EXPLORE THE HILLTOP VILLAGES OF THE LUBERON

For centuries, the Luberon's hilltop villages have clung to rocky outcrops and steep hillsides, commanding sweeping views over the Provençal valleys below. Here, you’ll discover the vibrant and timeless nature of Provence as you wander through winding cobbled streets, rest in shaded squares and marvel at stunning vistas. Take time to explore these enchanting places steeped in memories and bathed in the golden light of the South.

For centuries, the Luberon's hilltop villages have clung to rocky outcrops and steep hillsides, commanding sweeping views over the Provençal valleys below. Here, you’ll discover the vibrant and timeless nature of Provence as you wander through winding cobbled streets, rest in shaded squares and marvel at stunning vistas. Take time to explore these enchanting places steeped in memories and bathed in the golden light of the South.

WHAT MAKES THE LUBERON’S VILLAGES SO CAPTIVATING?

Founded on the primal need for protection, the Luberon’s hilltop villages claimed the high ground to gain a better vantage point of the landscape. Today, these drystone strongholds, with their weathered roofs and steep streets, delight visitors seeking tranquillity and natural beauty. Amid timeworn stone houses, crystal-clear fountains and cobblestone roads, time seems to stand still. Here, the Luberon unveils its rich palette: ochre cliffs, lavender fields, and row upon row of vines and cherry trees create a living canvas where every church bell chimes in time with the gentle pace of life in Provence.

The ambience unfolds on every street corner, in the games of pétanque under the plane trees, the colourful stalls of the Provençal markets, and lively conversations on sun-drenched terraces.

For couples on a romantic break, families exploring local treasures and traditions, amateur photographers and culture lovers, these villages are full of life, where a leisurely pace becomes a way of life. 

Discover the Luberon

Founded on the primal need for protection, the Luberon’s hilltop villages claimed the high ground to gain a better vantage point of the landscape. Today, these drystone strongholds, with their weathered roofs and steep streets, delight visitors seeking tranquillity and natural beauty. Amid timeworn stone houses, crystal-clear fountains and cobblestone roads, time seems to stand still. Here, the Luberon unveils its rich palette: ochre cliffs, lavender fields, and row upon row of vines and cherry trees create a living canvas where every church bell chimes in time with the gentle pace of life in Provence.   The ambience unfolds on every street corner, in the games of pétanque under the plane trees, the colourful stalls of the Provençal markets, and lively conversations on sun-drenched terraces.   For couples on a romantic break, families exploring local treasures and traditions, amateur photographers and culture lovers, these villages are full of life, where a leisurely pace becomes a way of life.   Discover the Luberon

EXPLORE THE MOST BEAUTIFUL HILLTOP VILLAGES IN PROVENCE

Gordes

Considered one of the most beautiful villages in France, Gordes immediately catches the eye. With its houses clinging to the rocky cliffs, it’s the perfect example of a hilltop village in the Luberon. Come early in the morning to avoid the crowds and enhance your stay with a visit to the Sénanque Abbey, a true Cistercian gem.

Bonnieux

Bonnieux perches on the Luberon Massif overlooking the Calavon valley, charming visitors with its steep winding streets, two churches and sweeping views as far as Mont Ventoux. Every Friday morning, the weekly market fills the village square with the colours and fragrances of Provence. Don’t miss the sunset, as the sky glows above the hills. 

Goult

Goult may be lesser-known, but it’s just as delightful and a favourite of those in the know. With its Moulin de Jérusalem windmill, shaded squares and tucked-away galleries, Goult embodies the gentle pace of life in the Luberon.

Gordes

Considered one of the most beautiful villages in France, Gordes immediately catches the eye. With its houses clinging to the rocky cliffs, it’s the perfect example of a hilltop village in the Luberon. Come early in the morning to avoid the crowds and enhance your stay with a visit to the Sénanque Abbey, a true Cistercian gem.   

Bonnieux

Bonnieux perches on the Luberon Massif overlooking the Calavon valley, charming visitors with its steep winding streets, two churches and sweeping views as far as Mont Ventoux. Every Friday morning, the weekly market fills the village square with the colours and fragrances of Provence. Don’t miss the sunset, as the sky glows above the hills.   

Goult

Goult may be lesser-known, but it’s just as delightful and a favourite of those in the know. With its Moulin de Jérusalem windmill, shaded squares and tucked-away galleries, Goult embodies the gentle pace of life in the Luberon.

Ménerbes

Over the years, many artists have been drawn to Ménerbes, including Dora Maar (Picasso’s model and mistress), Joe Downing, Nicolas de Staël, and Jane Eakin. The village’s setting, perched on a rocky outcrop, is particularly striking in the afternoon, when sunlight caresses the warm stone.

