A Nosy Local’s Guide to Picking the Best Luberon Villages for You (2025)

With dozens of lovely villages in Provence, how do you decide which are the best Luberon villages to visit? Which ones are you most likely to love?

Maybe you’ve spent hours (or days) researching your Luberon trip, only to end up feeling overwhelmed with too many options and hard-to-pronounce French places.

Truth is, some places will vibe with you more than others. And someone’s favorite village might just be blah and meh for you.

As a year-round Luberon resident and frequent village-hopper, I’m here to guide you through this corner of Provence—the A-listers, the underrated finds, and the “where-on-earth-is-that?” 

In this article, I cover 30+ interests and the villages that match them, so you can choose what’s right for you. My goal is to help you narrow down your itinerary, tailored to your curiosity with a dash of spontaneity.

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Which Luberon Villages are Right for You?

When you plan your trip to Provence, ask yourself the five questions below. You’ll get a clear idea of what you want and what is doable based on your time, interests, and thirst for the unexpected.

1. How much time do you have? (number of days or weeks)
2. Name 3 themes that pique your interest (like archeology, wine, hiking). 
3. What’s the ONE must-see or must-do experience you can’t miss (say, lavender fields)? State your non-negotiable. 
4. Are you planning to rent a car or rely on public transportation? (If the latter, you’ll find my Ultimate Guide to Provence Without a Car really useful.)
5. Rate your openness to unexpected delights from 1-10 (with 10 being all in for surprises).

It’s vital to have a map of Luberon villages, especially if you’ve never visited before. So you can get familiar with village names and locations. Then with map in hand…

• Read the rest of this article to help decide which villages/towns you find most interesting.
• Encircle them on the Luberon villages map.
• How near or far are they from one another?
• Cluster the villages based on the number of days you have.
• Don’t forget to leave room for spontaneity. 😉

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Starting Point: The “Most Beautiful Villages of France”
in the Luberon

When getting the lay of the land, the most obvious place to start is with Luberon’s “Most Beautiful Villages of France” (yep, it’s an official title). These places have earned their fame for good reason, and they have the tourist crowds to prove it.

All photos in this article are my own unless otherwise stated.

Here’s a mnemonic acronym (I made it up!) to help you remember them…GRAM-L which stands for:
Gordes 
Roussillon 
Ansouis 
Ménerbes 
Lourmarin

In French, these villages are called Les Plus Beaux Villages de France, a certification that recognizes the prettiest French villages based on 30 criteria, including population size (max: 2,000) and presence of at least two heritage sites.

In a separate article, I wrote a quick overview of Luberon’s beauty queens acclaimed villages, along with tips and some honest opinions I think you should know about (e.g. why I think Gordes is like the Eiffel Tower in Paris but not in a good way).

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Choose the Best Luberon Villages Based on Your Interests and Curiosity

Below is a list of 30+ possible things you might like and the matching Luberon village/s for each. The general themes are:

• Lavender
• Food & Wine
• Hiking & Nature
• Luberon Markets
• Heritage Sites & Architecture
• Art & Savoir-Faire
• Convenience Hubs
• Random Curiosities
• Surprise Finds

To keep things simple, you’ll notice I only highlight one village/town in each heading (e.g. For Lavender Fans: Saignon). But below it, you’ll read about other places I’ve handpicked.

LUBERON LAVENDER FIELDS

For Lavender Fans: Saignon

Lavender (and lavandin*) fields pepper the Luberon.

(*Quickly, lavender is commonly known as “fine lavender” that grows in high altitude. Lavandin is a natural hybrid of two varieties, and usually grows in plains and valleys. So the fields you’ll see in the Luberon valley are mostly lavandin.)

The Luberon villages map below shows the concentration of champs de lavande in certain areas. See the purple parts? This means, if you drive around these areas, you will have a high chance of seeing the fields.

The serendipity of “finding” lavender fields is an experience in itself. It’s easy to drive around, spot bluish purple fields, and stop the car for a quick photo (or sniff!).

But please, remember to respect the plants. Never pick the flowers. Our lavender farmers work very hard to grow them.

To see or visit the fragrant fields, we usually drive around the three (3) village clusters below:

1) Saignon + Buoux: Between those two villages is the Plateau des Claparèdes, where endless rows of lavender fields grow. You can visit from the ground or you want an elevated view, climb Saignon’s big rock (Roche de Bellevue).
2) Saint-Saturnin-lès-Apt + Villars
3) Apt + Auribeau

Popular:
Gordes: Abbaye Notre-Dame de Sénanque, a 12th-century Cisterian abbey, is a fave among lavender lovers. It truly is a postcard shot when fields in front of the church burst into purple blooms (usually from late June to July). 

