THINGS TO DO IN The Luberon Valley: 2-DAY ITINERARY

The Luberon Valley is in the heartland of Provence. Here, you will find charming villages, rocky outcrops, beautiful views, and stunning lavender fields. To the west of the Parc Regional Naturel du Luberon are the Alpilles Mountains and to the north, the stunning Mont Ventoux.

The valley has an ancient history going back as far as the Gauls and Romans. Ruins dating back a couple of thousand years can be seen in many places. Several fortified villages were built during the Middle Ages, and you will find attractive narrow, cobbled streets and mediaeval houses in some of the villages.

Today, the Luberon Valley attracts many visitors because of its beauty, its history, its 300 days of sunshine each year, and the traditional outdoor markets.

We have prepared a two-day itinerary for you taking in the best villages in the valley. It is best if you rent a car to visit the villages as public transport will not take you to all the places mentioned and you would miss out on some of the hidden gems.

Day 1

Morning: Roussillon

Start your first day in Roussillon, renowned for its ochre cliffs - Les Ocres de Roussillon. They give the village a red, yellow, and orange glow, making the houses look colourful and bright. There is a museum in the village called the Conservatoire des Ochres, where you can learn about ochre mining in the area. Take the walk, Le Sentier des Ochres to see the coloured cliffs. It takes around an hour but there is a shorter walk which may be more comfortable in the heat of the summer as there is no shade.

If you are interested in art, you will be in your element in Roussillon as there are eight galleries in the village.

A couple of euros will get you a parking spot but off-season, you might be able to find a free parking space.

Joucas

Your next stop is Joucas, just 5.6 km from Roussillon. Coming from Roussillon, you will find a free car park on the Route de la Sante. The village is high up, so you will have beautiful views from all angles.

Joucas has many narrow, and cobbled streets and because this village is less visited by tourists than others, you won’t have to fight with the crowds. It will also give you a better impression of local Provencal life.

Visit the Eglise Saint-Jean-Baptiste which has an austere facade, but beautiful Italian trompe l'oeil art inside. There is faux marble on each side of the nave and the choir vault is painted with the Sacred Heart and the Maltese cross.

There are nearby hiking trails so you can explore the region though be prepared as it can be hilly in parts.

The village is surrounded by lavender fields which are at their best in June and July. They are spectacular and look like a violet carpet. You can buy many lavender products in the villages.

Gordes

Gordes is just five km from Joucas and is situated on a hilltop where you can enjoy stunning views of the countryside. Wander through the narrow, cobbled streets where you will find charming cafes, independently owned shops, and art galleries.

A highlight of the village is the Château de Gordes. It was originally built in the Middle Ages but then restored in 1525, so it is a mixture of architectural styles. It houses exhibitions of work by local artists, and in December a Christmas market is held on the grounds.

Visit the L’Eglise Saint Fermin, built in the 12th century. There are eight chapels in the church dedicated to people who worked in different professions, such as blacksmiths. Another highlight of the village is the Musee du Verre et du Vitrail which is housed on the property of Frederique Duran. Here he showcased the uses of glass going back as far as the Ancient Egyptians,

If you are in Gordes on a Tuesday morning, don’t miss the market. It sells souvenirs and gifts as well as fresh produce, and local foodstuffs such as charcuterie, cheese, herbs, and spices.

There are three paid car parks in the village and 60 parking spaces which have metres.

It will now be time to enjoy lunch and there are plenty of restaurants in town which serve local Provencal food, but there are also some which are Mediterranean.

Day 1, morning - The Luberon Valley Tour Map

Afternoon: Village Des Bories

Your first stop in the afternoon is the Village des Bories. It is just four km from Gordes. It is not inhabited anymore, the last of the people leaving during the 19th century, but it is an interesting historical site, showing you what Provencal life was like in centuries past. You will see 30 dry-stone huts where people lived, bread ovens, sheepfolds, and wine vats, as well as tools and household equipment. It has the honour of being a Historic Monument.

Saint Pantaleon

Saint Pantaleon is eight km away from Bories. It is a small village covering just 78 hectares and having a population of just 1,000. It is named after a Catholic martyr who was the patron saint of doctors.