Lacoste

Lacoste presides over the valley. Occasionally, exhibitions are held at the castle, former residence of the Marquis de Sade, and since restored by Pierre Cardin. Visit at the end of the day for a romantic stroll amid the dappled stones and shifting light.

Grambois

On the southern slopes of the Luberon, Grambois is surrounded by protected parks and community gardens. To explore the village, follow the path “Le petit tour du village”, which will take you through ancient cobblestone streets and lookouts with views across the valley. Immerse yourself in the peaceful atmosphere of this Provençal hilltop village. 

Ménerbes

Over the years, many artists have been drawn to Ménerbes, including Dora Maar (Picasso’s model and mistress), Joe Downing, Nicolas de Staël, and Jane Eakin. The village’s setting, perched on a rocky outcrop, is particularly striking in the afternoon, when sunlight caresses the warm stone.

Lacoste

Lacoste presides over the valley. Occasionally, exhibitions are held at the castle, former residence of the Marquis de Sade, and since restored by Pierre Cardin. Visit at the end of the day for a romantic stroll amid the dappled stones and shifting light.

Grambois

On the southern slopes of the Luberon, Grambois is surrounded by protected parks and community gardens. To explore the village, follow the path “Le petit tour du village”, which will take you through ancient cobblestone streets and lookouts with views across the valley. Immerse yourself in the peaceful atmosphere of this Provençal hilltop village.   

Oppède-le-Vieux

Oppède is more tucked-away and rugged – a real delight for visitors in search of unspoilt landscapes. Take a gentle hike to this hilltop village, where ancient ruins stand sentinel over renovated homes. A perfect time to go is early in the morning or in the spring, when flowers line the narrow streets. Start your tour in the botanical gardens, a real treasure trove of native trees and plants.

Roussillon

Incomparable Roussillon blazes in a festival of ochre and light. Take a stroll along the Sentier des Ocres – a walking trail through Roussillon’s ochre quarry – ideally in the morning before the heat of the day. And on Thursday, don’t miss the colourful market in the heart of the village.

Ansouis

Ansouis stands guard on the southern slopes of the Luberon, its cobblestone streets fanning out below the castle, which was converted into a country estate in the 17th century. Perched above the valley and its patchwork of vineyards, the village unfolds as a labyrinth of shaded alleys and lovingly maintained houses with their soft-hued facades and ancient doors. 

Oppède-le-Vieux

Oppède is more tucked-away and rugged – a real delight for visitors in search of unspoilt landscapes. Take a gentle hike to this hilltop village, where ancient ruins stand sentinel over renovated homes. A perfect time to go is early in the morning or in the spring, when flowers line the narrow streets. Start your tour in the botanical gardens, a real treasure trove of native trees and plants.

Roussillon

Incomparable Roussillon blazes in a festival of ochre and light. Take a stroll along the Sentier des Ocres – a walking trail through Roussillon’s ochre quarry – ideally in the morning before the heat of the day. And on Thursday, don’t miss the colourful market in the heart of the village.

Ansouis

Ansouis stands guard on the southern slopes of the Luberon, its cobblestone streets fanning out below the castle, which was converted into a country estate in the 17th century. Perched above the valley and its patchwork of vineyards, the village unfolds as a labyrinth of shaded alleys and lovingly maintained houses with their soft-hued facades and ancient doors.   

THINGS TO DO IN THE VILLAGES OF THE LUBERON

Which sites should you visit in the Luberon? Each village evokes a special palette of emotions: stroll around the Provençal markets, discover local artists, and explore the galleries, pottery studios and distilleries. Take a wander through hidden alleys to reach panoramic viewpoints at sunset, or sit at a scenic terrace – a glass of rosé in hand – as you take in the far-reaching views of some of the most beautiful villages in the Luberon.

Which sites should you visit in the Luberon? Each village evokes a special palette of emotions: stroll around the Provençal markets, discover local artists, and explore the galleries, pottery studios and distilleries. Take a wander through hidden alleys to reach panoramic viewpoints at sunset, or sit at a scenic terrace – a glass of rosé in hand – as you take in the far-reaching views of some of the most beautiful villages in the Luberon.

15 MUST-SEE SITES AROUND THE LUBERON’S HILLTOP VILLAGES

The ochre mines of Bruoux

The ochre mines of Bruoux in Gargas offer a refreshing reprieve from the summer heat. At a constant 10°C all year long, this 40-km network of underground galleries unveils the fascinating world of ochre. The spectacular entrance sets the mood, with its amber-hued walls carved into the rock. This historic quarry – among the few remaining in Europe – offers a surprising and immersive experience for visitors of all ages.