It is an actual abbey, so please be respectful especially when there’s an ongoing mass. Also, go early to avoid the crowds.

Very Popular:
The famous places to see lavender fields in Provence are slightly beyond the Luberon valley–Sault and the Valensole plateau. Both hold annual lavender festivals on August 15th and July 20th, respectively.

Optional:
If you have extra time, go to Les Agnels, a lavender distillery in Apt, to learn more about the process of growing, harvesting, and distilling the perfumed plant. 

If you visit in July, there may be tons of lavender in bloom right there on the property. You can also buy souvenirs there.

Another option is visiting the Musée de la Lavande (Lavender Museum) in Coustellet. Their boutique carries the Le Château du Bois brand (more below). 

Lagarde d’Apt, a small village at over 1,000 meters above sea level, is known for its vast fields of lavande fin (fine or “real” lavender that grows in high altitude). It is here that Le Château du Bois, a brand of premium lavender since 1890, cultivates and distills their products.

FOOD & WINE

For Luberon Wine Lovers: Ménerbes

Ménerbes is not only among the most beautiful villages in Luberon but also a fab destination for wine lovers.

For wine tastings, visit the Wine and Truffle Museum (Maison de la Truffe et du Vin), Domaine de la Citadelle and its corkscrew museum, and Domaine de Marie.

From Ménerbes, drive five minutes to Oppède to visit Mas des Infermières owned by English director Ridley Scott. The wine estate includes sets, costumes, and props from Scott’s movies.

I find it ironic that unlike Scott’s blockbusters (Alien, Gladiator, Black Hawk Down), A Good Year, the Luberon-set film starring Russell Crowe and Marion Cotillard, tanked. 

In Lauris, go for wine introduction sessions and tastings at Domaine de Fontenille. They offer a walk through the vineyard, wine tasting, or picnic. The grounds and restaurant are nice – visit anyway.

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For Gourmets (and Gourmands): Cucuron

When it comes to food, I prefer villages where I don’t have to starve before I can find a place to eat. If a village has at least 10 food places, it means it will likely not be dead come 7pm (except during winter months).

Many would say Bonnieux has the best restaurants in Luberon. Agreed, and it even has three Michelin restaurants.

But for me, my preferred go-to’s for eating out are Cucuron and Lourmarin. Not only do these villages have a dozen or more dining options, but they also have restaurants I frequent.

Cucuron: For regular dinners, I love the friendly atmosphere and amazing in-season dishes at La Dame Jeanne and Moris. For special occasions, it’s La Petite Maison de Cucuron, a one-star Michelin restaurant.

Lourmarin: Choose from about 20 restaurants and cafés in this village. Perfect for those who enjoy the simple pleasures of sipping, munching, and soaking up the slow-paced Provençal lifestyle.

I usually go to Café Gaby for breakfast, Gina Café for homemade, hearty lunches, and Le Moulin de Lourmarin for dinner or special occasions.

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For Michelin Star Shooters: Various

There are several Michelin restaurants as well as Bib Gourmands* in the Luberon.
*Bib Gourmand – Michelin’s more affordable, ‘best value for money’ restaurants

Newcomer alert!
In March 2025, only one year after its opening, JU-Maison de Cuisine in Bonnieux earned one Michelin star. This is the third etoilé restaurant for Bonnieux, making it the Luberon village with the most Michelin-starred restaurants.

List of Michelin restaurants in the Luberon as of April 2025:
Two Stars ⭐️⭐️
Bonnieux: La Table des Amis by Christophe Bacquié

One Star ⭐️
Ansouis: La Closerie (traditional)
Bonnieux: JU-Maison de Cuisine (modern)
Bonnieux: La Bastide de Capelongue (Provençal and modern)
Cadenet: Le Goût du Bonheur – La Fenière (creative, gluten-free)
Cucuron: La Petite Maison de Cucuron (classic)
Lauris: Le Champ de Lune (modern)
Joucas: La Table de Xavier Mathieu (creative and Mediterranean)
Mane: Le Feuillée – Le Couvent des Minimes (modern)
Manosque: Restaurant Pierre Grein (modern, farm to table)

Technically, L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue is not part of the Luberon but it is the gateway to it, so the two are always lumped together.

