Gourdon, Alpes-Maritimes
Perched village with a spectacular location
One of the most dramatic villages in Provence, Gourdon is situated on top of a rock, overlooking the Vallée du Loup. The views of the valley, all the way to the Mediterranean, are outstanding - you can see Nice and Théuole on a good day.
The Riviera seems like a million miles away in this natural paradise. The Gorge du Loup provides a spectacular back drop to the winding road that takes you up to Gourdon. If you're driving to Gourdon, you need to park at the bottom of the hill and walk up to the pedestrianised village.
Gourdon is fairly typical of the pretty 'perched villages' of Provence, with its well preserved stone houses, gift shops, art galleries and local crafts on sale. Pottery, perfumes and glassware shops make for interesting gift and souvenir shopping. The little lanes and alleys are fun to wander through (it won't take you long) and the kids will love the plentiful sweet shops.
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History & Culture in [locality]
Perched right on the clifftop over the winding Loup River thousands of feet below, Gourdon is a feudal walled village of narrow cobbled lanes and jumbled stone buildings, all presided over by a 17th century fortress. If you look down from the ramparts you can see the ancient donkey trail that was once the only access route.
The narrow twisting streets are crammed with shops and artisan workshops selling all sorts of soaps, jewellery, nougat, artworks, perfume and decorative glass - you can see many of the artisans at work. Gourdon offers the most magnificent views of the countryside rolling down to the Mediterranean that you are ever likely to see.
Sights & Attractions in [locality]
It also has a feudal castle originating in the 9th century that was rebuilt in the 17th century. It boasts round towers, a Renaissance courtyard and wonderful gardens designed by Andre le Notre (of Versailles fame).
There is also a 12th century Romanesque church (Saint Vincent), but the other main sight to see is the view back down the valley. There is a panoramic view point of the Loup valley down by the church - this is also where you'll find the tourist office.
Sights in Provence
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Apt Cathedral
This cathedral, also known as Sainte Anne d'Apt, is believed to be built on the site where Saint Auspice was buried.
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Musee des tapisseries Tapestry
The Musee des Tapisseries houses a rich collection of 17th and 18th Century tapestries, including a collection called 'Grotesques' - theatrical taspestrie made in Beauvais cir. 1689, and also 'L'histoire de Don Quichotte' of 1735 unique in the world.
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Mathieu Lustrerie Museum, Gargas
This museum houses a collection of around 250 chandeliers and a large library and collection of photos dedicated to these wonderful pieces of art.
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Campredon Centre d'Art, Isle sur la Sorgue
The building itself has been protected as a historic monument since 1979 and is worth the journey just for that, let alone the art works inside.
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Musee des Arts & des Metiers du Vin
This wine museum situated just outside of Ansouis is a must for all wine lovers, and a fascinating for all amateurs.
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Chateau d'Ansouis, Ansouis
The Chateau d'Ansouis was originally a fortress back in the 12th century and become one of the grandest mansions in Provence during the Renaissance.
Dining in [locality]
If you want to enjoy some local cuisine on a sunny terrace with great views, then look no further than La Taverne Provençal where you can enjoy a good and reasonably priced meal - it's very popular, so consider booking your lunch spot as soon as you arrive.
There are plenty of pavement cafés where you can treat yourself to an ice cream or crêpe.
Restaurants in Provence
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L'Epice & Love Restaurant
This is a popular place with both locals and travellers. It has a small cosy interior so if you want to dine there, best to get there earlier rather than later.
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Les Chenes Verts Restaurant, Tourtour
This Michelin starred restaurant is situated on the outskirts of Tourtour and specialise in truffle dishes.
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Cote Sud Restaurant, Uchaux
The Cote Sud has a charming sophisticated interior and includes a lovely terrace where you can enjoy your food when the weather is warm enough.
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La Vache a Carreaux Restaurant
This small restaurant is on the Rue Peyrollerie, a winding alley just off the Place St Pierre. It is a great option for vegetarians, offering a wide variety of cheese dishes and salads but there are also fish dishes available.
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L'Autruche Restaurant
Small restaurant where you will never eat the same thing twice. Their menu is solely based on what good fresh ingredients the local market has to offer in the mornings.
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La Cour d'Honneur Restaurant
Located right in the centre of Avignon on a well known shopping street is La Cour d'Honneur.
Events in [locality]
Events in Provence
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Jazz à Saint Rémy
This modern revival of the jazz festivals of the 70s and 80s is held under the stars in St Rémy.
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European Heritage Days
Exceptional locations around France, including Provence, will be open to visit on the Journées du Patrimoine - a European wide event inspired by by France’s Journées Portes Ouvertes which started in 1984.
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Trail des Alpes Maritimes
Two races plus a kids event starting and ending in the medieval mountain village of Sospel.
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Markets in Provence
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.
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Fête de la Chataignes - Chestnut festival, Collobrières
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.
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Liszt en Provence festival, Uchaux
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.
Things to do in [locality]
Visit the glassblower's shop to watch molten glass being blown into beautiful shapes, and pick your way through perfumeries, workshops and art galleries before adjourning to a shaded restaurant for lunch.
