Welcome to the South Luberon, a gem of Provence where nature, culture, and gastronomy come together to create a perfect getaway. Let this guide lead you through unforgettable experiences and must-see sites in this enchanting region.
Top 5 concierge services by Air Property Provence
1. Private chef
Enjoy a gourmet meal prepared by a talented chef right in the comfort of your vacation rental. This personalized culinary experience allows visitors to indulge in exquisite Provençal cuisine without ever leaving their accommodation.
2. Wine tour and tasting at Château Fonvert
Nestled in the heart of Luberon, Château Fonvert is known for its refined organic wines. A guided tour of the vineyards followed by a tasting session is a great way to explore the subtleties of local wines while enjoying the picturesque surroundings.
Live a unique experience with Château Fontvert, vineyard in Lourmarin
3. Pottery workshop
Participate in a pottery workshop to discover local craftsmanship and create your own pieces. This relaxing activity also offers a chance to learn a new skill and take home a unique souvenir from your trip.
4. Visit to the lavender fields
Explore the famous lavender fields of Luberon, a must-see spectacle, especially in July when the lavender is in full bloom. Tours may include lavender distillation workshops, providing an intriguing insight into the production of lavender essential oil.
5. Yoga class and massage session
For total relaxation, consider a morning yoga class followed by a soothing massage. This can be particularly rejuvenating after a day of exploring. Sessions are often held in inspiring locations, offering magnificent views of the Provençal landscape.
Where to stay in the South Luberon
Lourmarin
This captivating village blends historic charm with artistic culture, ideal for those who appreciate architecture and art galleries. Lourmarin is also renowned for its Renaissance chateau and its numerous cafes and restaurants.
Ansouis
Ranked among the most beautiful villages in France, Ansouis is a medieval jewel, dominated by its impressive chateau. The village is perfect for a cultural immersion, with its narrow alleys and small artisan shops.
Bonnieux
This hilltop village offers breathtaking panoramas over the Luberon. With its stepped streets and high church, Bonnieux attracts nature lovers and those seeking stunning views and enriching hikes.
Mérindol
Historically rich, particularly linked to the stories of the Waldensians, Mérindol is surrounded by splendid natural landscapes. The village is ideal for those looking to explore hiking trails and discover deep local history.
Lauris
Lauris elegantly combines culture and nature. The village is famous for its chateau gardens, which offer views over the Durance Valley and a unique glimpse into botany. Lauris is also an excellent starting point for excursions in the Luberon.
Cucuron
Cucuron is a picturesque village in Vaucluse, renowned for its pond surrounded by century-old plane trees. Its historical heritage includes the Notre-Dame-de-Beaulieu church and medieval remains. Ideal for strolls and Provençal markets, Cucuron also offers stunning views from the ruins of its castle and hiking trails in the Luberon.
The Best Places to Visit in the South Luberon
Château de Lourmarin
This Renaissance chateau, the first of its style in Provence, stands majestically in the heart of the village of Lourmarin. It is famous for its elegant blend of Gothic and Renaissance architecture. The chateau offers guided tours that allow visitors to explore its richly furnished rooms and well-maintained gardens, offering a fascinating dive into local history and Provençal culture.
Cedar forest
Located on the Claparèdes plateau, near Bonnieux, the Cedar Forest offers an exceptional natural refuge. Planted in the 19th century, this forest is an ideal place for hiking or family picnics. Marked trails traverse varied landscapes, offering spectacular views of the Luberon massif and its surroundings. It is also a popular spot for bird watching and botany.
The basketry museum in Cadenet
This museum dedicated to basketry is located in the village of Cadenet. It highlights the historical and cultural importance of basketry craftsmanship in the Luberon. Through interactive exhibits, demonstrations, and workshops, visitors can discover traditional techniques of weaving natural fibers and even try weaving their own creation.
The conservatory garden of dye plants in Lauris
This unique garden, located in the village of Lauris, is dedicated to plants used for natural dye production. It houses an impressive collection of over 250 species of dye plants. Visitors can participate in workshops to learn how these plants are transformed into natural pigments and can explore the different thematic areas of the garden that illustrate the use of vegetable dyes through the ages.
