Château de Lacoste: A Marquis's Ruin with a View
Explore the ruins of the Château de Lacoste in the Luberon, once home to the Marquis de Sade, and enjoy stunning views and a vibrant arts scene in a historic Provençal village.
Perched atop a hill in the Luberon region, the Château de Lacoste offers a glimpse into Provençal history with a scandalous twist. Once home to the infamous Marquis de Sade, this partly ruined castle, now owned by fashion mogul Pierre Cardin and bequeathed to the Institute de France, boasts stunning views of the surrounding countryside. Explore the remains of the 11th-century fortress, wander through its stone walls, and imagine life in this strategic stronghold. The village of Lacoste itself, with its steep, cobbled streets and art school presence, adds to the unique charm of this destination. While the castle's interior may not always be open, the exterior and the panoramic vistas are well worth the climb, providing a memorable experience steeped in history and intrigue. The castle also hosts a music and theater festival in its courtyard and quarries.
A brief summary to Château de Lacoste
- Chem. du Château, Lacoste, 84480, FR
- +33490759312
- Visit website
Local tips
- Wear comfortable shoes for the steep, cobbled streets of Lacoste and the climb to the castle.
- Check the Château de Lacoste's website or local tourist information for details on opening hours, as they can vary.
- Consider visiting during the summer for the music and theater festival held in the castle's courtyard and quarries.
Getting There
-
Walking
From the main parking area (Parking Paysager) below Lacoste village, follow the road uphill towards the village center. Pass the Church of Saint-Trophime and continue through the Portail de la Garde, the original entrance to Lacoste. The path to the Château de Lacoste is well-marked and continues uphill through the village. The walk is steep but manageable, taking approximately 15-20 minutes. Note that the final approach to the castle involves some uneven terrain.
-
Driving
Limited parking is available closer to the Château de Lacoste at the top of the village, accessible via Chemin du Château. However, spaces are very limited, and the road is narrow. It's advisable to park in the main parking area (Parking Paysager) below the village and walk up, especially during peak season. Parking Paysager is free.
-
Public Transport
If arriving by bus, the closest bus stops are 'Haut De Lacoste' and 'Les 3 Sources', both approximately a 15-20 minute walk to the village center. From either stop, follow the road uphill towards the village and then proceed as described in the 'Walking' guidance. Bus line 15.2 connects Lacoste with Cavaillon, Bonnieux and Apt. Check local bus schedules for current fares and timetables.
Discover more about Château de Lacoste
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
1 Av. Clovis Hugues
2.9 km
Discover Bonnieux, a charming hilltop village in Provence, offering stunning views, rich history, and delightful local culture.
Hôtel Restaurant Panoramique César - Logis Hôtel
3.0 km
Explore the best of Provence at Hôtel Restaurant Panoramique César - a culinary haven with stunning views and authentic French cuisine.
Luberone
3.0 km
Discover Luberone in Bonnieux - where chic fashion meets the charm of Provence for an unforgettable shopping experience.
Le Mas Vermentino
3.1 km
Experience the tranquility and beauty of Le Mas Vermentino, a charming villa in the heart of Provence, surrounded by vineyards and breathtaking landscapes.
La Bastide de Marie
3.4 km
Discover the tranquil elegance of La Bastide de Marie, a charming hotel nestled in the heart of Provence, offering stunning views and unforgettable experiences.
L'enclos Des Bories
3.4 km
Explore L'enclos Des Bories: A Hidden Gem in Bonnieux, Showcasing the Timeless Beauty of Provençal Dry Stone Architecture.
Parking de la forêt de cèdres
3.6 km
Discover the serene beauty of Parking de la Forêt de Cèdres, your gateway to nature and scenic adventures in Bonnieux, Luberon.
La Bastide
3.8 km
Indulge in the finest French cuisine at La Bastide in Bonnieux, where culinary artistry meets breathtaking Provençal views.
Maison Valvert / Absoluut Valvert
3.9 km
Experience the enchanting charm of Provence at Maison Valvert, a cozy bed & breakfast in Bonnieux offering stunning views and warm hospitality.
Le Carillon
4.1 km
Experience authentic French cuisine in the heart of Provence at Le Carillon, a charming restaurant that delights with seasonal flavors and local ingredients.
Eglise Saint Luc
5.6 km
Explore the tranquility and beauty of Eglise Saint Luc in Ménerbes, a captivating Catholic church that enriches your travel experience in Provence.