As well as being a lovely place to while away a lazy day, Gourdon is also the starting point for plenty of hikes. There are about half a dozen or so circuits that loop back round to Gourdon, you can pick up trail maps for free from the tourist office in the village.
Things To Do in Provence
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Aqualand Waterpark, Sainte Maxime
This is probably the most family orientated waterpark on the Cote d'Azur. With several friendly slides, a fun pool, food and drinks, ice creams, and shopping all at hand.
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Nyonsoleiado Waterpark, Nyons
Waterpark complex that contains a lagoon, 25m pool, whirlpool basin, waterslides for children and adults, cascades of water, rivers, paddling pools and much more.
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Wave Island Waterpark, Monteux
This huge waterpark covers an area of 4.7 hectares and includes a surf simulator, waterslides and a river feature called river land.
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Domaine Le Sagittaire Waterpark, Nyons
In the depths of the Drôme countryside in the French Provence, this 5 Star Residential Campsite comes complete with an entirely heated Aquatic Complex, which is open to the public.
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Aqualand Waterpark, St Cyr Sur Mer
Aqualand in St Cyr Sur Mer offer you 11 wicked slides in a great park environment with drinks, food, and shops for you to enjoy.
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Aqualand Waterpark, Frejus
With numerous slides, including the King Cobra - unique is western Europe - this is the largest waterpark on the Cote d'Azur! Inludes a rest area, show area, clockroom, fast food, grill and pizzeria, ice creams, drinks, and shop.
Cycling in [locality]
Cycling Routes in Provence
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La Veloroute du Calavon
Following the Calavon river, this 28km long path was previously a railway track and is a great way to explore the hilltop villages around the area.
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Aix-en-Provence to Aqueduc de Roquefavour
This half-day circuit takes you away from the bustle of the city and into the countryside, passing some historical landmarks along the way.
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Le Plateau de Sault, Mont Ventoux
This delightful ride takes you through some of the most beautiful scenery in the area; vast Sault highlands, fields of lavender and golden crops. Along the way you can admire the magnificent views of Mont Ventoux and Montagne de Lure Mountain. You’ll pass through four charming old villages; each one crammed with ancient churches, crooked alleyways, splashing fountains and quaint little squares.
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Cycling the Ochre Region from Roussillon
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.
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Les Gorges de la Nesque
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.
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Climbing Mont Ventoux
The climb of Mont Ventoux is perhaps most well known to those outside of the cycling community as a name associated with the Tour de France.
Hiking in [locality]
Walking Routes in Provence
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The l'Imbut Trail, Gorges du Verdon
Regarded as one of the more difficult trails of the Verdon region, the l'Imbut trail is perfectly manageable for the competent hiker with the use of the fixed cables and ladders.
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Troglodyte Hikes & Walks
An interesting site not to be missed whilst in Provence. The wonderful views of the Villecroze caves and impressive scenery will take your breath away.
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GR4
A 5-7 day walk leaving near the coast and making its way up the Verdon Gorge through the heart of the Verdon natural park.
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Refuge d'Art multi-day walking tour
This walking route is for strong walkers or hikers, and can be completed in anywhere from 8-10 days.
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Toutes Aures Walk
An great easy walk for the days after rain fall to avoid the mud. Passing by the Chapel Toutes Aures, nestled in an olive grove.
Yachts & Sailing in [locality]
Watersports in [locality]
Watersports in Provence
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Les Guides Action and Aventure, Aiguines
A team of state qualified guides sharing their enthusiasm for great outdoor activities with you.
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Bureau des Guides de Canyon, Castellane
Range of water sports and outdoor activities proposed by a professional guiding company.
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Glisse Paradise Watersports, Saint Laurent du Var
Jet-ski, waterskiing, wakeboard, wakesurf, parachute, canoe and paddleboard, Glisse Paradise have it all!
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AFDA Canoe & Kayak, Lauris
This company offers two different types of excursions by kayak or canoe for either an hour and 15 minutes or 3 hours.
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Nice Rafting, Breil-sur-Roya
For those looking for an adrenalin rush, Nice Rafting is the place to go to!
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Air Eau Terre Nature Activity Company, Breil-sur-Roya
This company are based in Breil sur Roya and offer a huge range of outdoor sports and activities for groups and individuals.
Families in [locality]
Nightlife in [locality]
Bars & Clubs in Provence
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Le Scat Nightclub
The Scat Club plays live music every night, and not just jazz the club plays pop, rock, funk and R'n'B.
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Le Longchamp Bar & Brasserie, Isle sur la Sorgue
This place is a bar, restaurant and tabac all rolled into one, on the side of the river in the centre of Isle de la Sorgue.
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La Cave des Pas Sages
Small wine bar situated in one of the cobbled streets of Avignon that hosts regular market stalls.
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21 Chai d'Oeuvre Bar, Saint Remy de Provence
This bar is located in the centre of Saint Remy de Provence. It has a good selection of wines by the glass, as well as bottles and champagne. They even serve charcuterie and cheese plates.
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Bokao's Nighclub
With a varied musical line-up, Bokao's combines good fun and great music.
