The 10 Most Picturesque Villages in Provence - Only Provence

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The 10 Most Picturesque Villages in Provence

Winding cobblestone streets, honey-hued stone houses, and shuttered windows draped in bougainvillea—Provence is home to some of the most enchanting villages in all of Europe. Each one is a destination in itself, steeped in charm, history, and postcard-perfect views.

For those dreaming of a luxury stay that captures the true spirit of the region, here are ten of the most picturesque Provençal villages, paired with the stunning villas you can call home nearby.

Gordes

Perched dramatically on the edge of the Vaucluse Plateau, Gordes is one of Provence’s most iconic and picturesque hilltop villages. Its striking position offers sweeping, panoramic views over the Luberon valley, where vineyards, olive groves, and lavender fields stretch to the horizon. The village itself is a blend of history and charm—narrow cobbled lanes wind between centuries-old stone houses, and at its heart stands an imposing château that anchors the town in its medieval roots. Whether you’re exploring the lively weekly market, dining al fresco at a sun-drenched café, or simply soaking in the golden light that bathes the village at sunset, Gordes captures the very essence of Provençal elegance and timeless beauty.

Roussillon

A kaleidoscope of reds, oranges, and ochres, Roussillon is one of the most visually striking villages in Provence. Perched atop one of the world’s largest ochre deposits, the entire town seems to glow with rich, earthy hues that shift with the light throughout the day. Its colorful facades and narrow, winding lanes exude charm and character, while local artisan shops and galleries celebrate the village’s deep artistic spirit. Roussillon has long drawn painters, sculptors, and creatives inspired by its natural palette and peaceful pace. Visitors can also explore the nearby Ochre Trail, a stunning walk through former ochre quarries that feels like stepping onto another planet. Whether you come for the colors, the art, or the quiet inspiration, Roussillon offers a vibrant and unforgettable retreat.

Lourmarin

Beloved by artists, writers, and intellectuals, Lourmarin is one of the most charming and sophisticated villages in Provence. Nestled at the foot of the Luberon mountains, it blends timeless Provençal beauty with an effortlessly chic atmosphere. The village is home to a magnificent Renaissance château that hosts cultural events, concerts, and art exhibitions, adding to its vibrant creative energy. Strolling through Lourmarin’s narrow streets, you’ll find an array of stylish boutiques, art galleries, and artisan shops, as well as bustling cafés that spill onto sunny terraces—perfect for people-watching and soaking in the local rhythm. The popular Friday market attracts visitors from near and far, offering a diverse range of goods, from gourmet foods to handmade crafts. With its cultural allure, striking architecture, and fashionable flair, Lourmarin offers a perfect mix of refinement, creativity, and Provençal soul.

Les Baux

Built into the dramatic limestone cliffs of the Alpilles mountains, Les Baux-de-Provence is one of the most striking and storied villages in all of France. With its commanding hilltop position, this ancient settlement offers sweeping views over vast stretches of olive groves, vineyards, and the rugged Provençal countryside. Steeped in history, the village is home to the impressive ruins of a medieval castle, once the stronghold of powerful lords who ruled the region. Wandering its narrow stone streets feels like stepping back in time—each turn revealing remnants of ramparts, ancient chapels, and hidden courtyards. Today, Les Baux is also renowned for its vibrant cultural scene, featuring the immersive Carrières des Lumières art exhibitions, which are held in former limestone quarries. With its breathtaking scenery, rich history, and unique blend of medieval mystique and modern creativity, Les Baux is an unforgettable highlight of any journey through Provence.

Ménerbes

Quiet, romantic, and wonderfully preserved, Ménerbes is a quintessential hilltop village that seems to exist outside of time. Perched along a narrow ridge overlooking vineyards, cherry orchards, and fields of lavender, Ménerbes captivates visitors with its timeless beauty and peaceful charm. Its stone houses, winding alleys, and shaded squares offer a glimpse into a slower, more poetic way of life. This unspoiled village has long attracted artists, writers, and dreamers—Pablo Picasso once kept a home here, and the author Peter Mayle famously brought Ménerbes into the global spotlight with A Year in Provence, chronicling the quirks and delights of village life. Despite its newfound fame, Ménerbes has retained its authenticity, with artisan shops, local wine producers, and a strong sense of community. Whether you’re sipping rosé on a sunny terrace or wandering its quiet lanes at dusk, Ménerbes offers a deeply romantic and grounded experience of Provence.

