
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.
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.
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.

Follow Vincent van Gogh’s footsteps through Provence—from Arles to Saint-Rémy-de-Provence. Discover the landscapes that inspired The Starry Night and explore museums, trails, and villas that keep his light alive with Only Provence. […]

Discover how Only Provence makes last-minute villa bookings and extended stays effortless. From spontaneous getaways to month-long residencies, experience the comfort, care, and authenticity that define luxury travel in Provence. […]
Read More… from When Travel Plans Shift — And Provence Calls: A Guide to Last-Minute Villa Bookings

Discover the art of doing nothing in Provence. Learn how to embrace slow travel among vineyards, lavender fields, and sunlit villas. […]
Read More… from The Art of Doing Nothing: Embracing Slow Travel in Provence

From the limestone ridges of the Alpilles to the lavender-swept hills of the Luberon, Provence rewards those who wander on foot. Discover seven trails that […]
Read More… from Top 7 Hiking Trails in Provence with Breathtaking Views
- offering all comforts and amenities - pool, housekeeping, and chef services.
© 2026 Only Provence
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.
