12 OF THE MOST BEAUTIFUL VILLAGES TO VISIT IN PROVENCE

Last Updated on 7th July 2024 by Bejal

 It’s no secret Provence is a gem of a region in the South of France, both in terms of its heritage, culture and stunning beautiful bright hues or pastel shaded houses complete with shutters. One of the biggest reasons visitors flock to the region is due to the beautiful villages to visit in Provence. This guide aims to highlight some of the most beautiful villages to visit in Provence as well as the best time to visit, things to do including market days, accommodation options and recommendations on where to pop in for some food and drink

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Think picture perfect landscapes, much like the artists that were inspired by the backdrop of the area, hilltop retreats, charming rolling hills scattered plentifully with vineyards and a beauty that seems like it hasn’t been updated by time, this is why any visit to the region must have a list dedicated to experiencing the most beautiful villages to visit in Provence. 

Although touched by tourism, the villages have  an air of bygone days about them where, life is still sleepy and you can grab a front seat watching the locals go about their daily business. It seems an undeniable privilege hearing the church bells ring, the chattering of the local market and the chinking of tea cups and madeleines served mid-morning in the many small cafes that line the main squares.

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//Related Article: The Best Cities & Towns to Visit in Provence

Map: Beautiful Villages To Visit In Provence

Click on map to open Google Maps showing the locations of al 12 of the beautiful villages in Provence featured in this article.

Plan A RoadTrip Through Provence.

Although there is some great public transport in Provence, the best way to visit the village featured in this article is by car. It gives more flexibility, access to the remoter locations and all of the villages have a dedicated car park, On most occasions car parks are free or a small charge of a couple of Euros for a few hours. The Driving through Provence Guide has more details and tips on what you need to consider.

//Related Article: The Ultimate Guide to Driving Through Provence

The Most Beautiful Villages To Visit In Provence

A round up of villages that should be added to your list when driving through the region. We’d recommend giving at least two and half to fours hours to each depending upon interests and things to do in the village. The vast majority of the villages featured are located in The Luberon, with a couple that are worth a visit but are located in close proximity to Avignon, the major city or Provence. There are 15 villages that are officially listed as France’s Most Beautiful Villages, with a few taking pride of location in Provence.

The villages listed below are in order of our driving itinerary over a number of days

Roussillon

Best Known For: Red cliffs and ochre quarries. Officially named one of France’s Most Beautiful Villages.

Located on a steep red cliff, the most striking thing about Rousillon is its dominating colourful streets, displaying reds, pinks, oranges and yellows which blend into one another as you stroll through the winding paths of its main square. Imagine a blue sky and the green of pine trees surrounding the village, it’s like a bright painting.

For great panoramic views, take a walk up to the Castrum where you’ll be rewarded with the sight of Mont Ventoux slopes and the plateau of the Vaucluse.

The ochre landscape is derived from Rousillon’s ochre quarry which once had some of the most important deposits in the world but now serves as a big draw for tourism. The quarry can be visited today and is quite a memorable space.

 If you fancy a walk, the Roussillon quarry has a footpath that leads to the Colorado de Rustrel quarry and is approximately 15 km in distance. This is a great natural attraction to see but the red coloured dust will stain your clothing and shoes so choose your outfit mindfully.

There is no doubt the colours of the village of Roussillon make it very attractive and in high season, it can be very busy. Aim to arrive at 9 am and get a car parking spot to explore as the area soon fills up. Going in shoulder season, late September will reward you with less crowds and space at the many  restaurants that cluster the main square, where you can sit out and admire Roussillon’s beauty, 

Things To Do In Roussillon – Beautiful Villages To Visit in Provence

• Le Sentier des Ocres – hike one of the walking trails for beautiful ochre colours.
• Ecomusee de l’ocre – the former ochre factory, where you can purchase ochre along with gifts
• Eglise Saint-Michel – Wander through and explore this restored church.
• Galerie Ocrement Dit – see the artworks and sculptures of 20 artists in exhibition.
• Art Gallery Contemporary Tapiézo – specialising in abstract architectures Babel, universal symbols with ochre pigments of Roussillon.
• Walk up through the Belfry to the fortified area of the village and look at the orientation table at the top

Market Day In Roussillon

• Thursday mornings are market days.

