Luberon
The Luberon is a stunning and picturesque region located in the Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur region of southeastern France. Known for its natural beauty, charming villages, and rich cultural heritage, the Luberon has become a popular destination for tourists seeking a taste of authentic Provencal life. The Luberon is renowned for its diverse landscapes, including rolling vineyards, lush lavender fields, dense forests, and dramatic limestone hills. The Luberon Mountains, with their rugged terrain and hiking trails, offer breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside.
The Luberon is dotted with charming villages, many of which are classified as “Les Plus Beaux Villages de France” (The Most Beautiful Villages of France). These villages, such as Gordes, Roussillon, and Ménerbes, feature narrow cobblestone streets, quaint squares, and well-preserved historic buildings.
Luberon is located approximately 40 km from Arles and Avignon, to the north of Aix-en-Provence. It spans two departments: Vaucluse to the west and Alpes-de-Haute-Provence to the east.
Menerbes
Travel Guide to Luberon
Luberon is named after the eponymous mountains, the peaks of which reach a height of 1,100 meters above sea level. Much of the Luberon is protected as part of the Luberon Regional Nature Park (Parc Naturel Régional du Luberon). This designation helps preserve the area’s natural beauty and cultural heritage.
Why Visit Luberon:
Luberon, nestled in the heart of Provence, France, is a region of extraordinary natural beauty and cultural richness. Here are some reasons why you should visit it:
1. Stunning Landscapes
Luberon is famous for its enchanting landscapes, featuring picturesque villages perched on hilltops, rolling vineyards, lavender fields in bloom, and lush orchards. The region’s natural beauty has inspired countless artists, writers, and filmmakers.
2. Charming Villages
Luberon is home to some of the most beautiful villages in France, including Gordes, Roussillon, Ménerbes, and Lourmarin. These villages are known for their well-preserved medieval architecture, cobblestone streets, and vibrant markets.
3. Historic Sites
In addition to its natural beauty, this region boasts historical sites, including medieval castles, Roman bridges, and ancient villages. The ancient Abbey of Sénanque, Château de Lourmarin and the Pont Julien are notable examples.
4. Cultural Heritage
Region has a thriving cultural scene, with numerous art galleries, music festivals, and theaters. Don’t miss the chance to experience traditional Provençal culture and cuisine.
5. Lavender Fields
Luberon is famous for its vibrant lavender fields, which bloom in the summer months. Visitors can take in the mesmerizing sights and fragrant scents of these fields, especially around the villages of Sault and Valensole.
6. Outdoor Activities
This region offers a wide range of outdoor activities, including hiking, cycling, horseback riding, and rock climbing. There are numerous trails and routes that allow visitors to explore the natural beauty of the area.
7. Culinary Delights
The Luberon is known for its delicious Provencal cuisine, characterized by fresh ingredients like olive oil, herbs, and seasonal vegetables. Visitors can savor traditional dishes at local restaurants and markets.
8. Wine and Vineyards
The region is home to vineyards producing excellent wines, including Côtes du Luberon and Côtes du Ventoux. Wine enthusiasts can enjoy tastings and tours at local wineries.
How to Get In:
- By Air: The nearest major airport is Marseille Provence Airport (MRS), which is well-connected to major European cities. From the airport, you can rent a car or take a train or bus to Luberon.
- By Train: Avignon TGV station is the main railway hub in the region. You can take a high-speed train (TGV) from Paris or other major French cities to Avignon. From there, rent a car or take a local train or bus.
- By Car: If you’re traveling from nearby regions or cities, renting a car is a convenient option. Luberon is easily accessible by road and offers scenic drives.
Luberon
The region is divided into two parts:
- Combe de Lourmarin with Petit Luberon in the west.
- Grand Luberon in the east.
This region is crisscrossed by numerous country roads, ideal for a romantic day in Provence or a bicycle tour through lavender fields, passing by picturesque villages perched on rocky outcrops. These villages are surrounded by cherry orchards, fields of aromatic herbs, endless rows of vineyards, olive groves, and almond trees. The air is filled with the scents of herbs and lavender, the sounds of chirping cicadas, buzzing bees, and fluttering butterflies – a perfect picture of the beauty of Provence‘s nature. Here and there, you will come across honey-colored Provencal country houses known as “mas.”
The two main towns in Luberon are Cavaillon to the west and Apt in the center. On the eastern side of Luberon, in the industrial town of Manosque, natural cosmetics are produced, exporting the scents of Provence worldwide.
Petit Luberon in the Vaucluse department
Petit Luberon is a sub-region of Luberon that encompasses several of its main attractions and the most visited villages in Provence.
The source of the Sorgue River can be seen in the town of Fontaine de Vaucluse, particularly impressive in spring when the snow melts on the surrounding hills. Gordes is popular among tourists, not least because of its better accessibility compared to other villages.
