Gordes France is one of the most beautiful and peaceful towns in all of the Luberon area in the Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur region of France. When you close your eyes and imagine a picture-perfect Provence filled with endless lavender fields, crisp rosé, and medieval hamlets, you’re thinking of the tiny town of Gordes. This tiny hilltop town that was made famous from the film, “A Good Year,” is known as part of the “Plus Beaux Villages de France,” or the most beautiful villages in France. Gordes France is romantic, it’s historic, and it’s one of the most picturesque towns in all of Provence.

Fast Facts

  • Location: Luberon, Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur, France

  • Best Times to Visit: Spring & Fall, July to see the lavender fields in bloom

  • Market Day: Tuesday

  • Who Should Visit: Romantics, foodies, people looking to slow things down

History of Gordes

Gordes has been the jewel of Provence since the 11th century, but prior to that, it was a settlement in the Roman period. The city was built on top of a hill, 340 meters above the valley floor, overlooking the Luberon. Gordes France has survived through the Middle Ages, Renaissance, and World War II, where it played its part as a resistance center to occupied France. The calades, or narrow cobblestone streets, have allowed the city to escape from the vicious Mistral wind that sweeps into the region of Provence.

Accommodations in Gordes

  • AirBnb: There are a plethora of AirBnb’s in Gordes for a fraction of the cost of a 5-star hotel. If you’re visiting in the summer months, we highly recommend booking an AirBnb with a pool because the weather is extremely hot.
  • La Bastide de Gordes: Airelles Gordes or La Bastide de Gordes is a luxury 5-star hotel in the heart of Gordes. Part of the Luxury Hotels of the World, this hotel is perched in the perfect place to overlook the town of Gordes and the Luberon valley. If you’re looking for luxury in Provence, Airelles Gordes is the place for you.
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The pool at our AirBnb was a savior on a hot day

  • Les Bories & Spa: Part of the Small Luxury Hotels of the world, this beautiful 5-star hotel epitomizes Luberon luxury. Les Bories & Spa is a luxurious five-star hotel that is usually about half the price of Airelles Gordes and about a 25-minute walk to town.

Things to do in Gordes

  • Shop the Gordes Market: The Luberon is known for its fabulous local markets where you can buy food and crafts from local artisans. The Gordes Market is on Tuesday’s and it’s a must see. Walk through the town and buy (and taste) local cheeses, produce, olives, lavender, art, clothing, herbs and spices, meats.
  • Visit the Abbey de Senanque: The Senanque Abbey or Notre-Dame de Senanque is an iconic abbey and the town of Gordes, which was founded in 1148. This beautiful abbey is also home to one of the most beautiful lavender fields in all of Provence (blooming in Late June & July).
  • Snap sunset photos at the Gordes Viewpoint: If you’ve seen photos of Gordes before, they’re most likely taken at the Gordes Viewpoint. This viewpoint is about a 10 minute walk from town and it is best photographed at sunrise and sunset.
  • Drinks at La Bastide de Gordes: La Bastide de Gordes is the most prestigious hotel in Gordes and one of the most luxurious hotels in all of France. Even if you’re not splurging on a hotel room, treat yourself to an aperitif on the hotels beautiful terrace.
  • Chateau de Gordes: The Chateau de Gordes or Gordes Castle is located in the heart of Gordes. This castle was built in the 11th century and rebuilt in 1525.
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Spices at the Gordes Market

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The view from the Gordes Viewpoint

Restaurants in Gordes

  • La Renaissance: You may recognize this restaurant as the restaurant in the film, “A Good Year.” Located in the center of Gordes, Le Renaissance is the perfect place to people watch while noshing on local specialties like duck. This was the best service we received in all of Provence.
  • L’Outsider: This laidback restaurant serves fresh and local foods in downtown Gordes. Diners can choose from a vaulted room or a beautiful terrace.
  • Les Bories: Les Bories & Spa has a fine dining restaurant, Les Bories. While this restaurant recently lost its Michelin-star, it still has delicious, gourmet food.
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The lamb at Les Bories

  • La Trinquette: La Trinquette is a delicious restaurant in downtown Gordes. In business since 1967, this laidback restaurant is known for its fresh seafood and local cuisine.