There are a few sites in the village which are worth visiting, including an 11th-century Romanesque church, a votive chapel dedicated to the plague epidemic of the 18th century, and the windmill of the Badelle, which still has its wings.

Beaumettes

Beaumettes is just 6 km from Saint Pantaleon. It goes back to the Neolithic age, but Roman occupation is more evident as can be seen in the ruins throughout the village.

The highlight of Beaumettes is Le Beaumes, a troglodyte village which is still lived in today.

There are hiking trails from the village and a mediaeval chapel to visit. At the end of July, you can enjoy the Nature Wine Fair and in September, the Votive Festival.

Goult

Goult is just a 3.6 km journey from Beaumettes and is a quiet hilltop village. However, there is plenty to see including stunning stone and ochre buildings. A highlight is the Saint Sebastian Church which has a roof of slate slabs, a baroque altarpiece, six side chapels, and an unusual frieze with a bull’s head.

In July there is a Honey Festival in the village where you can learn how honey is made. Beekeepers will tell you their methods and you can taste their honey. The great thing is that the festival is free.

Stay the night in Goult or drive to your first stop of your second day for the night. Oppede le Vieux is just 13.8 km away.

Day 1, afternoon - The Luberon Valley Tour Map

Day 2

Morning: Oppede Le Vieux

Oppede Le Vieux is a small village, but one nevertheless with a long history. There is a mediaeval castle towering over the village which is a bit of a climb but well worth it, especially for the views.

When you arrive at the village, park at the entrance to the old Mediaeval town. To get to the village from here, you will walk through a beautiful botanical garden, the Terrasses Sainte-Cecile. It showcases plants, trees, and flowers which have adapted to the Mediterranean climate. There are a total of 80 species to be seen, including olive trees, parasol pines, thyme, and rosemary.

As the village is small, there are only cafes and restaurants in the place de la Croix, so if you want a coffee before heading to your next destination, head there.

Ménerbes

The next stop is Ménerbes, five km from Oppede. The village is surrounded by vineyards and cherry orchards which adds to its appeal. You will find restaurants and cafes in the centre of the village and a market on Thursday mornings. The village draws in the crowds as it was where Peter Mayle wrote ‘A Year in Provence’.

Head above the restaurants where you will find the Citadelle, a 16th-century miniature fortress, and the Chateau du Castellet where the painter, Nicolas de Stael lived. There are beautiful views from here.

If you like truffles and/or wine, head to the Place de l'Horloge where you can visit the Maison de la Truffe et du Vin. Here you can learn about the truffles and wines of the region and take wine appreciation courses in the summer months.

Just outside Ménerbes, at the winery, Domaine de la Citadelle, is an unusual museum called the Musee du Tire-Bouches or the Corkscrew Museum. It houses over 1,000 corkscrews.

Have lunch in Ménerbes before heading to your next stop. The Galoubet is a good choice.

Day 2, morning - The Luberon Valley Tour Map

Afternoon: Sainte-Hilaire Ancienne Abbaye

This fortified Benedictine abbey is four km from Ménerbes. Here you can explore the abbey church, the abbey house, an old chapter house, two refectories, and cellars carved into the rocks. There is also a prison and guardhouse in the fortified area. In 1531, the resident monks produced the world’s first sparkling wine, Blanquette.

The abbey was built over several years, starting in 825. The abbey church was constructed in the 12th century and the cloister in the 14th century. The church has some beautiful stained-glass windows and the sarcophagus of Saint Saturninus, the first bishop of Toulouse, to whom the abbey was dedicated in the 9th century. The abbey hosts art exhibitions as well as classical concerts and cultural events.

Lacoste

Four km away is Lacoste, made famous by the Marquis de Sade who lived in the village from 1769 until 1772. The village is on top of a hill with the ruins of an 11th-century chateau at its highest point, offering magnificent views. In 2001, it was bought by Pierre Cardin and now hosts music and arts festivals.

The historic centre of Lacoste is filled with cobblestoned streets where you can find artisan shops and galleries.