Eygalières

A true jewel of the Alpilles, Eygalières is a serene and sophisticated village that perfectly captures the soul of Provence. With its peaceful pace and timeless beauty, it has become a favorite retreat for chefs, winemakers, artists, and discerning travelers seeking authenticity and charm. The village is perched on a gentle hilltop, offering sweeping views of the surrounding olive groves, vineyards, and the craggy peaks of the Alpilles mountains. Eygalières’ weekly market is one of the best in the region, boasting a wealth of fresh produce, local cheeses, fragrant herbs, and artisanal delights. Its stone houses, shaded squares, and intimate cafés create a welcoming and unhurried atmosphere that invites long walks and lingering meals. Though quietly luxurious, Eygalières has remained unspoiled, with a strong sense of local pride and Provençal identity. Whether you’re savoring a glass of rosé on a sunny terrace or exploring the ancient chapels and ruins above the village, Eygalières offers a harmonious blend of refinement, tranquility, and natural beauty.

Saint-Rémy

Vibrant yet timeless, Saint-Rémy-de-Provence is a captivating blend of ancient history and contemporary Provençal charm. Nestled at the foot of the Alpilles mountains, this beloved village offers a rich tapestry of experiences—from exploring remarkably well-preserved Roman ruins at Glanum to wandering elegant boulevards lined with plane trees, chic boutiques, and inviting cafés. Saint-Rémy is also famously where Vincent van Gogh painted some of his most iconic works during his stay at the nearby monastery-turned-asylum, Saint-Paul-de-Mausole. The village’s weekly market is among the best in Provence, bursting with local produce, cheeses, flowers, textiles, and artisanal treasures. Though it hums with energy, Saint-Rémy has never lost its soulful, small-town feel. It’s a place where culture, beauty, and history collide—where you can savor a glass of rosé on a shaded terrace, browse contemporary art galleries, and walk in the footsteps of Roman emperors and world-renowned artists.

Bonnieux

With its winding terraced streets and striking twin churches, Bonnieux rises gracefully from the Luberon landscape like a stairway to the sky. This enchanting hilltop village is one of the region’s most picturesque, its stone houses stacked along the slope, each turn revealing panoramic views and timeless charm. At the very top, the 12th-century church known as the “Vieille Église” rewards visitors with breathtaking vistas across the valley, all the way to the iconic peak of Mont Ventoux. Bonnieux is also renowned for its elegant atmosphere, featuring art galleries, boutiques, and gourmet restaurants nestled along its charming cobbled lanes. Surrounded by vineyards, lavender fields, and cedar forests, it offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and cultural richness. Whether you’re exploring its history, savoring a long lunch in a sun-dappled square, or simply soaking in the views, Bonnieux is a village that lingers in the heart long after you’ve left.

Saignon

A hidden gem tucked away near the town of Apt, Saignon is one of the Luberon’s most quietly enchanting villages. Perched on a rocky outcrop, it seems to float above the valley below, bathed in the soft Provençal light that has inspired poets and painters for centuries. Saignon is a peaceful and poetic town, with cobbled lanes, ancient stone houses, and hidden gardens that invite slow wandering and quiet reflection. The village square, shaded by plane trees and anchored by a centuries-old fountain, is the perfect place to linger over a coffee or a glass of wine. At the village’s edge, a short walk leads to a panoramic viewpoint that opens onto a sweeping vista of the Luberon valley and the distant Mont Ventoux. Unlike some of its more touristed neighbors, Saignon remains blissfully under the radar, making it an ideal retreat for those seeking authenticity, tranquility, and a gentler rhythm of life.

Oppède-le-Vieux

Mysterious, slightly wild, and steeped in silence, Oppède-le-Vieux is one of the Luberon’s most hauntingly beautiful villages. Nestled against the rugged foothills and cradled by dense forest, it feels like a place suspended between the past and present. The village, partially in ruins, tells its story through ivy-covered stone facades, winding alleys, and crumbling archways. At its highest point stands the Church of Notre-Dame-d’Alydon, offering sweeping views of the valley below and the distant peaks beyond. Unlike many restored villages in the region, Oppède-le-Vieux retains a raw, untouched atmosphere, making it feel like a secret waiting to be discovered. Artists, dreamers, and wanderers are drawn to its poetic decay and quiet magic. With no tourist crowds or polished storefronts, the soul of the place remains intact, inviting slow exploration, contemplation, and a deeper connection to the enduring spirit of Provence.

Stay in Provence: Your Villa Awaits

Only Provence offers the largest curated collection of luxury villas in the region, from historic stone farmhouses to contemporary estates with sweeping views. Each property is hand-selected for character, comfort, and authenticity, with concierge services available to arrange everything from private chefs to guided tours.

Ready to experience the magic of Provence for yourself? Contact a Villa Rental Specialist today to begin planning your stay and find the perfect villa from which to explore.

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Jumping the Picket Fence Light Through the Cracks

Only Provence co-founder Lydia Dean writes about their experiences raising a family, building a business in Provence, and later combining the love of travel with giving back in "Jumping the Picket Fence”. In 2021, she published “Light Through the Cracks,” a continuation of her journey, much of which has been based in Provence. Both books are available Amazon, Amazon.uk, and Amazon.Fr.