Travel bucket list idea:
Gordes, Provence, France
Gordes’ famous ‘bories’ (stone igloo huts)
This picturesque hilltop village in Provence is renowned for its beautiful stone architecture, narrow cobblestone streets, and wondrous views of the Luberon Valley. The village is a visual delight with its ancient stone houses, a Romanesque church, and a Renaissance castle, making it a lovely place to wander, stopping to sip drinks at traditional cafes. There’s a lively artisan market on Tuesdays.
Another highlight of any visit here is the Village des Bories, a collection of ancient dry-stone huts built by shepherds and farmers between the 17th and 19th centuries. These unique ‘stone igloo’ structures served as homes, barns, and storage. The photogenic 12th-century Sénanque Abbey, surrounded by lavender fields, is also close by.
Gordes is about a 1.5-hour drive from Marseille, a 45-minute drive from Avignon and around an hour from Aix-en-Provence. Many guided tours will take you there, often as part of a wider tour of The Luberon. If you prefer to go independent, it’s straightforward to rent a car and self-drive. There is a designated parking area outside the village centre.
The ideal time to visit is from late spring to early autumn (May to October), when the weather is warm and sunny, enhancing the village’s scenic beauty. Summer months, especially July and August, are bustling with tourists and lively events – but things can get crowded. For a quieter experience with pleasant temperatures and blooming lavender fields, visit in May, June, or September. These months offer a perfect balance of vibrant landscapes and fewer crowds.
Our selection of the best Viator tours of this attraction or activity
Avignon
Price €80
Min age 0
Rating 4.62 / 5 [144 ratings]
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