Forêt des Cèdres

This majestic 250-hectare cedar forest in Bonnieux, located at 700 metres altitude, offers a cool retreat in the summer and fresh air throughout the year. Planted in 1862 with seeds from the Middle Atlas mountains, the forest is home to blue Atlas cedars, oaks and box head trees, creating a stunning display. The forest fragrances and views over the Luberon, the Durance Valley and the Alpilles mountains are a true feast for the senses. 

The ochre mines of Bruoux

The ochre mines of Bruoux in Gargas offer a refreshing reprieve from the summer heat. At a constant 10°C all year long, this 40-km network of underground galleries unveils the fascinating world of ochre. The spectacular entrance sets the mood, with its amber-hued walls carved into the rock. This historic quarry – among the few remaining in Europe – offers a surprising and immersive experience for visitors of all ages.

Forêt des Cèdres

This majestic 250-hectare cedar forest in Bonnieux, located at 700 metres altitude, offers a cool retreat in the summer and fresh air throughout the year. Planted in 1862 with seeds from the Middle Atlas mountains, the forest is home to blue Atlas cedars, oaks and box head trees, creating a stunning display. The forest fragrances and views over the Luberon, the Durance Valley and the Alpilles mountains are a true feast for the senses. 

Sénanque Abbey

Nestled in a small valley in the Luberon, the Sénanque Abbey is a masterpiece of Romanesque architecture founded in 1148 and still inhabited by Cistercian monks. The abbey’s classic silhouette blends into the landscape of lavender fields, promising a haven of peace and contemplation.

Château de Lourmarin

Overlooking the village, Lourmarin’s château was Provence’s first Renaissance castle – an elegant blend of 15th century Gothic residence with a 16th century Renaissance wing. The castle was restored in the 20th century by Robert Laurent-Vibert and today houses art collections and offers artist residencies. It’s a place filled with history, beauty and creativity.

Village des Bories

Just a stone’s throw from Gordes, Village des Bories is a hamlet of dry-stone structures that testifies to rural ingenuity and the Luberon’s agricultural past. This remarkable site – designated as a historic monument – allows visitors to step into the ancient past and witness time-honoured craftmanship in perfect harmony with nature. 

Sénanque Abbey

Nestled in a small valley in the Luberon, the Sénanque Abbey is a masterpiece of Romanesque architecture founded in 1148 and still inhabited by Cistercian monks. The abbey’s classic silhouette blends into the landscape of lavender fields, promising a haven of peace and contemplation.

Château de Lourmarin

Overlooking the village, Lourmarin’s château was Provence’s first Renaissance castle – an elegant blend of 15th century Gothic residence with a 16th century Renaissance wing. The castle was restored in the 20th century by Robert Laurent-Vibert and today houses art collections and offers artist residencies. It’s a place filled with history, beauty and creativity.

Village des Bories

Just a stone’s throw from Gordes, Village des Bories is a hamlet of dry-stone structures that testifies to rural ingenuity and the Luberon’s agricultural past. This remarkable site – designated as a historic monument – allows visitors to step into the ancient past and witness time-honoured craftmanship in perfect harmony with nature. 

Caves du Palais Saint-Firmin

Beneath the streets of Gordes lies a fascinating underground world carved from rock in the Middle Ages: the Saint-Firmin Palace cellars. These semisubterranean spaces, once workshops and storage areas, attest to a rich tradition of craftmanship. After careful renovation, the Saint-Firmin Palace cellars now welcome visitors for an immersive exploration of this exceptional historic site.

La Filaventure

A visit to La Filaventure in L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue will transport you into the tactile world of noble fibres and the mastery of skilled wool workers. Founded by the Brun de Vian-Tiran family, this interactive museum celebrates the beauty of fine textiles and the skills of a remarkable profession. Housed in an old mill, the museum cleverly combines textile heritage and innovation.

The dye garden at Château de Lauris

The Jardin Conservatoire des Plantes Tinctoriales overlooks the Durance Valley from the terraces of Lauris castle. It is the only botanical garden in Europe dedicated to dye plants. Designated a “Jardin Remarquable”, the garden leads visitors through an immersive exploration of plants, art and cultural heritage. 

Caves du Palais Saint-Firmin

Beneath the streets of Gordes lies a fascinating underground world carved from rock in the Middle Ages: the Saint-Firmin Palace cellars. These semisubterranean spaces, once workshops and storage areas, attest to a rich tradition of craftmanship. After careful renovation, the Saint-Firmin Palace cellars now welcome visitors for an immersive exploration of this exceptional historic site.

La Filaventure

A visit to La Filaventure in L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue will transport you into the tactile world of noble fibres and the mastery of skilled wool workers. Founded by the Brun de Vian-Tiran family, this interactive museum celebrates the beauty of fine textiles and the skills of a remarkable profession. Housed in an old mill, the museum cleverly combines textile heritage and innovation.