Here are other Michelin restaurants near the borders of the Luberon (mostly one-starred ⭐️):
Eygalières: Maison Hache (Provençal)
L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue: Le Vivier (modern)
Les Baux-de-Provence: L’Aupiho – Domaine de Manville (modern)
Les Baux-de-Provence: L’Oustau de Baumanière (creative, 3-star Michelin)
Le Puy-Sainte-Réparade: Hélène Darroze à Villa La Coste (modern)
Le Puy-Sainte-Réparade: La Table de l’Orangerie – Château de Fonscolombe
Saint-Cannat: Le Mas Bottero (modern)
Saint-Rémy-de-Provence: L’Auberge de Saint-Rémy (modern)
Saint-Rémy-de-Provence: Restaurant de Tourrel (modern)
Salon-de-Provence: Villa Salone (modern)

List of Bib Gourmand restaurants in the Luberon as of April 2025:
Les Taillades: L’Atelier l’Art des Mets (traditional)
Manosque: La Loge Bertin (modern) – permanently closed in 2025
Villars: La Table de Pablo (farm to table)

Bib Gourmands in neighboring towns:
Le Puy-Sainte-Réparade: La Petite Verrière (modern)
L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue: Solelh (modern)
Rognes: Le Préau (modern)
Sénas: Le Bon Temps (farm to table)

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For Café Lovers & People Watchers: Lourmarin 

Lourmarin: The best spot for a terrasse breakfast (and people-watching) is at Café Gaby. I go there for my little coffee corner; breakfast is so-so.

You can choose from two French breakfast sets: sweet (tartine with butter and jam, orange juice, coffee) and savory (baguette, egg, ham, coffee, orange juice). Served with coffee and orange juice.

Goult: For a tiny place, Goult surprises with about a dozen dining spots. It’s one of those places that you visit without expectations, only to be thrilled with how lovely it is.

Grab a seat at the cozy main square and chill. I usually go to Le GOULTois or Café de la Poste, but there are pricier options. 

When you’re done, walk through Old Goult to see its stone walls, arches, château (for rent), and windmill.

HIKING & NATURE

For Hikers: Bonnieux

Bonnieux: This hillside village offers a variety of trails, from leisure walks to challenging hikes. Explore Forêt des Cèdres (Cedar Forest – my favorite!) and walk under 100-year-old trees.

Rustrel: Also known as Colorado Provençal. Wander through the ocher hues, striking rock formations, canyons, and fairy chimneys. But don’t wear anything fancy (or new shoes). Get ready for some red-orange-yellow marks, which are part of the adventure.

Vaugines: At the edge of the village, behind the Romanesque Church of Saint Barthélémy Church, is a hiking trail. It’s a sweet, green route with elevated views. Look for shell fossils on the path!

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For Rock Climbers: Buoux

The cliffs of Buoux (pronounced with the ‘x’) are legendary for its limestone pockets and extreme slabs. World-famous in the 80’s, Buoux was once considered one of the best crags in the world. Today, its 300+ pocketed routes still attract climbers from around the globe.

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For Panoramic View Explorers: Saignon

Saignon: In the old times, this village served as a lookout post and sounded off alarms for the town of Apt. Saignon is said to have come from the Latin word “signum” or sign.

Today, you can climb the Rocher de Bellevue (Bellevue Rock) for a sweeping view of the valley. If you visit in June-July, you can also see the lavender fields below.

Since you’re already there, why not dine at Un Jardin Sur Le Toit for a meal with a view?

Buoux: The ruins of Fort de Buoux will give you a glimpse of a bygone community. Hike up the fort and be rewarded with a stunning scene such as the famous rock-climbing cliffs, caves, and Mont Ventoux. 

Saint-Saturnin-lès-Apt: Hovering above the village are castle ruins that are mostly walls but still fascinating. From up there, you will see superb views of the valley, village, and a man-made lake (reservoir).

Near the ruins is the 11th century chapel, Castel’s Castral. In 1850, it is said that a Marian apparition happened there to a little girl named Rosette Tamisier. The event paved the way for spiritual passions in France, including the famous Lourdes miracle in 1858.

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For Plant Passionates: Pertuis

Just like Les Plus Beaux Villages de France, another title you might encounter is Jardin Remarquable. It’s a distinguished label given to gardens and parks that are of cultural, aesthetic, historical, or botanical interest.

In the Luberon, these gardens are usually within private estates or boutique hotels, but you can visit for a small fee.

Pertuis: At the Château Val Joanis, you can admire this French garden with a potager (vegetable garden), orchard, and flowers. Entrance fee: 3 euros.