The 12th-century church of Saint-Trophime should be on your agenda. It is just outside the village and inside you will find beautiful frescoes and Romanesque architecture. The former lords of Lacoste were buried here, and you can see their tombs.

There are many places that you can park in Lacoste, but the main car park, Parking Paysage, is free.

Bonnieux

A six-kilometre drive takes you to the last stop of your tour. Bonnieux is located on a hillside and is terraced. It has a beautiful church tower which you can climb for spectacular views. Head to the old town for a mediaeval atmosphere as well as to discover some lovely shops and cafes.

Bonnieux has a history dating to the Ancient Roman occupation. A few kilometres outside town you will find the bridge, the Pont Julien, which was built in the 1st century and was named after Julius Caesar. It is still a working bridge.

There are many good restaurants in town, some perched high on the cliffs with wonderful views so it is a good place to have dinner.

Day 2, afternoon - The Luberon Valley Tour Map

Other Things To Do In The Luberon Valley

• Fontaine de Vaucluse: This village is so named because it is where the River Sorgue begins as just a spring. People have lived here since Ancient Roman times when the village was called Vallis Clause. It is 34 km to the west of Avignon. There is plenty to see in this village including several museums which showcase the region. The Musee Bibliothèque Francois Petrarque tells you about this Italian poet and also the 20th-century poet, Rene Char, who was a member of the French Resistance. Visit the Fontaine de Vaucluse church built in the 10th century in the Romanesque style. Another highlight is the Chateau de Phillipe de Cabasselle which towers over the village offering fantastic views.

• Château de Lourmarin: This chateau is in a beautiful setting surrounded by olive groves and vineyards. It is made up of two parts, the old fortress (Chateau Vieux) built in the 15th century and a Renaissance wing constructed in the 16th century. The Chateau Vieux hosts temporary exhibitions while the wing is a residential space for artists, musicians, and writers. There is a permanent exhibition in the chateau dedicated to Albert Camus, the philosopher and writer. He lived in Lourmarin for several years.

• Lavender Fields of Valensole: The Luberon Valley is famous for its lavender fields and the best time to see them flowering is from mid-June until July. There are tours on offer that take you to see lavender fields and to learn about them from a local producer. One of the best places to see them is in Valensole which is perched on a hill overlooking the lavender fields.

• Isle-Sur-La-Sorgue: Isle-sur-la-Sorgue is called the ‘Venice of Provence’ and is a beautiful village. It has a network of canals and waterways throughout the town. The other thing it is famous for is for selling antiques and you will find many antique and vintage shops as you wander around. There is a lively market on Sundays with around 300 vendors selling a wide variety of things, including ceramics, pottery, locally made honey, bread, and local produce. During special events, such as Easter, there are usually around 500 vendors. There are plenty of interesting sites to see in town, such as the Notre-Dame-des-Agnes-Collegiate Church which mixes Gothic architecture with Baroque and houses some beautiful frescoes. The town once had 66 water mills for milling grain and spinning. Now only a few remain so make sure you go and have a look at one. There are also five museums in the town, including an antique and toy museum.

• Ansouis: Ansouis is a mediaeval town dating to the 15th century. It is terraced on the side of a hill with a chateau at the top dating to the 10th century, though with modifications made throughout the years. The facade is from the 17th century as are the tapestries and furniture. There are plenty of other sites in town to keep you busy and interested. The 13th-century Church of Saint-Martin still has many of its original decorative artwork on the walls. At the edge of town, there is a museum which showcases a strangely mixed collection, including artefacts as far apart from each other such as statues of sea life and pieces of stained-glass. There is a big, free car park near the old town.

Day Trips From The Luberon Valley

• Avignon: Avignon is approximately 59 km north of the Luberon Valley. It is steeped in history, particularly because it was the papal capital in the 14th century. Visit the palace, The Palais des Papes,’ where the popes lived which is the largest Gothic building in the world. Go and see the Pont d’Avignon, which was built in the 12th century. Despite only four of the original 22 arches remaining, it is still spectacular. Avignon Cathedral was also built in the 12th century and contains beautiful artwork and sculptures. Climb to the top of its tower for great city views. Avignon is home to many museums, including the Musee Angladon, an art gallery which houses works by artists such as Picasso, Cezanne, and Van Gogh. Avignon is entirely walkable and has a beautiful historic centre with cobbled streets and Mediaeval architecture. Visit the Rue des Teinturiers, a picturesque street with ancient water wheels.

