Visit the Luberon Regional Nature Park
In the heart of Provence, the Parc Naturel Régional du Luberon stretches out like a jewel case of unspoilt nature, where hilltop villages, lavender fields and ochre mountains create an authentic Provencal picture. Between Vaucluse and Alpes-de-Haute-Provence, this exceptional region is home to villages ranked among the Most Beautiful in France, breathtaking natural sites and a cultural heritage dating back thousands of years. Whether you’re a keen hiker, a lover of picturesque villages or in search of authenticity, a visit to the Parc Naturel Régional du Luberon promises total immersion in the Provencal art of living.
See also the Avignon guide:
- Top 10 culinary specialities in Avignon
- Top 5 things to do in Avignon
- What are the most beautiful villages to discover around Avignon?
- 5 secret Luberon villages to explore in autumn
- The 15 must-dos in the Luberon
- 7 must-do things to do in Roussillon
- 26 must-do activities in the PACA region
The Luberon Regional Nature Park in a nutshell
Created in 1977, the Parc Naturel Régional du Luberon covers almost 185,000 hectares between the departments of Vaucluse and Alpes-de-Haute-Provence. This exceptional area is home to 77 communes and a population of around 180,000, divided between hilltop villages, isolated hamlets and Provençal bastides. Recognised as a Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO in 1997, the park boasts a rich biodiversity, with over 1,800 plant species, 135 species of breeding birds and 2,300 species of butterfly.
The Luberon massif is divided into three distinct areas: the Petit Luberon to the west, the Grand Luberon to the east, with the Mourre Nègre peaking at 1,125 metres, and the eastern Luberon. Nestling between these reliefs are fertile valleys planted with vines, orchards and lavender fields, providing the emblematic landscapes that have inspired so many artists and writers. To visit the Luberon Regional Nature Park is to discover an area where unspoilt nature and cultural heritage combine harmoniously to create an exceptional destination.
How to get to the Parc du Luberon
By car
The most practical way to explore the Parc Naturel Régional du Luberon is by car, and to take full advantage of the freedom offered by this area of many villages. From Paris, allow around 7 hours’ drive via the A6 motorway and then the A7. Take exit 24 (Avignon Sud) or exit 25 (Cavaillon) depending on your final destination. From Lyon, the journey takes around 3 hours on the A7.
To visit the Parc Naturel Régional du Luberon from Marseille, allow 1 hour 15 minutes on the A7 and then the A51 towards Aix-en-Provence. The D900 departmental road crosses the park from east to west and is a major route for exploring the villages. The roads are winding but well-maintained, offering spectacular panoramas at every turn.
By train and bus
The nearest TGV stations are Avignon TGV (50 km from Apt) and Aix-en-Provence TGV (60 km from Lourmarin). From Paris, it takes 2 hours 40 minutes to get to Avignon TGV. Regional ZOU! bus services link the stations to the main towns in the park. Route 915 runs from Avignon to Apt via Cavaillon, Coustellet and Gordes. Route 909 serves Cadenet and Lourmarin from Aix-en-Provence.
For those wishing to visit Avignon before heading to the Luberon, the city of the Popes is an excellent gateway. The city offers a number of audio-guided tours to help you discover its heritage before exploring the hilltop villages of the park.
By plane
Marseille-Provence airport, in Marignane, is around 60 km from the Luberon. There are bus and shuttle connections to Aix-en-Provence, from where you can take the bus to the park. The smaller Avignon-Provence airport, which mainly handles charter flights, is 40km from Apt.
Must-see hilltop villages
1. Gordes, the suspended jewel
Perched 340 metres above sea level on a rocky promontory in the Monts de Vaucluse, Gordes is undoubtedly one of the most photographed villages in France. Listed as one of the Most Beautiful Villages in France, this medieval village reveals its dry-stone houses, which seem to pile up one on top of the other, offering a striking architectural spectacle. At the top stands the Renaissance château, which today houses the town hall and the Pol Mardsen museum.