 Where To Eat & Drink

• Restaurant David – mentioned in the Michelin Guide, they serve locally sourced, seasonal local food  in a beautiful contemporary dining room or terrace. 
• La Treille – Great place for drinks with lovely views as well as lovely choice of mediterranean and French cuisine.
• Angela Glacier – They serve 36 flavours of ice-cream with plenty of outdoor seating

Where to Stay in Rousillon

• La Maison des Ocres – located 150 metres away from the centre of Roussillon, the 18 comfortable rooms are in a prime location with beautiful views of the Gordes area. Hotel also has access to a communal pool and a good continental breakfast to start the day. 
• Villa des Roses – Beautiful suites, delicious breakfast and incredible views of the ochre cliffs.

Ansouis

Best Known For: Renaissance castle, its museums, its church and perched above vineyards. Another example of one of France’s Most Beautiful Villages. 

Ansouis appears to float in a perfect pool of vineyards as it is slightly raised with a castle sitting comfortably above the village houses. The castle. can also be referred to as a grand château. Park you car at the bottom of the village in the designated car park and traverse up the network of cute stone streets and take in the main village square. You can then resume further where you’ll arrive at the castle as well as the Eglise Saint-Martin. The church is definitely worth a visit for the unique interiors, which are not meticulously in order or put together.

The château Ansouis, although owned privately is open in the afternoons from April-October for a small fee, should you wish to explore.

Note the beautiful sweeping views of the surrounding vineyards with a blanket on vines with some lovely terrace like gardens to wander through. The interior of the chateau features 16th-18th century furniture and intricate tapestries of the time as well as art works.

Culture vultures will note that not too far from the château, is the Musee Extraordinaire. It’s not your usual kind of museum as the owner, a painter and diver, has filled the space with quirky curiosities. If this isnt for you then fear not, the Musee des Arts et des Metiers can be found on the outskirts of the village and you can learn more about the history of wine-making in the area.

Things To Do In Ansouis – Beautiful Villages To Visit in Provence

• Chateau d’Ansouis – well worth the visit for the stunning views.
• Musee Extraordinaire – for those who love a spot of quirky!
• Musee des Arts et des Metiers du vin (Chateau Turcan) – history of wine-making. 
• Eglise St. Martin – Worth a look inside for the church interiors.
• Santons Daniel Galli – local terracotta cicadas and nativity scene figurines.

Market Day In Ansouis

• Sunday mornings are market days.

Where To Eat & Drink In Ansouis

• La Closerie – rated as excellent by the Michelin Guide, serving European and French Cuisine, it’s also Vegetarian friendly!
• Le Grain de Sel – a great budget-friendly restaurant with a terrace, serving casual European and French dishes.
• Pâtisserie Volpert – They serve not just lovely sweets but also savoury and healthy snacks and small plates 

Where To Stay In Ansouis

• Un Patio en Luberon – A beautifully decorated B&B in a renovated 16th century inn featuring exposed stone walls and a private patio with a fountain and sun loungers.
• Bastide Saint Maurin – Situated a short drive from Ansouis, close to the lavender fields, this B&B features a pool as well as free onsite car parking.

Goult

Best Known For: A hidden jewel in The Luberon

Goult exudes oodles of authenticity in terms of its beauty and charm. One of the reasons for this is that it is most definitely one of the lesser known villages of The Luberon and feels a lot quieter and calmer. You can simple wander the cobblestoned streets, watch the locals going about their daily business, pop into the pretty little boutiques or sit in the square. Pastel coloured house fronts, juliet balconies and leafy green squares.

Goult is also a good choice to base yourself due to its pretty central location.

For a fantastic view of the valley, follow the streets to the reconstituted Jerusalem Mill and follow the small lane to reveal the Conservatoire des Terrasses de Cultures de Goult. Here you will get first hand experience of seeing the once used farming style involving the terraces which were used to plant and sow crops. The area is around five hectares and well conserved and definitely worth a scope out.

Things To Do In Goult – Beautiful Villages To Visit in Provence

• Moulin de Jerusalem – an old French Windmill with great views of the surroundings.
• Aureto Vignobles – The Aureto wine tasting shop.
• Wander the village – take in local sleepy village life.
• Eglise Saint-Sébastien – Look around this old gothic Romanesque 12th-13th century church.
• Philippe Yves – Gift shop and art gallery.

Market Day In Goult

• Market days are Thursday Mornings.