Inn Le Roy Soleil - Luberon
5.8 km
Experience serenity at Inn Le Roy Soleil in Ménerbes, a perfect blend of wellness, exquisite dining, and stunning views in the heart of Provence.
La Medievale du Luberon
7.0 km
Experience the charm of Provence at La Medievale du Luberon, a unique bed and breakfast in the heart of Roussillon's stunning ochre landscape.
Domaine Les Roullets
7.0 km
Discover the serene charm of Domaine Les Roullets, where luxury meets nature in the heart of Provence's stunning vineyards.
LUBERON WINE GOURMET
8.1 km
Experience the best of Luberon with exquisite wine tastings, premium olive oils, and delectable pastries at Luberon Wine Gourmet.
Unmissable attractions to see
Lacoste
0.1 km
Discover Lacoste, a perched village in the Luberon, where the legacy of the Marquis de Sade meets vibrant art, offering panoramic views and a unique Provençal experience.
Le Nageur
0.1 km
Discover Lacoste, a captivating hilltop village in the Luberon, where medieval charm meets artistic spirit and breathtaking views, offering an unforgettable Provençal experience.
Lavender Fields
1.7 km
Experience the enchanting Lavender Fields of Bonnieux, a breathtaking natural wonder in Provence, France, perfect for relaxation and stunning photography.
Chateau lavande
1.9 km
Explore the charming Château Lavande in Bonnieux, a stunning castle surrounded by lavender fields and rich history, perfect for memorable experiences.
Saint-Hilaire Ancienne Abbaye
2.2 km
Discover the serene beauty and rich history of Saint-Hilaire Ancienne Abbaye, a 13th-century Carmelite monastery nestled in the heart of Provence's Luberon region, offering a tranquil escape.
Chemin de l'Amaret
2.8 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Chemin de l'Amaret in Bonnieux, a scenic pathway that captures the essence of Provence's stunning landscapes.
La Louve
3.0 km
Explore La Louve, a stunning botanical garden in Bonnieux, where nature's beauty flourishes in a tranquil setting perfect for relaxation and exploration.
Sun-E-Bike
3.0 km
Discover the Luberon's beauty effortlessly with Sun-E-Bike in Bonnieux: electric bike rentals for exploring Provence's picturesque villages and stunning landscapes.
Forêts des cèdres
3.3 km
Discover the serene beauty of Forêt des Cèdres near Bonnieux: hike through fragrant cedar forests, enjoy panoramic views of the Luberon, and escape the Provençal heat.
Château La Canorgue
3.5 km
Discover the charm of Château La Canorgue in Bonnieux, a family-run organic winery in Luberon, offering exceptional wines and a taste of authentic Provençal heritage.
Dolmen de la Pitchoune
3.5 km
Discover the Dolmen de la Pitchoune near Ménerbes, a unique Neolithic monument in Vaucluse, offering a glimpse into the region's ancient past and a connection to the mysteries of the Neolithic era.
Sentier botanique
3.5 km
Discover the fragrant world of Provence at Sentier Botanique near Bonnieux, a sensory journey through the region's diverse flora within the serene Forêt des Cèdres du Luberon.
Forêt des cèdres du Luberon
3.6 km
Discover the enchanting Forêt des Cèdres du Luberon: a unique forest planted in 1861, offering hiking, cycling, and panoramic views in the heart of Provence's stunning natural beauty.
Sentier de découverte
3.9 km
Explore the scenic Sentier de Découverte near Bonnieux, a captivating hiking trail through the Petit Luberon, offering cedar forests, garrigue landscapes, and panoramic views of Provence.
Pont Julien
4.3 km
Step back in time at Pont Julien, a remarkably preserved Roman bridge near Bonnieux, offering a glimpse into ancient engineering and Provence's rich history.
Essential places to dine
Cafe de France
0.1 km
Discover the culinary delights of Café de France in Lacoste - where authentic French cuisine meets charming ambiance.
Restaurant La Flambée
2.9 km
Experience exquisite French and Italian flavors in the charming village of Bonnieux at Restaurant La Flambée.
JU-Maison de Cuisine
3.0 km
Experience exquisite haute French cuisine at JU-Maison de Cuisine in Bonnieux - where every dish is a culinary masterpiece.
Bistrot Le Terrail
3.0 km
Experience authentic French cuisine at Bistrot Le Terrail in Bonnieux – where rustic charm meets culinary excellence.
