The Luberon is a massif of the Pre-Alps situated in Provence, straddling the departments of the Vaucluse and the Alpes de Haute Provence, 70km north of Marseille. Since 1977, the mountain range is located in the heart of the Regional Natural Park of the Luberon. The Luberon has become a spot emblematic of Haute Provence. Thanks to the many hilltop villages, chateaux, historic monuments and festivals, it attracts many tourists in quest of natural sites and cultural events.
ISLE-SUR-LA SORGUE
A town famous for its antique and flea markets (especially at week-ends).
Near Isle-Sur-La Sorgue there are a few typical Provençal villages not to be missed.
GORDES
Village up on a hill, famous for its bories (ancient stone houses). Just before the entrance of the village, you will find on your left hand-side, down in the valley, the ABBEY DE SENANQUE (important Romanesque abbey surrounded by lavender fields which blossom at the end of June and July).
ROUSSILLON
East from Gordes you will join the roads D156 and D169 to Roussillon which is a small village famed for its ochre quarries. These stunning rock formations are unique to the area. If you are interested in potteries, you can visit the Fiedler workshop on the D149 towards Bonnieux.
BONNIEUX
On the way to Bonnieux, along the D149, you will come to the PONT JULIEN which was built by the Romans more than 2000 years ago (for the best view, you must walk along a little side path). At the top of the village, you will discover an old church (visit on request through the tourist office) which dates back to the 12th century. From there you will have a very good view on the Luberon valley.
LOURMARIN
Continue on to Aix-En-Provence on the D36-D943, along which you will arrive at Lourmarin, classified as one of the most beautiful villages in France. The Château is open every day. To the East of Lourmarin is the Château of Ansouis, which is not to be missed.
