Explore 18 enchanting villages in Vaucluse
Provence is a must for your travelwishlist! The region Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur comprises of 6 departments, i.e. Alpes-de-Haute-Provence, Alpes-Maritimes, Bouches-du-Rhone, Haute-Alpes, Var and Vaucluse.In our sixth and final blog we explore the heart of Provence, Vaucluse:
1. ABBEY SENANQUE
The Abbey of Sénanque was founded on the 9th of the Calends of July 1148 (23rd June) by a dozen of Cistercians monks coming from the monastery of Mazan, located in Ardèche. Our-Lady of Sénanque was the fourth Cistercian abbey founded in Provence, after Le Thoronet, Aiguebelle and Silvacane. The abbey belongs to a powerful monastic order, hold by the aura of Saint Bernard. At the foundation of Senanque, the Cistercians count more than 350 monasteries all over Europe. Based on a solid organization, they develop an immediately recognizable architectural style.
2. AUREL
Aurel is a beautiful village peacefully situated in the Sault region on the border of the Vaucluse. Explore the narrow streets and ancient stone houses, clustered around the old church and tower. The village is renowned for the quality of its light and stunning views, drawing painters from far and wide.
3. AVIGNON
Avignon is the prefecture (capital) of Vaucluse department and is located on the Rhône River. From 1309 to 1377, it was the seat of the Catholic popes. It remained under papal rule until becoming part of France in 1791. This legacy can be seen in the massive Palais des Papes (Popes' Palace) in the city center, which is surrounded by medieval stone ramparts.
4. BEDOIN
Bédoin is a small town of about 3,100 inhabitants, situated at an altitude of 300 metres at the foot of Mont Ventoux. Mont Ventoux is the highest mountain in the region and has been nicknamed the "Beast of Provence", the "Giant of Provence" or "The Bald Mountain". It has gained fame through its inclusion in the Tour de France cycling race.
5. BONNIEUX
Bonnieux is considered to be one of the most beautiful villages in France. The village offers spectacular views across the valley of orchards and vineyards. Attend the village market on a Friday and enjoy lunch at one of the many cafes and restaurants. Bonnieux is situated in the Luberon, the historic region between Aix-en-Provence and Avignon regarded as the heart of Provence.
6. BEAUMES DE VENISE
Beaumes de Venise nestles against the foot of the Dentelles de Montmirail and owes its name to the many caves hollowed out of the Courens Hill to which it clings. “Baumo” are “caves” in Provençal and the name of the county “Venaissin” was shortened. Explore the numerous walking trails in the area.
7. CARPENTRAS
Carpentras stands on the banks of the river Auzon, a tributary of the Sorgue. The village is situated in the heart of a rich agricultural plain and renowned for its fresh fruit, like strawberries and melons, and vegetables. From late November to early March it hosts the famous truffle market every Friday.
8. CAVAILLON
Cavaillon is the capital of the cantaloupe melon. The name cantaloupe was derived in the 18th century via French cantaloup from Italian Cantalupo, which was formerly a papal county seat near Rome, after the fruit was introduced there from Armenia. Walk up the Saint-Jacques hill and be rewarded with unobstructed views over the Ventoux, Luberon, Durance, the Alpilles and Monts de Vaucluse.
9. CHATEAUNEUF-DU-PAPE
Châteauneuf-du-Pape is a French wine, an Appellation d'origine contrôlée (AOC) located around the village of Châteauneuf-du-Pape in the Rhône wine region. It is one of the most renowned appellations of the southern part in the Rhône Valley, and its vineyards are located around Châteauneuf-du-Pape and in neighboring villages, Bédarrides, Courthézon and Sorgues, between Avignon and Orange. They cover slightly more than 3,200 hectares or 7,900 acres (32 km2) and produce over 110,000 hectolitres of wine a year. Châteauneuf-du-Pape literally translates to "The Pope's new castle" and, indeed, the history of this appellation is firmly entwined with papal history. In 1308, Pope Clement V, former Archbishop of Bordeaux, relocated the papacy to the town of Avignon. Clement V and subsequent "Avignon Popes" were said to be great lovers of Burgundy wines and did much to promote them during the 70-year Avignon Papacy.
10. GORDES
Built on the foothills of the Monts of Vaucluse, the hilltop village Gordes is one of the most beautiful villages in France. Explore the labyrinth of narrow cobblestone streets and white buildings perched on the cliffs. Artists like Marc Chagall frequented Gordes and were charmed by its beauty. The area is full of evidence of Roman occupation, especially the Roman road passing through Apt and Carpentras and crossing the valley.
11. LE BARROUX
Perched on a rocky hill, halfway between Carpentras and Vaison la Romaine, the charming village of Le Barroux is another destination for your travelwishlist. The village is renowned for its beautiful views and castle.