Where To Eat & Drink In Goult

• Cafe de la Poste – Traditional seasonal French and European cuisine with outdoor terrace.
• Le Garage a Lumieres – a relaxed and fab tapas eatery.
• Restaurant Bar Tabac d’Alain Sanchez – Great bar with games and casual bar food.

Where To Stay In Goult

• Le Mas Réséda – a renovated historic building compleet with pool and 24 hour front desk
•  Villa Lumieres – A four bedroom guest house with a pool and terrace.

Lacoste

Best Known For: The home of the Marquis of Sade

The village of Lacoste still appears to look as though it did back in the 18th century when the Maruis of Sade resided here in the château. The former Marquis’s castle is now owned by clothing designer Pierre Cardin, who also owns a further 22 properties in the village,

It truly is one of the most stunning of The Luberon villages, mainly due to its quiet and peaceful location. The Château de Lacoste is very much a focal point, although left in a little dismay, the portion which has undergone renovation is open during the months of July and August. Each July the castle also plays host to the Lacoste Festival (Festival de Lacoste) which represents dance, theatre and opera and is very much a celebration of the performing arts represented by artist who have a great career ahead of them.

It is still possible to visit the château throughout the year, however a reservation would need to be made. Be sure to walk up and around it and admire the contemporary sculptures and artworks which lead to views of the Luberon.

Things To Do In Lacoste – Beautiful Villages To Visit in Provence

• Château de Lacoste – Worth a visit with its location sitting a top of the ancient village.
• SCAD Lacoste – SCAD Lacoste is on the Rue des Artistes, made up of Savannah College of Art and Design alumni. Each Atelier has an artist working and selling unique and innovative arts and jewellery, 
• Vieux Village de Lacoste – wander around the pretty old village with cute photo spots.

Market Day In Lacoste

• Tuesday Mornings is market day.

Where To Eat & Drink In Lacoste

• Le Sade – Cafe/Bistro style serving lunches and dinners on a terrace with views across the Luberon.
• Cafe de France – serving hot and cold drinks, ice creams and desserts as well as light savoury bites. Also a great bar to grab drinks to enjoy with the views. Vegetarian friendly.

Where To Stay In Lacoste

• Les Cabanes de la Fontaine – sustainable focussed holiday home with mountain views.
• Cante Grillet – Great value for money guest house accommodation with panoramic views.

Lourmarin

Best Known For: Cafe culture and restaurants. Also known as one of the Best Villages in France honour.

This village doesn’t take a proud seat at the top of rock formations but quite the opposite. It’s pretty much flat but that takes absolutely nothing away from it and it’s so easy to fall head over heels in love with it.

The cute arrow streets are lined with gist shops, boutiques and most of all cafes, with positions to sit, sip on a drink and people watch. Upon entering the village, you’ll see the restored buildings, carefully brought back to life, beautiful coloured flower boxes and the natural hues as the sun drenches this pretty village.

Walk around to the  Château de Lourmarin which reflects its past, you will see signs of it being constructed in three stages, right from the 12th to 16th century. It’s possible to tour the castle. You can even attend concerts and other events going on here throughout the year as well as pick up some picnic items from the cafes and delis in the village and have a little al fresco lunch.

Things To Do In Lourmarin – Beautiful Villages To Visit in Provence

• Chateau de Lourmarin – Learn about the history and architecture of this multi-century castle.
• Marché de Lourmarin – Considered one of the best markets around, it’s worth a mooch.
• Albert Camus Grave – Head to the cemetery to see the grave of this 1957 Nobel Prize, who was a philosopher, journalist and writer of The Plague, The Stranger and more.

Market day In Lourmarin

• Friday mornings are market days.

Where To Eat & Drink In Lourmarin

• Cafe Gaby – Great value cafe/Bistro serving casual cuisine including breakfast with an excellent people watching spot.
• Bacheto – Breakfast lunch and dinner served in stunning surroundings, in a courtyard and indoors.Bistro-style Provencal cuisine.
• Le Comptoir – Complete with outdoor seating, children menu as well as a sip worthy cocktail menu. Also does great sharing plates of meats and cheese.

Where To Stay In Lourmarin

• Le Moulin – An 18th century renovated mill is one of the most luxurious stays in the village and also is home to restaurant, Bacheto.
• La Petite Maison – a three bedroom stylishly decorated Provencal holiday home with mountain views. A tranquil location and great for couples.