• Aix-En-Provence: Aix-en-Provence is 55 km south of the Luberon Valley. It was founded by the Romans in 123 BC, and you can see Ancient Roman thermal baths in the city. Aix-en-Provence is called The City of Fountains because there are over 30 in the city. One of the most distinguished people who lived in Aix-en-Provence was the artist Paul Cezanne and you can visit his studio. Other highlights include the cathedral which took centuries to build and so is a mixture of architectural styles such as Romanesque and Gothic, and the Cours Mirabeau where you will see spectacular 17th-century mansions, shops, restaurants and cafes. There are plenty of museums to visit, including the Pavillon Vendome, an art museum, and the Musee des Tapisseries, which houses a collection of tapestries from the 17th and 18th centuries.

• Marseille: Marseille, lying 87 km south of the Luberon Valley, is a port town on the Mediterranean coastline. It is the oldest city in France and offers opportunities for both beach activities and sightseeing. There is a plethora of museums so you are bound to find one or two to interest you. Regards de Provence showcases artwork from the 18th century to the present day, while MUCEM tells you about the Mediterranean way of life. Musee Des Docks Romains houses artefacts from the Roman occupation of France. Marseille has a large immigrant population which means that you’ll find an eclectic and exciting mix of restaurants, cafes, shops, and markets.

• Les Baux-de-Provence: located 52 km west of the Luberon Valley, is a medieval hilltop village known for its dramatic fortress ruins and stunning views over the Alpilles. The village is home to the Carrières de Lumières, an immersive art exhibition set in a former limestone quarry. Wander through its cobbled streets lined with artisan shops and enjoy panoramic vistas from the Château des Baux, a historic stronghold dating back to the Middle Ages.

• Saint-Rémy-de-Provence: situated 50 km west of the Luberon Valley, is famous for its Roman heritage and connections to Vincent van Gogh. The town is home to the Glanum archaeological site, where you can explore the remains of an ancient Roman city. Van Gogh painted some of his most famous works here while staying at the Saint-Paul de Mausole asylum. With its vibrant markets, charming cafés, and art galleries, Saint-Rémy is a great spot for culture lovers.

• Mont Ventoux: Mont Ventoux, standing 44 km northeast of the Luberon Valley, is one of Provence’s most iconic natural landmarks. At 1,909 metres, it dominates the landscape and is a popular challenge for cyclists, having featured frequently in the Tour de France. The summit offers breathtaking panoramic views stretching as far as the Alps and the Mediterranean on clear days. Hikers can enjoy diverse trails through forests and rocky landscapes, while winter visitors may even find snow on its peak.

• Vaison-la-Romaine: 74 km north of the Luberon Valley, is one of the most important Roman archaeological sites in France. The town is divided into two sections: the lower town, where you’ll find extensive Roman ruins, including an amphitheatre, baths, and villas, and the medieval upper town, offering spectacular views from its narrow streets and castle ruins. A must-visit for history enthusiasts, Vaison-la-Romaine provides a unique glimpse into Provence’s ancient past.

• Sault: 45 km northeast of the Luberon Valley, is known as one of the best places to experience lavender season in Provence. Perched on a hillside, it offers sweeping views over endless lavender fields, best visited between June and July when the flowers are in full bloom. The town itself is small and charming, with local shops selling lavender products, honey, and nougat. For nature lovers, Sault also serves as a starting point for hiking and cycling routes leading towards Mont Ventoux.

Things To Do With Kids In The Luberon Valley

• Meet The Donkeys At Anes Des Collines: The whole family will enjoy this attraction. You get to meet the donkeys, Chipie, Ninette, and Gentille, and take a walk with them in the Saignon area. Younger children are allowed to ride the donkeys. There are half-day and full-day experiences which can include a picnic.

