The Luberon is known for its charming, romantic, and historical Provençal villages. Among them, Lourmarin and Gordes stand out as two of the most beautiful villages in the region (and perhaps even in France). In this article, we will present these two gems and their specificities, so that you can discover their riches and understand why they are so admired.
The village of Lourmarin: a Provençal enchantment
Perched on a hill facing the Luberon massif, Lourmarin offers everything that makes Provence charming. The village is filled with paved alleyways that wind through pretty houses with stone facades, adorned with colorful flowers along the roofs and balconies. The view from different points in the village is breathtaking, allowing you to admire the vast fields of olive trees and vineyards, as well as the mountains of the Luberon on the horizon.
- A rich architectural heritage
One of Lourmarin's major assets lies in its remarkable architectural heritage. Among the must-see monuments is the Château de Lourmarin, which dates back to the 15th century. This magnificent place of stay has been classified as a Historical Monument since 1973 and can be visited during guided tours or cultural events. The Saint-André-et-Saint-Trophime Church, dating back to the 14th century, is also a pilgrimage site steeped in history and deserves a visit.
- A village of artists and writers
Lourmarin also has the reputation of being a true village of artists. Numerous art galleries are located in the heart of the village, and local craft workshops abound, creating a warm and authentic atmosphere. Among the famous personalities who have made Lourmarin their home, we can mention Albert Camus, the Nobel Prize-winning writer, whose house where he lived his last years before his death in 1960 can be visited, as well as his tomb in the Lourmarin cemetery.
The village of Gordes: a jewel perched in the heart of the Luberon
Gordes is undoubtedly one of the most emblematic villages of the Luberon. Perched on a rock overlooking the valley, this beautiful perched village offers a breathtaking view of the region and seduces with its typically Provençal stone houses clinging to the hillside. The steep and paved alleyways wind through the buildings, allowing visitors to discover an exceptional architectural heritage and breathtaking panoramas.
- Abundant historical monuments
One of Gordes' highlights is undoubtedly its historical heritage, which includes, among others, the Château de Gordes, dating back to the 11th century and having been renovated several times since. The castle now houses the town hall and a museum of modern and contemporary art. The guided tour of this monument allows you to discover a sober and elegant architecture, combining medieval and Renaissance elements.
Another emblematic monument of Gordes is the Saint-Firmin Church, also classified as a Historical Monument, dating back to the 17th century. It contains many ancient liturgical objects and offers a magnificent view of the surroundings from its belvedere.
- The picturesque charm of the bories
On the outskirts of Gordes, you can also discover the famous bories, these typical dry stone constructions of the region. Some of them are over 200 years old and were once used as dwellings or barns by peasants. A trail allows you to visit this astonishing borie village, which testifies to the ingenuity and adaptation of men to their natural environment. This site has also been classified as a Historical Monument since 1977.
Dotted with other equally charming and history-filled villages, such as Menerbes with its citadel or the imposing Château de Lacoste, the hills of the Luberon promise unforgettable discoveries. Whether you are looking for a romantic setting for your vacation, picturesque landscapes to immortalize in photos, or simply a moment of relaxation, these Provençal villages will live up to all your expectations.