Ménerbes is the archetypical Luberon village perched on a bluff projecting from the Luberon’s north side. Set amongst vineyards and orchards, this Plus Beau Village stands proud suggesting the formidable stronghold this once was.

Captured by Calvinists during the Reformation, the villagers held off 12,000 Catholic troops for over a year. A more recent invasion came from tourists who flocked to the village after the publication of Peter Mayle's best-selling book ‘A Year in Provence’ set near here.

Arty visitors

At the western end of the village check out the small 13th century citadel which held the catholic troops at bay and the Château du Castellet, home to the expressionist painter Nicolas de Stael for a while. Picasso and Albert Camus were also regular visitors.

The village and its 16/17th century architecture makes for a very interesting stroll. Enjoy the views of the Vaucluse Plateau and Mont Ventoux to the north and the Luberon Mountains to the south.

Don’t miss: the Musée de Tire-Bouchon or Museum of the Corkscrew located on the Cavaillon road as you leave Ménerbes.