Scattered across the hills and valleys of the Luberon and Vaucluse, Provence’s villages are jewels of stone and sunlight. Each has its own character – whether perched high on a rocky outcrop, nestled beside a river, or shimmering with ochre cliffs – yet all share the timeless charm, markets, boutiques and slow rhythms that make this region so enchanting.
Apt
A small yet lively market town at the eastern edge of the Luberon valley, Apt acts as a local hub rooted in Luberon’s communal network. With Raymond medieval streets, cobbled squares, and rich agricultural heritage, famed for candied fruits, and its colorful market on Saturday mornings.
Bonnieux
Perched on the northern slope of the Luberon, Bonnieux delivers spectacular views over the Calavon valley and surrounding hills. Historic sites include the 12th-century église haute, an 18th-century convent, medieval ramparts, and the unique Tour Philippe. Nearby lies the cedar forest of the Luberon, offering a peaceful natural escape.
Buoux
Dramatically positioned at the foot of a steep limestone ridge, Buoux is cherished for its adventurous spirit and historic ruins. A favorite among hikers and climbers, it offers both tranquil village atmosphere and spectacular natural settings.
Fontaine-de-Vaucluse
This evocative medieval village lies within a dramatic dead-end valley and grew around the Fontaine de Vaucluse; the mighty spring that feeds the Sorgue river. With a cliff face soaring over 230 meters, the spring is France’s most powerful, and among the world’s largest, drawing visitors along scenic river paths past shops, cafés, and museums dedicated to Petrarch and local legends.
Gordes
Built into a limestone plateau, Gordes stands as one of the Luberon’s most stunning perched villages. With winding stone streets, dry‑stone architecture, and dramatic ridgeline panoramas, it’s a showcase of Provençal beauty and timelessness.
Joucas
Joucas is one of my favorite villages. A small wooded village nestled on the Luberon’s slopes near Roussillon and Gordes, Joucas offers a cozy, quiet retreat with shaded alleys, incredible artwork, and traditional stone architecture, perfect for those seeking tranquility amid Luberon’s hilltop charms.
Lacoste
A picturesque hillside village in the Luberon, Lacoste is best known for its medieval castle once owned by the infamous Marquis de Sade. It enjoys a scenic setting near Bonnieux and Ménerbes, with artistic heritage and sweeping views over vineyards.
Les Baux-de-Provence
Perched dramatically within the rugged Alpilles, Les Baux‑de‑Provence boasts a medieval fortress and sweeping views over the rocky Provençal landscape. Recognized as one of France’s “Most Beautiful Villages,” it blends heritage and dramatic geology into a timeless setting. A highly recommended outing is a visit to the Carrières des Lumières, where you can experience an immersive exhibit of art projected on gigantic stone walls of a former stone quarry. It is truly an exceptional experience, with the added benefit of being quite cool – a welcome respite to the hot summer temperatures of Provence.
Lioux
A small, tucked-away village in the Luberon landscape, Lioux offers quiet rural charm with stone-built houses and sweeping views of hills and fields as well as the incredible cliffs of Lioux. An ideal destination for those seeking solitude amid Provençal nature.
L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue
Often described as the “Venice of Provence,” L’Isle‑sur‑la‑Sorgue is a vibrant town straddling the Sorgue’s branching waterways, lined with mossy waterwheels, cafés, antique shops, boutiques and galleries. Its famed Sunday antiques market and biannual fairs draw collectors from across Europe, imbuing the town with liveliness and cultural flair. It is one of the most beloved villages of our guests and next to many restaurants, offers excellent gift shopping opportunities.
Lourmarin
Nestled at the foot of the Luberon, Lourmarin is a quintessential Provençal gem celebrated for its Renaissance château, often nicknamed the “Medici Villa of Provence”, which was regularly visited by writers like Albert Camus and Henri Bosco, both of whom are buried here. The lovely Lourmarin market takes place on Friday mornings, definitely worth a visit!
Ménerbes
A timeless perch atop the Luberon ridge, Ménerbes captivates with stone houses overlooking valleys of olive groves and vineyards. Often hailed among Provence’s most beautiful villages, it blends medieval charm with serene landscapes and rich history. Nearby, you can visit Domaine de la Citadelle, with its vineyards, excellent restaurant and extensive botanical garden. It is possible to book a tour of the garden with a guide. I highly recommend a visit.
Oppède-le-Vieux
Clinging to the Luberon’s northern escarpment, this hauntingly beautiful ghost village traces its roots to the 12th century. Though mostly abandoned centuries ago, its ruins, medieval architecture, and faint echoes of past lives. Now revived by artists’ studios, it is truly one of the most picturesque villages in all of Provence and a profoundly evocative experience for visitors.
Roussillon
Set amid the ochre-laden cliffs of the Luberon Regional Park, Roussillon glows in vibrant shades of red, orange, and yellow. Its hallmark is the Sentier des Ocres, a captivating path through abandoned ochre quarries, framed by a tranquil village ambiance and shaded vineyards.
Saint-Saturnin-lès-Apt
Framed by the Luberon foothills, this rustic village is tucked into a green valley and features traditional stone architecture and inviting calm. It lies within the Luberon Regional Park which is part of the broader tapestry of tranquil Provençal villages.
