2 DAYS TO
explore the Lubéron
A Weekend in Luberon: Rediscovering the Magic of Travel Post-Covid
After what felt like forever, we finally embarked on our first getaway since the pandemic turned life upside down. With international borders still complicated and travel restrictions looming, we decided to explore the treasures of our own backyard: France. Spoiler alert—it did not disappoint.
Our destination? The stunning Luberon region, known for its jaw-dropping natural beauty, contrasting landscapes, and some of the most picturesque villages in the country. It seemed like the perfect cure for our travel blues. We booked a cozy Airbnb in Monteux, just outside Avignon. Not only was it budget-friendly, but its central location was ideal for everything we planned to explore.
Let’s dive in, shall we?
Day 1
Gorges, Wild Boars, and Red Sands
We arrived late Friday night, just in time to check into our apartment, grab a quick dinner at the local Chinese called Palais d’Asie, which was incredible, and, of course, we toasted to our holiday with a celebratory drink. Then it was lights out because we had big plans and an early alarm set for the next day.
Stop 1: Gorge de la Nesque
First up: the stunning Gorge de la Nesque, part of the legendary Tour de France route. The drive alone was a showstopper—winding roads offering breathtaking views of mountains folding into one another like layers of green velvet. We couldn’t resist an impromptu stop to soak it all in.
When we finally reached the viewpoint, we were greeted by an unexpected (but very welcome) sight: wild boars! They lounged around as if they were the ones on holiday, basking in the sun without a care in the world.
As for the gorge itself? WOW. Standing at the center of an S-shaped bend, we marvelled at the sheer depth of the gorge and the dramatic drops. It’s the kind of place that makes you feel small in the best possible way, surrounded by rugged peaks that stretch as far as the eye can see.
Stop 2: Monieux
Next, we drove to Monieux, a quaint Middle aged village perched on a hilltop, home to the chapel of Saint Michel, which was constructed in then12th Century. It’s the kind of place that feels like a snapshot from a storybook, with narrow streets, artisan shops, and—because it’s France—very pricey restaurants. Choosing to save our euros, we found a food cabin by a nearby lake offering delicious, locally-sourced meals at much friendlier prices.
Stop 3: Roussillon
Our third stop was the vibrant village of Roussillon. The village that is regarded as one of the most beautiful is France is famous for its ochre deposits that give the landscape and buildings a striking red hue. As we approached, the scenery transformed—suddenly, it felt like we’d driven into another country entirely.
Roussillon itself is a small, but a village packed with a distinctive personality. The red-sand buildings perched on the hilltop made every turn a new photo opportunity. Each corner we rounded revealed yet another picturesque scene that practically begged to be Instagrammed.
The village offers charming restaurants and cafes, as well as lookout points with panoramic views of the ochre hills. It’s hard to believe this is still France—it feels like you’ve stepped into a fairytale.
Stop 4: Colorado Provencal
Just a short drive from Roussillon lies Rustrel, home to the Colorado Provencal. Picture this: deep red sands, towering rock formations, and landscapes straight out of a Wild West movie.
We chose the longest walking trail, and it was worth every step. Along the way, we wandered through dunes, cliffs, and even remnants of old railway tracks, reminders of the site’s history as an ochre quarry. Thankfully, much of the second half of the trail winds through forest, providing shade and plenty of scenic surprises.
By the time we finished, we were ready for a shower and some downtime. We headed back to Monteux before venturing out to Carpentras for dinner.
DAY 2
Markets, Castles, and Cooling Off
Refreshed and ready for round two, we started Day 2 bright and early.
Stop 1: Isle-sur-la-Sorgue
Our first destination was Isle-sur-la-Sorgue, famed for its massive Sunday market, which also happens to be the second-largest antique market in Europe. The town is centred around a charming little river, adding to its postcard-perfect vibe.
The market was a feast for the senses—vintage treasures, handmade crafts, and (of course) endless food stalls offering everything from pastries to regional specialties. The only downside? It gets very busy, and parking can be a challenge. But with a bit of patience, we managed to find a spot and enjoyed soaking up the bustling atmosphere.
Stop 2: Le Barroux
Feeling peckish, we stumbled upon the hidden gem of Le Barroux. This quiet hilltop village, with its fairy-tale vibes and a castle at its center, felt like a step back in time.
Le Barroux isn’t a major tourist destination, which adds to its charm. You won’t find crowds or souvenir shops here—just narrow cobblestone streets, quaint houses, and an air of tranquility.
Fun fact: the castle has a fascinating (yet dark) history. During World War II, it was used as a Nazi stronghold and was mistakenly attacked by their own forces, leading to its partial destruction.
Stop 3: Vaison-la-Romaine
Our final stop was Vaison-la-Romaine, where we’d heard the river was the perfect place to cool off. And boy, did it deliver!
This medieval village looks like it belongs in Game of Thrones, with its precariously perched buildings, dramatic cliffs, and a majestic arch bridge spanning the river. The water was crystal clear and shallow, perfect for wading, relaxing, and soaking in the scenery.
After cooling off, we ventured uphill to explore the village’s topmost point. Halfway up, we couldn’t resist stopping at a charming creperie with a terrace offering dreamy views of the river below. Fuelled by crepes, we continued to the top, where we were rewarded with a stunning panorama—easily one of the trip’s highlights.
Reflections on Luberon
Our weekend in Luberon was the perfect way to reignite our love for travel. While it might not have been as exotic as some of our past adventures, it reminded us that beauty and wonder are often closer than you think.
The Luberon region gave us everything we’d hoped for: breathtaking landscapes, charming villages, mouthwatering food, and, most importantly, that spark of wanderlust we’d been missing. Sometimes, you don’t need to cross oceans to find magic—it’s waiting right in your own backyard.
Until the next adventure…