Bonnieux

Best Known For: Being one of the most prettiest villages in France (not yet made official) .

Although officially not logged anywhere that Bonnieux is one of the most beautiful villages of France, you may beg to differ when you see it. 

Think fairytale like ivy coloured houses, unintentional co-ordinating façades habituated around the smallest old town you’ll see in Provence. Another town which is better accessed on foot, wander the little artisan village shops, pick-up some warm boulangerie items and if time allows learn the art of bread making at the Bakery Museum.

Walk your way up via the stone staircase (can be pretty slippery in rain showers), to reach the 12th century church, which also comes with the reward of a wonderful view over the Vaucluse Mountains and in the distance the villages of Gourdes and Roussillon.

Once at the top near the church, your view will also include olives, grapes as well as lavender frields. A picnic here is a perfect way to enjoy the surroundings.

Later head to the Forêt des Cèdres which offers some lovely walks for all the family as well as wheelchair accessible options.

Things To Do In Bonnieux

• Office du Tourisme Intercommunal de Bonnieux – if time is not limiting, it’s worth popping into the tourist office to see what’s happening during your stay.
• Vieille Eglise – Climb to the old church for pretty views.
• Forêt des Cèdres – to get in some walks in nature.
• La Cave de Bonnieux – Scope out the wines as well as enjoy tasting sessions here.

Market Day In Bonnieux

• Friday mornings are market days.

Where To Eat & Drink In Bonnieux

• La Terrazza di Bonnieux – Pizza and traditional local cuisine with magnificent terraced views.
• Creperie La Tinel – The best crepes,  ice-creams and hot and cold drinks.
• Brasserie St Andre – Located in the heart of Bonnieux, this brasserie has a lovely lively atmosphere and great food and wine.
• Bistrot Le Terrail – Romantic views and excellent quality food.
• Le Wine Club by D – The best place to pick up some local wine. Sit with a glass whilst you ponder on your choices.

Where To Stay In Bonnieux

• Capelongue, a Beaumier hotel – perched above Bonnieux village with stunning views, a lovely garden, pool, cafe, restaurant and high-end service. The rooms are stylishly decorated with a contemporary Provencal flair.
• Le Clos du Buis – A cute stone house, at the entrance of the village with warm toned decor, a garden and a swimming pool.

Menerbes

Best Known For: It’s location in a sea of Vineyards and being one of the official most beautiful villages in France. 

Ménerbes is one of those villages where you will want to live for sure. Walking around you’ll most probably be wondering how you could easily live here. It is of course absolutely joyful to visit too. It’s medieval beauty exudes above all and even Nostradamus, said that Ménerbes is navire dans l’océan des vignes” which translates to a ship in the ocean of vines. It is noticeable how the village appears to be floating gently on the treetops as you drive or walk towards it.

Ménerbes is all about luxury but in a low key kind of way and therefore making it quite the draw in the region to visit. Wine lovers will notice its nod to viticulture and you can also head to the Corkscrew museum , where you can peruse around 1,000 corkscrews and other artefacts from around the globe.

The privately owned, Corkscrew museum is situated around 2 km from the actual village of Ménerbes, in the ground of Domaine de la Citadelle. This characterful vineyard can also be visited for a tour as well as tastings.

Things To Do In Ménerbes – Beautiful Villages To Visit in Provence

• La Domaine de la Citadelle – Don’t miss the vineyard tour as well as tastings.
• Vieux Village De Ménerbes – Wander around the village, admire the architecture and appreciate the medieval feel.
• Eglise Saint Luc – Pay the quirky old chapel a visit.
• Abbaye de Saint-Hilaire – Time permitting, do a self guided tour of the abbey grounds.

Market Day In Ménerbes

• Thursday mornings are market days.

Where To Eat & Drink In Ménerbes

• La Bastide de Marie – French and European cuisine served in picturesque gardens with endless views of The Luberon.
• Le Galoubet – Mediterranean food with a great cocktail menu.
• La Table de L’épicier – Wonderful; selection of local dishes, wine and special events seasonally.

Where To Stay In Ménerbes

• La Bastide de Marie, Maisons et Hôtels Sibuet – a rustic and luxurious hotel with, individually decorated rooms, a restaurant as well as a pool and beautiful views. 
• Le Petit Trésor du Luberon – This one bedroom, medieval stoned walled,  family home comes with a family friendly restaurant. 

