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.
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| Gordes |
Gordes traces its origins to the Celtic people known as the Vordenses, who built their settlement atop a rocky summit as protection against invasion. This need for security, driven by centuries of conflict, gave rise to the hilltop village you see today.
In more recent history, the Vaucluse plateau surrounding Gordes became an active hub of the French resistance during World War II. On August 21, 1944, the village was bombed in retaliation by the German army, killing 20 residents - a sacrifice for which Gordes was awarded the War Cross with a silver star in 1948.
The Chateau of Gordes, which dates back to 1031, was rebuilt in 1525. The well-preserved and carefully restored building combines architecture from the Middle Ages and Renaissance era. The chateau now houses the tourist office and offers a cultural space for exhibitions.
Beyond its dramatic cliffside location, Gordes is renowned for the Senanque Abbey, a striking 12th century Cistercian monastery nestled in a nearby valley that is famously surrounded by vibrant fields of lavender.
The village is also known for the Village des Bories (an ancient settlement of unique dry-stone huts) and the hidden, labyrinthine subterranean oil mills found deep within the cellars of Saint-Firmin Palace.
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| Tourist shop next to entrance to Chapelle des Penitents Blancs (Chapel of the White Penitents) |
While much of the movie was filmed throughout the Luberon region, Gordes served as one of its most recognizable backdrops. The village's honey-colored stone buildings, narrow cobblestone streets, and dramatic hilltop setting perfectly captured the idyllic Provencal lifestyle portrayed in the film. Nearby vineyards, lavender fields, and country roads feature prominently, helping to create the romantic atmosphere that has inspired many travelers to visit the area.
Whether you're drawn by the breathtaking panoramic views of the Luberon Valley or the maze of ancient cobblestone streets, Gordes rewards every traveler 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, bakery, and the village church.
With three large bedrooms, three bathrooms, air conditioning, a chef's kitchen, and sunny terraces, it is an ideal base for couples, families, or friends exploring the region. From Sablet, you can easily visit the famous hilltop villages of the Vaucluse, the vineyards of the Cotes du Rhone, the Roman ruins of Vaison-la-Romaine, Mont Ventoux, Avignon, and the Dentelles de Montmirail.
After a day of sightseeing, return home to enjoy a glass of local wine on the terrace and experience the relaxed pace of life in a genuine Provencal village.
www.sablethouse.com
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