Ménerbes: Within the wine estate Domaine de la Citadelle is a botanical garden. It has six 18th century terraces that grow many kinds of medicinal, aromatic, wild edible plants…and herbs that were used for ancient witchcraft (aphrodisiacs, anyone?).

Cucuron: Should you fancy a boutique hotel with its own remarkable garden, check out Pavillon de Galon. Unfortunately, you must be a guest at the hotel to view the garden.

If you have time to venture further, between the massifs of Mont Ventoux, Luberon, and Lure, visit L’Abbaye de Valsaintes in Simiane la Rotonde.

Jardin de L’Abbaye de Valsaintes has more than 550 kinds of roses, a dry garden, and a permaculture vegetable garden.

Wander around, view the 17th century Cisterian abbey, and listen to Gregorian chants. Best time to visit is spring when the roses are blooming.  

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For Waterside Strollers: Fontaine-de-Vaucluse

Fontaine-de-Vaucluse: As the original point of the Sorgue River, Fontaine-de-Vaucluse is the largest spring in France, with about 630 million cubic meters of flowing water per year. 

The “source” (or le gouffre)  looks like a large hole at the foot of a 230-meter (755-foot) cliff (truly impressive!). No one knows for sure how deep the water is.

Even the legendary Jacques Cousteau tried to measure it in 1948. He only reached 308 meters deep, and it wasn’t even the bottom yet.

Mysterious and a tad slippery, walking down to the “source” was prohibited when I visited in winter. (When I saw others walking past the barrier, I did the same. I know, horrible. Please do not emulate me. For your own safety, please follow the rules.)

Along the riverbank, enjoy the emerald-green waters (and many ducks, if you’re lucky), lush greenery, and nature walks. There are also many restaurants and souvenir shops.

L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue: The Sorgue River flows through this busy town, also known as the “Venice of Provence.” Enjoy its charming waterwheels, canals, and waterfront cafés, perfect for a leisurely stroll.

L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue is famous for its Sunday fair, which is a mix of fresh produce, local crafts, and a huge flea market that attracts massive crowds.

Beaumont-de-Pertuis: Located in the far southeast of Vaucluse, Beaumont-de-Pertuis has two lakes: 7 Lacs (7 Lakes) and Lac de l’Aillade (Aillade Lake).

The “7 Lakes” is an artificial nature reserve intended for protecting avifauna and migrating birds. Perfect for picnics and nature strolls (even with dogs), though bathing is prohibited.

Lac de l’Aillade is ideal for a fishing trip (bonjour trout and carp!). It is open from February 1 to November 30, all week except Tuesday. Enjoy refreshments by the lake.

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For Stargazers: Saint-Michel-L’Observatoire

Years ago, I lived in Paris and in Normandie, France. We didn’t get clear, starry skies there as often as we do now in Provence. All I’m saying is, while you’re in the Luberon, do not forget to look up.

Saint-Michel-l’Observatoire: Known for its clear skies and star-gazing opportunities, Saint Michel offers an exciting evening activity for the whole family.

Visit Le Centre d’Astronomie (centre-astro.com) for stargazing, solar observations, and planetarium sessions conducted by their scientific guides. You can also book tickets at the official tourist site, Planetarium de Haute-Provence (planetarium-hauteprovence.fr). 

Lagarde-d’Apt: Observatoire Astronomique Sirene (obs-sirene.com) is a small observatory run by volunteers. It is located in a former nuclear missile launch area boasting 360-degree panoramic views. Cash payments only. 

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For Bird Watchers: Mérindol

Mérindol: On the banks of the Durance River is Observatoire Ornithologique, a large wooden cabin that allows you to discreetly observe wildlife. There are information panels that will help you identify the birds. Beavers also come out to play. Be patient, bring your own binoculars, and enjoy!

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For Fossil Trackers: Viens

Viens: Slabs of mammal footprints are rare. But in Viens*, there are nearly 300 prints, including footprints attributed to Ronzotherium (group of Rhinoceros) and chevrotains.
*pronounced like “young with a v at the start and s at the end” – vyoungs

Viens is one of the 28 sites in the Luberon Natural Geological Reserve. Other paleontology sites are Saignon, Céreste, and Manosque. For more information, visit the website of the Natural Regional Park of the Luberon.

LUBERON MARKETS

For Market Mavens: Apt

In the Luberon, every day is a market day somewhere. But the biggest, baddest, and oldest of them all is Apt. You can go there on Saturdays, 8 am to 12:30 pm, all year round.

This weekly market has been alive for hundreds of years (hello, since the 12th century!). Thanks to its authenticity and long history, the Apt market is recognized as “marché d’exception français” (exceptional French market).

