tourists have left.
Popular villages you can visit near Gordes: Lacoste (14 km / 9 mi), Ménerbes (11 km / 7 mi), Roussillon (10 km / 6 mi)
Small villages near Gordes where you can find accommodation: Cabrières d’Avignon (7 km / 4 mi), Joucas (6 km / 4 mi), Murs (8 km / 5 mi), Robion (12 km / 7 mi)
4. GOULT
You might want to keep this village to yourself
For years, Goult has been a “hidden gem” among travelers but in recent years, I’m seeing more mentions of it in online forums. So I guess it’s not really hidden anymore.
Why do people love Goult? It’s a small, authentic-feeling village with nice restaurants and a great little Thursday market. It has lots of charm and lovely evening walks with romantic views across the valley.
Also, it’s close to the Luberon’s popular villages (Gordes, Ménerbes, Lacoste, and Bonnieux). Goult is less flashy but equally charming.
Pros:
- Peaceful atmosphere: Less touristy, providing a serene base for your Luberon exploration
- Near popular villages: In less than 10 kilometers (6 mi), you can get to Gordes, Ménerbes, and Bonnieux
- Authentic Provençal experience: Get a genuine feel of Provence with its old stone houses
- Excellent dining: For a small village, it has plenty of restaurants and cafés (around 12), including the tiny but mighty restaurant La Bartavelle (tip: sit in their outdoor terrace in the summer)
- Amenities: Has a boulangerie, an epicerie, a butcher shop, and a post office
Cons:
- Less nightlife: If you’re after a buzzing nightlife, Goult may be a bit too tranquil
- Increasing popularity: it might not stay under the radar for long
Best for: Travelers who prefer tiny French village charm and quiet bistros over tourist crowds
Where to stay
- Budget: Charmante maisonnette indépendante – a small 35m2 house with a private entrance and well-equipped kitchen. Ideal for two people. Village center is a short walk away.
- Budget specialty lodging: Nuit insolite au milieu des vignes – a trailer in a vineyard. Sleep and wake up among the vines. Solar-powered shower. Something unique, though not for everyone.
- Cottage: Les Vendangeurs – tiny house on the edge of an organic winery, Domaine de la Verrière. Sleeps up to 4 people.
- Bed & Breakfast: Villa Lumières – a small, four-bedroom property where the host, Isabelle, prepares homemade breakfasts and dinners (upon request). Dinners are table d’hôte style, meaning, you will eat at the same table with other guests. It’s a great way to meet other people.
- Bed & Breakfast: Quintessence Provence – rooms with mountain views. Beautiful secluded setting yet sites of interest are a short driving distance away.
⭐️Local tip⭐️
Go to Cafe de la Poste or Le Goultois near the main square—it’s where the locals hang out. Sip coffee or a glass of Luberon wine as you soak up the vibrant village atmosphere.
Popular villages you can visit near Goult: Bonnieux (8 km / 5 mi), Gordes (9 km / 6 mi), Lacoste (7 km / 4 mi), Ménerbes (9 km / 6 mi)
Small villages near Goult where you can find accommodation: Joucas (8 km / 5 mi), Saint-Pantaléon (4 km / 2 mi)
5. LOURMARIN
Relax in this foodie and café lover’s hangout
Lourmarin is south Luberon’s pride and officially one of the prettiest villages in France.
Known for its Renaissance château, Friday market, and art galleries, Lourmarin is a great base for those who like to always have things to see and do…and never going hungry.
The French writer-philosopher Albert Camus (1913-1960) must’ve loved doing just that. It was said that he loved sitting in a terrasse and passing time in the village cafés. Did you know he’s buried in the Lourmarin graveyard?
Pros:
- Location: A unique starting point for exploring south and east Luberon, while the other side is only 30-60 minutes away
- Cultural hub: Art galleries, music festivals, and a literary history
- Dining: Has at least 20 restaurants and cafés—you can try a different one every day
- Abundant parking: One of the rare villages that offer plenty of free parking space
- Flat terrain: Good for kids, seniors, and those with mobility issues
- Surroundings: With its olive groves, vineyards, almond trees, and hills the landscape around Lourmarin is pretty
Cons:
- Crowded: A favorite among day trippers, so it can get crowded and hard to get a table for lunch. There’s also a designated parking area for buses, which means the village can accommodate tourist buses
- More expensive: Accommodation and market can be pricier due to the village’s popularity
Best for: Travelers who love café culture, dining, shopping, free parking, and people watching
Where to stay
- Upscale: Le Moulin, a Beaumier hotel – Provençal chic hotel right in the village center. If you shop or drink too much in Lourmarin, you can literally walk back to your room.
