Romantic Getaway to the Luberon Region

Finding Serenity in Luberon's Embrace

Today was a day of exploration and discovery, a gentle reminder of why Fatoumata and I chose Luberon for our romantic getaway. We traded the hustle of Montreal for the tranquil beauty of this region, and today's journey into nature's embrace was exactly what we needed. It's days like these that make me appreciate the slower pace of life, the simple joys of walking hand-in-hand with my wife, and the beauty of the world around us.

Our day began with a delightful breakfast at La Terrasse in Goult. The morning air was crisp and clean, carrying the scent of fresh pastries and strong coffee. I enjoyed a simple yet satisfying breakfast of a croissant and café au lait, while Fatoumata savored a pain au chocolat. It was the perfect start to a day filled with exploration.


Discover La Terrasse: A charming French-Mediterranean restaurant in Goult offering exquisite local flavors and stunning views.

Exploring Les Gorges de Véroncle

After breakfast, we set off to Les Gorges de Véroncle, a hidden gem recommended by one of the locals. The drive there was scenic, winding through narrow roads lined with vineyards and olive groves. As we approached the gorges, the landscape transformed into a dramatic display of limestone cliffs and lush greenery.


Discover the dramatic beauty and ancient history of Les Gorges de Véroncle near Gordes, where stunning cliffs meet the remains of historic watermills in the heart of the Luberon.

The hike through Les Gorges de Véroncle was nothing short of magical. The path led us along a narrow gorge, with towering cliffs on either side. The Véroncle stream trickled gently, creating a soothing soundtrack to our walk. We passed the ruins of old mills, remnants of a bygone era, their stone walls now covered in moss and ivy. It was fascinating to imagine the lives of the millers who once worked here, harnessing the power of the water to grind grain.

The trail was a bit challenging in places, requiring us to climb over rocks and navigate uneven terrain. But the effort was well worth it. The views were simply breathtaking, with sunlight filtering through the narrow opening above, casting an ethereal glow on the gorge below. Fatoumata and I took our time, stopping frequently to admire the scenery and snap photos. I made sure to capture the play of light on the water and the intricate patterns of the rock formations.

Sometimes, the most beautiful places are the ones hidden away, waiting to be discovered.

One of the highlights of our hike was discovering a hidden waterfall, cascading down a moss-covered cliff. The water was crystal clear and icy cold, a refreshing treat on a warm day. We lingered there for a while, enjoying the tranquility of the spot and the soothing sound of the waterfall.

As we continued our hike, I couldn't help but reflect on the journey that brought me here. From my humble beginnings in Goundam, Mali, to my current life as a software developer in Montreal, life has been full of unexpected twists and turns. Yet, here I was, in the heart of Luberon, exploring the natural beauty of this region with my beloved wife. It was a moment of pure contentment, a reminder of the importance of cherishing the present moment.

Lunch at Bistrot Le Terrail

After our invigorating hike, we drove to Bonnieux for lunch at Bistrot Le Terrail. The bistro was charming, with a rustic interior and a cozy atmosphere. We were seated on the terrace, which offered stunning views of the Luberon Valley. The menu featured traditional Provençal cuisine, and we were eager to sample the local flavors.


Experience authentic French cuisine at Bistrot Le Terrail in Bonnieux – where rustic charm meets culinary excellence.

I ordered the daube provençale, a hearty beef stew simmered in red wine and herbs. The meat was tender and flavorful, and the sauce was rich and aromatic. Fatoumata opted for the salade niçoise, a classic French salad with tuna, olives, and vegetables. Both dishes were delicious, and we savored every bite.

As we ate, we watched the world go by. Locals chatted and laughed, children played in the square, and tourists snapped photos of the picturesque village. It was a scene of everyday life, yet it felt special, imbued with the charm and beauty of Luberon.

A Botanical Journey at Jardin Botanique de la Citadelle

In the afternoon, we visited the Jardin Botanique de la Citadelle in Ménerbes. This botanical garden is located on the grounds of Domaine de la Citadelle, a vineyard known for its organic wines. The garden is set on six terraces, each showcasing a different collection of plants.


Discover Provence's botanical heritage at Jardin Botanique de la Citadelle in Ménerbes: a sensory journey through aromatic gardens, vineyards, and panoramic Luberon views.

As we entered the garden, we were greeted by a riot of colors and fragrances. The air was filled with the sweet scent of lavender, rosemary, and thyme. The garden was home to a wide variety of medicinal, aromatic, and edible plants, all carefully labeled with their names and properties. It was fascinating to learn about the traditional uses of these plants and their importance in Provençal culture.

We strolled through the terraces, admiring the different plant collections. There was a section dedicated to culinary herbs, another to medicinal plants, and a third to plants used in perfumes. Fatoumata, with her background in early childhood education, was particularly interested in the educational aspect of the garden, imagining how children could learn about nature and science through hands-on exploration.

The Jardin Botanique de la Citadelle also offered stunning views of the surrounding landscape. From the highest terrace, we could see the village of Ménerbes, the Luberon Valley, and the distant Mont Ventoux. It was a panoramic vista that captured the essence of this beautiful region.

Before leaving, we stopped at the Domaine de la Citadelle's wine shop and purchased a bottle of their rosé. We planned to enjoy it later that evening, as we watched the sunset from our guesthouse.

Evening Cocktails at Le Restaurant & Bar à cocktails de la Ferme de la Huppe

As the day drew to a close, we decided to treat ourselves to cocktails at Le Restaurant & Bar à cocktails de la Ferme de la Huppe in Gordes. This bar is known for its creative cocktails and its relaxed atmosphere. We sat on the terrace, sipping our drinks and enjoying the cool evening air.


Savor exquisite French cuisine and vibrant cocktails in the scenic beauty of Gordes, accompanied by live music at Le Restaurant & Bar à cocktails de la Ferme de la Huppe.

I ordered a classic Negroni, while Fatoumata chose a fruity concoction with local berries. The cocktails were expertly made, and the service was attentive. As we sipped our drinks, we reflected on the day's adventures. We had explored hidden gorges, discovered botanical wonders, and savored the flavors of Provençal cuisine. It was a day of pure bliss, a reminder of the beauty and richness of life.

Tomorrow, we plan to visit the Mines de Bruoux and La fontaine du canard. The mines promise a unique glimpse into the region's industrial past, while the fountain offers a refreshing respite from the summer heat. I'm also looking forward to browsing the local crafts at Les Choses Simples. It's another day to immerse ourselves in the local culture and create lasting memories.

As I write this, I feel grateful for the opportunity to experience Luberon with my wife. It's a journey that has enriched our lives and deepened our appreciation for the world around us. I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings, as we continue to explore the hidden gems of this enchanting region.

I'm also grateful that I didn't forget to pack my camera today, unlike the sunhat and portable phone charger I left behind. Every moment here is worth capturing and remembering. This trip is more than just a vacation; it's a collection of moments that Fatoumata and I will cherish for years to come.