Wander through 300+ stalls offering fresh produce, lavender and spices, cheeses, crafts, and regional specialties. It’s the perfect place to sample the flavors of Provence and stock up on edible souvenirs.

And when you’re done, sit at a café while people-watching or listening to local musicians. Yes, it’s crowded. Yes, you will sweat in the summer. But it feels authentic and alive.

Personally, I love that it’s also a market where locals go. Unlike some Luberon markets that, dare I say, are overdone for tourists, Apt is the real deal.

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For Fruit Junkies: Cavaillon

Cavaillon: Famous for its juicy, sun-ripened melons. Visit the weekly Monday market to sample the Cavaillon melon. Seriously, you have to taste it.

Apt: Renowned for candied fruits (fruits de confits) or the colorful, sugar-coated treats made from cherries, melons, orange and lemon peels, pineapple, and more.

It is a Provençal specialty that goes back to the High Middle Ages. Drop by La Maison du Fruit Confit (lesfleurons-apt.com) to shop for sweets to bring home to your loved ones.

Everywhere in Provence: Well, tomato is a fruit so I’m including it here. Each year, I look forward to tomatoes in season. Thanks to the Mediterranean sun and short farm-to-table trips, les tomates are so juicy and flavorful. 

After I tasted Provençal tomatoes, the bar was set so high. Life’s too short to eat mediocre tomatoes again.

Not in the Luberon but still near and within the Vaucluse department, Carpentras holds an annual Strawberry Festival (Fête de la fraise)  in April. It might be worth checking out if you’re in the Luberon in spring.

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For Antique Hunters: L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue

L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue: A paradise for art collectors and shoppers. The river, waterwheels, and charming streets create an inspiring atmosphere for artists and vintage lovers.

Visit Quai de la Gare (91 avenue Julien Guigue), a mansion that houses 24 antique dealers that sell furniture, jewelry, books, art, and more. 

You have to experience the Sunday flea market at least once. It is one of the largest and most famous in France, second to the Saint-Ouen antique market in Paris.

Also, twice a year in April and August, L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue hosts the International Antiques and Flea Market Fair (Foire International Antiquités et Brocante), where 200+ exhibitors and dealers come from all over Europe. 

If I’m being honest, most stuff is overpriced. But it’s a fascinating experience so if you get the chance, just go!

HERITAGE SITES & ARCHITECTURE

For Castle Conquerors: Lourmarin

Heads up: If you’re looking for a grandiose, mind-blowing castle like the iconic Château de Versailles, sorry, we don’t have it here in the Luberon. Or at least, it’s not open to the public. 

Many of the Luberon châteaux are either private, in ruins, or turned into hotels, but there are a few you can still visit.

Open to the public:
Lourmarin: Château de Lourmarin (chateaudelourmarin.com) is a Renaissance-style castle that almost got demolished until Laurent Vibier, an industrialist from Lyon, bought and renovated it in the 1920s.

Today, the château hosts artist residencies, exhibitions, and cultural events. You can visit it anytime during the year (except Christmas and New Year). Videos and information panels have English translations.

Mane: At the door of the Luberon, between the villages of Focalquier and Saint-Michel-L’Observatoire, is the little-known village of Mane. 

Château de Sauvan (chateaudesauvan.fr) or le petit Trianon provençal has been wonderfully restored to its French classical style. It earned two titles: Monument Historique Vivant (Living Historic Monument) and Jardin Remarquable (Remarkable Garden).

Private but sometimes public:
Ansouis: The medieval Château d’Ansouis (chateauansouis.fr) is one of the most well-preserved castles in the region. Open in April to October, the castle features pretty gardens, 17th-century interiors, and a collection of antique furniture and artwork.

What’s interesting is, people actually live in the castle. When you book a tour, the owner herself will show you around her home. It’s in French, but you will get a leaflet with some information in English. Reservation required.

Vitrolles-en-Luberon: Château du Grand Pré (chateaudugrandpre.com) is a listed Historic Monument. Thanks to new owners who took on the gigantic task of ongoing renovation, the château now offers guided tours. By reservation only.

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For Ruin Trekkers: Oppède-le-Vieux

Oppède-le-Vieux: This is the old, medieval part of the village of Oppède. Perched on a rocky mountain, the ruins of Oppède-le-Vieux have stood the test of time.

The location is as atmospheric as it gets: cobblestone streets, medieval castle, ancient ramparts, arches, and the (restored) 12th century Church of Notre Dame d’Alidon.