Stroll through the narrow cobbled streets and you’ll discover art galleries, craft workshops and Provencal boutiques. From the various vantage points, the panorama takes in the whole valley as far as the Luberon. Just a few kilometres away, don’t miss the Abbaye de Sénanque and the Village des Bories, two emblematic sites of the local heritage.
2. Roussillon and its flamboyant ochre
Roussillon owes its worldwide renown to its ochre cliffs, with hues ranging from pale yellow to scarlet red. Also listed as one of the Most Beautiful Villages in France, this village offers a chromatic spectacle that is unique in the world. The facades of the houses match the colours of the surrounding ochre, creating a perfect harmony with the landscape.
The Sentier des Ocres (Ochre Trail), accessible from the heart of the village, allows you to wander between ancient quarries with spectacular geological formations. The walk takes around 45 minutes and reveals landscapes worthy of the American Colorado. To extend the experience, visit the Ôkhra – Écomusée de l’ocre (Ochre Ecomuseum), which recounts the history of the mining industry that made Roussillon rich until the mid-20th century.
3. Ménerbes, a village with character
Stretched out on a rocky spur like the prow of a ship, Ménerbes is also one of France’s Most Beautiful Villages. This village steeped in history was home to Pablo Picasso in the 1950s. The 16th-century citadel, the 14th-century church of Saint-Luc and the belfry with its campanile clock bear witness to a rich past.
Ménerbes is home to two unusual museums: the Musée du Tire-Bouchon at the Domaine de la Citadelle, with its unique collection of over 1,000 corkscrews, and the Maison de la Truffe et du Vin du Luberon, a temple to local gastronomy. The cobbled streets are an invitation to stroll, revealing exceptional views of the valley around every corner.
4. Bonnieux, balcony overlooking the Luberon
Bonnieux climbs like an amphitheatre on the northern slopes of the Luberon, offering plunging views over the Vaucluse plateau and the Luberon. You can discover the village by climbing the steps lined with tall houses up to the high church, a veritable belvedere overlooking the entire region. The old 12th-century church, part Romanesque, is well worth a visit for its sculpted capitals.
The Musée de la Boulangerie, housed in an old 17th-century bakery, traces the history of bread and Provençal baking traditions. Bonnieux is also an excellent base for exploring the Pont Julien, a remarkable, perfectly preserved Roman bridge with three arches, just a few kilometres from the village.
5. Lourmarin, Provençal elegance
The last of the Luberon’s five Most Beautiful Villages in France, Lourmarin is distinguished by its refined, cosmopolitan atmosphere. Nestling at the southern foot of the massif, the village is organised around shady lanes lined with plane trees, rustling fountains and welcoming terraces. The Renaissance château, one of the first of this style to be built in Provence, is open to visitors and regularly hosts cultural exhibitions.
Lourmarin has attracted many artists and writers, including Albert Camus, who spent the last years of his life here and is buried in the village cemetery. The Friday morning market, one of the most famous in the Luberon, brings together local producers and craftspeople in an authentic Provencal atmosphere.
6. Lacoste, the Marquis’ village
Dominated by the imposing ruins of the Marquis de Sade’s castle, Lacoste offers a wilder face, preserved from mass tourism. The steep streets wind between the stone houses to the remains of the castle that crowns the village. From the heights, the view takes in the Calavon valley and stretches as far as Mont Ventoux on a clear day.
The village has been partly restored by fashion designer Pierre Cardin, who organises an opera and theatre festival in the stone quarries every summer. The church of Saint-Trophime, built in the 17th century, is well worth a visit for its characteristic bell tower and wrought-iron campanile.
7. Oppède-le-Vieux, ghost village
Oppède-le-Vieux offers a unique experience with its medieval ruins clinging to a rocky outcrop. Abandoned in the 19th century when the inhabitants moved to the plain, the village was partly restored in the 1950s by a group of artists and architects. The cobbled streets lead to the remains of the castle and the church of Notre-Dame d’Alidon perched on the summit.