• Colorado Aventures Adventure Park: The adventure park is close to Colorado Provencal with a stunning backdrop of canyons, cliffs and rock compositions. The park has tree climbing areas for different age groups, three - six six-year-olds, seven to twelve-year-olds, and thirteen-plus. There is also an outdoor laser game for children above eight years.

• The Billy Billy Farm: The Billy Billy Farm is in the Isle sur la Sorgue and is an educational farm. Here your children can have fun while learning by becoming farmers. They can take part in activities such as collecting eggs and milking goats. There are two visitor options. You can pay them an informal visit with access to the picnic area or you can go on a themed day, which involves animal activities and learning about old trades.

• Discover the Mines of Bruoux in Gargas: Children will love going underground to explore this labyrinth of underground mines from the ochre industry. There are 650 metres of galleries to see but you won’t get claustrophobic as they are 15 metres high. They are cool so are pleasant if you go in the heat of the summer and you may even have to wear a cardigan, especially if you go off-season.

• Paddle A Canoe On The Sorgue River: Enjoy canoeing or kayaking on the Sorgue River with Kayak Vert in Fontaine de Vaucluse. You will get life jackets, but you and your children will still have to be able to swim. Close by is the Nestor le Castor eco-park which is a playground for children up to the age of 10. They will be able to enjoy trampolines, inflatables, waterlogs, and fairground games.

• Enjoy The Cedar Forest In Bonnieux: The Cedar Forest covers five hectares stretching from Bonnieux to Cabrieres-d’Avignon. There are both walking and cycling trails for all levels so you can bring both younger and older children to explore the forest. It is a perfect place to have a picnic, especially on a hot day when the cedar trees provide shade.

• Rent A Bike By The Calavon River: If you are staying in or near Apt, you can rent a bicycle from Extrem Bike Shop. The route by the Calavon River stretches for 40 km but you only have to do as much of it as you want. It is a suitable route even for small children as it is relatively flat and fully paved.

• Visit Lourmarin Chateau: This chateau was built between the 15th and 16th centuries. It offers a treasure hunt for children and if you are taking a self-guided tour, the explanatory panels are in a language that children will relate to.

• Ride A Horse-Drawn Carriage In Roussillon: Provence Hippo Services offers a horse-drawn carriage ride in Roussillon discovering places which are inaccessible to cars. You can choose from a two-hour trip or a full-day ride. There has to be at least four people to enjoy this attraction and no more than 12. You can also enjoy riding one of the hores.

• Wave Island: Located 53 km west of the Luberon Valley, Wave Island is the largest water park in Provence. With a variety of thrilling waterslides, wave pools, and lazy rivers, it offers the perfect way to cool off during the summer. There are dedicated areas for younger children, making it an ideal family day out.

• Parc Spirou Provence (Monteux): Situated next to Wave Island, Parc Spirou Provence is a theme park inspired by the famous Belgian comic book character. It offers a mix of roller coasters, interactive 4D rides, and attractions suited to younger visitors. The park provides a lively and colourful setting for families, with a selection of themed dining options.

• Mont Ventoux – Family Hiking: Standing 44 km northeast of the Luberon Valley, Mont Ventoux is Provence’s highest peak and a great location for family-friendly hikes. There are several easy trails suitable for children, leading through forests and open landscapes. On a clear day, the views from the summit stretch across Provence, with the Alps visible in the distance. In winter, lower slopes may have snow for sledging, making it a year-round destination.

Wineries In The Luberon Valley

• Château La Verrerie: This winery is in Puget and produces organic wines. The estate covers 150 hectares with 56 hectares of vines and 7.5 hectares of olive groves. You can take a complimentary wine tasting, a paid guided tour of the vineyard and cellar, or enjoy a wine tasting and picnic. You must book in advance for the tours.

• Domaine De La Citadelle is in Menerbes and covers 50 hectares. On offer are a free wine tasting and cellar tour and a five-euro premium wine tasting and cellar tour. You can also visit the on-site corkscrew museum which showcases 1,200 corkscrews.

• La Cavale is in Cucuron and was founded by wine connoisseur and entrepreneur, Paul Dubrule. You are welcome to visit the wine shop and have a free tasting. In addition, the winery offers guided tours of the cellars and there are workshops on such subjects as pairing wine with food. You have to make a reservation for the tours and workshops. In the summer, there is live music and food trucks and Thursdays are apero nights.