- Upscale: Le Galinier – another Beaumier hotel with stunning grounds (very photogenic). Lourmarin center is less than a 5-minute walk.
- Boutique: La Maison de Lourmarin – comfortable stay in the center of (village) action, so restaurants, bars, and shops await you when you come downstairs.
- Budget: La Petite Maison – charming little house on rue Albert Camus, named in honor of the Nobel Prize winner who lived in Lourmarin. Perfect for two people who want to experience being villagers. There’s a great pizzeria nearby.
⭐️Local tips⭐️
- In the summer months, Château de Lourmarin hosts piano and jazz concerts. If you like the idea of listening to music in a castle hall or terrasse, check out the château’s events here. You can also buy tickets online.
- Don’t miss the market on Friday morning (8 am – 12 nn). Sample Provençal treats and shop for souvenirs. After shopping, find a nice spot for coffee.
Popular villages you can visit near Lourmarin: Ansouis (11 km / 7 mi), Bonnieux (14 km / 9 mi)
Small villages near Lourmarin where you can find accommodation: Cucuron (8 km / 5 mi), Lauris (5 km / 3 mi), Vaugines (6 km / 4 mi)
6. L’ISLE-SUR-LA-SORGUE
Experience the thrill of antique hunting by the river
L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue is a walkable, waterside town known as the Venise Comtadine (“Venice of the Comtat”) and the antiques capital of Provence. While not geographically part of the Luberon, this town is so close that it’s often grouped with it by both tourism offices and visitors.
With the Sorgue river coursing through it, the town is a lovely blend of old Provençal charm and modern atmosphere.
Pros:
- Antiques hub: Home to over 300 antique dealers, second-hand stores, and curio shops
- Convenience: Offers a wide range of dining options, shops, and amenities
- Scenery: The river, canals, footbridges, and waterwheels offer a charming backdrop
- Plenty to do: If you’re looking for a base to stay longer and keep busy without visiting other places
- Canoeing: Explore the Sorgue river by canoe for a different perspective on the town
- Closer to Avignon: L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue is a good base if you want to explore outside the Luberon
Cons:
- A madhouse on Sundays: Busy during market days
- Parking: Can be a nightmare to park on Sundays, if one is not early (but if you’re based here, then you won’t have this problem)
- Seasonal crowds Gets crowded during the summer season, which may detract from its charm for some visitors
- Less traditional: Lacks the quiet, quaint charm of a small village
Best for:
- Antiques enthusiasts and those who prefer the vibe of a larger town while being near the (central) Luberon villages
- Multi-generational families as there’s something to do for everyone
Where to stay
- Luxury: La Maison Sur La Sorgue – Esprit de France – a 17th-century mansion with modern facilities, spruced up with eclectic art and decor. Perfectly located in the middle of old town. A hotel you will likely boast as “our unique hotel find in Provence.”
- Bed & Breakfast: La Magnanerie de l’Isle B&B – warm hosts, excellent breakfast, heated pool, light and airy spaces…what’s not to love? A 2-min walk to the church and main square, yet secluded enough to recharge from busy crowds.
- Bed & Breakfast: Mas Seraphin – a spacious family-friendly B&B near the town center, yet quiet enough to enjoy the outdoors. The chickens in their garden will give you eggs for breakfast. There’s also a playground for kids.
- Budget: Les Lofts – your own apartment with a view. Well-equipped place with free parking. Easy 3-minute walk to restaurants and shops in town.
⭐️Local tips⭐️
- L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue hosts a massive International Antiques and Flea Market twice each year: Easter weekend and August 15. This huge event draws thousands across Europe. Your crowd comfort level will dictate whether you embrace the action or choose a quieter base.
- In the hot summer months, choose restaurants that have riverside terraces (e.g. Monsieur Tu). It’ll help keep you cool and fresh.
Luberon villages near L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue where you can find accommodation: Cabrières-d’Avignon (13 km / 8 mi), Lagnes (8 km / 5 mi), Robion (12 km / 7 mi)
7. MÉNERBES
Go for the views, stay for a glass of wine
Four words to sum up Ménerbes: history, art, wine, and truffles.
Ménerbes is a scenic place that has drawn artists to live there, including Dora Maar (1907-1997), Nicolas de Staël (1914-1955), and Peter Mayle (1939-2018).
Popularized in Peter Mayle’s book A Year in Provence, this hilltop village is an ideal base for those seeking amazing views and a relaxing holiday of wining and dining.
