Contributor blog post by Caroline Longstaffe: What is it that consistently draws people to Provence and to the Luberon in particular, that special ‘je ne sais quoi’ which make this region so utterly captivating? Aside from its natural beauty, perhaps its enduring appeal is, that it remains one of the …

Generally, summer is a time of festivals and music all over France. It is best to check the local guides for details as there is plenty to see in the way of art and music in Provence. If you let Provence carry you away, you might find yourself Dancing in …

Contributor blog post by Vaucluse Dreamer: As I mentioned in my last post there are a number of lovely cycle rides that can be taken from the end of the Veloroute du Calavon, towards Cereste and beyond. Having sat down with a neighbour she spent an hour poring over the map, …

Contributor blog post by Vaucluse Dreamer: The Véloroute du Calavon is a great off-road cycle path that runs the length of the petit-Luberon from near Cavaillon to beyond Apt. Built on the bed of an old railway track it offers a well-maintained, vehicle-free, flat route through some of the most …

Contributor blog post by David Taylor: Le Carillon in Goult, opposite the church is a friendly, smart restaurant with an a la carte menu or fixed price at 36€ or 48€ which covers three courses and an amuse bouche . There is a good wine list from the local area …

Check out the Luberon views high up on the hill in the village of Banon. It is a great place for a hike or lunch, and home to the fastest dog in France, Dabir a Saluki. If you are lucky enough to be there in lavender season enjoy the brilliant shades of …

The tranquil village of Saignon perched high on a hill above the town of Apt is a quintessential French village. From the cobblestone streets winding their way past colourful shutters, intricate doorways, gorgeous fountains, and an ancient lavoir (washhouse) to the rock of Saignon high above, this beautiful village is …

Nestled in the heart of Provence, you will find a true Hidden Gem – Château de Mazan. The former residence of the Marquis de Sade, an 18th Century French aristocrat, politician and writer who was infamous for his outrageous, libertine lifestyle, this stunning Château is an ideal destination for a relaxing …

Twenty years ago, my husband, daughter, and I rolled into Marseille on the high-speed train from Paris.  If I recall correctly, the Aix-en-Provence TGV station had not yet been built. We rented a car and drove to Aix-en-Provence, where we would spend several nights before moving to Lourmarin, the small …

Thanks to a very generous friend, my family and I own an oak tree in Provence. Nestled in the thickly wooded hills of the Luberon between Lourmarin and Cadenet, is a large organic farm called Les Pastras (which means “the pastures,” in Langue d’Oc, the old Provençal language). For details …