• Château De Mille is in Apt and is one of the oldest wineries in the Luberon Valley, first heard of in 1238. The estate is interesting with underground cellars and troglodyte dwellings. There are different options for visiting the estate. If you just want to taste three wines, it is free. However, if you would like to taste the whole range, it is five euros per person. This, however, is deductible if you buy six or more bottles of wine. There are also opportunities to take wine history tours and visit their Wine and History Museum.

• Chateau Fontvert: Chateau Fontvert is also in Lourmarin and is an ancient estate, having been established in 1598. It is both an organic and a biodynamic winery. You don’t need to book a free wine tasting session, but if you also want to tour the vineyard and cellar, book in advance.

• Château De Sannes: The estate is beautiful with a long driveway, a lake with swans, a maze, fountains, and a windmill. The vineyards started producing wine in the early 1600s and in August 2023, the estate held its first Festival Vins & Passions, celebrating wine, food, and history. A tasting of three wines is free, but if you would also like to tour the cellars, it costs 15 euros.

• Château Saint-Pierre De Mejans: This wine estate, which was formerly a priory, is even older as Benedictine monks made wine here in the 12th century. The vineyards cover 12 hectares, with olive groves and lavender fields as well. Tours cost between 15 and 65 euros and offer different experiences. Have a simple tasting or visit the castle and gardens. There is even the option of including a picnic by the pool. Simple wine tastings are free, tours are paid and must be booked. There are holiday rentals on the property.

• Chateau Constantin: Chateau Constantin is an organic family-run estate near the village of Lourmarin. It is 20 hectares of red clay, limestone, and pebbled land which produces red, white and rose wines including the terracotta-aged Amphore range. You can drop in for a free wine tasting, but if you want to spend more time trying the wines, they have rentals advertised through Airbnb.

• Domaines Des Marchandes: This winery is in Ansouis and has been family-run for more than 20 years by the Pichot family. Their top cuvees have been given the names of their children, Louis, Agathe, and Cesar. Wine tastings are free but if you are visiting outside the summer season, ring in advance.

Golf Course In The Luberon Valley

• Golf Du Luberon: This golf course is in Pierrevert and offers an 18-hole course. There is also a putting green and a five-hole course. Enjoy the restaurant which serves lunches using local products to produce Provencal dishes.

Where To Eat In The Luberon Valley

Gordes

• Domita-Maison De Cuisinger: This restaurant offers great service and delicious food, with an excellent wine list. It is very popular so book in advance. Try the raw scallops with roasted rapeseed oil, sunflower seeds, roasted Jerusalem artichokes, and sorrel to start and rack of veal, and chanterelles, with cream and yellow wine, celeriac and saffron juice as the main dish.

• La Bastide De Pierres: This restaurant overlooks the Chateau de Gordes with lovely views. It is an Italian restaurant so if you want a change from French food, this is the ideal choice. For starters, they serve an excellent selection of antipasti, focaccia, and vegetarian dishes such as caponata Sicilian, which is aubergine in tomato sauce, with olives, celery, and onions. Mains include pizza, pasta, and special dishes such as sea bass fillet. Vegans are catered for with a vegan pizza.

Goult

• Le Carillon: Le Carillon serves delicious traditional French cuisine with an innovative twist. Start with the foie gras with blackcurrant jelly, pear chutney, and walnut toast. For the main course, try the strips of seabass, with moculade, roasted pumpkin, turnip, and spinach crumble. End the meal with pineapple cannelloni with exotic cream, coconut tapioca pearls, and passionfruit sorbet.

Roussillon

• Le Piquebaure is a Michelin-recommended restaurant located at the foot of Roussillon village. This picturesque dry-stone house offers Provençal-inspired cuisine, featuring fresh, local produce. The restaurant boasts a terrace overlooking the Luberon countryside, providing diners with a delightful view.