You can only park at the bottom of the village. Stroll through the Jardins de Sainte-Cécile, pass by the main square, and walk up to the ruins. Once you’re on top, take in the spectacular sights of the Luberon.

Buoux: The Buoux Fort sits high up on a rocky mountain that gives a crazy good view, including that of Mont Ventoux.

On the fort grounds, you’ll see ruins of a church, troglodyte habitat, some ancient silos, and my favorite…the steep, secret staircase on the side of the cliff. Warning: If you have vertigo, please avoid the stairs.

Lacoste: A hilltop village that’s famous because of an infamous person, Marquis de Sade (as in ‘sadism’) who did questionable, unspeakable things in the château. Lacoste has that “frozen in time” vibe–from the cobblestone streets to what remains of Château de Lacoste’s haunting past.

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For Ancient Dwelling Seekers: Gordes

Gordes: The Village des Bories (levillagedesbories.com) has around 30 huts or “bories” that look like igloos but are made with stacked, dry stones. These old dwellings served as shelter to shepherds and homes to a community.

Did you know bories were made with only one tool: the mallet? For an average borie, it took about 120 tons of stones!

The architecture is a masterful technique of assembling stones, one placed above the other in such a way that the upper row exceeds the lower one. 

How these structures withstood the harsh climate of Provence (think strong Mistral winds and heat waves) astound me. 

Bonnieux: Not far from Forêt des Cèdres, spread out on a four-hectare land, is a small village of bories. In the Enclos des Bories (enclos-des-bories.fr), there are more than 20 dry stone structures including water reservoirs (auguiers), ovens, and an apiary.

Cadenet: Not postcard-pretty and not groomed for tourists, but authentic. It’s an active Luberon town where you can observe local life. 

A nice 15- to 30-minute walk from the center leads you to the Site de Château–on top of the cliff and offers a panoramic view of the Durance.

Not much is left of the castle, but you can still see the remains of passages, an ancient well, and troglodyte habitats dug into the rock.

I used to not pay attention to Cadenet, but since visiting the ruins, I’ve been fascinated to have a glimpse of the labyrinthe-like lives of an ancient tribe. I bet they had secret passages!

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For Door-Enchanted Wanderers: Saint-Saturnin-lès-Apt

There’s no shortage of beautiful doors (and windows) in the Luberon. But it’s not often you see ones that are labeled “Monuments Historiques” such as those in Saint-Saturnin-lès-Apt. There are three beautiful doors along Rue de la République.

Other eye-catching sights in the village include: the castle ruins, fontaine du Matheron, hilltop chapel, ancient windmill, and the rather bizarre statue of Joseph Talon (the progenitor of truffle cultivation).

Roussillon: Did you think Luberon’s most colorful village forgot to have pretty doors? Of course not! I especially love how wooden doors contrast against the village’s trademark ocher-red palette.

If you’re looking for Medieval-looking doors, Ansouis and La-Bastide-des-Jourdans have what you’re looking for.

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For Fountain Fanatics: La-Bastide-des-Jourdans

La-Bastide-des-Jourdans: This perched village, once a bastion of The Templars, has several beautiful stone fountains: the fountain of Jeanne erected around 1793, the column fountain on Place de la République, the village washhouse (lavoir), the fountain of Fiol, and more. If you wander the narrow streets of the village, you will find more fountains.

Saignon: Known for its picturesque charm, Saignon boasts the lovely Fontaine de l’Aire, a beautifully restored 19th-century fountain. Surrounded by a lovely square, it’s the perfect spot to unwind and enjoy the quaint atmosphere of this village.

Bonus: Not in the Luberon but still in the Vaucluse department and worth a visit…

Pernes-les-Fontaines: Located north of L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue is this fountain-crazy town. How crazy, you ask? Well, it has 41 public fountains and over a hundred private ones. Among the must-see fountains are Fontaine du Cormoran and Fontaine de L’Ange.

This town carries the “Ville et Métiers d’Art” label. For more information, visit the tourism site (porteduventoux.com).

ART & SAVOIR-FAIRE

For Artists and Creatives: Ménerbes

Ménerbes: A perched village that inspired Peter Mayle’s famous book, A Year in Provence, this place was beloved by artists like Picasso and Nicolas de Staël. The Dora Maar House, former residence of surrealist artist Dora Maar (Picasso’s muse), now serves as an artists’ retreat and cultural center. 

Lacoste: With its cobbled streets and the Marquis de Sade’s castle, Lacoste is home to the Savannah College of Art and Design’s (SCAD) study abroad program. The village also hosts the annual Festival de Lacoste that is dedicated to dance, theater, and opera.