The climb up to the ruins takes a little effort, but the reward is worth the effort: an exceptional panorama of the Luberon and a timeless atmosphere. A number of artists’ and craftsmen’s studios have been set up in the restored houses, perpetuating the artistic vocation of the site.
8. Apt, capital of the Luberon
The park’s largest town, with 12,000 inhabitants, Apt is a must for visitors to the Luberon Regional Nature Park. This ancient Roman town grew up in the heart of the Calavon valley and today remains the economic capital of the region. Sainte-Anne Cathedral, a Romanesque building that has been altered several times, is home to the relics of Saint Anne and is an important place of pilgrimage.
On Saturday mornings, Apt hosts one of the finest markets in Provence, taking over the streets and squares of the historic centre. Here you’ll find all kinds of local produce: candied fruit, for which the town has been famous since the 14th century, lavender honey, goat’s cheese, olives, AOC Luberon wines and handicrafts. The Musée de l’Aventure Industrielle (Industrial Adventure Museum) traces the history of the local ochre, candied fruit and earthenware industries.
Outstanding natural sites
1. The Colorado Provençal
Located in the commune of Rustrel, the Colorado Provençal offers a breathtaking geological spectacle. These former ochre quarries, which were mined until 1992, have created a flamboyantly coloured landscape reminiscent of the American Wild West. There are two signposted trails to explore this unique site: the Sahara Trail (1 hour) and the Fairy Chimneys Trail (3 hours).
The rock formations sculpted by erosion create chimneys, needles and cliffs with hues ranging from white to crimson red depending on the amount of sunlight. The site is open to visitors from March to November and there is a car park at the entrance. Make sure you bring good shoes, and beware: the ochre pigments stain your clothes indelibly!
2. Notre-Dame de Sénanque Abbey
Nestling in an isolated valley a few kilometres from Gordes, Sénanque Abbey is one of the most beautiful Cistercian complexes in Provence. Founded in 1148, this abbey is still home to a community of monks who perpetuate the rule of Saint Benoît. The Romanesque building, with its remarkable architectural purity, is open to visitors for part of the year.
The show becomes magical from mid-June to mid-July when the lavender fields surrounding the abbey are in bloom. Rows of purple blossom unfurl in front of the blonde stone façade, creating one of Provence’s most famous postcards. Be careful, though, as crowds are very big at this time of year. To make the most of the site, it’s best to visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon. You can only get there on foot from the car park 500 metres away.
3. The Petit Luberon cedar forest
Planted in 1862 over an area of 250 hectares, the Atlas cedar forest offers an exceptional forest setting in the heart of the limestone massif. Accessible from Bonnieux or Lacoste, this remarkable site rises to an altitude of 700 metres and offers several shady hiking trails. The discovery trail (1.2 km) allows you to admire hundred-year-old cedars of impressive dimensions.
There are picnic tables and a rest area where you can enjoy the coolness of the surroundings, which is particularly welcome in summer. The forest is also home to a wealth of wildlife, including wild boar, roe deer and numerous birds. Educational panels line the paths, explaining the history of the site and the special ecosystem of this Mediterranean forest.
4. The Régalon gorges
Located between Cheval-Blanc and Mérindol, the Régalon gorges are a spectacular geological curiosity. This 200-metre-long narrow fault runs between two cliffs up to 60 metres high, sometimes only 80 centimetres apart. Hiking in the gorges requires a little agility to negotiate the rocky passages and wetlands.
The entire route (a 6km loop) takes around 2? hours and offers remarkable views of the Luberon massif. The entrance to the gorge itself is only part of the circuit, but is the highlight of the show. The site is accessible all year round, but is not recommended in the event of rain or thunderstorms due to the risk of flash flooding.