• Chez Niro: Italian restaurants are popular throughout the south of France and Chez Nero doesn’t disappoint. It serves traditional dishes such as bruschetta, spaghetti Bolognese, and lasagne, as well as innovative cuisine like marinated octopus salad with fresh greens and vegetables.

Oppede Le Vieux

• Le Pent Café Des Jeanne: This Mediterranean restaurant uses freh local ingredients and everything is homemade food is prepared with fresh ingredients. For lunch, try the poultry ballotine with mashed potato and mushroom sauce. For dinner, start with mackerel fillet, tomato sauce, and champagne ice cream and follow this up with lamb sirloin, orange paste, and baby vegetables. Desserts include chocolate mousse, tiramisu, and panacotta.

Bonnieux

• Restaurant Un P’tit Coin De Cuisine: This cosy restaurant in the old town is in an old fabric factory and has both indoor and outdoor seating. If you eat outside, you will benefit from the beautiful views. The food is excellent and there is a superb wine list. The menu is changed daily so you can go numerous times and always have something different.

• JU-Maison de Cuisine: A refined yet welcoming dining spot, JU-Maison de Cuisine focuses on fresh, locally sourced products. The service is outstanding, and the restaurant's ambiance perfectly complements the picturesque setting. The wine selection pairs beautifully with the seasonal menu. Try the expertly prepared beef tartare, handmade pasta with truffle sauce, or the perfectly cooked duck breast. End your meal with a smooth crème brûlée or an indulgent tiramisu.

• La Bastide de Capelongue: This Michelin-starred restaurant uses the finest local ingredients to create refined Provençal cuisine. The service is excellent, and the terrace offers breathtaking views over the Luberon Valley. The wine list is well-curated, featuring a selection of regional and international wines. Try the slow-cooked lamb shoulder with rosemary, the delicately prepared sea bass, or the house-made foie gras. Desserts include a rich chocolate fondant and a classic tarte Tatin.

Menerbes

• The Galoubet: The Galoubet has both indoor and outdoor eating so suits all weather. It serves homemade Mediterranean dishes and is open for breakfast, brunch, lunch, and dinner.

Where To Stay In The Luberon Valley

Roussillon

• Bastide De Demoiselles: This four-star hotel has an outdoor pool, sun terrace, and private parking. It is set in a historic building in the centre of the village. The rooms are comfortable and offer many conveniences, including a minibar, air conditioning, a coffee machine, free Wi-Fi, and a private bathroom. You can choose to have a continental or a full English/Irish breakfast every morning. The hotel also offers a bar, coffee shop and lounge.

• Omma: Hotel Omma is a boutique hotel in the heart of Roussillon, offering elegant rooms with air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, and scenic views of the ochre cliffs or village rooftops. Guests can enjoy a continental breakfast on the terrace and dine at the hotel’s Michelin-recommended Restaurant David, which serves refined Provençal cuisine made with fresh local ingredients. The tranquil setting and central location make it an ideal base for exploring the Luberon, with limited private parking available by reservation.

Gordes

• Airelles Gordes, La Bastide: This impressive five-star hotel is decorated in 18th-century style with beautiful views of the Luberon Valley. The rooms and suites are spacious, have complimentary Wi-Fi, a TV, and a private bathroom. A buffet breakfast is available each morning. The hotel has excellent facilities, including five restaurants. L’Orangerie and Le Clover both feature Provencal cuisine prepared with Mediterranean ingredients. The other restaurants offer traditional French cuisine. The hotel also has three swimming pools, a spa & wellness centre, and a fitness centre.

• La Ferme De La Huppe: La Ferme de la Huppe is four-star and offers good facilities, including a swimming pool, free parking, a garden, a terrace, and table tennis tables. The rooms are air-conditioned and have free Wi-Fi, a private bathroom, a tea/coffee maker, and a TV. Room service is also on offer. Each morning, there is a buffet continental breakfast.

Oppede Le Vieux

• Domaine Les Roullets: This design boutique hotel is set in a tranquil location with views of the Luberon valley. The property has a heated outdoor swimming pool, a large garden, and a vineyard. The stylishly furnished rooms include air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, and en-suite bathrooms. A continental breakfast is available each morning, served on the terrace or in the dining room. Free private parking is available for guests.