Lourmarin: Strolling the café-lined streets, you’ll discover art studios, specialty shops, and ateliers.The Château de Lourmarin hosts concerts, art events, and artist residencies.

Perhaps the village’s pride and joy is the fact that Nobel Literature Prize winner Albert Camus lived here. He is buried in the village cemetery.

Roussillon: Famous for its ocher cliffs, Roussillon has inspired artists for centuries. The village’s narrow streets are filled with galleries and workshops where you can find creations of local artists.

In addition to these villages, Saint-Remy-de-Provence (technically not a Luberon village but close) is also known for its interesting art galleries.

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For the Ceramics-Crazy: Apt

Apt: This town is renowned for its centuries-old tradition of producing exquisite faience, a type of glazed pottery that features intricate designs and bright colors. 

This traditional know-how dates back to the 18th century, when skilled artisans started using locally sourced clay and ocher, which quickly gained popularity and became a symbol of the town’s craftsmanship.

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For Sculpture Stans: Joucas

Joucas: Here’s something different and a tad philosophical: Le Labyrinthe D’Art, giant wooden and stone sculptures of man displayed in the village’s public spaces and in the atelier of artists Mieke Heybroek and Ulysse Plaud.

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For Cinéphiles: Cucuron

Gordes: On Netflix’s Emily in Paris, there was a restaurant called L’Esprit du Luberon. In real life, it’s actually the Clover Gordes restaurant at the five-star Airelles Gordes, La Bastide.

Cucuron: Can we forget for a sec that Ridley Scott’s A Good Year was a terrible movie? Remember when Max (Russell Crowe) and Fanny (Marion Cotillard) went on a date? That was in Place d’Etang beside Cucuron’s popular pond.

When I first started learning French, I watched a couple of French classic movies with my (French) husband. Surprisingly, I really enjoyed watching these old films!

The first I watched was La Gloire de Mon Père, an adaptation of Marcel Pagnol’s novel, featuring Vitrolles-en-Luberon as one of the locations.

Another Pagnol movie, Le Château de Ma Mère, showcases a castle with stunning gardens, which happens to be the château in Ansouis.     

Mirabeau is a charming village that was shown in Jean de Florette and its sequel, Manon des Sources. In honor of Manon, there’s now a bronze statue of her sitting by the village fountain.

CONVENIENCE HUBS

For Families with Small Kids or Seniors: L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue

If you’re traveling in the Luberon with kids or elders, it is best to avoid villages that have difficult steps, steep inclines, and cobblestone streets (definitely not for strollers/prams). Examples of such hilltop villages are Bonnieux, Gordes, Lacoste, and Oppède-le-Vieux.

For family-friendly Luberon destinations that are relatively flat, easy to navigate, and have areas (i.e., cafés, benches, parks, stores) where you can catch your breath, consider:

L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue: Known as the “Venice of Provence” because of the River Sorgue flowing through it, this town (not a village) has a relatively flat terrain. It makes it easy for families to explore the streets, see the waterwheels, and cross tiny bridges.

Browse through stores and antique shops, dine in restaurants and cafés, or simply stroll. It can get very crowded on Sunday’s big market, but it’s a nice experience if you go early in the morning.

Lourmarin: One of the Luberon’s “Most Beautiful Villages of France,” Lourmarin is flat and makes for a great stroll. It brims with cafés and restaurants for leisurely breaks and stores for souvenir shopping. It even has a children’s playground.

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For Digital Nomads: Lourmarin

Lourmarin: La Fruitière Numérique (lafruitierenumerique.fr) is a coworking space that offers high-speed internet, meeting rooms, event space, and even a cinema. Co-working fees are super affordable: 20 euros per day or 28 euros (yes, you read that right!) per month.

For more remote working options, you can also go to towns L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue, Apt, and Cavaillon.

RANDOM CURIOSITIES

For Eclectic Museum Goers: Ansouis

Ansouis: Dive into The Extraordinary Museum (Le Musée Extraordinaire), where a man’s lifelong passion is brought to life. Be fascinated by a pro diver’s peculiar finds from the ocean and his sea-related artwork, including a blue corals grotto that almost feels like you’re underwater.

Ménerbes: Uncork the fun at Domaine de Citadelle’s Musée du Tire-Bouchon (Corkscrew Museum) by celebrating the humble yet vital tool. Worth a peek if you’re going for wine tasting at the property.