Pros:
- Location: Centrally positioned for visiting nearby villages
- Walkable: Very easy to explore the village on foot
- Stunning hilltop views: Views of the Luberon valley and Mont Ventoux
- Less hotels, more rentals: B&Bs and holiday homes with amazing views and an almost-exclusive feel
- Local cuisine: Home to lovely eateries serving Provençal cuisine including seasonal truffles, the area’s specialty
- Amenities: Has a boulangerie, grocery, wine shop, and more
Cons:
- Narrow alleys: Can sometimes make parking access a little restricted
- Fewer accommodations: There are fewer options compared to larger towns, so you need to book way beforehand
- Quiet: Can get too quiet in off-peak months because there are many holiday homes there
Best for:
- Those seeking a serene base with panoramic views atop a Provençal hilltop village
- Fans of Peter Mayle’s writing. Although frankly, you won’t see signs of him (or his work) in the village
Where to stay
- Upscale: La Bastide de Marie – a One-Key Michelin hotel with a popular winery and restaurant
- Bed & Breakfast: Mas des Cèdres – stone cottage on beautiful grounds with a pool. A homely place to live out your Provençal dream of lounging by the pool and dining at the terrace.
- Bed & Breakfast: Mas Serena – Guests love the warm hospitality from hosts Véronique and Éric. Also, they have a perfect 10 rating for Wi-Fi? Choose from air-conditioned rooms, suites, or a fully-equipped mobile home—each with its own kitchen.
- Village home: L’Ensoleillée – well-equipped home with two bedrooms and a beautiful scenery from the balcony. Has a fireplace for colder months.
⭐️Local tip⭐️
Swing by Domaine de la Citadelle for wine tasting and visit their quirky corkscrew museum. Note: some corkscrews aren’t kid-friendly, so caution if you’re bringing your tots! 🙈
Popular villages you can visit near Ménerbes: Bonnieux (14 km or 9 mi), Gordes (11 km or 7 mi), Lacoste (7 km or 4 mi), Oppède-le-Vieux (8 km or 5 km)
Small villages near Ménerbes where you can find accommodation: Goult (8 km or 5 mi), Les Baumettes (4 km or 2 mi), Maubec (7 km or 4 mi), Robion (10 km or 6 mi)
8. ROUSSILLON
Bask in nature’s colors
Known for its happy palette of reds, yellows, oranges, and pinks, Roussillon sits proudly in one of the biggest ochre deposits in the world. It’s a spot that feels like Mother Nature’s art studio.
Offering a good range of accommodation and dining options, this village is an ideal base for those who appreciate natural beauty and wish to explore the Luberon’s rich geological history.
Pros:
- Central location: It’s well-situated, making it a great starting point for exploring the Luberon
- Unique landscape: The ochre cliffs and quarries offer an extraordinary and distinctive landscape
- Closeness to nature: A walk in the Ochre Trail is a must-do activity
- Bright atmosphere: The village is lively with numerous art galleries, shops, and restaurants.
- Photo opportunities: Roussillon’s unique landscape is a sight to behold and a photographer’s paradise
- Dining: Has more than five restaurants/bistros to keep you fed
Cons:
- Tourist hotspot: As one of the most visited sites in the Luberon, it can get quite crowded during peak season
- Paid parking: Many Luberon villages offer free parking but not Roussillon. The parking fee is reasonable at 3-6 euros for a day, so not bad
Best for: Those who love striking landscapes. It’s for the wanderers, photographers, nature enthusiasts, and lovers of vibrant colors
Where to stay
- Boutique: La Clé des Champs Boutique Hôtel & Spa – an authentic Provençal mas that was one of the original hotels in Roussillon. Set on a 3-hectare estate with nine air conditioned rooms. Guests rave about the owners, breakfast, and peaceful surroundings.
- Boutique: Omma – another boutique hotel that has the best restaurant with a view in Roussillon. It’s also right in the village center.
- Bed & Breakfast: Villa des Roses – Roussillon is often buzzing with tourists. Here’s a B&B that’s a short walk from the village center. You get to avoid the crowds but stay near the action.
⭐️Local tips⭐️
- Wear comfortable clothes and shoes when walking the Ochre Trail. Don’t worry, the dust stains are temporary and washable.
- Explore early morning or late afternoon. That’s when you’ll catch the ochre cliffs at their dramatic, sunbathed glow.
Popular villages you can visit near Roussillon: Apt town (9 km / 6 mi , Gordes (10 km / 6 mi), Lacoste (12 km / 7 mi)
Small villages near Roussillon where you can find accommodation: Gargas (7 km / 4 mi), Joucas (5 km / 3 mi) , Lioux (8 km / 5 mi)
Summary: Where to Base in the Luberon
Here are my eight (8) recommendations for the ideal Luberon base for tourists:
APT: Luberon’s capital town. Famous for centuries-old Saturday market that is one of the biggest and oldest in Provence. While Apt may not have a “tiny French village feel”, it will give you the amenities and convenience of a bustling town.