5. Le Mourre Nègre
The highest point in the Luberon at 1,125 metres, the Mourre Nègre offers a 360-degree panorama of the whole of Provence. There are several hiking routes to the summit, the most accessible of which starts in Auribeau (10 km round trip, 4 hours). The path leads through oak forest and broom heath before reaching the rocky ridge.
At the summit, an orientation table helps you identify the different massifs visible: Mont Ventoux to the north, Sainte-Victoire to the east, the Alpilles range to the south-west and, on a clear day, the Mediterranean and the Alpine peaks. Mourre Nègre also marks the boundary between Vaucluse and Alpes-de-Haute-Provence. Make sure you bring plenty of water and sun protection, as the summit is exposed to the sun.
6. The Bonde pond
Situated between Cabrières-d’Aigues and La Motte-d’Aigues, the 35-hectare Etang de la Bonde is the largest lake in the Luberon. Created in the 12th century by the monks of Silvacane Abbey to power their mills, this man-made lake is now a popular place for walking and relaxing. A 6km path leads around the entire lake, through reeds and willows.
The site is home to a remarkable array of birdlife, with over 150 species recorded: herons, ducks, grebes and the occasional pink flamingo. There are two observatories where you can admire the birds without disturbing them. Swimming is not permitted, but regulated fishing is possible in certain areas. A car park and picnic tables make the étang de la Bonde an ideal spot for a family outing.
Outdoor activities
1. Hiking
The Parc Naturel Régional du Luberon boasts more than 500 km of waymarked footpaths through all types of landscape. The GR 92, which crosses the park from east to west over 120 km, is the main route for experienced hikers. Divided into several stages, it links Cavaillon to Forcalquier, passing through the main hilltop villages and offering exceptional panoramic views of the massif.
For shorter walks, there are a number of circuits around each village. The Ochre Trail in Roussillon (1 hour), the Castelas Loop in Bonnieux (2 hours) and the Mill Trail in Goult (1.5 hours) are all great ways to discover the local heritage while enjoying the countryside. The Maisons du Parc in Apt and La Tour d’Aigues provide detailed maps and topographical guides to help you prepare your outings.
2. Cycling and mountain biking
The varied terrain of the Luberon makes it an ideal playground for cyclists of all abilities. The V57 – Tour du Luberon cycle route is 236km long and takes you all the way around the massif, mainly on small, low-traffic roads. Divided into stages, the route links the main villages and tourist sites as you cycle through vineyards, orchards and lavender fields.
For mountain bikers, the Park offers a network of technical tracks and trails. The mountain bike resorts of Apt, Buoux and Forcalquier offer marked trails of varying levels. The descent from the Mourre Nègre will delight experienced mountain bikers, while the tour around the Etang de la Bonde is perfect for families. Numerous rental companies offer classic mountain bikes and electric bikes to help you get to grips with the Massif.
3. Climbing
The Luberon boasts a number of renowned climbing sites, including the Buoux cliffs, which are among the most beautiful climbing routes in France. This legendary site offers over 450 routes for all levels on limestone of exceptional quality. The cliffs extend over 2 km, with heights ranging from 15 to 120 metres. All styles of climbing are represented: slabs, overhangs, cracks and long routes.
There are other climbing sites in the park: the cliffs of Rustrel near the Colorado Provençal, the Sivergues sector for sport climbing and the Volx routes in the eastern Luberon. Climbing schools offer introductory courses and courses run by qualified instructors. Beginner climbers will also find several artificial structures in the main towns of the park.
4. Equestrian activities
Discovering the Luberon on horseback offers a unique perspective on the landscapes of Provence. A number of riding centres offer rides and excursions to suit all levels. One-hour rides are a gentle introduction, while multi-day rides take experienced riders through the massif, with accommodation in equestrian gîtes.
There are over 200km of signposted bridleways through forests, garrigue and villages. The GRE Grande Randonnée Equestre (long-distance equestrian trail) Tour du Luberon takes you all the way round the massif in just one week. The Luberon stables at Ménerbes, the Bonnieux riding centre and the Ranch de la Garrigue near Apt offer services and accommodation for horses and riders.
