Saignon
The Guardian of the Luberon
Located in the foothills Luberon Mountains above Apt is the lovely, peaceful village of Saignon adjacent to a large rock which commands the whole valley.
Less famous than its near neighbours Bonnieux, Lacoste and Ménerbes it is consequently much less busy. Equally as attractive however, it is a pleasure to stroll around the narrow old streets with their fountains, shaded squares, ornate doorways and the 12th Century Romanesque church.
Romanesque church at Saignon
It is well worth the climb to the top of the rock in order to enjoy the view of the Luberon Mountains, the Vaucluse Plateau, Mont Ventoux as well as the rest of the valley.
Footnote: While filming the TV version of Peter Mayle's 'A Year in Provence' the late actor John Thaw and his wife Sheila Hancock fell in love with the village and bought a house here.