© SeeProvence.com
© SeeProvence.com
© Seeprovence.com
© Seeprovence.com
© SeeProvence.com
© Seeprovence.com
© Seeprovence.com
© avignon-et-provence
Famous and popular village overlooking the Luberon
One of the prettiest villages in Provence (one of the 'Plus Beaux Villages'), Gordes is perched on top of a hillside around its historic castle.
Throughout history, the castle has protected its residents from foreign attacks, plagues, and World War II bombings. The views over the Luberon countryside are stunning, and the village itself is a warren of cobbled streets and ancient houses.
Gordes hosts art exhibitions, wine and almond festivals, and its market is held on Tuesdays.
In Provence, the department of the Var is the place to look for chestnuts. The Var village of Collobrières regards itself as chestnut capital of the world and in late October it's time for the chestnut festival, which attracts thousands of visitors from near and far.
Read our Provence markets page to find out which market to visit when in Provence. From the vibrant array of local produce to the delightful scent of freshly baked delicacies, visiting a Provencal market is an absolute must for anyone exploring the charms of Provence.
Head to the Avenue de la Rabasse in Richerenches for the famous Saturday truffle markets, which take place from November to March every year.
Uchaux is the venue for this series of summer concerts that celebrates the music of Liszt. Set in the fabulous grounds of Chateau Saint Esteve, the venue could not be more magical or romantic.
An annual agricultural fair, the Foire de la Saint Siffrein is named after the saint who resided in Carpentras during the 7th century. Plenty of local produce is available in the market and the wine fair is one of the largest in the area (and not restricted to wines from Provence).
Gordes has had a busy history and has its origins from Gallo-Roman times where it was the fortified settlement for the main city of Cavaillon.
In the 4th century, it was inhabited by the Vordenses tribe (from where the name Gordes come from, it was customary then to switch V with G). Gordes has been used as a refuge for the surrounding inhabitants for centuries, to protect the local people from warring tribes, wars of religion and revolutions. This goes someway to explaining its almost austere appearance, as the continual invasions demanded that it be strongly fortified.
It almost looks better from a distance, and indeed you will see many tour buses in the summer stop at lay-by's on the road up to Gordes for the best pictures.
The 16th century castle (originally built in 1031) is a huge stone building that looks almost impenetrable from the exterior, as it should. It has been well preserved and you will see watch towers and battlements that would have been used to spot invaders. It's now both the town hall and a museum that showcases works by Belgium painter Pol Mara - open to the public daily. It also hosts temporary exhibitions every year.
The Village des Bories is an ancient settlement (archaeologists are divided on its date of origin), of dry stone huts that were probably used as shepherds huts during the 19th century. It is located 1.5km from Gordes and is open to the public throughout the year. You'll find a small museum and you can take guided tours if you book in advance - ask at the tourist office.
Also close by to Gordes is the wonderful Cistercian Abbey Senanque which is well worth a visit. The Museum of Glass and Stained Glass lies a few kilometres south of Gordes by Saint Pantaleon and displays ancient glass beads, tiles, jewellery and other objects of both practical utility and beauty. Open throughout the year (closed Tuesdays), you can take tours in French, English and German. An old olive mill is located on the same site.
The Caves of Saint Firmin give you a glimpse into the underworld that was part of the defensive position of Gordes. The network of cellars under the Palais St Firmin have been partly excavated and you can now visit some of the chambers beneath Gordes.
Just outside the village of Gordes lies the archaeological remains of a Bronze age village. The Village des Bories dates back to around 2000BC. You can still see ancient sheep pens, stone beehive houses (bories) and bread ovens.
This castle houses the town hall of Gordes and a museum containing works by the painter Pol Mara, a Flemish artist who lived in Gordes.
This 12th century Cistercian monastery is an iconic scene of Provence. With fields of rows of lavender in an isolated valley leading to a beautifully solumn sanctuary, the Abbey Notre Dame de Senanque provides a glimpse back in time - if you can ignore the crowds of tourists that invariably will share the moment with you.
You are spoilt for choice when it comes to dining out in Gordes, with a good number of restaurants to choose from, along with a range of cuisines.
The gourmet restaurant at Les Bories & Spa has one Michelin star to it's name, courtesy of head chef Pascal Ginoux.
Seasonal local produce is used to create exquisite dishes under the expert eye of chef Alexis Osmont.
This gourmet restaurant can be found at the Mas des Romains hotel in Gordes.
Run by Daniela Ernandes passionate kitchen leader, and Chef Mr Jean Jacques Marcellin; the brigade works every day to prepare a tasty cuisine that emphasises the freshness of products and authentic flavours.
La Trinquette wine bar is a place where you can enjoy fine wines accompanied by delicious tapas in a setting facing the sunset.
Lovely restaurant with dining terrace just outside the historic village of Gordes. With a fresh & modern Provencal menu, there is a good choice of fish and salads.
Wander around the castle, church and the pretty cobbled streets of Gordes on a night time walking tour.
This ride is bursting with colour and vibrant views; starting off in the pretty little village of Roussillon it passes through the vivid landscape of the Ochre region, an area characterised by its deep red soil and golden wheat fields.
This ride takes us along the banks of the river Sorgue, crossing picturesque bridges and cycling past tranquil orchards. You’ll visit a number of fascinating little villages and take in some wonderful scenery along the way.
This fun 20km circuits takes in three short climbs on a scenic route that takes in some of the famous “Perched Villages” of Provence.
This scenic cycle ride goes in a figure of eight, starting and finishing in Velleron, but also visiting Pernes-les-Fontaines to the north and L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue to the south.