5. Air sports
The relief and thermals of the Luberon create ideal conditions for hang-gliding. The Buoux site welcomes hang-gliders and paragliders who take off from the plateau to fly over the gorges and the valley. First flights in two-seater paragliders are offered by several schools, providing an unforgettable experience and spectacular aerial views of the massif.
For a more contemplative experience, several companies offer hot-air balloon flights over the Luberon. At sunrise, these magical flights allow you to admire hilltop villages, lavender fields and ochre-coloured hills from the sky. Flights last around an hour and traditionally end with a glass of champagne in the vineyards.
Cultural and gastronomic heritage
1. The markets of Provence
To visit the Luberon Regional Nature Park without visiting its markets would be to miss out on the soul of Provence. Each village organises its own weekly market, where local producers, craftsmen and market gardeners come together in a friendly atmosphere. The Apt market, held every Saturday morning, is one of the biggest, with over 300 stallholders filling the historic centre.
In Lourmarin, the Friday market attracts a chic and cosmopolitan clientele to the shady alleyways. The Gordes market, held on Tuesday mornings, offers an exceptional setting with views over the valley. Cucuron hosts its own market on Tuesdays in front of the famous rectangular pool lined with plane trees. The markets in Bonnieux (Friday), Roussillon (Thursday) and Cadenet (Monday) are also great places to stock up on local produce: goat’s cheese, lavender honey, olives, tapenades, AOC Luberon wines and seasonal fruit.
2. Culinary specialities
The Luberon cultivates an authentic gastronomy rooted in the land of Provence. The candied fruits of Apt perpetuate a tradition dating back to the 14th century, when the popes of Avignon were particularly fond of these sweets. A number of confectioners, such as Maison Aptunion and Confiseries Kerry, continue this tradition.
The black Ventoux truffle, the “black diamond”, is harvested from November to March and is the subject of a specialised market in Apt every Saturday morning in season. Lavender honey, AOC Banon goat’s cheese, AOP de Provence olive oil and AOC Luberon wines make up a remarkable palette of tastes. And don’t miss the tapenade, anchoïade and sun-drenched fruit and vegetables that make up the richness of the stalls.
3. The Luberon wine route
The Luberon AOC, awarded in 1988, covers 3,000 hectares of vines in 36 communes. The wineries offer tastings and cellar tours to help you discover the varied terroirs of the massif. The fruity reds, fresh rosés and aromatic whites reflect the diversity of soils and exposures in the area.
Notable estates include Château de Mille in Apt, Château de l’Isolette in Bonnieux, Château La Canorgue in Bonnieux (the setting for Ridley Scott’s film “A Good Year”) and Domaine de la Citadelle in Ménerbes. Most of the cellars are open to visitors by appointment, and offer guided tastings to help them understand the specific characteristics of the appellation.
4. Historic sites
Beyond the villages, the Luberon is home to numerous historic sites that bear witness to thousands of years of human occupation. The Pont Julien, built by the Romans around 3 BC, still spans the Calavon with its three elegant arches. Perfectly preserved, this work of art was able to carry traffic until 2005 and is a testament to Roman engineering.
The Village des Bories near Gordes is home to a unique collection of dry-stone huts that bear witness to traditional rural architecture. These mortar-free constructions, some of which date back to the 17th century, provided shelter for shepherds and their farming tools. The site is open to the public and gives visitors an insight into ancestral dry-stone construction techniques, which have been classified as Intangible Cultural Heritage by UNESCO.
The many windmills that crown the hills, the fountains that sing in the centre of villages, the wash-houses and oratories that line the paths tell the story of the daily lives of the people of the Luberon over the centuries.