The pond of La Bonde
The Pond of La Bonde is an artificial lake located near Cabrières-d’Aigues, a popular outdoor recreation area for locals and tourists. In summer, its calm waters invite swimming, canoeing, and fishing. The lake’s beaches are perfect for a picnic or simply for relaxing in the sun. All around, hiking trails and bike paths allow visitors to discover the local fauna and flora.
Château de Lourmarin
Explore the natural parks of Provence
The Best Restaurants in the South Luberon
La Bastide du Grand Tilleul
Located in Mérindol, La Bastide du Grand Tilleul offers authentic Provençal cuisine in a charming and welcoming setting. The dishes are prepared with fresh, local products, showcasing the terroir of the South Luberon.
Le Bistrot de Lagarde
Located in Lagarde d’Apt, this bistro offers traditional cuisine in a rustic setting. The terroir products are honored, reflecting the seasonality of the ingredients.
Auberge La Fenière
In Cadenet, Auberge La Fenière celebrates cuisine around biodiversity and vegetables. Chefs Reine Sammut and her daughter Nadia concoct inventive dishes in an idyllic setting surrounded by gardens.
L’Arôme
In Bonnieux, L’Arôme allows you to savor innovative dishes with a breathtaking view. Chef Jean-Michel Pagès excels in the preparation of fish and seafood dishes.
Le Champ des Lunes
This Michelin-starred restaurant, located at the Domaine de Fontenille in Lauris, offers bold and creative cuisine under the direction of chef Jérôme Faure, with a particular attention to seasonal products.
Best gatronomic restaurants “étoilés Michelin” in Luberon 2024 !
The South Luberon for Families
Adventure at Gerbaud farm
Located near Lourmarin, Gerbaud Farm offers a unique educational experience where families can learn more about aromatic and medicinal herbs. The guided tours of the farm include workshops where children and adults can discover the properties of plants and their use in cooking and traditional medicine.
Horseback riding in Lauris
The equestrian centers around Lauris offer horseback rides through the picturesque landscape of the Luberon. These rides are a great way to discover the region while enjoying a fun and accessible activity for riders of all ages.
Family hikes in Bonnieux
Embark on an adventure on the hiking trails starting from Bonnieux. These routes offer magnificent views of the Luberon and are well suited for families. An ideal way to spend time outdoors and immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the region.
Creative workshops in Lourmarin
Engage the whole family with painting or pottery workshops in the charming village of Lourmarin. These sessions not only allow you to express creativity but also create tangible memories of your visit to the South Luberon.
Visit the extraordinary museum of Georges Mazoyer in Ansouis
This small museum, founded by artist and diver Georges Mazoyer, is full of marine treasures and paintings, offering a fascinating glimpse into the underwater world. The museum is interactive and designed to captivate the interest of children, making learning both fun and engaging.
Family vacation in Provence: Activities for all ages
When to Visit the South Luberon
Spring (March to May)
Spring is ideal for visiting the South Luberon, as the landscape awakens. The temperatures are mild, perfect for hiking and cycling. This is also the time when cherry, almond, and other fruit trees are in bloom, offering magnificent panoramas. Local markets abound with fresh seasonal products, and it’s an excellent time to avoid the summer crowds.
Summer (June to August)
Summer is the high tourist season, with warm temperatures and plenty of sunshine, ideal for enjoying the many local festivals and village fetes, such as music festivals and village parties. Water activities at La Bonde Lake are particularly refreshing. However, be prepared for sometimes very high temperatures in the middle of the afternoon.
Autumn (September to November)
Autumn is a beautiful time to visit the South Luberon, with its warm colors and pleasant temperatures. It’s the grape harvest season, a key time to visit the vineyards and participate in wine tastings. Markets offer an abundance of local products such as figs, grapes, and the first truffles of the season. Tourist sites are less crowded, making visits more enjoyable.
Winter (December to February)
Winter in the South Luberon is generally mild, with fewer tourists and a peaceful atmosphere. It’s a good time for those looking to explore the region without the hustle and bustle of the high season. The frosted landscapes and soft light offer ideal conditions for photography. Some restaurants and attractions may be closed or have reduced hours, so it’s a good idea to check in advance.
