
Provence has a long list of well-visited hill top villages —Gordes, Bonnieux, Menerbes, Lacoste to name a few. There are, however, a handful of lesser known villages that have all charm and authenticity yet have a serenity the others left at the tourism wayside decades ago. Saint Saturnin les Apt is one, only minutes drive from some of Provence’s top sites, remains a true hidden gems of the region—quiet, colorful and armed with all the necessities visitors need as they explore this magical area of France.
| Region: | Luberon, Provence |
| Known For: | Medieval castle ruins, cherry orchards, and authentic village life |
| Must-See: | The 11th-century castle ruins and the dam (barrage) above the village |
| Proximity: | 10-minute drive from Apt; 20 minutes from Gordes |
| Peak Season: | April (Cherry blossom season) or July (Lavender) |
| Best For: | Hikers, history buffs, and those seeking a peaceful retreat |
As you approach the village you immediately notice the stunning ruins of a castle presiding majestically over the village and valley below. Make your way up to the remains of the castle, dating back to the 11 century on a medieval foot path dotted with wild flowers. Once at the top you can’t help but gasp at the beaut a fantastic place to discover Saint Saturnin. Make your way down, through the ancient cobble stone streets, through arched alleyways with small hidden wooden doors. There is something about “ Saint Sat,” as the locals call it, that transports you back in time more easily than some of the more touristy villages with their more constant cacophony of street sounds. In Saint Sat, you can still hear trickling foundations and the wind whistling through the tall grasses and alongside fainter sounds of daily life.
There are two very good restaurants listed below plus 2-3 more casual restaurants for pizzeria, salad and grillades.
L’Estrade: Typically local cuisine with ample vegetarian options.
6 Avenue Victor Hugo, 84490 Saint-Saturnin-les-Apt, Apt France. 33 4 90 71 15 75
Amazing local favorite with views of the Luberon. They have a wonderful fresh spin on local produce. and a great wine list.
Most wineries are closed on Sundays and during lunch hours.
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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.