Where to sleep in the Parc du Luberon
1. Charming hotels
The Luberon boasts a number of exceptional establishments for a refined stay. La Bastide de Marie in Ménerbes, a 5-star hotel nestling among the vines, offers an authentic Provencal setting with a spa and gourmet restaurant. Le Capelongue in Bonnieux, also a 5-star hotel, boasts traditional architecture and a Michelin-starred restaurant run by chef Édouard Loubet.
For more affordable budgets, there are a number of 2 and 3-star hotels offering quality services: the Hôtel des Voyageurs in Apt, the Mas de l’Olivier in Gargas and the Hôtel Le Clos du Buis in Bonnieux combine Provencal charm with a family welcome. Expect to pay between €80 and €150 a night for a mid-range hotel.
2. Bed and breakfast
Bed and breakfast is an excellent way to discover Provencal hospitality and meet the locals. Many mas and bastides have been restored and transformed into charming guest houses offering personalised rooms, table d’hôtes and expert advice on exploring the region. Prices generally range from €80 to €180 per night, including breakfast.
Choose establishments with the “Gîtes de France” or “Clévacances” labels, which guarantee a high level of comfort and service. Many chambres d’hôtes have swimming pools, a popular feature on hot Provencal summer days. Advance bookings are highly recommended, especially in the high season from May to September.
3. Holiday lets
For holidays with family or friends, renting a house or gîte offers independence and conviviality. The park has hundreds of rental properties, ranging from studios to Provençal farmhouses, accommodating up to ten people. Prices range from 400 euros a week for a small flat in low season to over 3,000 euros for a beautiful property with swimming pool in high summer.
Specialist platforms such as Gîtes de France, Clévacances and local agencies offer a wide choice. Make sure you choose accommodation that is central to your centres of interest, to limit the number of daily journeys you have to make, as the Luberon is a vast area where distances can be deceptive.
4. Campsites
For outdoor enthusiasts, there are around fifteen campsites throughout the park, offering a range of services from simple municipal campsites to 4-star establishments with entertainment and full facilities. The Camping des Sources in Gordes, the Camping Luberon Parc in Apt and the Camping de la Durance in Cadenet offer pitches and mobile homes in a natural setting.
Prices start at around €15 to €20 per night for a tent pitch in low season, rising to €50 in high season. Mobile homes are generally rented by the week, with prices ranging from 300 to 800 euros depending on the period and the standard. Some campsites also offer unusual accommodation: yurts, tipis or perched cabins.
Practical information
1. When to visit the Parc du Luberon
Each season offers its own special face to visit the Parc Naturel Régional du Luberon. Spring (April-May) is a time when nature is in full bloom, with cherry blossom and fields of poppies, and when the temperature is ideal for hiking (15-25°C). The villages regain their calm after the winter, without yet experiencing the summer crowds.
Summer (June-August) is the peak tourist season. The lavender fields are in bloom from mid-June to mid-July, providing the much sought-after emblematic landscapes. However, temperatures can exceed 35°C and the hilltop villages are very busy. It’s best to visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon.
Autumn (September-October) is undoubtedly the best time of year, with its mild temperatures, golden lights and vines decked out in warm colours. The markets are bursting with seasonal produce: truffles, mushrooms and chestnuts. Winter is quieter, revealing an authentic Luberon where the villages regain their local rhythm, even if some shops and restaurants close from November to March.
2. How much time to allow
A weekend of 2-3 days is all it takes to discover the main hilltop villages and emblematic sites: Gordes, Roussillon, the Abbaye de Sénanque and the Colorado Provençal make up an already full programme. For a more in-depth visit to the Parc Naturel Régional du Luberon, including hikes, visits to wine cellars and moments of relaxation, a week is the ideal length of time.
This allows you to alternate active days with moments of rest, to take the time to stroll through the markets, enjoy long lunches on the terraces and soak up the Provençal rhythm. Hiking enthusiasts can spend 10 days walking the entire GR 92 in a gîte-stop. Whatever the length of your stay, don’t plan too full a programme: the Luberon is best enjoyed in its own time.
