Romantic Getaway to the Luberon Region

Echoes of the Past, Colors of the Earth

Today was a day where history and nature intertwined, painting a vivid picture of the Luberon region. Fatoumata and I set out to explore the Château de Lourmarin and Le Sentier des Ocres, two locations that promised a deep dive into the area's rich heritage and stunning landscapes. It was a day filled with architectural marvels, natural wonders, and the simple joys of Provençal life.


Experience the majestic Château de Lourmarin, a stunning Renaissance castle in Provence, combining history, art, and breathtaking landscapes.

Our day began in the best possible way, with a delightful breakfast at JU-Maison de Cuisine in Lourmarin. Having read rave reviews about this Michelin-starred restaurant, I was eager to experience it firsthand. The ambiance was cozy, and the food was simply divine. Fatoumata and I shared a selection of pastries and strong coffee, fueling up for our day of exploration. I couldn't help but feel a sense of pride, knowing that places like this are contributing to the culinary richness of France.


Experience exquisite haute French cuisine at JU-Maison de Cuisine in Bonnieux - where every dish is a culinary masterpiece.

Stepping Back in Time at Château de Lourmarin

The first stop on our itinerary was the Château de Lourmarin. As we approached, the castle stood majestically against the clear blue sky, a testament to centuries of history. The structure is very impressive. It is the first Renaissance castle in Provence, built in the 15th and 16th centuries by the d'Agoult family. The oldest part of the Château was built around 1480.

We decided to explore the castle on foot. As we wandered through its many rooms and corridors, it was impossible not to feel transported back in time. The Château has a rich history, having been saved from ruin in 1920 by the industrialist Robert Laurent-Vibert. I could almost picture the lords and ladies who once walked these halls, their stories etched into the very stones around us.

To walk through the Château de Lourmarin is to walk through the pages of a history book, each stone whispering tales of centuries past.

One of the most striking features of the Château was its architecture. The blend of Gothic and Renaissance styles was truly remarkable, a visual representation of the passage of time and the evolution of artistic tastes. We climbed the winding staircases, marveling at the intricate details and the sheer craftsmanship that went into creating such a magnificent structure.

From the terraces, we were treated to breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside. The village of Lourmarin spread out below us, a patchwork of terracotta roofs and winding streets. In the distance, the Luberon mountains rose majestically, their peaks softened by the summer haze. It was a scene of such beauty that I wanted to capture it and keep it with me forever. It reminded me a bit of Goundam back in Mali, where the views of the Niger River always gave me a sense of peace and wonder.

A Colorful Journey to Le Sentier des Ocres

After immersing ourselves in the history of Château de Lourmarin, we set off for our next destination: Le Sentier des Ocres in Roussillon. The drive was a scenic one, with rolling hills and vineyards stretching as far as the eye could see. As we approached Roussillon, the landscape began to change, the earth taking on a reddish hue that grew more intense with each passing mile.

Le Sentier des Ocres, or the Ochre Trail, is a natural wonderland, a place where the earth is painted in a kaleidoscope of colors. The ochre cliffs and formations are the result of centuries of mining, the iron oxide in the soil creating a vibrant palette of reds, oranges, and yellows. It was a sight unlike anything I had ever seen.


Explore Le Sentier des Ocres, a stunning hiking area in Roussillon, where vibrant ochre cliffs meet rich history and diverse wildlife in a picturesque setting.

We chose the longer trail, eager to fully immerse ourselves in this unique landscape. As we walked, we were surrounded by towering cliffs of ochre, their colors intensified by the afternoon sun. The trail wound its way through the formations, offering new perspectives and breathtaking views at every turn. I felt like we were walking on another planet, a world of vibrant hues and otherworldly beauty.

Fatoumata was particularly taken by the experience. She loves natural wonders, and Le Sentier des Ocres certainly did not disappoint. We spent hours exploring the trail, taking photos and simply soaking in the atmosphere. It was a truly unforgettable experience, one that I know we will both cherish for years to come.

A Refreshing Break and Evening Delights

After our hike, we were in need of a refreshing break. We stopped at Brasserie St André in Lourmarin for a drink. The atmosphere was lively, and we enjoyed chatting with some of the locals, learning more about the region and its culture. It's these simple interactions that often make a trip so memorable, connecting with people and sharing stories.


Experience the essence of Provence at Brasserie St André, where authentic French cuisine meets stunning Luberon views.

As evening approached, we made our way to L'AUBERGE DES CARRIERES LUBERON for dinner. This restaurant came highly recommended, and it did not disappoint. The ambiance was warm and inviting, and the food was exquisite. I savored every bite, appreciating the flavors of Provence and the skill of the chef.


Experience authentic French cuisine at L'Auberge des Carrières, where every dish tells a story of Provence's rich culinary heritage.

The day had been a long but fulfilling one. From the historical depths of Château de Lourmarin to the vibrant colors of Le Sentier des Ocres, we had experienced the best of what the Luberon region has to offer. As we headed back to our accommodation, I felt a sense of contentment, knowing that we were creating memories that would last a lifetime.

Tomorrow, we plan to visit Fort de Buoux and the Abbaye Notre-Dame de Sénanque. I'm particularly excited about the Abbaye, as I've heard it's a place of great serenity and beauty. And Fatoumata is keen to do some shopping at L'Ornate. I'm sure it will be another day filled with exploration and discovery, and I can't wait to share it with you all. Until then, au revoir from the beautiful Luberon!

It's amazing how much history and beauty can be packed into a single day. The Luberon region continues to surprise and delight, and I'm grateful for every moment of this journey. Back in Montreal, life can sometimes feel monotonous, but here, every day is an adventure. And that, my friends, is why I travel. It's not just about seeing new places; it's about opening your mind and experiencing life in all its vibrant colors.

I'm also grateful for having Fatoumata by my side. Sharing these experiences with her makes them all the more special. We laugh, we explore, and we support each other every step of the way. Travel is not just an individual pursuit; it's a shared journey, a way to strengthen bonds and create lasting memories. As we continue our adventure, I look forward to sharing more stories and insights with you all. Stay tuned for more tales from the Luberon!

Before I sign off, I wanted to share a thought that's been on my mind today. As we explored the Château de Lourmarin, I couldn't help but reflect on the importance of preserving our cultural heritage. These historical sites are not just relics of the past; they are a link to our ancestors, a reminder of the struggles and triumphs that have shaped our world. It's our responsibility to protect them, to ensure that future generations can learn from them and appreciate their significance. Let's all do our part to preserve the treasures of the past, so that they can continue to inspire and enlighten us for years to come.