The dye garden at Château de Lauris

The Jardin Conservatoire des Plantes Tinctoriales overlooks the Durance Valley from the terraces of Lauris castle. It is the only botanical garden in Europe dedicated to dye plants. Designated a “Jardin Remarquable”, the garden leads visitors through an immersive exploration of plants, art and cultural heritage. 

THE LUBERON AND ITS LANDSCAPES – IN PERFECT HARMONY

The villages of the Luberon command breathtaking views across landscapes protected by the Regional Natural Park. A network of scenic drives, hiking trails and cycle paths offers countless ways to explore the region, at your own pace. Meander along paths bordered by cherry trees and low stone walls, where cicadas sing and ancient fig trees offer welcome shade, as you savour the serene surroundings. It’s a call to embrace slow travel, honouring both the natural environment and local residents.

The villages of the Luberon command breathtaking views across landscapes protected by the Regional Natural Park. A network of scenic drives, hiking trails and cycle paths offers countless ways to explore the region, at your own pace. Meander along paths bordered by cherry trees and low stone walls, where cicadas sing and ancient fig trees offer welcome shade, as you savour the serene surroundings. It’s a call to embrace slow travel, honouring both the natural environment and local residents.

STAY IN THE HEART OF THE LUBERON WITH BEAUMIER

To fully experience the hilltop villages of the Luberon, Beaumier’s outstanding hotels offer the perfect retreat, each with its own unique charm.

Capelongue

Capelongue charms visitors with its panoramic views of Bonnieux and the Petit Luberon, elegant rooms, Michelin-starred restaurant, and bistro serving wood-fired Provençal cuisine. Everything here invites relaxation and renewal: the panoramic pool, the heated lap pool surrounded by Mediterranean fragrances, the shaded gardens... Nestled in the heart of Provence, Capelongue offers an ideal setting for an immersive experience that blends well-being, nature and exceptional cuisine.

Discover the Beaumier hotel in Bonnieux

To fully experience the hilltop villages of the Luberon, Beaumier’s outstanding hotels offer the perfect retreat, each with its own unique charm.

Capelongue

Capelongue charms visitors with its panoramic views of Bonnieux and the Petit Luberon, elegant rooms, Michelin-starred restaurant, and bistro serving wood-fired Provençal cuisine. Everything here invites relaxation and renewal: the panoramic pool, the heated lap pool surrounded by Mediterranean fragrances, the shaded gardens... Nestled in the heart of Provence, Capelongue offers an ideal setting for an immersive experience that blends well-being, nature and exceptional cuisine.  Discover the Beaumier hotel in Bonnieux

Le Moulin

Le Moulin, a boutique hotel in the heart of Lourmarin, is the perfect place to enjoy the gentle southern way of life all year round. Designed to evoke a southern-style country house, Le Moulin perfectly captures the gentle rhythm of Provençal life at every moment of the day. From early morning to late at night, Le Moulin’s exceptional cuisine is a celebration of Provence, the Luberon and the Mediterranean. On sun-drenched days, surrender to the art of the siesta beneath a parasol in the secret garden beside the pool – a cool sanctuary serenaded by the gentle sounds of village life. 

Explore Le Moulin

Le Moulin

Le Moulin, a boutique hotel in the heart of Lourmarin, is the perfect place to enjoy the gentle southern way of life all year round. Designed to evoke a southern-style country house, Le Moulin perfectly captures the gentle rhythm of Provençal life at every moment of the day. From early morning to late at night, Le Moulin’s exceptional cuisine is a celebration of Provence, the Luberon and the Mediterranean. On sun-drenched days, surrender to the art of the siesta beneath a parasol in the secret garden beside the pool – a cool sanctuary serenaded by the gentle sounds of village life.   Explore Le Moulin

Le Galinier

Le Galinier is an 18th century bastide nestled in landscaped grounds at the foot of the Luberon, whose stone walls, timeworn tiles and whitewashed beams come to life under the blazing southern sun. Old-world charm meets modern comforts in its bedrooms, suites and apartments. Here, you can savour the gentle pace of life to the full: a relax by the pool, breakfast on the terrace, yoga sessions or pétanque with an apéritif in the summer. 

Book your stay in Le Galinier

Le Galinier

Le Galinier is an 18th century bastide nestled in landscaped grounds at the foot of the Luberon, whose stone walls, timeworn tiles and whitewashed beams come to life under the blazing southern sun. Old-world charm meets modern comforts in its bedrooms, suites and apartments. Here, you can savour the gentle pace of life to the full: a relax by the pool, breakfast on the terrace, yoga sessions or pétanque with an apéritif in the summer.   Book your stay in Le Galinier

Each of these exceptional properties provides the perfect base for exploring the Luberon’s hilltop villages from north to south – whether on foot, by bicycle or by car – before returning to the tranquil elegance of our Beaumier hotels in Provence.

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