Romantic Getaway to the Luberon Region

Arrival in Luberon: A Lavender-Scented Welcome

After a long journey from Montreal, Fatoumata and I finally arrived in the Luberon National Park. The air was thick with the scent of lavender, and the rolling hills promised an adventure. It was a sensory overload in the best possible way, and I couldn't wait to dive into everything this picturesque region had to offer.


Discover the enchanting Luberon National Park in Provence: a blend of stunning landscapes, hilltop villages, and rich biodiversity, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Cafe de France in Lacoste. Perched on a panoramic terrace, we enjoyed a simple yet satisfying meal while soaking in the stunning views of Bonnieux and the Luberon valley. The cafe had a cozy, family-friendly atmosphere, and I could already tell that the people here were warm and welcoming. It was the perfect way to start our exploration of the area. The panoramic views were stunning, stretching across the valley and painting a picture of the natural beauty that awaited us. We savored the moment, knowing that this was just the beginning of our Luberon adventure.

The best view comes after the hardest climb.

After breakfast, we set off to explore Luberon National Park. The park is a sprawling expanse of natural beauty, with hiking trails winding through forests, vineyards, and olive groves. We decided to take a leisurely stroll, enjoying the fresh air and the sounds of nature. The park is a haven for biodiversity, and we spotted a variety of birds and insects along the way. It was a welcome change from the hustle and bustle of city life, and I felt a sense of peace and tranquility wash over me. As we walked, Fatoumata and I talked about our hopes for the trip, and how excited we were to experience everything that Luberon had to offer. The sun was warm on our skin, and the scent of wildflowers filled the air. It was a perfect moment, and I knew that this trip would be one that we would cherish for years to come.

Next on our list was a visit to the famed Lavender Fields. As we drove, the landscape transformed into a sea of purple, stretching as far as the eye could see. The sight was simply breathtaking. The air was thick with the sweet, floral scent of lavender, and the buzzing of bees filled the air. We parked the car and wandered into the fields, feeling like we had stepped into a painting. Fatoumata and I took countless photos, trying to capture the beauty of the moment. We even bought a small bouquet of lavender to take back to our room, so we could continue to enjoy the scent long after we left the fields. As we walked through the lavender, I thought about my childhood in Mali, and how different this landscape was from the arid plains of my homeland. Yet, despite the differences, I felt a connection to this place, a sense of belonging that transcended geography and culture. Perhaps it was the shared human experience of appreciating beauty, or perhaps it was something more profound. Whatever the reason, I felt grateful to be here, to be able to share this moment with my wife, and to be able to experience the magic of Luberon.


Experience the enchanting Lavender Fields of Bonnieux, a breathtaking natural wonder in Provence, France, perfect for relaxation and stunning photography.

For lunch, we stopped at Bistrot le 5 in Ménerbes. The bistrot had a charming, rustic atmosphere, and the menu featured traditional Provençal cuisine. Fatoumata ordered the salade niçoise, while I opted for the boeuf bourguignon. The food was delicious, and the portions were generous. We sat on the terrace, enjoying the stunning views of the Luberon valley while we ate. The bistrot was bustling with locals and tourists alike, and the air was filled with the sounds of laughter and conversation. It was a lively, convivial atmosphere, and I felt like I was getting a true taste of Provençal culture. As we ate, we talked about our plans for the rest of the trip, and how excited we were to explore more of the region. We also talked about our children, Aminata and Ibrahim, and how much they would have loved this place. We promised ourselves that we would bring them back here someday, so they could experience the beauty of Luberon for themselves.


Experience authentic French cuisine at Bistrot le 5 in Ménerbes – where every meal is a celebration of local flavors and beautiful surroundings.

In the afternoon, we visited Epicerie du Luberon, a local shop known for its regional specialties. We sampled various cheeses, olives, and tapenades, each more delicious than the last. The shopkeeper was friendly and knowledgeable, and he shared stories about the local producers and their craft. We ended up buying several items to take back home with us, including a jar of truffle tapenade and a bottle of local olive oil. As we left the shop, I felt like I had gained a deeper understanding of the region's culinary heritage. The Epicerie du Luberon was more than just a shop; it was a celebration of local flavors and traditions. I knew that I would cherish the items we bought, and that they would serve as a reminder of our time in Luberon long after we returned home.


Explore the flavors of Provence at Epicerie du Luberon, where local produce, gourmet products, and artisanal delights come together in a charming grocery store.

For dinner, we had a reservation at La Bastide in Bonnieux. This Michelin-recommended restaurant promised an unforgettable dining experience, and it did not disappoint. The restaurant was housed in a beautiful old stone building, and the interior was elegant and refined. We were seated at a table with a view of the surrounding countryside, and the setting was simply magical. The menu featured modern Provençal cuisine, with an emphasis on fresh, local ingredients. Fatoumata ordered the grilled sea bass, while I opted for the roasted lamb. The food was exquisite, each dish a work of art. The flavors were complex and nuanced, and the presentation was impeccable. The service was attentive and professional, and the sommelier helped us choose a bottle of local wine that perfectly complemented our meal. As we ate, we talked about our day, and how grateful we were to be here, experiencing this incredible moment together. La Bastide was more than just a restaurant; it was a celebration of Provençal gastronomy, a testament to the region's rich culinary heritage. I knew that this was a meal that we would remember for the rest of our lives.


Experience exquisite French cuisine at La Bastide, where tradition meets modern elegance amidst stunning Provençal landscapes.

As the day drew to a close, we reflected on our first day in Luberon. From the charming villages to the stunning natural landscapes, every moment was filled with beauty and wonder. We are already looking forward to tomorrow, where we plan to visit the Village des Bories and Moulin à huile d'olive & Domaine Bastide du Laval. And perhaps end the day with a drink at Bar Coquillade. As I drifted off to sleep, I couldn't help but smile, knowing that our romantic getaway to the Luberon region was off to a perfect start.

The air in Luberon is so clean and crisp, a welcome change from the city. Even though I love my life in Montreal, there is something special about reconnecting with nature. It reminds me of my roots, of the simple life I once knew in Mali. And it makes me appreciate the opportunities I have been given, the chance to explore the world and share my experiences with others. I am grateful for this journey, for the chance to create memories with my wife, and for the opportunity to inspire others to travel and discover new cultures.