Gordes Itinerary 14 Days: A Journey Through Provence's Jewel (2026)

Arrive in Gordes and settle into your accommodation. Spend the afternoon getting acquainted with the village. Wander through the labyrinthine cobblestone streets, discovering charming squares and hidden corners. The views of the Luberon Valley from the village edge are simply breathtaking. As evening approaches, find a spot at a local cafe to enjoy an aperitif and watch the sunset paint the sky in hues of orange and pink. For dinner, treat yourself to a meal at La Trinquette, a highly-regarded restaurant known for its delicious Provençal cuisine and intimate atmosphere. Be sure to book in advance to secure a table, especially on the coveted terrace. It's the perfect way to begin your Gordes adventure, immersing yourself in the local flavors and ambiance.

Today is dedicated to delving into the rich history of Gordes. Start your morning with a visit to the impressive Château de Gordes, a medieval fortress that stands proudly in the heart of the village. Explore its historic rooms and enjoy the art exhibitions often housed within its walls. From the chateau, you can enjoy more stunning views of the surrounding countryside. In the afternoon, escape the heat and venture underground into the Caves of the Palais Saint Firmin. This fascinating network of cellars and passages reveals a hidden side of Gordes, showcasing how villagers lived and worked in centuries past. The tour provides a unique insight into the village's history and ingenuity. For lunch, grab a delicious sandwich or pastry from Le Fournil de Mamie Jeanne.

Tuesday is market day in Gordes! Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of the weekly market, where you can find everything from fresh local produce and cheeses to handmade crafts and textiles. It's a feast for the senses and the perfect place to pick up souvenirs and ingredients for a picnic lunch. Enjoy the lively buzz of the market and interact with local vendors. In the afternoon, take a short drive to the Village des Bories, an open-air museum just outside of Gordes. This unique historical site features a collection of ancient dry-stone huts, offering a glimpse into the rural life of the region from centuries ago. It's a fascinating and educational experience for all ages.

Today, we visit one of the most iconic sights in Provence: the Sénanque Abbey. This beautiful 12th-century Cistercian monastery is nestled in a peaceful valley and surrounded by fields of lavender (in bloom from late June to early August). Take a guided tour of the abbey to learn about its history and the monastic life of the monks who still reside there. The serene atmosphere and stunning scenery make it a truly unforgettable experience. After visiting the abbey, spend the afternoon exploring the surrounding countryside. There are many hiking trails in the area that offer beautiful views of the valley and the abbey from different perspectives. In the evening, return to Gordes and enjoy dinner at Le Cercle Républicain, a charming cafe with a terrace offering spectacular views.

A short and scenic drive from Gordes brings you to the vibrant village of Roussillon, famous for its rich ochre deposits. Spend the day exploring this colorful village, where the buildings are painted in shades of red, orange, and yellow. Walk the Sentier des Ocres (Ochre Trail), a path that winds through the former ochre quarries, creating a surreal and stunning landscape. The colors are truly breathtaking and offer fantastic photo opportunities. After your walk, wander through the charming streets of Roussillon, browsing the art galleries and shops that showcase the work of local artists. Enjoy lunch at one of the village's many cafes, savoring the views of the ochre cliffs. Roussillon is another of the 'Plus Beaux Villages de France' and its unique character is a must-see.

Today is for exploring the wider Luberon Valley and its charming villages. Start with a visit to Ménerbes, another beautiful hilltop village with a rich history and stunning views. From there, continue to Lacoste, a village dominated by the ruins of the castle of the Marquis de Sade. The village is also home to a Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD) campus, which adds a creative and youthful energy to the historic setting. In the afternoon, drive to Bonnieux, a picturesque village with a beautiful old church at its summit. Climb to the top for panoramic views of the Luberon. Enjoy a relaxing afternoon exploring the village before heading back to Gordes. For dinner, consider trying one of the restaurants at the luxurious Airelles Gordes hotel for a special treat.