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Le Cardeur Bacchus Bar
This small bar has a nice seating area outside next to one of Aix's many fountains and it catches the sun late into the evening.
Chalets in [locality]
Chalets in Provence
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Les Hautes Prairies Campsite, Lourmarin
Located right in the centre of Provence with the feet of Lubéron. A 9 acre campsite with 165 spacious pitches for tents, caravans and motorhomes.
Villas in [locality]
Villas in Provence
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La Garance Villa, Le Thor
Farmhouse with swimming pool to rent in Provence for your dream holiday, a former 17th century post house in Le Thor, close to L’Isle sur la Sorge.
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Bellevue Villa, Grimaud
Welcome to this superb newly built villa located in Grimaud, offering breathtaking views of the sea and Saint-Tropez! This luxurious property is ready to welcome you for unforgettable holidays on the French Riviera.
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Carpe Diem Villa, Verbier
Superb 5-bedroom villa with swimming pool, ideal for 10 people, 5 minutes from the sea
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La Colline Villa
Welcome to La Colline, a stunning villa built from honey-colored local stone, nestled among Provençal vineyards with breathtaking views of Mont Ventoux and the distant hilltop villages. The villa offers a peaceful setting, perfect for spending a summer day by the swimming pool, accompanied only by the gentle song of the cicadas.
Price: €3,129
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A L'orée Des Bois Villa, Menerbes
Magnificent stone-built property (200 sqm) to rent for the holidays in Ménerbes.
Price: €4,277
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Martin Villa, Gassin
Villa for Rent for 10 People in Gassin with pool
Holidays Rentals in [locality]
Holiday Rentals in Provence
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Un Été Indien Villa, Apt
The perfect holiday home in the Luberon with a heated swimming pool.
Price: €6,430
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L'Inattendue Villa, Cucuron
18th century stone farmhouse on a landscaped park of approximately 1 hectare with panoramic views of the Luberon.
Price: €5,164
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Provence Country Club Studio Apartment, Luberon
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.
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La Colline Villa
Welcome to La Colline, a stunning villa built from honey-colored local stone, nestled among Provençal vineyards with breathtaking views of Mont Ventoux and the distant hilltop villages. The villa offers a peaceful setting, perfect for spending a summer day by the swimming pool, accompanied only by the gentle song of the cicadas.
Price: €3,129
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Carpe Diem Villa, Verbier
Superb 5-bedroom villa with swimming pool, ideal for 10 people, 5 minutes from the sea
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Serena Villa, Sainte-Maxime
The Villa Serena is a property accessible to people with reduced mobility and is composed of 6 air-conditioned rooms with a panoramic view on the sea and the bay of Saint-Tropez.
Hotels in [locality]
There are no hotels in the village or the surrounding area. However, the chateau offers basic rental apartments in the village and there are a handful of gites just outside. Ask at the tourist office for details. The alternative is stay at nearby Le Bar sur Loup.
Hotels in Provence
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Le Clos des Lavandes B&B
In the heart of the Luberon National Park, a beautiful and charming B&B welcomes you for a relaxing stay.
Price: €1,156
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Le Clos de la Glycine Hotel, Roussillon
Set in one of the most beautiful villages in France, this hotel is a little Provencal paradise.
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Chateau de Massillan Hotel, Uchaux
Chateau de Massillan is a small luxury hotel with a gourmet restaurant located in Uchaux.
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Jules Cesar Hotel
This luxurious property has been lavishly renovated to overcome its austere background, whilst still retaining its sense of history.
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Hotel du Parc, Fontaine de Vaucluse
Located in the Luberon region in the heart of Provence this charming hotel sits in grounds of 6000m2.
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Chateau de Varenne Hotel, Sauveterre
This charming hotel is housed in a former XVIIIth century residence, on a beautiful green three-hectare estate above the small village of Sauveterre in the heart of Provence.
Price: €2,390
Campsites in [locality]
How to get to [locality]
Transfers for Provence
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Chabe Airport Transfers, Marseille
Chabe Transfers are a well known luxury transfer and taxi service operating in the South of France.
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Helicopter Leisure Flights & Transfers, Marseille
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.
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Private Jet and Helicopter Transfers
With an International fleet of jets and helicopters based across Europe it is quick and easy to get a private charter flight for business, pleasure or an airport transfer.
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Radio Aixois Taxi
49 air-conditioned vehicles at your disposal for local transport, airport and rail station transfers, and touristic excursions.
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ABCD Taxi, Apt
All taxi services 24/7 within a 60 mile radius.
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Helicopter Airport Transfers & Scenic Flights
Created in 1976 this company has grown and has now transported well over 100,000 passengers. They have a fleet of 12 craft to meet client demands.
Property For Sale in [locality]
Property for Sale in Provence
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New development for Sale, Val d'Isere
A first and second floor apartment in a brand new development in the heart of Le Fornet
Price: €4,150,000
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Chalet for Sale, Val d'Isere
Exquisite and exclusive new development of ski-in, ski out chalet-style apartments
Price: €8,395,000
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Villa for Sale
Situated in the heart of the Baie of Saint-Tropez, this charming property boasts meticulous design and refined amenities.
Price: €1,995,000