As you approach from the south, Gordes rises majestically against the vibrant blue sky, with its sunbaked sandstone and golden rock. It’s no wonder this village is recognized as one of the most beautiful in France. Gordes is not just a picturesque vantage point overlooking the Luberon Valley, it’s also a popular tourist destination.
The village gained popularity over the last two decades, especially after being featured in Peter Mayle’s novels like “A Year in Provence” and “A Good Year,” which was also adapted into a film. Today, it’s considered a chic spot in Provence, attracting movie stars and affluent Parisians who stay in luxurious hotels and spas. However, this upscale reputation doesn’t detract from Gordes’ charm, although it might influence prices. Fortunately, you control your spending.
The impressive castle that dominates Gordes dates back to the 10th century and was updated during the Renaissance. During the 12th-century Wars of Religion, Gordes, with its solid fortifications perched on a rock, resisted attacks by the infamous, brutal Huguenot leader Baron des Adrets. Frustrated, he vented his rage on the nearby Abbey of Senanque, a picturesque site surrounded by lavender fields, which is also worth visiting. A 10-kilometer hike will take you through beautiful Provençal landscapes past the abbey and bring you back to Gordes in time for a well-deserved lunch.
Gordes is a small, charming village that you can explore quickly. It can get quite crowded in the summer, making parking a challenge—even off-season, parking costs around 4€. We recommend visiting in April, May, September, or October when the weather is still pleasant, and the crowds are smaller. If summer is your only option and parking is full, consider parking at the Abbey of Senanque and hiking the 3 kilometers to Gordes. It’s a nice walk that will help you build an appetite, which you can satisfy at a restaurant overlooking the Luberon Valley.
The heart of Gordes is its castle, now serving as the City Hall and an exhibition space, but the true allure lies in the village itself. Wander the narrow streets, climb the steep stairs between tall houses, discover beautiful old doorways and arcades, and enjoy stunning views of the valley and Luberon mountains.
If the summer heat gets too intense, explore the cool, cave-like passages of the Caves du Palais Saint Firmin. For a small fee, you can delve into these underground halls and stairways, designated as a Historic Monument. Nearby, the Village de Borie, also a Historic Monument, is an open-air museum featuring 30 stone huts dating back to the Bronze Age. These charming structures are distinctive throughout the Provençal landscape, reflecting the region’s rich heritage.
Gordes is one of seven “Most Beautiful Villages in France” in the Vaucluse department, along with the nearby red village of Roussillon and the artist-favored Ménerbes. These three villages dot the hilltops of the Luberon Valley, each visible from the vantage points of the others.
Other enchanting Provençal spots to explore nearby that haven’t yet received official “Most Beautiful Villages” status include Oppède le Vieux with its ruins, Lacoste and the castle of Marquis de Sade, L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue with its water wheels, and the lovely Bonnieux, where the movie “A Good Year” was filmed. To discover the filming locations, you can refer to a guide produced by the small tour operator, The Luberon Experience.
The Luberon Valley, with its charming villages, cypress tree-lined roads, and culinary delights, makes Gordes a perfect base for cultural adventures and scenic road trips in one of Provence’s most captivating regions.
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