There is something truly special about Provence—the scent of herbs in the air, golden sunlight painting the stone villages, and the slow, soul-nourishing rhythm of life. But Provence is not just one thing—dig below the surface and you will find that each village has its own unique character and spirit. So how to choose the right one for your holiday?
Whatever your heart and soul are longing for, Provence’s villages will no doubt provide—is it romance, shopping or artistic inspiration? Are you seeking physical adventure or a historical deep dive? Here’s a quick guide to help you find your way to your perfect Provence village, and some of our favorites.
For the Creative Soul: Roussillon, the Artists’ Paradise
Roussillon is a dream destination for artists, offering a stunning palette of colors and landscapes that spark creativity. Famous for its striking ochre cliffs, the village is awash in shades of red, orange, and gold, providing endless inspiration for painters, photographers, and sketch artists. The dramatic contrast between the earthy hues, the deep blue Provençal sky, and the lush green countryside creates a visually dynamic setting.
For the Chic Traveler: Lourmarin is The Place to Be
Lourmarin is effortlessly stylish, known for its casual yet chic boutiques, lively markets, and elegant cafes. It’s simply a treat for the senses—everything you set your eyes on feels like Provence perfection, which is why it is officially recognized as one of “Les Plus Beaux Villages de France” (The Most Beautiful Villages in France).
What helps makes this Lourmarin hosts various cultural events throughout the year, such as the Summer Music Festival at the Château de Lourmarin, evenings where and the Marché des Créateurs, which showcases local artisans.
If you love shopping for local fashion, sipping coffee in a sun-drenched square, and soaking in Provence’s naturally elegant yet laid back vibe, this village is the place to be. Don’t miss the lively Friday market or an evening aperitif at one of its stylish wine bars.
For the Hopeless Romantic: Gordes is a Dreamy Escape
Wandering through Gorde’s winding streets, artists will find charming ateliers, galleries, and artisan workshops showcasing local talent. The nearby Ochre Trail, with its surreal, canyon-like formations, offers a unique opportunity to study natural pigments in their raw form. Whether capturing the vibrant scenery on canvas or simply soaking in the artistic energy, Gordes is a haven for creative souls.
Perched dramatically on a hill, Gordes captivates with its golden-stone buildings cascading down the slopes, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the Luberon Valley. Wandering through its cobblestone streets, past ancient stone houses and charming squares, feels like stepping into a fairy tale. Every corner reveals a postcard-perfect scene, inviting you to slow down and savor the romance of the moment. Whether in the golden hours of morning or the twilight of evening, this light gives Gordes an almost ethereal charm.
Beyond the village, even the landscape unfolds like a painting—lavender fields in full bloom scent the air with their sweet perfume, while vineyards and olive groves stretch into the distance, ideal for a leisurely stroll or an intimate picnic.
As evening falls, Gordes invites you to indulge in cozy restaurants with candlelit terraces serving exquisite Provençal cuisine, of course enjoyed with a glass of local wine
Whether you’re meandering through medieval alleyways, toasting under a starry sky, or watching the sun dip behind the Luberon hills, Gordes is the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable romantic escape.
For the History Buff: St-Rémy-de-Provence and Nearby Les Baux-de-Provence
St-Rémy, one of the oldest towns in Provence, is home to the ancient Roman site of Glanum, where visitors can explore well-preserved ruins, including a triumphal arch and a mausoleum dating back to the 1st century BC. The town’s winding streets are steeped in medieval charm, with historic chapels, elegant mansions, and lively squares that have remained largely unchanged for centuries.
Just a short drive away, Les Baux-de-Provence offers a dramatic glimpse into the past with its towering medieval fortress perched atop a rocky plateau. Once a powerful stronghold during the Middle Ages, the Château des Baux ruins provide sweeping views over the Alpilles mountains and tell tales of battles, knights, and noble dynasties. The village itself is a beautifully preserved maze of cobblestone streets, ancient stone houses, and centuries-old churches, transporting visitors back in time.
For the Sporty Adventurer: Bonnieux, the Gateway to Exploration
Bonnieux, perched on a hill in the heart of the Luberon, is the perfect village for those who love to hike, bike, and explore. Its scenic trails wind through lush cedar forests, rolling vineyards, and fragrant lavender fields, offering breathtaking views at every turn. Cyclists can challenge themselves on the winding roads leading to nearby hilltop villages, while hikers can trek the historic paths that connect Bonnieux to landmarks like the Pont Julien, a Roman bridge over 2,000 years old. With its mix of nature, history, and charming Provençal streets to wander, Bonnieux is an outdoor lover’s paradise.
For the Treasure Hunter: L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue, the Shopper’s Paradise
L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue is a shopper’s paradise, especially for lovers of antiques, art, and unique finds. Known as the “Venice of Provence” for its canals and charming waterfront, this town is home to one of the largest antique markets in France. With over 300 permanent antique dealers and bustling Sunday markets, visitors can browse an incredible selection of vintage furniture, rare books, artwork, and collectibles.
St-Rémy is also famously connected to Vincent van Gogh, who spent a year at the Saint-Paul-de-Mausole asylum, painting some of his most iconic works, including The Starry Night. History lovers can walk in his footsteps while discovering the town’s deep cultural and artistic legacy.
Beyond antiques, the town’s boutiques offer stylish Provençal textiles, handcrafted pottery, and gourmet local specialties like olive oils and lavender products. Art lovers will also appreciate the many galleries showcasing contemporary and classic works.
Whether treasure hunting in a quaint shop or exploring the famous biannual International Antiques Fair, L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue is a must-visit for those who love shopping with character and charm.
The Bottom Line Though—You Really Can’t Go Wrong…
In all honestly, one of the best things about staying in Provence is that you really can’t go wrong when choosing a village to base yourself in—all of the top destinations are within easy reach of each other. No matter where you stay you’ll be immersed in the magic, surrounded by stunning landscapes, rich history, good food and wine and authentic Provençal charm.
Rent a Luxury Villa in Provence
At Only Provence, we are dedicated to helping you discover the best that this region has to offer- with villas near or within the village of Isle sur La Sorgue. Our selection of hand-selected luxury villas alongside our 15+ year history in the regions make us the safest and most knowledgeable agency to plan your stay. We can also refer you to our local partners who will plan itineraries ensure that your visit is both enriching and unforgettable.