Fontaine-de-Vaucluse

Best Known For: The birth of a river

Fontaine de Vaucluse takes its name from the beautiful deep underground spring feeding the River Sorgue. Much of the year, you can see a deep blue pool of water at the bottom of towering cliffs. But during spring or when there’s extensive rainfall, the water gushes out at 200 m^3 (52,000 gallons) every second, This makes the spring one of the largest in the world.

Fontaine-de-Vauclus village is filled with many shops, most of which are pretty touristy to be quite honest, but there are a number of pretty riverside restaurants, museums as well as a thousand year old church and castle remains (remember to look up for this one)!

Things To Do In Fontaine de Vaucluse

• Take the walking route around the spring.
• Moulin a Papier Vallis Clausa (The paper Museum) – see the old water wheel which turns pulp into paper. The shop sells some beautiful paper.
• Musée d’Histoire Jean Garcin: 1939–1945 (Museum of the Resistance): opt for the English audio guide and learn about French life under German occupation in World War two.
• Notre-Dame et St-Veran.- located in the centre of the village and 1000 years old.

Market Day In Fontaine de Vaucluse

• Contact the tourist board of Fontaine de Vaucluse for an updated event list of your visit dates as they have many events through the year and we couldn’t locate their market days,

Where to Eat & Drink In Fontaine de Vaucluse

• Restaurant Philip – Open air terrace just above the River Sorgue and has been around sine 1926, with Sir Winston Churchill being one of its patrons. The set menu is great value for money but vegetarians make sure you ask for it to be adapted  your requirements. Reservations essential.
• La Figuiere Fontaine de Vaucluse – book in advance for its location. It’s set in a courtyard decorated with pretty fairy lights and serves seasonal local Provencal food and vegetarians are welcome.
• La Colonne – Looks rather fancy with outdoor and indoor seating. Local food served with a nice cocktail menu.

Where to Stay In Fontaine de Vaucluse

• Hotel Restaurant du Parc en Bord de Rivière – Located in the Luberon Nature Park and sits in a 6000 m^2 property with a vegetable patch. A traditional French breakfast is included and enjoyed on the delightful terrace.
• Hotel du Poète – located on the banks of the Sorgue River. It offers rooms and suites, an outdoor swimming pool plus hot tub.

Vaison-La-Romaine

Best Known For: Its Roman Heritage

As the name suggest, ‘Romaine’ translates to Roman in French and thus it’s safe to say that this town has a very rich Roman history. The remains of Villasse and Puymin span aruba 15 hectares which are a reminder that these two cities made up the ancient Gallo Roman city of Vasio, forming France’s biggest archaeological site.

Head to the Théo Desplans Museum to witness some marble statues, funery as well as everyday objects and mosaics plus frescos.

Also note the Historic Monument of the arch Roman bridge over the Ouvèze which connects the centre of the town to the Upper Town, known as the Haute Ville.

The medieval Upper Town is definitely worth the climb. Cross over the Roman bridge and wander the aesthetics of the neighbourhood which is protected by a double enclosure or ramparts and a fortified door topped by a belfry, marking the entrance to the medieval town. Walking around and admiring the peace and tranquility, you’ll pass by art galleries, stunning stone houses and the lanes will lead to a 15th-18th century old cathedral and castle of the Counts of Toulouse. The castle dates back to the 12th century so it’s worth the climb up the steep ramp. Your reward will be the views of Vaison and the surrounding forecourt area.

Things to do in Vaison La Romaine – Beautiful Villages To Visit in Provence

• Roman Bridge – scale the impressive structure.
• Sites Archéologiques de Vaison la Romaine – must look at the best preserved Roman City.
• Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Nazareth – see the Roman and Medieval ruin contrasts.
• Galerie D’Art de la Place du Poids – Peruse the art galleries along the lanes.

Market Day In Vaison La Romaine

• Markets are on Tuesday Mornings. 

Where to Eat & Drink In Vaison La Romaine

• La Bartavelle – good quality French food with dining in a relaxed environment. Vegetarian food on request.
• L’Annexe Café – Brasserie cuisine with a wide range choices plus the tallest ice-creams you’ll ever see.
• Le Comptoir des Voconces – This coffee and French-style restaurant stands out and is decorated with quite luxurious feeling interiors. The terrace has great views of the square.

