Gordes
A striking hilltop village between the Luberon & the Vaucluse
Facing the Luberon and clinging to the side of the Vaucluse Plateau stands the magnificent village of Gordes. This Provençal gem is deservedly one of the Plus Beaux Villages of France.
A Refuge and a Centre of Resistance
Like many hilltop villages in Provence, Gordes was a place of refuge throughout the centuries after the Romans left. During WW2 it served as a centre for the French Resistance and in 1944 suffered reprisals by the Germans.
White stone houses, arranged in tiers and accessible only by a maze of ‘calades’ are a feature of this village. At the top of the village stands a splendid Château which has its origins in medieval times but was restored during the Renaissance. The Château can be visited and the upper floors have works by the contemporary artist Pol Mara. The village was also home to Marc Chagall.
Don’t miss the fascinating Sénanque Abbey nearby, especially if the lavender is in bloom (June/July).
Tip: The best view of the village is from the D177 route de Cavaillon as you approach the village. Take care – very restricted parking and there is a deep ravine at the side of the road.