Menerbes villa: all about Gordes, Provence

About Gordes

If the Luberon were a country, Gordes would be its capital. This is the Parthenon of Provence, an imposing, enchanting village that has always attracted its share of attention because it is just so damned picturesque.

Inevitably, Gordes is officially one of The Most Beautiful Villages in France.

It's not just the stunning view of Gordes as you approach it - Gordes is also a pleasure to explore from within.

There are several restaurants and cafes, from simple to refined; some bakeries and food stores; and a thriving arts scene.

Street cafes and restaurants in Gordes.

Market day is Tuesday mornings, in the village square, where you can stock up on the best local produce.

The village is dominated by its church and castle, ancient symbols of the fight against invading armies.

Today the castle is home to the Pol Mara museum, a contemporary Flemish painter who lived in Gordes.

Provencal colours.

Gordes market day is Tuesday.

Walking round Gordes is a stroll into the past.

Just outside Gordes is the medieval monastery l'Abbaye de Senanque. This is quite possibly the most photographed monastery in the world because in July and August the flowering lavender fields around it are so spectacular mean you cannot walk past it without shooting off a roll of film.

Senanque is also much more interesting than your average monastery because it is a proper working monastery and you can explore almost all of it. The monks make honey, lavender oils and liqueurs.

See my recommended books and films about the Luberon and Provence by clicking here.

Also next to Gordes is a mysterious village of stone, beehive-shaped huts called bories. The village des bories has been around for many centuries, and is known to have been inhabited until the early 1800s.