Where to Stay In Vaison La Romaine

• Hôtel la Fête en Provence – Located at the heart of the medieval town of Vaison-la-Romaine, Hôtel la Fête en Provence offers an outdoor swimming pool, a hot tub and a furnished terrace. Each individually decorated room has a private entrance.
• Hotel Burrhus – Located in the heart of the town with fresh, modern interiors with a mix of classics. Guests can expect a  substantial breakfast and ​a range of activities are offered in the area, such as cycling and hiking. The hotel also offers bike hire.

Baumes-de-Venise

Best Known For: the caves and pretty landscapes surrounding the village.

The Baumes de Venise has a wnderful village feel and is one of those sleepy places where time stands still, you can still see locals playing dominoes with a glass of wine in hand and admire the endless views. It’s possible to take many country walks from the village which will lead to the ‘balmes’ or caves, from which the village takes its name.

The town is also known for its many wineries with numerous vine slopes around the village. It’s a must to try the famous muscat doux, the Beaumes de Venise red and other Côtes du Rhône appellation rosé and white wines.

The village is quite popular with cyclists stopping off for a drink break and the church is a must visit.

Things To Do In Baumes de Venise – Beautiful Villages To Visit in Provence

• Eglise de Baumes-de-Venise – dating back to 1507. Three chapels: St Anne, St Roch and St Sebastian.
• Medieval castle &  Ramparts – made Beaumes-de-Venise one of the most powerful bastions of the fortified Venaissin County Middle Ages.
• Fountain of the 17th century masks – Listed building.
• Local caves – excavated in the village and the hill, gave their name to the city: Beaumes de Venise (Comtat Venaissin) later became Beaumes-de-Venise.
• Our Lady of Aubune – bell tower, historical monument, a jewel of Romanesque art from the 12th century.

Market Day For Baumes de Venise

• Tuesday mornings are market days.
• May-September: Flea Markets.

Where To Eat & Drink In Baumes-de-Venise

• Lou Castellet – Serving the delights of the south of France, this restaurant has a family feel, is laid back and offers a lot of choice.
• Cafe du Siecle La Foret – A great casual lunch stop, serving up fresh salads as well as sweets. Great stop for hot and cold drinks mid cycle ride.
• La Table des Balmes – Perfect for a dinner spot, this restaurant serves set courses which are plated up in modern and contemporary surroundings.

Where To Stay In Baumes-de-Venise

• La Bergerie de Nano – This Bed & Breakfast, is cosy and offers a great continental breakfast as well as a swimming pool and individually decorated rooms.
• Le Mas de I’Evajade – A wonderful location to switch off, surrounded by vineyards, this accommodation includes a continental breakfast, gardens and an on site pool.

Séguret

Best Known For being a ‘Plus Beaux Village de France’ One of the most beautiful villages in France.

Seguret is entered via a cobbled street with a stone arch, The Porte Renier and it is easy to see why although it is very small, it is loved for its beauty and charm.

Walk amidst the traditional stone houses that line narrow stoned lanes with green climbing plants. As the lanes turn, there is a new scene uncovering at each corner.

Admire the small 12th century Roman style Church of St, Denis, the Chapel of Notre-Dame des Graces, a belltower, the Mascarons Fountain and washhouse as well as beautifully ornate doorways of the local houses.

Many of the points of interest, such as the bell tower, the fountain and the lavoir are located in the very small main square of Séguret, The fountain des Mascarons dates back to the 17th century and was constructed in traditional Comtat Venaissin style. The bell tower was also constructed in the 17th Century.

Things To Do In Séguret – Beautiful Villages To Visit in Provence

• Fontaine des Mascarons de Seguret – 17th century fountain in the main square.
• Eglise Saint Denis – 12th century Roman Church.
• Chateau Ruins – a walk in the ruins is a great activity in this small commune but the views are blocked by many trees.
• Dentelles de Montmirail – a walk in the mountains in a popular activity for those who love a spot of adventure.
• Vineyards – Domain de Mourchon is a visit option for tastings and to learn more about Côtes du Rhône wines.

Marget Day In Séguret

• Thursdays is market days.

Where To Eat & Drink In Séguret

• La Maison d’Eglantine Salon de Thé – located in the main square, perfect for a selection of hot drinks and sweet treats.
• Côté terrasse – Delicious bistro style food served in a leafy terrace, Excellent selection plus vegetarian friendly and attentive service.
• Le Mesclun – Offers value for money set lunches and dinner if you fee like something a little more substantial.

