Landscapes of the Luberon Walk

Today we’ll take you to mediaeval St-Saturnin on the edge of the Plateau de Vaucluse. Start the day with a stroll through its narrow streets up to the sprawling chateau ruins which overlook the village and offer your first superb views over the entire Luberon valley. Then head south through classic Provencal countryside – vineyards, cherry orchards, fig trees, olive groves and fragrant lavender – enjoying a magnificent panorama across the Apt plain. Pass the village of Gargas, home to the vast Ochre Mines of Bruoux and continue through pine forest along ochre-red tracks, before descending into Roussillon. (Staying at Les Sables d’Ocre, Breakfast only)

Roussillon is famous for its streaked ochre cliffs and is the starting point of the Ochre Trail. It’s also considered one of the Plus Beaux Villages of France, with the winding streets full of brightly coloured houses in wonderful shades of red, pink, orange and yellow. You could, perhaps, visit the perched village of Bonnieux, full of art galleries, pavement cafes and little restaurants just perfect for lunch. (Staying at Les Sable d’Ocres, Breakfast only)

You set off today through vineyards, passing the Domaine de Tara wine estate before following footpaths and quiet country lanes with fabulous views south across the Luberon valley and north to the perched village of Gordes. After a short climb along pine-scented footpaths, you’ll descend into Les Imberts where your hotel awaits with a swimming pool and spa. (Staying at Mas de la Senancole, Half Board)

Just a few kilometres away is the picturesque hilltop village of Gordes, one of the region’s most famous and another of France’s Most Beautiful Villages. Made up of wonderfully photogenic houses, terraces and gardens, Gordes is dominated by its Renaissance chateau, which also houses a museum. Explore its streets, crammed with cafes, restaurants and shops. (Staying at Mas de la Senancole,Half Board)

You begin today following quiet lanes past olive groves and vineyards before arriving at the mediaeval village of Cabrieres-d’Avignon with its golden stone houses and old castle (now a private residence). You’ll then head up into the hills under the shade of beautifully scented pine forests, past a section of the 27km-long Mur de la Peste, a wall built by locals in 1720 in a vain attempt to stop the spread of the Plague. Continue over the north edge of the valley for spectacular views of the whole Luberon. Descending, the views switch to look north across the Vaucluse, as you head into Fontaine-de-Vaucluse. (Staying at Hotel du Poete, Breakfast only)

Today you can explore the village, home to the Fountain of the Vaucluse (the biggest spring in France and the fifth largest in the world). You’ll also find the crumbling ruins of the castle of the Bishop of Cavaillon, a museum about the Resistance and a number of lovely cafes and restaurants. Or why not visit the ’island city’ of L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue, surrounded by the clear waters of the Sorgue River? With its many riverside shops and cafes it makes a good choice for lunch. (Staying at Hotel du Poete, Breakfast only)

Ascend through pine and oak forest, then out across the Plateau de Vaucluse for stunning views of Mont Ventoux and the jagged peaks of the Dentelles de Montmirail. Head down through cherry orchards to popular St-Didier; perhaps enjoy a drink before your transfer to Pernes-les-Fontaines. (Staying at Hotel l’Hermitage, Breakfast only, evening meal at a local restaurant)

Please note that September is the hunting season in Provence. We provide reflective day-glo jackets for customers wishing to walk through the woods/forests on the main hunting days (typically two per week); however alternative road routes will also be offered.