3. The Park Houses
Two Maisons du Parc welcome visitors, providing information, maps, topographical guides and personalised advice. The Maison du Parc in Apt, housed in the former Récollets convent, also houses the Geology Museum and the administrative headquarters. The Maison du Parc in La Tour-d’Aigues occupies the stables of the château and presents temporary exhibitions on the region’s natural and cultural heritage.
There’s also a shop selling local produce with the “Valeurs Parc” label, books on the region and handicrafts. Holiday advisors can help you plan your itinerary according to your interests and provide information on current events: guided tours, lectures, nature workshops.
4. Rules of good conduct
The Parc Naturel Régional du Luberon is a protected natural area where a few rules apply to preserve biodiversity and the tranquillity of the area. Stay on the marked paths to avoid trampling the fragile vegetation and disturbing the wildlife. Dogs must be kept on a lead, particularly during the nesting season (April-June) and in grazing areas.
Fires are strictly prohibited from April to September due to the risk of fire. Take your rubbish with you and respect private property by closing fences and gates. In summer, check the conditions of access to the forest: certain sectors may be closed by prefectoral decree in the event of a high fire risk. These precautions will ensure the survival of this exceptional area for future generations.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Can you visit the Parc du Luberon in a day?
Technically, yes, but that would be a real shame! One day is enough to discover 2-3 hilltop villages like Gordes and Roussillon, but the Luberon is well worth taking the time to explore. To fully appreciate the diversity of the park, its landscapes, its activities and its way of life, plan at least a 3-day weekend, ideally a week.
When is the best time to see lavender in flower?
Lavender fields are in full bloom from mid-June to mid-July, usually peaking around 14 July. The exact period varies slightly according to altitude and weather conditions. The Abbaye de Sénanque and the Valensole plateau (just to the east of the Luberon) offer the most spectacular scenery. However, this is also the busiest time of the year.
Is the Parc du Luberon suitable for children?
Absolutely! The park offers a wide range of family activities: easy walks such as the Sentier des Ocres in Roussillon, supervised swimming at the Etang de la Bonde, fun visits to the Lavender Museum or the Village des Bories. Some villages organise treasure hunts. Choose short, shady walks in summer, and bring water and hats for everyone.
Do you need a car to visit the Parc du Luberon?
The car remains the most practical means of exploring the Luberon in complete freedom, as the villages are scattered and public transport is limited. However, there are solutions for travellers without a car: local car hire, VTC, electric bikes for the more sporty, or a fixed stay in a village and exploring the surrounding area on foot. Bus services run from Avignon and Aix-en-Provence to the main towns.
Where can you find local produce from the Luberon?
The weekly markets are the best place to meet producers directly: Apt on Saturdays, Lourmarin on Fridays, Gordes on Tuesdays. The Maisons du Parc have a shop selling products with the “Valeurs Parc” label. Many wine estates and producers of honey, goat’s cheese and olive oil open their doors to direct sales. The village delicatessens also offer a fine selection of local produce.
In conclusion, visiting the Parc Naturel Régional du Luberon is much more than a simple tourist trip: it’s an immersion in an area where unspoilt nature meets an age-old cultural heritage. From perched villages ranked among the most beautiful in France to the ochre-coloured landscapes of the Colorado Provençal, from fragrant lavender fields to ancient cedar forests, every corner of the Luberon tells a story and invites contemplation. Whether you’re a keen walker, an art and architecture enthusiast, an epicurean gourmet or simply in search of Provençal authenticity, the Luberon will win you over with its diversity and unique way of life. Take the time to stroll through the colourful markets, taste the local wines against the setting sun, lose yourself in the cobbled streets: that’s how you’ll discover the true soul of this exceptional region. To help you prepare for your stay and discover Avignon, the gateway to the park, let yourself be guided by the Navaway audio tours, which will reveal all the secrets of this bewitching region.
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