12. L’ISLE-SUR-LA-SORGUE
Originally known as "Insula", the town officially adopted the name of "L'Isle-sur-la-Sorgue" on 18 August 1890, taking the latter part of its name from the river Sorgue, to which it owed much. As early as the 12th century, the river served defensively as a moat around ramparts which surrounded the town until 1795. The river also served as a source of food and industry: fishing and artisan mills for oil, wheat, silk, paper, woolery, rugs and dyeing. A busy commerce developed until there were two annual fairs and two weekly markets. The current Sunday open-air market originated on 9 November 1596 and is an experience not to be missed.
13. LOURMARIN
Lourmarin is also listed as one of the most beautiful villages in France and nestles in the middle of almond trees, olive groves and vineyards. Albert Camus, winner of the Nobel Literature Prize, lived and wrote in the village and is buried in its cemetery. Explore all the provençal shops and feast at one of many restaurants and cafes.
14. MENERBES
The walled village of Menerbes is situated on a hilltop in the Luberon mountains, foothills of the French Alps. It was the site of a major battle between Huguenots and Catholics, called the siege de Ménerbes, which lasted from 1573 to 1578 during the French Wars of Religion. Ménerbes became known in the English-speaking world since 1990 through the books of British author Peter Mayle, tales of a British expatriate who settled in the village of Ménerbes. One of his books was made into the film A Good Year (2006), directed by Ridley Scott and starring Russell Crowe, which was filmed nearby in the region, largely in the nearby town of Bonnieux. Mayle's best-known book was A Year in Provence, and this put the Luberon region onto the tourist map.
15. ORANGE
The town of Orange lies in a fertile plain on the left bank of the Rhône River, north of Avignon. It derives its name from Arausio, a Gaulish god. Under the Roman emperor Augustus’s rule it became prosperous until it was pillaged by the Visigoths in the 5th century. The Roman Theatre is one the great ancient sites in Europe and there isn’t a better-preserved Roman theatre in France. It is also rare because it retains its scaenae frons – the 37-metre-high stone backdrop to the stage, with niches, columns and a statue of Augustus.
16. ROUSSILLON
Roussillon is located in the heart of one of the largest ochre deposits in the world and is famous for its magnificent red cliffs and ochre quarries under the deep blue sky. Ochre has been used since prehistoric times, and was mined by the Romans during the era of the Roman settlement of Provence. However, ochre only became a widespread, industrial product in the late 18th century when Roussillon native son Jean-Etienne Astier put forward the idea of washing the ochre-laden sands to extract the pure pigment. Today, though natural ochre faces strong competition from synthetic pigments, it remains unrivalled for use in certain applications. Wander through the narrow streets, stairs and squares in Roussillon and experience the beautiful natural pigments used throughout one of the most beautiful villages in France.
17. SAULT
Sault is one of the main stops on the Lavender Tour of lavender fields, distilleries and festivals. It is situated on the border of a great wooden plateau blooming with lavender.
18. SAINT-SATURNIN-LES-APT
Saint-Saturnin-les-Apt has a dominant position on the Monts de Vaucluse facing south towards the Luberon. The village is famous for its delicious cherries, wine, lavender, olives and truffles. The oak-covered hills around are obvious truffle country, and it was here that Joseph Talon, the father of trufficulture, first tried to grow truffles and he is honoured with a statue in the village.
FOOD: TRUFFLES
November marks the start of the truffle season in Provence. The black truffle looks a bit like a lump of coal and sells for up to 2 000 Euros/kilogram. Although, French production of the Périgord truffle has declined in the last century it remains the global leader at approximately 45% of total production. Within France, the southeast (Provence, Dauphine and Languedoc) make up 80% of that total.
SLEEP AT NO 15 AVIGNON (AVIGNON)
No 15 Avignon Guest House is located in the heart of Avignon, amidst lush greenery, in the historical district at only 500m from the Popes Palace. You’ll be surprised and delighted by the lively streets close by, squares, restaurants, boutiques a few steps away and at the same time by the quietness and the surrounding gardens. After exploring the city, you’ll be able to relax in the garden next to the pool.
SLEEP AT AUBERGE DE CASSAGNE & SPA (AVIGNON)
A former Provencal farmhouse built in 1850 on the lands of the estate belonging to Cassagne Castle, the present-day Auberge de Cassagne & Spa became a small hotel-restaurant with six rooms in 1969. The hotel grew quickly and the restaurant was awarded a Michelin star in 1985.
SLEEP AT CHATEAU DES BARRENQUES (LAMOTTE-DU-RHONE)
The Château des Barrenques offers five guest rooms including two suites and 2 large gites in this small 15th century Provencal chateau. The Château is full of history and was once the home to a famous Marquis and is ideally situated for discovering Provence.
SLEEP AT CHATEAU DE VARENNE (SAUVETERRE)
Château de Varenne boutique hotel is a charming and luxurious destination offering bed and breakfast in the heart of Provence which will make your holiday an unforgettable experience. This charming 13 bedroomed guesthouse is a former XVIIIth century residence that looks out on the Rhône Valley and is located in an exceptionally calm and green three-hectare estate above the small quaint village of Sauveterre.
