10 Most Beautiful Villages of Provence You Need To Add to Your Bucketlist

Provence, in the southeastern part of France, is a region known for its stunning landscapes, rich history, wineyards and charming villages. Nestled between the Alps and the Mediterranean Sea, Provence offers a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and delectable cuisine. Here’s a guide to 10 of the most beautiful villages of Provence you must visit in this picturesque region.

1. Gordes

Perched on the edge of the Vaucluse plateau, Gordes is one of the the most beautiful villages of Provence. Its stone buildings glow with a golden hue in the sunlight, and the narrow streets wind their way up to a Renaissance castle at the top. Explore the cobbled alleyways, visit the Abbey of Sénanque surrounded by lavender fields(extremely popular for the iconic lavender field shot), and enjoy breathtaking views of the Luberon Valley.

Best place to have a drink ro dine with a view: Le TIGrr, an Asian restaurant with stunning sunset views over Luberon Valley.

2. Roussillon

Roussillon, another beautiful village of Provence, stands out with its vibrant red and ochre cliffs, a result of the rich deposits of iron oxide in the soil. The village itself is a rainbow of warm colors, with buildings painted in shades of earthy red, pinks, and oranges. Wander through the Ochre Trail (Sentier des Ocres) to see the stunning natural formations and visit the quaint art galleries and studios scattered throughout the village. If you are visiting in summer, be prepared for extreme heat, so cool off with a drink at the main square.

Good to know: Do not wear white clothes or shoes when you visit Sentier des Ocres(learn from my mistake). The pigment in the air as the wind blows and the dusty, dry earth you walk on will stain your clothes and shoes for good.

3. Lourmarin

Lourmarin according to us is the most beautiful village of Provence, a picture-perfect village known for its Renaissance castle and vibrant cultural scene. Nestled in the Luberon region, the village is home to charming streets lined with art galleries, boutiques, and cafés. The Friday morning market is a must-visit for its local produce and artisan crafts. Don’t miss the Château de Lourmarin, a beautifully restored castle that often hosts art exhibitions and concerts.

Where to eat: Dine like a local at CHEZ GABY'S, try the ginger beer produced in Lourmarin that's on the menu and have a yummy gelato afterwards at RAVI

4. Moustiers-Sainte-Marie

Moustiers-Sainte-Marie is a jewel of Provence, clinging to the side of a limestone cliff and famous for its earthenware pottery. The village is dominated by a star hanging on a chain between two cliffs, a symbol of a knight’s promise to the Virgin Mary. Explore the Faïence pottery workshops, hike up to the Notre-Dame de Beauvoir chapel for panoramic views, and enjoy the tranquil ambiance of this picturesque village. When we visited in early July, this beautiful village of Provence was so quiet in the evening, we felt like we were in our own little world.

5. Les Baux-de-Provence

Set atop a rocky outcrop in the Alpilles mountains, Les Baux-de-Provence offers a journey back in time with its medieval architecture and ruins. This beautiful village of Provence boasts a dramatic castle, Château des Baux, with stunning views over the surrounding countryside. Wander through the narrow streets, visit the Carrières de Lumières for immersive art exhibitions, and taste the local olive oil, known as some of the best in France.

6. Saint-Rémy-de-Provence

Saint-Rémy-de-Provence is a beautiful village of Provence known for its Roman heritage and as the place where Vincent van Gogh created some of his most famous works. Visit the ancient Roman ruins of Glanum, stroll through the bustling weekly market, and see the Van Gogh Heritage Trail. The village’s vibrant squares and charming shops make it a delightful place to explore.

7. Goult

Goult is a serene and lesser-known beautiful village of Provence, located in the heart of the Luberon region. One of Goult’s most iconic landmarks is the Moulin de Jérusalem, a restored windmill that offers panoramic views of the Luberon Valley. The windmill is a testament to the village’s agricultural past and provides a picturesque spot for photography.

We recommend Goult as your homebase during Provence trips, as you will find much cheaper hotels here compared to Gordes for example. Here is the link to the hotel in Goult that we usually stay at.

8. Fontaine-de-Vaucluse

Fontaine-de-Vaucluse is a picturesque village in southeastern France, nestled in the Vaucluse department of Provence. Known for its stunning natural spring, the Sorgue, this beautiful village of Provence is famed for the crystal-clear waters that emerge from the Fontaine de Vaucluse, one of the largest springs in the world. The source of the Sorgue is the emergence of an immense underground network. The waters that gush forth come from the infiltration of rainwater and melting snow from the south of Mont Ventoux, the Monts de Vaucluse, the Albion plateau and the Montagne de Lure

Tip: Explore the antique market, one of the biggest in France at L'Isle-sur-la-Sorgue.

9. Valensole

Valensole is synonymous with lavender, and its vast, fragrant fields are a sight to behold, especially during the blooming season from late June to mid July. This beautiful village of Provence is the epitome of Provençal beauty and tranquility. Valensole is also known for its high-quality lavender products. Visit local shops and markets to purchase lavender essential oils, soaps, and honey.

The Lavande Angelvin distillery offers guided tours and insights into the production process. Across this facility, you will find a hidden gem Lavender field with the perfect rolling hill of Lavender that disappears into the horizon.

10. Lauris

Lauris is a charming village located in the Luberon region of Provence, France. Perched on a hilltop, it offers breathtaking views of the Durance Valley and the surrounding vineyards and orchards. This beautiful village of Provence is renowned for its beautifully restored 18th-century château, which houses terraced gardens and an impressive dye plant collection. With its narrow, winding streets, Lauris exudes a timeless Provencal atmosphere, complete with traditional stone houses and vibrant local markets. The village is a hidden gem, offering visitors a peaceful retreat and a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of Provence.

Provence is a region that captivates the heart with its scenic beauty, rich cultural tapestry and beautiful villages. Each village offers its unique charm, history, and flavors, making them all worth exploring. Whether you’re wandering through lavender fields, sampling local wines, or simply soaking in the sun-drenched landscapes, Provence promises an unforgettable travel experience.