• La Bastide du Mourre: This boutique retreat is set in a restored 17th-century hamlet, offering a peaceful stay in the heart of the Luberon. There is an outdoor swimming pool, a wellness area, and beautifully landscaped gardens. The elegantly decorated rooms feature complimentary Wi-Fi, air conditioning, and private bathrooms. Some offer views of the surrounding countryside. A continental breakfast is served daily, with fresh local produce and gluten-free options available. Private parking is provided free of charge.

• Le Champ des Oliviers: A charming guesthouse surrounded by olive trees, offering a relaxing stay with views of the Luberon mountains. The property has an outdoor pool, a sun terrace, and a garden. The rooms are individually decorated and come with complimentary Wi-Fi, air conditioning, and a private bathroom. A continental breakfast is served each morning with fresh bread, pastries, and local produce. Private parking is provided at no extra cost.

Bonnieux

• Capelongue A Beaumier Hotel & Spa: This hotel is situated above the village, with lovely views of the Luberon hills. It has excellent facilities including a restaurant, La Bastide, and a bistro, La Bergerie. There is a cafe serving soft drinks, wine, and cocktails. The grounds are beautiful, with a landscaped park, two swimming pools, and a spa. The rooms have complimentary Wi-Fi, a TV, a tea/coffee maker, and room service. Both continental and cooked breakfasts are on offer and there are vegetarian and gluten-free options. The hotel has free parking.

The Best Times To Visit The Luberon Valley

The best time to visit the Luberon Valley if you want to enjoy outdoor dining, festivals, and outdoor markets, is in June and July. However, by late June it starts to get hot and gets even hotter as July progresses. August can reach the upper 30s, or low 40s so it is not the best time for sightseeing. If you are not used to these temperatures, this time of year is best avoided. July is also the peak holiday season so it will be crowded.

The first half of June and September are good times for exploring as the heat is not intense. May is also a good time, although there is a chance of rain.

If you want to see the almond blossoms, come in March. The cherry trees blossom in April and May and June brings out the poppies, roses, and wildflowers. If you are interested in the lavender fields, the first two weeks of July are the best.

If it is hiking you are interested in, come in May, September, or October. The truffle season runs from November to March, but the best time to come is December as you also have the Christmas markets to enjoy.

The main season in the Luberon Valley runs from the end of March until the end of October, but you will still find some bed and breakfasts open as well as family-run bistros which stay open for the locals.

Luberon Festivals

• Les Musicales Du Luberon: This festival runs throughout the year in different villages. In Menerbes, for example, it takes place in the spring and the summer, but there are Christmas concerts in other villages. It is a classical music festival, usually focusing on the Baroque period, and taking place in church settings.

• Festival Yeah: This is an electronic music festival which takes place in Lourmarin Castle in early June. Book early because it is popular with the Parisian crowd.

• The Chorégies d'Orange is the longest-running festival in France, dating back to 1869, and is dedicated to opera and classical music. Held each July, it takes place in the historic Roman Théâtre Antique d'Orange, a venue that can accommodate 9,000 spectators. The theatre’s 37-metre-high stage provides a stunning backdrop, while its exceptional acoustics create an immersive experience for audiences.

• Gordes Summer Nights Festival: This festival in Gordes is held in an unusual venue which has been chiselled into rock. It holds just 500 people so book in advance. It takes place in August and is a series of jazz concerts, plays, and comedy acts.

• Summer Music Festival Lourmarin: The Summer Music Festival is either held in the castle of Lourmarin or uses it as a backdrop. It runs throughout the summer and is a series of classical music concerts. You are welcome to bring a picnic, and tables and chairs are provided.

• Sunset Concerts, Oppède Le Vieux: This is the smallest festival in the Luberon Valley and is held over several nights in August around the old church in Oppede le Vieux. The music presented is classical and opera and is made all the more dramatic by the fantastic views.

• Fête De La Musique: The Fete de la Musique is held all over France on June 21st, the longest day of the year in the northern hemisphere. There are free music concerts in the villages that last all day and night. The music played is pop rather than classical. People let their hair down and take to the streets to dance.