This cheeky museum houses over 1,200 corkscrews from the 17th century until the present. You’ll probably laugh at the funny, risqué ones.

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For Quirky Village Questers: Beaumont-de-Pertuis

Beaumont-de-Pertuis: When I first visited this village, I said, “Wow, was there a competition for “best home front decor?” Because almost every doorstep or home facade has been prettified with plants, flowers, paint, and handmade decorations.

The most passionate villager is the one who owns the whimsical “Disney” house, decorated with a hodgepodge of characters and animals such as lions, cicadas, dwarves, and other colorful things. You can find this red house at the Place de la Colonne near the fountain.

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For Chandelier Admirers: Gargas

Gargas: Did you know the granddaddy of chandelier brands is right here in the Luberon? Okay, maybe “granddaddy” was an exaggeration. 

How about the “trusted chandelier maker” of the ultra-wealthy? Mathieu Lustrerie (mathieulustrerie.com) is a renowned chandelier workshop and museum located in Gargas. Their light fixtures are hanging in the Palace of Versailles, Louvre Museum, and showrooms of luxury brands Hermès, Cartier, and Louis Vuitton.

Every day, there is one guided tour, free of charge. If you can’t join the tour, visit the showroom anyway. It’s a fascinating peek into the craftsmanship and design of this niche art.

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For Sundial Seekers: Goult

Provence boasts around 300 days of sunshine per year. So it’s not surprising that sundials (or cadran solaire) are a ubiquitous decor.

When you visit the villages of the Luberon, keep an eye out for these beautifully designed timepieces on the walls of public buildings, churches, and homes. You can spot a sundial in almost every village.

If you’re interested in buying sundials as gifts or souvenirs, visit these two artisans: Philippe Yves (pierreduvaucluse.com) in Goult and Martine Guimet (martineguimet.com) in Saint-Saturnin-lès-Apt.

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For Sunkissed Nudists: Forcalquier

Now, now, you might be weirded out why I’m including this. Hear me out.

I’m not a naturist, but by some twist of fate and much to my fascination, I ended up among nudists twice in one year. This is Europe, and I know there are those who wish to come here for some clothes-free R&R.

If that’s you, then you’ll be pleased to know there’s a 4-star naturist campsite (camping-lauzons.com) in Forcalquier, a small Luberon town, west of the Alpes de Haute-Provence.

SURPRISE FINDS

Big surprises come from small villages. Beware of those places that seem flat, boring, and unassuming. Believe me, they have some real hidden gems.

Here are some of my favorites…

Robion: Above the village, at the foot of the cliffs, there are two surprises: 1) an open-air theater with great acoustics, and 2) a hidden staircase that soars to the sky. Where does it lead? You’ll have to climb to find out.*

*If you’re really itching to find out, ask me via email. But come on, if I tell you, it’ll spoil the surprise.

Maubec: Stroll through the narrow streets until you see old stone stairs. Walk down until you reach the concrete road. Across it is this tiny village’s very own lavender fields (best seen in June-July). You’re welcome. 😉

Villars: Look for the Luberon’s cutest little post office. And dine at Cafe des Amis, a friendly bistro.

Puyvert. There’s a small restaurant called Le Puyverre. Run by a young couple, this tiny but mighty restaurant serves up creative dishes that everyone seems to love (check out their glowing Google reviews). I’ve eaten here a few times and have chatted with the owners (Virgil is the chef, Tiffany is the sommelier – great duo!).

This is a place I’d personally bring guests. The food is good, the ambience cozy, and service friendly. I would just caution that food may take a while as the owners run everything themselves. They do not have extra staff, though I think they prefer it that way.

The Wrap-Up: Best Luberon Villages to Visit

Aaand there you have it!

I’ve dished out the best villages in Luberon, catering to every taste and fancy. From the award-winning “Most Beautiful Villages of France” to obscure areas, there’s a Luberon village for you.

Below is a summary of The Luberon Spy’s top picks. Remember, I only mention one destination per headline but feel free to reread the previous sections for more suggestions.

TL;DR

How to Best Enjoy the Most Beautiful Villages in Luberon

Slow down. Try not to rush. And don’t be afraid to get lost. You really can’t make a wrong detour in this piece of Provence.

While the hilltop villages are amazing, the scenic drives connecting them sometimes steal the show. Or is it the food and wine? Or the new memories you’ll make?

I hope you find the best Luberon villages for you. Happy trip!

Read more:

Now that you know which Luberon villages you’d like to visit, it’s time to decide where to base yourself. I have just the article to help you decide – my 8 top recommendations for the best base in Luberon.