Within the Luberon Regional Natural Park, you’ll find numerous small roads passing by picturesque villages, each boasting outstanding views of the entire Luberon region. These include Oppede-le-Vieux, located nearby Ménerbes, which sits on a hillside; Lacoste, a single-street town leading to the Marquis de Sade’s castle; Bonnieux, perched on the eastern end of the road.
Don’t miss the ochre canyons and the orange-hued houses in the village of Roussillon, best admired at sunrise. A bit further south, you’ll find the picturesque village of Lourmarin, with nearby villages like Cucuron and Ansouis, as well as Saint-Saturnin-les-Apt to the north of Roussillon.
Luberon in the Alpes-de-Haute-Provence department
The eastern part of Luberon is noticeably less popular among tourists, but it is still quite interesting.
Among other attractions, you should explore the market town of Forcalquier, the small villages of Lurs, and the village of Mane, overlooked by a citadel. There’s also the town of Manosque to the east of the region, and perched on a hill, Oppedette, better known for its picturesque gorges.
Map of Luberon:
Main Attractions:
- Gordes: Explore the stunning hilltop village of Gordes, known for its Renaissance castle and panoramic views of the Luberon Valley.
- Roussillon: Visit the “Red Village” with its unique red and ocher-colored cliffs, charming streets, and art galleries.
- Ménerbes: Discover the charming village of Ménerbes, once home to the famous author Peter Mayle. Don’t miss the Maison de la Truffe et du Vin, dedicated to truffles and wine.
- Lourmarin: Experience the beauty of Lourmarin, a village filled with fountains, cafes, and the stunning Château de Lourmarin.
- Abbey of Sénanque: Marvel at the picturesque Cistercian abbey surrounded by lavender fields, especially stunning in the summer.
- Colorado Provençal: Explore this unique natural site near Rustrel, featuring ochre quarries and vibrant landscapes.
- Luberon Regional Nature Park: Enjoy hiking, biking, and picnicking in this protected natural area, known for its diverse flora and fauna.
Things to Do:
- Take a hot air balloon ride in Joucas, soaring into the sky and enjoying the peaceful morning and beautiful Luberon landscapes.
- Learn more about lavender fields at the Coustellet museum.
- Marvel at the luxurious interiors of Chateau d’Ansouis.
- Explore the vineyards and taste local wines at Cave des Vignerons in the village of Pierrevert.
- Hike up the rocky mountains in Buoux.
Walking Tour in Luberon:
A walking tour in Luberon can be a delightful experience. Start in one of the charming villages like Gordes and explore its cobblestone streets, art galleries, and local markets. Hike along well-marked trails in the Luberon Regional Nature Park and enjoy breathtaking vistas. Take time to savor the local cuisine at quaint Provençal restaurants along the way.
Towns and villages in Luberon:
- Apt
- Ansouis
- Bonnieux
- Cucuron
- Fontaine de Vaucluse
- Forcalquier
- Gordes
- Lacoste
- Lourmarin
- Lurs
- Mane
- Manosque
- Ménerbes
- Oppede-le-Vieux
- Oppedette
- Roussillon
- Saint-Saturnin-les-Apt
- Senanque Abbey
- Valensole
- Venasque
Luberon Markets
Most of the markets are held in the morning and close by noon. Below are the year-round markets, but during the summer, their number increases, and they are also held in small towns and villages.
Markets in the Vaucluse part:
- Apt: Saturday
- Avignon: Daily, except Mondays
- Cadenet: Monday
- Cavaillon: Monday
- Gordes: Tuesday
- Le Thor: Saturday
- Lourmarin: Friday
- Maubec: Sunday
- Pernes-les-Fontaines: Saturday
- Pertuis: Friday
- Roussillon: Thursday
- Saint-Martin-de-la-Brasque: Sunday
Markets in the Alpes-de-Haute-Provence part:
- Forcalquier: Monday
- Les Mees: Friday
- Manosque: Saturday
- Valensole: Saturday
Around Luberon:
- Avignon: Explore the historic city of Avignon, known for the Palais des Papes (Palace of the Popes) and the Pont Saint-Bénézet bridge.
- Aix-en-Provence: Visit this elegant city known for its thermal springs, art museums, and lively markets.
- Châteauneuf-du-Pape: Wine enthusiasts can tour vineyards and taste renowned Châteauneuf-du-Pape wines.
- Marseille: Discover the vibrant port city of Marseille, with its diverse neighborhoods, seafood cuisine, and cultural attractions.
- Arles: Immerse yourself in Roman history and art in the city of Arles, famous for its well-preserved amphitheater.
This region offers an authentic Provençal experience with its natural beauty, historical charm, and vibrant culture. Whether you’re a nature lover, history buff, or simply seeking relaxation, Luberon has something to offer every traveler.