Second only to the Gorges du Verdon, the Gorge de la Nesque is one of the most visited and cycled parts of Provence. A stunning hydro geological site with fantastic cliffs, overhanging rock and a long winding river deep in the valley.
The Comtat Venaissin (County of Venaissin), often called the Comtat for short, dates back to the middle ages and was politically significant throughout the 16th and 17th centuries.
Take your time, explore and discover the rich historical heritage and natural surroundings, fashioned by centuries of work which continues to the present day.
Roussillon is a wonderful little village located about 10km outside of Apt. This gorgeous walk that explores the Ochre cliffs of Rousillon is relatively easy and will be enjoyable for everyone. Not to be confused with the Ochre Trail, which which has a visitor fee for entry into the park.
This lovely hike in the Luberon region of Provence is great for most abilities of walkers. Stunning views and landscape on every part of the trail will make the 2hr 30 minute walk well worth it. Walking along the top of the large rocky cliff you can see for miles and enjoy the cool breeze.
Explore the valleys of Le Beaucet situated between the Mountains of Vaucluse and the Luberon Valley.
This easy and gentle 3km walk is perfect for families as most of the route is shaded by large billowing trees with ideal spots for picnics, wondeful views and interesting forestry along the way.
A slightly more challenging hike through the most spectactular gorge in Provence, with its narrow high walls and dark alleyway you can witness the amazing vegetation and plants. A 3 hour and 30 minute walk you can enjoy this popular walking route, recommended during the week when it is likely to be quieter.
This company offers an 8 kilometre canoe trip along the river near Fontaine de Vaucluse.
This company offers a 2 hour river descent from Isle sur la Sorgue to Fontain de Vaucluse in canoes.
Just to the north of Apt lies the Plan d'Eau de la Raille. You can practice all sorts of watersports here, with a sailing & windsurfing school. All equipment is available to rent - dinghies, windsurfs, pedal boats and kayaks.
This company offers two different types of excursions by kayak or canoe for either an hour and 15 minutes or 3 hours.
Located in the heart of the EcoQuartier Beaulieu, Lake Monteux is an open every day of the year. Ideal for the whole family, this area offers a multitude of activities.
This company offers all kinds of activities, from climbing and pot-holing to canyoning, canoeing, kayaking, hiking and via ferrata.
Beautiful Provençal farmhouse for rent with swimming pool and large garden for the perfect holiday
Very beautiful mas (stone house) to rent for the holidays in Gordes, decorated with exclusive and tasteful materials, all modern comfort.
Spend a dream holiday in this magnificent property in Provence for rent in the heart of the Luberon, a stone's throw from the village of Ménerbes, one of the most beautiful villages in France.
This charming stone farmhouse is located in the heart of Luberon, near the must-see villages, and has been carefully restored.
In Provence, a beautiful and charming farmhouse with heated swimming pool available for holiday lets in Lacoste in the Luberon.
Close to the village of Cabrières d'Avignon, magnificent farmhouse with a living area of approximately 330 m2 spread over two levels.
Located in the Residence Provence Country Club in the heart of the Luberon mountain, this studio enjoys a serene and tranquil atmosphere with close proximity to all the sites and attractions of this area of the South of France. An ideal location for nature and golf lovers.
Very beautiful mas (stone house) to rent for the holidays in Gordes, decorated with exclusive and tasteful materials, all modern comfort.
Beautiful holiday house for rent in the Luberon, nearby a charming, authentic Provencal village at the foot of the Luberon, close to the most beautiful villages of France : Gordes, Ménerbes, Bonnieux
Very nice property for seasonal rental in Ménerbes, one of the most beautiful villages in Provence, in the heart of the Luberon, of approximately 235m².
Beautiful 18th century village house with all comforts, in the heart of the village of Lacoste.
Very beautiful holiday house in a dominant position in Gordes for up to 8 adults and 2 children with a large heated pool 15 x 4.5 x 1.6m.
Gordes also has a very good selection of hotels.
In the heart of the Luberon National Park, a beautiful and charming B&B welcomes you for a relaxing stay.
This traditional country house hotel is set in a tranquil estate with wonderful views over the Luberon.
Located in the Luberon region in the heart of Provence this charming hotel sits in grounds of 6000m2.
A beautiful hotel situated between the lovely villages of Roussillon and Gordes. The charming old stone farmhouse hides 24 elegant bedrooms and suites, some of which have private pools.
This is a luxury hotel and spa perched in the heart of Gordes, one of the most beautiful towns in France.
A five star hotel with 33 bedrooms and seven suites in the heart of beautiful Luberon. Les Bories sits in eight hectares of gardens and grounds and is close to the famous village of Gordes.
Avignon City Taxis at your disposal 24/7 for taxi services and transfers airports and railway stations in Avignon and in the entire region.
300 vehicles at your disposal. All taxi services and transfers airports and Railway stations.
Helitec caters for all your helicopter needs from passenger transport to aerial photography, filming, transport of heavy goods, leisure flights over Provence and the South of France. A great way to see the most beautiful spots from the air.
Chabe Transfers are a well known luxury transfer and taxi service operating in the South of France.
Events-Cars offer luxury taxi and transfer services across the South of France. They also cater for special events.
All taxi services 24/7 within a 60 mile radius.
Find out all about what is happening in Provence and how to make the most of your time here. The latest news, reviews of fun activities, current events and the trendiest restaurants, as well as interviews with leading locals, insider's guides and our top choices for things to do, see and experience in this picturesque French region.
See allLatest News & ReviewsProvence has a busy calendar of events all year round featuring art exhibitions, charming markets, cultural festivals and concerts. Spring and autumn are the time to celebrate local produce while during the peak holiday times, in the summer months, you will find world-renowned music and cultural events like the Choregies d'Orange or the Avignon Festival.
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