The Luberon You Haven’t Seen: A Guide to Lesser-Known Villages
Discover Peaceful Villages and Scenic Landscapes Far from the Crowds of Provence’s Golden Triangle
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I’ve known Provence all my life, yet it was only as an adult that I truly got to explore its depths, from the Alpilles to the Comtat plains, and of course, the Luberon.
Among Provence’s natural regions, the Luberon stands out as one of the most popular with visitors.
But, as you might imagine, it’s easy to think the area is overrun with tourists and, sometimes, it does feel that way.
Thankfully, knowing the Luberon as I do, I can confidently tell you that even in the height of summer, there are peaceful corners that remain blissfully free from the crowds.
If you’re after tranquillity, you can’t go wrong visiting the Luberon in the shoulder seasons — May, June, September, or October are simply ideal times to explore.
That said, if you do find yourself there in peak season, you might want to steer clear of what’s known as the “golden triangle” of Gordes, Roussillon, Bonnieux, Lacoste, and Ménerbes — all undeniably beautiful but undeniably popular as well.
Instead, I’d like to introduce you to ten villages that retain their quiet charm even in the busy months, ten spots I’m sure you’ll fall for.
These lesser-known Luberon gems await those in search of an authentic, unhurried Provence.
The Luberon’s Lesser-Known Gems
The Luberon is a diverse and captivating stretch of Provence, known for its rolling vineyards, stunning limestone cliffs, and the quiet, timeless beauty of its villages.
Why the Luberon Captivates All?
The Luberon, beloved by French author Marcel Pagnol and a wartime refuge for Samuel Beckett, has long captured the hearts of artists, writers, and travellers.
British author Peter Mayle famously celebrated this area with unreserved admiration in his "Year in Provence" series.
Nestled around 70 km north of Marseille, the Luberon stretches between the Alpes de Haute Provence and Vaucluse départements.
This region, about 60 km long and 5 km wide, is crowned by the Grand Luberon’s peak, Le Mourre Nègre, reaching 1,125 metres.
The landscape is naturally diverse, a fact acknowledged by its designation as a Natural Regional Park.
It includes the Petit Luberon near Cavaillon, Apt, and Lourmarin, as well as the Luberon Oriental, with elevations ranging from 280 to 976 metres.
Chalky soils, a dry Mediterranean climate, and rivers like the Calavon and Durance nourish a unique ecosystem where vineyards, olive groves, almond trees, and wildflowers thrive.
The Luberon’s flora and fauna blend Alpine and Mediterranean influences, creating an irresistible landscape for painters, ramblers, and nature lovers alike.
Uncovering the Northern Side of the Luberon
For this journey, I’ve chosen to focus on a specific part of the Luberon — the area nestled between Carpentras and Apt.
It’s a region filled with picturesque villages, each offering its own distinct charm, unhurried pace, and a glimpse into authentic Provençal life.
Of course, the Luberon extends far beyond this pocket.
South of the Luberon mountain, particularly in the Pays d'Aigues, are yet more villages well worth visiting.
East of Apt lies a wilder part of the Luberon, sometimes untouched by mass-tourism.
But for now, I’ve narrowed it down to this northern side, where each village on my list has its own tranquil character and a touch of that rare Provence that locals treasure.
I visited each of these villages during my latest trip to Provence last autumn, and I’ve included several of my own photos throughout this article.
Let’s start with Auribeau.
1.Auribeau
Auribeau may be small, but it packs a lot of charm into its winding streets and quiet corners.
Nestled above the Calavon valley, this lesser-known village offers a real escape from the bustling world.
With its modest stone houses and quiet lanes, Auribeau is ideal for a peaceful stroll or a stop on a bike ride through the Luberon mountains.
There’s a simplicity here that’s incredibly refreshing — it’s Provence at its most unspoiled, where you can listen to the birds, feel the breeze, and enjoy the gentle pace of village life.
👉 Learn more about Auribeau on our website.
🎦 Watch my guided tour of Auribeau
2. Buoux
Buoux is a dream for history buffs and nature lovers alike.
Known for its ancient fortresses and the breathtaking cliffs surrounding it, Buoux has an almost mythical quality.
The ruins of Fort de Buoux, with its stone steps carved into the rock, transport you back to a time when this fortress protected the region from invaders.
The landscape here is wild and dramatic, with rugged cliffs and forested trails that draw climbers and hikers.
Buoux feels like a place where nature and history come together, creating an atmosphere that’s both awe-inspiring and tranquil.
👉 Learn more about Buoux on our website.
🎦 Watch my guided tour of Buoux
3. Castellet-en-Luberon
Castellet-en-Luberon is one of those rare spots where you feel like you’ve discovered a true escape.
Set away from the main roads, it’s a quiet village surrounded by vineyards, fields, and olive groves.
Its stone houses, charming fountains, and narrow streets make it perfect for wandering and enjoying the simple beauty of Provençal life.
Castellet has a timeless quality, a place where the views seem to stretch forever, and the pace of life is deliciously slow.
It’s an ideal retreat for those wanting a slice of authentic Provence, where every corner feels untouched by time.
👉 Learn more about Castellet on our website.