Today, we visit two unique and beautiful towns. Start your day at Fontaine-de-Vaucluse, a village famous for its powerful natural spring, the source of the Sorgue river. Walk along the river to the chasm where the water emerges from deep underground. The sheer volume and force of the water are impressive, especially in the spring. In the afternoon, head to L'Isle-sur-la-Sorgue, often called the 'Venice of Provence' due to the canals that run through its center. This charming town is famous for its antique shops and markets. Spend the afternoon browsing the many antique stores and art galleries, or simply relax by the water at a riverside cafe. On Sundays, the town hosts a large and famous antique market.

After a busy week of exploring, today is a day for relaxation and enjoying the beautiful surroundings of Gordes. You could spend the morning by the pool at your hotel, or perhaps indulge in a spa treatment. For a more active option, consider a hike or a bike ride in the countryside around Gordes. There are many trails to choose from, offering varying levels of difficulty and stunning views. In the afternoon, you could take a cooking class to learn the secrets of Provençal cuisine, or simply find a quiet spot in the village to read a book and soak up the atmosphere. In the evening, enjoy a leisurely dinner at a restaurant of your choice, perhaps trying a new dish or revisiting a favorite spot.

Today, we venture into the Forêt des Cèdres (Cedar Forest), located in the Petit Luberon. This beautiful forest was planted in the 19th century and is now a protected natural area. There are several well-marked walking trails through the forest, offering a peaceful and shady escape from the summer heat. The views from the edge of the forest over the Luberon Valley are spectacular. Pack a picnic and spend a few hours exploring the forest and enjoying the fresh air. It's a great activity for families and nature lovers. On your way back to Gordes, you could stop at one of the local wineries for a wine tasting. The Luberon is known for its excellent rosé wines.

The Luberon has long been a source of inspiration for artists. Today, we explore this artistic legacy. Start by visiting some of the art galleries in Gordes, which showcase the work of local and international artists. You might even find the perfect piece to take home as a souvenir. In the afternoon, you could visit the Musée Vasarely at the Château de Gordes, dedicated to the work of the Op Art pioneer Victor Vasarely, who lived in the village. Alternatively, you could take a drive to see some of the landscapes that inspired artists like Marc Chagall. The light and colors of Provence have captivated artists for centuries, and you'll see why.

The Luberon is a fantastic wine region, known for its crisp rosés and elegant red and white wines. Today is dedicated to exploring the local wineries and tasting their delicious creations. You can book a guided wine tour, or create your own itinerary and visit a few different wineries at your own pace. Some of the most well-regarded wineries in the area include Domaine de la Citadelle in Ménerbes and Château La Canorgue in Bonnieux (famous for being a filming location for the movie 'A Good Year'). Enjoy the beautiful vineyard landscapes and learn about the winemaking process from the passionate producers.

Today, we explore a different side of the Luberon, following the Calavon river. You can cycle or walk along the Véloroute du Calavon, a greenway that follows the path of an old railway line. It's a flat and easy route, perfect for a leisurely day of cycling and enjoying the scenery. Along the way, you'll come across the Pont Julien, a beautifully preserved Roman bridge that dates back to the 1st century BC. It's a remarkable piece of engineering and a testament to the region's long history. You can stop for a picnic by the river and admire the ancient bridge.

Take a day trip to the historic city of Avignon, located about a 45-minute drive from Gordes. Avignon was the seat of the Catholic Popes in the 14th century, and its magnificent Palais des Papes (Palace of the Popes) is a must-see. Take a tour of this vast Gothic palace and learn about its fascinating history. After visiting the palace, walk along the famous Pont d'Avignon (Pont Saint-Bénézet), a medieval bridge that once spanned the Rhône river. Explore the charming streets of the old town, browse the shops, and enjoy lunch at a traditional bistro. Avignon is a vibrant city with a rich cultural heritage, and it's a great contrast to the quiet villages of the Luberon.

On your final day, take one last stroll through the beautiful streets of Gordes. Enjoy a final Provençal breakfast at a local cafe, and perhaps pick up some last-minute souvenirs. Before you leave, drive to the famous viewpoint one last time to take in the magnificent panorama of the village and the Luberon Valley. It's a view you won't soon forget. Depending on your travel schedule, you could visit one last nearby village or attraction before heading to the airport or your next destination. Reflect on the incredible memories you've made during your 14 days in this enchanting corner of Provence.