Over the summer I had the privilege of working with the Luberon Tourism Board to capture this beautiful part of Provence. If you ever get the chance to visit, you will not be disappointed. These were my favourite towns:
Where is Luberon?
Luberon is a massif in central Provence in Southern France. It can be said that if you close your eyes and dream of Provence, the chances are you are seeing Luberon. The valley offers dramatic landscapes of vineyards and lavender fields, alluring hill top villages, never ending daily markets and outstanding natural produce, all bathed in the light of artists such as Van Gogh (who lived in the area for a short time) and Cezanne.
Gordes
Dubbed as one of the seven most beautiful villages in France, Gordes is built in to the foothills of the Monts of Vauclause, facing the Luberon. The network of "calades" (narrow cobbled down streets are fun to explore. Gordes is the seat of many cultural events in the summer with its museums, festivals, exhibitions and concerts.
What to photograph: The narrow cobbled streets, the castle and the Gordes look out is spectacular at sunset.
Location: Gordes lookout : 43.90868981162883, 5.197928844910157
Cabrieres d'Avignon
A village not far from other more famous villages in the valley but unfortunately it doesn't appear in most guidebooks or itineraries. It isn't perched on a dramatic hill or have any specific beauty spots but what it does have in abundance is the look and feel of an authentic Provence village with all the amenities required to live there.
Location: 43.894457053694715, 5.149572008753353
Goult
Goult is one of the least visited villages in the Luberon Valley and it's an anomaly considering its beauty. You feel like you've stepped into a set of a Disney movie. The stone and ochre buildings have been restored with the upmost care amongst gigantic olive trees, vegetable gardens and fruit trees. A particular highlight for me was the photogenic windmill, (moulin de Jerusalem) which always makes a great photo.
Location: Goult 43.86380534086753, 5.243719678837778
Moulin de Jerusalem: 43.8656618013943, 5.247667890459769
Oppede-le-Veux
Oppede-le-Veux is a real gem of the Luberon Valley. A hilltop village and the starting point for many superb hiking trails. The village can boast to be one the most authentic and well preserved in the entire region and it's hard to disagree with their claims. After a short climb to the higher part of the village, you can gaze down on the endless fields of vines, olive and oaks trees.
Location: 43.82912146975163, 5.161581626674275
Roussillon
Another village in the at the foot of the Monts de Vaucluse. It is considered to be one of the most impressive villages in France and is definitely a "must-see" if you are in the Luberon Valley. Settled in one of the biggest ochre deposits in the world, Roussillon is famous for its red cliffs and ochre quarries. The contrast of the reds/oranges is a sight to be behold but make sure you aren't wearing light-coloured clothes when you visit the ochre trail as stains are inevitable.
The village is such a beautiful combination of pastel colours that just wondering the streets is an experience in itself. If you are after a great winery for wine tasting, check out Domaine de Tara here.
Location: 43.90350827390265, 5.293007144660797
Saignon
Saignon is a peaceful little town situated on top of a rock that overlooks the valley down below. The narrow alleyways will take you on journey past ancient water foundations, a 12th century Roman church and beautiful rustic houses. A must is to climb up to the rock of Saignon where you will rewarded with a fantastic view of the Luberon mountain range.
Location: 43.86574137983609, 5.42932508382521
Did I miss anywhere you felt should have been in the list? Comment below to let me know.
Hey George, very inspiring article!!!