Hilltop villages

Villages in Provence were often built nestled into the hillsides or on top of hills. Houses were built around the château, and crops and vineyards were planted alongside or in the plains. Time-worn stone, shady squares, fountains flowing with clear water, and seemingly eternal sunshine come together in these lovely hilltop villages which have fashioned the landscapes in Vaucluse.

There are villages which cover the entire hilltop, winding like snail shells around the castle or church. There are villages which lie along a single slope, streets built into the hillside on a parallel. And others which have grown up on the highlandslike Gordes village, spread across the rocky outcrop which was clearly conducive to settlement and expansion. The cool, narrow streets, the shady squares and graceful fountains all beckon visitors to relax and drink in the beauty, discover the talents at work in these villages, and sense the history and activity that have shaped both the architecture and the people. Enter the workshops of the tradesmen and artisans - give into the charm !

Six of the 7 villages ranked as “Most beautiful villages in France” are hilltop villages ! Explore Ansouis, Gordes, Roussillon and Ménerbes in the Luberon, Séguret in the Upper Vaucluse and Venasque in the Comtat Venaissin. The village of Lourmarin, also well worth a visit, developed in the plains at the base of the Luberon.

Provence Guide : Short breaks and holidays in Provence, South of France
Accomodation in Provence – Visits of Vaucluse in Provence – Short breaks in Provence – Activities in Provence