Where To Stay in Séguret

• Domaine de Cabasse – An idyllic location surrounded by vineyards and lavender fields. Offering a view of the vineyard, each room has a traditional style and some also have a balcony or terrace.
• Mas des Amis – A private villa, great for families and boasts beautifully decorated rooms, a pool and panoramic views.

Villeneuve-les-Avignon

Best Known For:  The Fortress of Saint. Andre

A fortress town charting back to the 14th century, built on the hills and tree filled, the commune of Villeneuve-lès-Avignon was  considered a faubourg of Avignon.

Cardinals built for themselves villas, their palaces, sheltered from view and guaranteeing them comfort and safety. Today the town is pretty with a village feel but just a mere 40 minutes from Avignon and has a host of restaurants, houses, hotels, points of interest and museums. The Fort St. Andre is the main draw and is a must visit as is the Saturday flea market that many from around Provence flock to.

Villeneuve-les-Avignon has great views over Avignon – it’s possible to see The Palais des Papes from near the fort.

Things To Do In Villeneuve-les-Avignon – Beautiful Villages To Visit in Provence

• Fort Saint-Andre – very well preserved, exemplifies the degree of perfection attained by military architecture of the 14th century.
• Jardins de l’abbaye Saint-André – discover the royal Benedictine Abbey of Saint-André with its terraced gardens and abbatial palace.
• Musee Pierre-de-Luxembourg – a 14th century museum with a fine collection of 17th century paintings.

Market Day In Villeneuve-les-Avignon

• Thursday is market day in the main square.

Where To Eat & Drink In Villeneuve-les-Avignon

• Le Vintage – Contemporary Southern French cuisine with cocktails in a cozy, lively bistro tucked down an alley.
• Rita – authentic, delicious pizza in a laid-back setting.
•  Restaurant Le Bercail – French dishes & pizzas on a terrace with views of the river & the ruins of a 12th-century bridge.

Where To Stay In Villeneuve-les-Avignon

• Hotel de L’Atelier – Set in a 16th century building, each room is decorated with antique furniture and blends seamlessly with the building. They serve a great continental breakfast and guests can relax in two of the lounges in the building.
• Hôtel la Magnaneraie – this luxury hotel is nestled on the heights of the historical village of Villeneuve les Avignon, in the former historical mansion of a cardinal, the four star hotel features 29 rooms and three suites with thematic interior design.

The Luberon

A great proportion of the most beautiful villages to visit in Provence sit in The Luberon. Here there is a relaxed way of life, The Luberon paints an idyllic picture of strolling down winding roads which lead to beautiful squares and the most stunning views.

The Luberon is about an hours drive from Marseille airport and 30 minutes on the train route from Avignon station. The south of the area features agriculture and vineyards and not really many villages. The north, the western part of the Luberon consists of many wineries and villages between Apt and Cavaillon, whilst to the east of Apt, there are far less villages and more scenic landscapes such as hills and an abundance of goats!

The Luberon covers a relatively small area however a car is recommended to explore as villages tend to be around five to ten minutes drive from each other. Each village has an easily accessible car park as you enter so it’s easy to park up and discover the rest of the village by foot

Villages of Luberon Recommended Tours

The below guided tours are a mixture of full and half day tours incorporating a number of The Luberon villages. The longer the tour, the more villages that can be visited. We would recommend these if you are short of time or just prefer not to explore on your own.

Beautiful Villages To Visit In Provence Round-Up 

Provence truly has an impressive array of beautiful villages which are unique in their history, culture and offerings. There is truly something for everyone. Their simplicity, and beauty in terms of everyday life seems licked in a bygone age and are a delight and escapism to visit. 

These fairytale villages are by no means an exhaustive list and driving around the region, no doubt, one will stumble upon many more untouched stonewalled communities. 

Many of these villages play a great part in the arts, for they have inspired the paintings of Vincent Van Gough. 

The best way to see these villages is to break them down into proximity to each other then group them for day visits. Each village should be allocated at least two to four hours depending on your interest in what to see.

Cobbled stone streets, pastel hues houses, pretty flower boxes, lively squares, al fresco lunches, endless vineyards and mind-bowling panoramas, these are the beautiful villages to visit in Provence.

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