Saignon is a small village sitting on a cliff band not far from Apt, at the very heart of the Luberon.
Perched on the edges of a rocky promontory, this small village used to be a lookout point for Apt.
A few of the buildings in the village are actually built into the rocks and you can see these as you wander around its little streets.
Try the local goat's cheese and honey whilst you're here.
History & Culture in [locality]
Saignon is believed to have been inhabited since the Palaeolithic period, between 200,000 to 35,000 years ago, again probably because of its great vantage point over the surrounding countryside.
Saint Mary of Saignon church draws many visitors to the village, and has been a place of pilgrimage since as early as the middle ages.
Although the church isn't always open to visitors you can peep in through the grill on the doorway to admire the interior.
The castle chapel, which is built into the rock is worth taking a wander around too, as is the fountain at the end of the main street and the clock tower, which was built in 1584.
Sights & Attractions in [locality]
Over 280 canvases grouping 3 schools of painting
Musee Simon Segal Contemporary Art
A UNESCO accredited site bordering the French Alps and Provence
Geoparc de Haute Provence
Museum dedicated to the Camargue in Arles
Musee de la Camargue
Discover the famous prehistoric cave paintings at Chauvet Cave
Chauvet Cave - Caverne du Pont d'Arc Gallery
12th century castle perched on the dizzy heights of Les Barroux
Chateau du Barroux
A mighty museum of the Chateau Turcan , from vine to wine
Saignon lies north of Pertuis around 50 minutes by car. To the west you can reach Cavaillon in around 45 minutes along the D900. From Apt it's only 10 minutes drive along the D48.