🎦 Watch my guided tour of Castellet-en-Luberon
4. Cabrières d'Avignon
Cabrières d’Avignon is a village with layers of history woven into every stone.
Here, you’ll find ancient ramparts, the ruins of a medieval castle, and the ‘Mur de la Peste,’ a 17th-century wall built to protect the region from the plague.
Despite its history, Cabrières is far from sombre; its narrow lanes are filled with charm, with flowers spilling over the walls, and a peaceful square that feels made for an afternoon coffee.
It’s a place where history and tranquillity coexist effortlessly, and you can easily imagine village life carrying on here just as it did centuries ago.
👉 Learn more about Cabrières d'Avignon on our website.
🎦 Watch my guided tour of Cabrières d'Avignon
5. Goult
Goult is one of those villages that surprises you with its understated elegance.
Unlike some of its better-known neighbours, it has resisted the spotlight, preserving its quiet charm.
At its heart lies a maze of narrow streets, honey-coloured stone houses, and shady squares that feel untouched by time.
Climb to the top, and you’ll find the 17th-century windmill and stunning panoramic views over the Calavon Valley and Monts de Vaucluse.
It’s a perfect spot to pause and let the Provençal light work its magic.
For me, the beauty of Goult lies in its ability to make you feel like you’ve stepped into a hidden corner of old Provence.
👉 Learn more about Goult on our website.
🎦 Watch my guided tour of Goult
6. Joucas
Joucas is one of those places where time seems to slow down.
With its terraced gardens, rustic fountains, and twisting streets lined with stone cottages, it’s a village for wandering and simply taking in the beauty.
Nestled in a hillside overlooking the Luberon Valley, Joucas offers views that are nothing short of mesmerising.
As you stroll through, you’ll come across small art galleries, hidden corners with blooming lavender, and ancient stairways leading you up to even better views.
Joucas has a charm that invites you to linger — a place to lose track of time and enjoy a slower rhythm.
👉 Learn more about Joucas on our website.
🎦 Watch my guided tour of Joucas
7. Oppède-le-Vieux
Perched on a hill, Oppède-le-Vieux feels like a village lost in time.
Its stone houses, partly reclaimed by nature, and the hauntingly beautiful ruins of a medieval castle and church give it an almost mythical air.
The climb up to the church is steep, but the reward is worth it — panoramic views over the Luberon and a sense of timelessness.
Walking through Oppède-le-Vieux, you get the feeling you’re touching a piece of history, a village where the soul of Provence feels incredibly present.
It’s a quiet place, ideal for those who appreciate an air of mystery and solitude.
👉 Learn more about Oppède on our website.
🎦 Watch my guided tour of Oppède-le-Vieux
8. Saignon
Saignon is a village that captivates at first sight.
Located on a hilltop, it offers some of the best views in the Luberon, with a sweeping vista over the Apt Valley.
Saignon has a unique charm, from its medieval church and ancient washhouses to its inviting cafés and artisan shops.
At the top, you’ll find the rocky lookout point that gives Saignon its character — a perfect spot to take in a sunset.
Wandering through its streets, you can feel the layers of history, from Roman times to the present, and it’s a village that leaves a lasting impression.
👉 Learn more about Saignon on our website.
🎦 Watch my guided tour of Saignon
9. Saint-Saturnin-lès-Apt
Saint-Saturnin-lès-Apt is a hidden gem where ancient ruins meet breathtaking landscapes.
This hillside village is marked by the ruins of its medieval castle, perched high above, offering sweeping views of vineyards, olive groves, and the valley below.
Walking through the village, you’ll encounter charming stone houses, narrow passageways, and a quiet that feels worlds away from busier tourist spots.
The reservoir just below the castle is a delightful spot to pause and appreciate the natural beauty.
Saint-Saturnin-lès-Apt is perfect for those who love a bit of history with their views, where each corner tells a story of Provence’s past.
👉 Learn more about Saint-Saturnin on our website.
🎦 Watch my guided tour of Saint-Saturnin-lès-Apt
10. Viens
Viens is a small, medieval village northeast of Apt that seems untouched by the centuries.
It has retained much of its original fortifications, and as you enter through its ancient gate, it feels as though you’re stepping back in time.
The narrow streets wind through stone houses, archways, and hidden courtyards, with wildflowers blooming along the walls.
There’s a rugged, authentic feel to Viens that makes it stand out, a place where you can imagine village life carrying on just as it did hundreds of years ago.
It’s a quiet, unpretentious spot that feels like a well-kept secret of the Luberon.
👉 Learn more about Viens on our website.
🎦 Watch my guided tour of Viens
As a Conclusion
As you can see, the Luberon is full of hidden gems waiting to be discovered.
Each village on this list offers something unique — whether it’s breathtaking views, ancient ruins, or the simple, quiet charm that defines Provence.
Exploring these lesser-known spots gives you a chance to experience the Luberon in a different way, away from the crowds and at a slower pace.
But I know there are even more delightful villages out there.
Do you have any favourite spots in the Luberon that I haven’t mentioned?
(I know I could have talked about Rustrel, Murs, Saint-Pantaléon or Lioux !)
I’d love to hear about your discoveries and recommendations in the comments!
