Luberon - the heart of Provence (8 days)

Begin your Provençal adventure in the enchanting town of Isle sur la Sorgue, often called the Venice of Provence for its picturesque canals and vibrant waterside ambiance. After settling into your selected hotel (or similar), immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere of the renowned Sunday market, where local flavors and colors abound. Wander through charming streets lined with antique shops, inviting cafés, and riverside restaurants. The gentle flow of the River Sorgue surrounds the town center, creating a serene backdrop for your first evening in Provence. Enjoy your overnight stay in Isle sur la Sorgue.

After breakfast, set out for Fontaine de Vaucluse, a village famed for its mesmerizing emerald spring, the source of the Sorgue River. Take in the beauty of this natural wonder before strolling through cedar forests and along the historic Plague Wall, a centuries-old stone barrier. Enjoy a picnic of local delicacies amid the tranquil landscape. Your journey continues over gentle hills to the hilltop village of Gordes, celebrated as one of France’s most beautiful villages. Spend the night in Gordes, savoring the unique charm and panoramic views.

A morning transfer brings you to Goult, where your walk begins through the scenic Calavon Valley. Pass by rustic stone farmhouses, lush vineyards, and fragrant orchards en route to the artistically restored village of Lacoste. Pause at a local café and explore the evocative ruins of the Marquis de Sade’s castle. Continue to Bonnieux, perched high on a ridge and immortalized in literature. Wander its lovely squares and climb the ancient steps to the 12th-century church for sweeping views of the Luberon. Overnight in Bonnieux at your selected hotel (or similar), with breakfast included.

Today’s hike leads you across plateaus dotted with truffle oaks and elegant stone villas. After crossing the Col du Pointu, you enter the Grand Luberon, following a scenic path through oak forests to the historic Buoux Castle and the 12th-century Chapel Sainte-Marie. Descend via a winding donkey path into the peaceful Aiguebrun Valley, where your unique accommodation awaits at Auberge des Seguins (or similar), a rustic retreat steeped in history and Provençal tradition. Enjoy a communal dinner of local specialties and a restful night in this tranquil setting.

Embark on a circular walk through the cool Aiguebrun Gorge to the medieval Fort de Buoux, a remarkable fortress blending Celto-Ligurian, Roman, and medieval architecture atop dramatic cliffs. Experience the tranquility of Sivergues, a tiny hamlet with just a handful of homes. Ascend to the Luberon crest for breathtaking vistas stretching from the Alps to the Mediterranean, perfect for a scenic picnic. Return to Buoux via a secret staircase, enjoying another night at your charming accommodation with breakfast, picnic lunch, and dinner provided.

After a traditional Provençal breakfast, follow the Aiguebrun River past towering limestone cliffs and ascend to the Plateau des Claparèdes, where lavender fields and truffle oaks abound. Arrive in the medieval village of Saignon, home to the evocative ruins of three ancient castles. Continue your journey to Apt, a lively town renowned for its vibrant markets and local delicacies. Settle in for the night at your selected hotel (or similar) in Apt, with breakfast included.

A short transfer returns you to Saignon, from where you traverse the Calavon Valley to the spectacular ochre quarries of Rustrel, famed for their dazzling palette of reds, yellows, and browns. Marvel at this unique geological wonder, a feast for the senses. Return to Apt, celebrated for its candied fruits and bustling Saturday market. As evening falls, relax with a glass of local rosé and reflect on your week of discovery. Overnight in Apt, with breakfast included.

Savor a leisurely breakfast before exploring Apt’s renowned Saturday morning market, a vibrant showcase of local produce and crafts. Afterward, a transfer returns you to Isle sur la Sorgue, where your unforgettable Provençal journey concludes.