BONNIEUX: A central, hilltop village. Has great restaurants, including Michelin-starred La Bastide. Take note of steep calade streets. If the thoughts of uphill paths, steep parking, and pushing a baby stroller on uneven street stress you out, look elsewhere.
GORDES: Another hilltop village in central Luberon. Has amazing sunset views and some of the best luxury hotels in the area. Very popular and gets crowded. If you’re just using it as a base, you can enjoy the place in the evenings when the day trippers are gone.
GOULT: If you want an authentic feel but do not want hordes of day trippers like in Gordes, Lourmarin, and Roussillon, then Goult may be your answer. For a small village, it has a lot of charm, dining options, and lovely B&Bs.
L’ISLE-SUR-LA-SORGUE: A town (not a village!) that has a famous antiques Sunday market. If you stay there, it will be very exciting to wake up on market day which starts at 8 am. You’ll get first dibs on goods and breakfast spots. And of course, a parking spot will be the least of your worries.
LOURMARIN: Not a hilltop village but is an excellent base for coffee, dining, and shopping. Not dead at night compared to other villages. Has plenty of free parking, a castle you can visit, and a popular Friday market.
Like Gordes and Roussillon, Lourmarin is popular among day trippers. But remember, if crowds annoy you, you can always enjoy the village in the evenings when visitors have left.
MÉNERBES: A hilltop village with stunning views. It’s a “Most Beautiful Village in France” title holder but doesn’t have as large a crowd that Gordes attracts. There are bistros and restaurants where you can watch the sunset.
The sad news is, if you’re a Peter Mayle fan, don’t go looking for signs of him there. You won’t find it.
ROUSSILLON: The most colorful village in the Luberon. And like Gordes, Lourmarin, and Ménerbes, Roussillon is recognized as one of the Les Plus Beaux Villages de France. It’s a great base if you’d like to be close to nature. The ochre trail is one of a kind.
For suggested accommodations, please see the ‘Where to Stay’ sections under each place. Don’t miss especially the Michelin Key hotels in Gordes, Bonnieux, and Ménerbes.
Final Thoughts: Best Luberon Base
When picking a base–especially if it’s your first time in the Luberon–you can’t go wrong with the “golden triangle”: Gordes-Bonnieux-Roussillon.
And don’t forget the many little-known villages that can also be your convenient home base.
Again, here’s a quick look at ideal bases:
Most central: Gordes, Bonnieux, Roussillon
Hilltop villages with views: Bonnieux, Gordes, Ménerbes
Best dining options: Bonnieux, Goult, Lourmarin
Least touristy on this list: Goult
For complete, year-round amenities: Apt, L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue
Most colorful: Roussillon
Biggest markets: Apt, L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue
Best free parking: Lourmarin
Best for families: Apt, L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue, Lourmarin
Best for nature: Bonnieux, Roussillon
FAQs About Where to Base in Luberon
What is Luberon known for?
The Luberon in Provence is known for its hilltop villages, vineyards, and lavender fields. It’s famous for its regional products such as wine, olives, and truffles. It’s a landscape that’s inspired many artists and writers.
Where to base in Luberon with a car?
For a good mix of Luberon highlights and hidden gems, stay central in Gordes, Bonnieux, or Roussillon, or in the tiny villages around them. This is best area for a first-time visitor in Provence.
What is the best town to stay to explore the Luberon?
The “best” town in Luberon depends on your personal preferences. Apt, Aix-en-Provence, and L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue are popular choices because they have transportation links, shops, restaurants, and amenities that many villages do not have.
Luberon vs. Vaucluse. Which is the better base?
The Luberon is an area within the department of Vaucluse in the region of Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur (PACA) in France. So if you’re based in Luberon, then you’re based in Vaucluse.
What is the best base in Luberon without a car?
If you’re exploring Luberon without a car, stay in towns such as Apt, Aix-en-Provence, Avignon, or L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue. These are bigger and better equipped with transportation links, restaurants, and amenities.
Read more:
😍 Did you know MICHELIN has chosen France’s 189 finest hotels and 9 of them are in the Luberon? From 180-2500€/night, you can book a Michelin Key stay with your loved ones.
😍 The Luberon has dozens of villages and towns. Which ones should you visit? Well, it depends on what you want. Find the Luberon villages that vibe with your interests.
😍 In France, we love to label everything, including the dreamiest villages in the country. Get to know the 5 Most Beautiful Villages in the Luberon. Make sure you visit them.