3 Walking Tours in Luberon
Discover the captivating landscapes and charming villages through three enchanting 3 walking tours in Luberon that will immerse you in the heart of this picturesque region in Provence. These walking adventures will lead you through lush vineyards, fragrant lavender fields, and historic cobblestone streets, allowing you to experience the essence of Luberon’s natural beauty, cultural heritage, and gastronomic delights. Whether you seek scenic vistas, cultural insights, or culinary delights, these walking tours in Luberon offer a perfect blend of exploration and relaxation in one of the most enchanting corners of Provence. Lace up your walking shoes and embark on an unforgettable journey through the Luberon region.
Walking Tours in Luberon:
There are 3 different walking tours in Luberon, which are designed to guide you in different directions and reveal you Luberon from different sides. Also they need different time to pass them, so can choose according to your wishes and available time.
Walking tour 1: Scenic rocks
Time for the route: 1 day hiking
The itinerary:
- From Rustrel, you can take a stroll past the ochre rocks of Colorado Provencal.
- Then, visit the capital of Luberon, the town of Apt, and explore the Musee de l’Aventure Industrielle du Pays d’Apt.
- After lunch, head to the unique ochre canyon in Europe, near which you can explore the picturesque village of Roussillon.
- Continue west to Gordes, one of the “Plus Beaux Villages de France” (Most Beautiful Villages in France). The most beautiful view is just before reaching the village, from the side opposite the hill, where the buildings cascade downward.
- North of Gordes, visit the 12th-century Abbey of Notre-Dame de Senanque, adjacent to one of the most famous lavender fields in Provence.
- A bit further west of Gordes, you can see the characteristic stone huts, built without mortar, in the Village des Bories (entry 6.5€).
- For dinner, consider dining at the stone restaurant of chef Patrick Payet in Goult.
Walking tour 2: Petit Provence
Time for the route: 2 – 3 days hiking
The road that winds between Cavaillon and Lourmarin takes you on a picturesque journey through the quintessential Provencal villages, each with its own unique charm and breathtaking views of the surrounding hills.
- Starting in the small town of Cavaillon, renowned for its local fragrant melons, you can explore its vibrant market. For a delightful lunch, indulge in one of Provence’s finest dining experiences at Prevot.
- In the morning, make a stop at the perched village of Oppede-le-Vieux, nestled atop rocky cliffs.
- Continue eastward to Ménerbes, made famous by English writer Peter Mayle in his book “A Year in Provence.” Ménerbes is celebrated for its exquisite wines and truffles. Don’t miss the Wine Cork Museum along the way.
- Next, your journey leads you east to Lacoste, where you can wander through charming cobblestone streets and explore the ruins of the Marquis de Sade’s castle.
- Venturing further into the rolling hills, you’ll arrive in Bonnieux, where you can ascend 86 steps to visit the 12th-century church and relax amidst its unique cedar forest.
- On the following day, take a leisurely stroll through the deep Combe de Lourmarin to reach the charming village of Lourmarin. This village holds a special place in literary history as it was once home to Albert Camus and Henri Bosco. You can trace their footsteps along the literary trail, exploring the traces of their presence in this idyllic Provencal setting.
Walking tour 3: Petit Luberon
Time: 1 – 2 days.