5 Reasons to Visit Gordes, a Luberon Village Where Time Almost Stands Still

Perched dramatically on the southern edge of the Vaucluse Plateau in Provence, France, Gordes is widely regarded as one of the most beautiful villages in France. With a current permanent population of around 1,661, though that number swells significantly during the summer, this hilltop village captivates visitors with its honey-colored limestone houses that cascade down the hillside, offering sweeping views of the Luberon Valley.

Whether you’re drawn by the breathtaking panoramic views of the Luberon Valley or the maze of ancient cobblestone streets, Gordes rewards every traveller who makes the journey. Perched a little over 1,100 feet above the valley floor, the village is so fiercely protected that all new buildings must be built of stone and only terracotta roof tiles are permitted.

If you are planning a visit to Provence, our home in the medieval village of Sablet offers the perfect combination of authentic Provencal charm and modern comfort. This beautifully restored 17th-century stone house is located in the heart of one of Provence’s most picturesque wine villages, just steps from cafes, restaurants, a bakery, and the village church. Please read Michel’s original article here.

Photo Credit ©Michel Augsburger

5 Reasons to Visit Gordes

#1 Stone Structures

Located 1.5 kilometres outside of Gordes, the Village des Bories, registered as a national historic monument in 1977, is worth a stop. Here, you’ll find a collection of restored dry-stone structures that once formed an 18th-century village called “Hameau des Savournins.” Some of these buildings are large enough to stand in, yet others you can barely enter. The bories are interesting because they show a variety of architectural styles, even though the builders all worked with the same natural stone. These huts (les cabanes) served many domestic functions: animal shelters, villagers’ homes, bakehouses, a silkworm factory, and grain storage. Don’t miss the reference library with artifacts collected from Gordes and the surrounding area. 

Village des Bories – Photo Credit ©Perfectly Provence

#2 World War II Connection

During WWII, the French resistance movement was active in southern France, including the Luberon. The terrain surrounding the Luberon massif made it possible to traverse parts of the valley undetected. In addition, the Vaucluse plateau was suitable for aircraft landings and supply drops. Bombed on August 21, 1944, by the German army, killing 20 of Gordes’ residents. In 1948, Gordes was awarded the War Cross with a silver star in memory of those who sacrificed their lives.

Read About Jean Moulin, the Resistance Leader

#3 There’s a Castle 

The Château de Gordes (historic monument since 1902) stands as a captivating blend of medieval and Renaissance architecture. Constructed in 1031, the castle underwent substantial Renaissance enhancements in 1525. At the time, the Rambaud de Simiane family integrated refined domestic spaces and elegant Renaissance windows into its robust medieval framework. Notable features include a grand spiral staircase and a monumental fireplace in the Hall of Honour. 

Throughout its history, the château has served multiple communal roles, functioning as a prison, granary, and military post, rather than a private residence. It received full Monument historique designation in stages, with the fireplace noted in 1902 and the entire château in 1931. Today, the Château de Gordes operates as a vibrant cultural venue, hosting art and photography exhibitions. Visitors can explore its historic halls daily, with specific visiting hours throughout the year.

#4 A Monastery

Minutes from Gordes is the l’abbaye Notre-Dame de Sénanque, a Cistercian abbey dating from the 12th century. Located in a small valley, the Romanesque-style structure has stood the test of time and natural elements. Donations from the wealthy Agoult Simiane de Gordes family and lords of Venasque funded the Sénanque Abbey’s construction. Geoffroy de Venasque’s remains are in a tomb inside the Abbey. The monks used agriculture, animal husbandry, and real estate to fund the abbey.

Abbey of Sénanque near Gordes. Photo credit ©Paul Shawcross

“The Abbey owned four mills, seven barns, a hospital in Arles, several houses in L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue, Cavaillon, Carpentras and Marseille, a farm in Maussane, and a hospice in Pernes-les-Fontaines, where a street still bears the name Sénanque. From Mont Ventoux to Sisteron, the Abbey’s herds had grazing rights.” ~ Abbey de Sénanque website

Lavender rows frame the Cistercian monastery, so during peak lavender season, the Abbey is a mass of people. Before the lavender plants, it was a cemetery for the monks who lived and practiced at the Abbey. However, the Abbey is a lovely place to visit, and this part of the Luberon is magical for hiking.

Abbaye Notre-Dame de Sénanque
84220 Gordes

Reserve in advance for guided visits (in French) several times a day or a self-guided option with a “HistoPad.” 

#5 Tuesday Morning Market

Full day Bandol & Cassis Discovery Wine Tour from Marseille

Begin your journey in the medieval village of Le Castellet, perched elegantly atop a wooded hill overlooking lush vineyards. Next, venture into the renowned Bandol wine region.

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Michel and Shirley

Michel and Shirley, live in wine country, in Windsor, California. They have a full family with two beautiful daughters and five amazing grandchildren. Michel's day job is as CEO of Chancellor Health Care, a company which provides housing and services to older adults.

Previously a co-owner of a popular French bistro called Bistro des Copains located in Western Sonoma County California. The Bistro was closed in early 2015, after nine years!

In 2008, after searching for years and visiting many houses they bought a 17th century stone village house in the medieval village of Sablet which is in the Vaucluse region of Provence France.

Please read about the Sablet House (available for rent) and follow their blog Our House in Provence.