SLEEP AT DOMAINE DE RHODES (AVIGNON)
On the Barthelasse Island, at the foot of La Cité des Papes, you will find Domaine de Rhodes, an ancient hunting lodge dating back to the sixteenth century. Domaine de Rhodes offers 5 guest rooms, 3 small country Provençal cottages (called mazet), a studio, a gypsy caravan and an apartment combined with comfort and tradition with a contemporary touch.
SLEEP AT HOTEL DE L'HORLOGE (AVIGNON)
Right in the city centre, in Place de l’Horloge close to the Pont d’Avignon, the Hôtel de l’Horloge in Avignon is a charming 4-star establishment in an ideal location for visiting Avignon and discovering its art and culture. The Hotel reflects the atmosphere of Avignon in the charm of its 66 rooms.They are decorated in warm tones, with different materials coming together to offer refinement, authenticity and comfort.
SLEEP AT HOTEL LOU CIGALOUN (ORANGE)
A charming destination on the edge of Provence, Orange is the ideal place from which to start discovering the region. Ideally located at the heart of the old Roman city, close to Antic Theatre (240 meters), Hôtel Lou Cigaloun welcomes you to its 17th century building. The hotel offers 24 comfortable, air-conditioned rooms, each furnished and decorated in a different style and 4 types to choose from.
SLEEP AT HÔTEL SAINTE ANNE (APT)
Immerse yourself in the heart of the Luberon and Provençal culture, staying with family, friends or as a couple in Hôtel Sainte Anne in Apt. You will stay in the old town, near the historic center, opposite the authentic Place Faubourg du Ballet, calm and quiet.
SLEEP AT LA MAISON SUR LA SORGUE (L'ISLE-SUR-LA-SORGUE)
This 17th century townhouse with remarkable architecture is located in a historic town with a global village feel, offering a cultural environment in a natural setting made even more beautiful by the river. Now a quaint boutique hotel, you can expect an impeccable service, spacious and comfortable suites, a secret garden with a swimming pool, and an art gallery where artists and designers are showcased alongside items from travels around the world.
SLEEP AT LE CLOS LES EYDINS (BONNIEUX)
Welcome to Clos Les Eydins, a bastide of character dating from the nineteenth century, nestled at the foot of the little Luberon. This is an old renovated farmhouse, surrounded by a large quiet and relaxing garden, planted with olive trees, lavender and rosemary. Let yourself be seduced by one of the 8 air-conditioned rooms: 5 charming guest rooms with swimming pool, as well as 1 suite/apartment and 2 studios, each with a vineyard surroundings.
SLEEP AT LA DEMOISELLE (AVIGNON)
La Demoiselle is located in the heart of Avignon just a few minutes from the Palais des Papes. The house is between the charming Place des Carmes and the Place Pie lined with cafes, restaurants and its famous market halls. With its linen-colored walls, cement tiles and "tommettes" typical of Provence, La Demoiselle boasts a contemporary and poetic style, tinged with a pinch of vintage spirit.
SLEEP AT LE HAMEAU FLEUR DE PIERRES (MURS)
Le Hameau Fleur de Pierres is a quiet and refined stopover for a romantic weekend, with family or friends for an unforgettable stay in all simplicity. In the morning, enjoy a gourmet breakfast in the garden , with pastries, fruit juice, yogurt, fresh fruit, honey and jams “home” under the veranda or on the terrace overlooking the pool listening to the birds and cicadas sing. Le Hameau Fleur de Pierres offers five rooms and a cottage, all rooms have air conditioning, bathroom with toilet and walk-in shower.
SLEEP AT LE MAS SAINT JACQUES (LE PONTET)
Le Mas Saint Jacques is a renovated former family dairy dating from 1850 and located 7 kms from Avignon. It is a Provençal Mas with 400 m?2; of living space in the middle of alfalfa fields at the end of a beautiful alley of hundred-year-old plane trees.
SLEEP AT MAS SERAPHIN (L'ISLE-SUR-LA-SORGUE)
Approximatly 2 km from the center of L'Isle-sur-la-Sorgue, Mas Séraphin welcomes you to the peace and quiet of the countryside ,alongside the singing of cicades. Their two cottages of 55 and 65 m2 each are fully equipped, and each has a private terrace. They will suit either a couple looking for for peace and quiet , or a small family.
SLEEP AT VILLA HAUTVALLON (GORDES)
Villa Hautvallon is located within a 15 minutes walk from the historical village center of Gordes and offers luxurious guest accommodations with 5 private suites which are tastefully decorated.
HOW TO GET AROUND: Rent a car to truly experience the stunning countryside, all the villages on your travelwishlist and much more
WHEN TO GO: The best times to visit Provence are from March to May and September through November, when the weather and the crowds are moderate. Early July is however the best time to visit lavender fields in Provence - lavender fields start to be harvested on the Valensole plateau in mid-July.
CURRENCY: Euro
LANGUAGE: French
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