Nestled in the heart of Provence in southern France, the Luberon is a true gem that offers a unique experience for outdoor enthusiasts, history lovers, and culture seekers.
If you’re looking for a place where the beauty of nature blends perfectly with the charm of medieval villages, then you’re in the right spot. Get ready to discover the Luberon Regional Nature Park and fall in love with this corner of Provence!
The natural richness of the Luberon Park
Unique landscapes
The Luberon is a mountainous forest massif stretching over 300 km², nestled in the heart of Provence between the Mediterranean coast and the Southern Alps. It consists of the geographical Luberon (the Petit Luberon and the Grand Luberon, separated by the Combe de Lourmarin) and the Luberon Regional Nature Park, which is an administrative entity whose boundaries slightly exceed those of the massif.
The Luberon spans the departments of Vaucluse and Alpes-de-Haute-Provence. It is characterized by its well-preserved biodiversity and Mediterranean climate. It alternates between valleys, hollows, plains, plateaus, forests, and vast vineyards.
This environmental setting fosters particularly diverse fauna and flora. Bordered by two rivers, the Calavon and the Durance, the massif's highest point reaches an altitude of 1,125 meters.
A variety of activities
This natural terrain offers a wide range of activities for families, friends, or couples. From endurance sports to fun outings, everyone will find something to enjoy based on their level and preferences. Examples of outdoor activities in the Luberon include:
• Via ferrata in Cavaillon: a course suitable for all ages. Adventurers at heart can opt for the more challenging route.
• Hiking or biking on marked trails in the massif, ranging from simple and short to longer and more difficult.
• Donkey rides, ideal for outings with children.
• Canoeing or kayaking down the Sorgue River.
• Hot-air balloon rides at dawn over the Luberon Regional Nature Park.
• Mini-golf in Lourmarin.
• Karting in Monteux.
• And more.
If you're traveling with children, you can also visit the Billy-Billy educational farm in L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue, the butterfly farm in Velleron, the Wave Island water park, and the Spirou amusement park in Monteux.
Culture and heritage in the heart of the Luberon
The perched villages of the Luberon
The Luberon Regional Nature Park also embodies culture in the colors of Provence. The perched villages are symbols of the region and promise timeless visits.
In Gordes, a village classified among the most beautiful in France, let yourself be transported through its steep alleys and admire the stunning view over the valley. Below, the Sénanque Abbey and its lavender fields await you for a magical moment.
Continue your journey and step back in time to the Middle Ages in Oppède-le-Vieux, enjoy a coffee on a sunny terrace in Ménerbes, explore galleries and local shops in Bonnieux, or walk the ochre trail in Roussillon.
All these typical villages are close to each other, making it easy to visit several in one day!
Art and history cities
The Luberon and its surroundings also boast famous towns like L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue, a must-visit for antique lovers and local traditions. The Sorgue River winding through the streets will captivate you and offer a 100% Provençal experience.
In the Alpilles massif, close to the Luberon, other villages are worth visiting to complete your stay:
• Saint-Rémy-de-Provence, with its pedestrian streets, shops, and local restaurants;
• Les Baux-de-Provence and its incredible Carrières de Lumières, where immersive shows combining music and visuals are scheduled throughout the year;
For urban discovery enthusiasts, you can head to Aix-en-Provence, the city of Cézanne, or Marseille, the famous Phoenician city. Prefer relaxation? Take a moment to unwind on the Mediterranean beaches or one of the stunning calanques.
Provençal cuisine and markets
Provençal markets are famous for their intoxicating flavors and colors. You won’t be disappointed strolling through the fragrant aisles of these markets:
• L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue and Coustellet on Sunday mornings;
• Gordes on Tuesday mornings;
• Saint-Rémy-de-Provence on Wednesday mornings;
• Roussillon on Thursday mornings;
• Bonnieux and Lourmarin on Friday mornings;
• Apt on Saturday mornings, classified as an “exceptional market” since the 12th century.
The markets are an opportunity to discover local producers and buy regional products; prepare yourself Provençal-style appetizers!
Wine tastings in the Luberon
Wine lovers can also indulge in tastings directly at the vineyards or wine cellars. The Domaine de la Citadelle in Ménerbes, Domaine des Garriguettes in Châteauneuf-de-Gadagne, or the Coustellet wine cellar invite visitors to savor the wines of the Luberon.
For a more immersive experience, the Maison Moga in L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue, Art & Wines Estate in Saumane, or Domaine de Fontenille in Lauris organize workshops and activities around wine (oenology, cellar tours, etc.). Discover the finest flavors of the Luberon!
Accommodation in the Luberon Regional Nature Park
Finding a vacation rental in the Luberon is no small feat. Our agency, specializing in short-term rentals and located in the heart of the Luberon, can guide you in your search.
We have selected high-quality accommodations, with impeccable comfort and services ensuring an ideal location for exploring the Luberon with ease.
The Luberon Regional Nature Park is a place where nature, culture, and history blend harmoniously to create an unforgettable experience. Don’t waste any more time; come explore, learn, and recharge in the Luberon—we’ll take care of your vacation accommodations!
From Provençal farmhouses to modern villas and charming historic homes, you’ll have no trouble finding your perfect vacation rental.
Have questions? We’re here to assist you and provide advice on our properties!