Restaurant Un P'tit Coin De Cuisine
3.0 km
Experience authentic French cuisine with Mediterranean flair at Restaurant Un P'tit Coin De Cuisine in beautiful Bonnieux.
LA TABLE DES AMIS by CHRISTOPHE BACQUIE
3.2 km
Experience exquisite Haute French cuisine at La Table des Amis in Bonnieux, where culinary artistry meets breathtaking views.
La Gaudina Luberon
3.4 km
Experience exquisite dining at La Gaudina Luberon - where traditional French cuisine meets delightful pastries in the heart of Provence.
La Bergerie
3.8 km
Experience authentic French cuisine in Bonnieux at La Bergerie—where seasonal flavors meet stunning Provençal scenery.
La Terrasse
4.0 km
Discover La Terrasse: A charming French-Mediterranean restaurant in Goult offering exquisite local flavors and stunning views.
Café de la Poste
4.1 km
Experience authentic French cuisine at Café de la Poste in Goult - a charming culinary gem nestled in the heart of Provence.
Restaurant La Bartavelle
4.2 km
Discover exquisite French and Mediterranean cuisine at Restaurant La Bartavelle in Goult - where culinary art meets local charm.
Bistrot le 5
5.2 km
Experience authentic French cuisine at Bistrot le 5 in Ménerbes – where every meal is a celebration of local flavors and beautiful surroundings.
Café du Progrès
5.3 km
Discover the charm of Café du Progrès in Ménerbes – where authentic French cuisine meets warm hospitality amidst stunning landscapes.
La Table de L'Épicier
5.3 km
Discover Provençal culinary excellence at La Table de L'Épicier in Ménerbes—an unforgettable dining experience awaits.
L'ESCANDIHADO
5.3 km
Experience authentic Italian pizza at L'ESCANDIHADO in Ménerbes—where every slice tells a story of flavor and tradition.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Au Détour d'une Promenade
2.9 km
Explore the enchanting antique store Au Détour d'une Promenade in Bonnieux, where timeless treasures and unique collectibles await you.
Petits points de Provence
5.3 km
Experience the elegance of Provençal linens at Petits points de Provence, a hidden gem in the heart of Ménerbes.
L'Ornate
5.3 km
Discover the unique charm of L'Ornate, a home goods store in Ménerbes offering exquisite French décor for your home.
Epicerie du Luberon
5.3 km
Explore the flavors of Provence at Epicerie du Luberon, where local produce, gourmet products, and artisanal delights come together in a charming grocery store.
L’Aparté
5.3 km
Discover unique women's fashion at L’Aparté in Ménerbes, where contemporary style meets Provencal charm in a delightful boutique setting.
Les Choses Simples
10.1 km
Discover local craftsmanship and sustainable goods at Les Choses Simples, a unique shopping destination in the beautiful village of Lauris.
Charlotte Boutik
10.2 km
Explore Charlotte Boutik in Gordes for exquisite gifts, unique costume jewelry, and charming home goods that embody the spirit of Provence.
chez L en Luberon
10.3 km
Explore the quaint charm of Chez L en Luberon, a home goods store in Gordes offering unique artisan products and local treasures in the heart of Provence.
Le petit gris piedra
10.5 km
Discover a magical children's store in Lourmarin, filled with unique toys, fashion, and accessories that spark creativity and joy.
Un weekend a Gordes
10.5 km
Explore Un Weekend à Gordes, a charming boutique gift shop in the heart of Provence, offering unique souvenirs and local artisan treasures for every traveler.
Le Potager Du Chateau
10.5 km
Experience the authentic taste of Provence at Le Potager Du Chateau, a charming store in Gordes offering fresh pasta, fruits, and exquisite local wines.
Gris Piedra
10.5 km
Discover unique artisanal treasures at Gris Piedra in Lourmarin, a must-visit store for cultural souvenirs and local craftsmanship.
La Colline
10.5 km
Explore La Colline, a charming store in Lourmarin, offering unique local goods and a taste of Provence's rich artisan culture.
La Boutique de l'Antiquaire
10.5 km
Explore the enchanting La Boutique de l'Antiquaire in Lourmarin, where timeless antiques and unique vintage treasures await collectors and enthusiasts alike.
Ladurée
10.5 km
Discover the elegance of French pastry at Ladurée, a gourmet cake shop in Gordes, known for its exquisite macarons and delightful teas.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Brasserie St André
3.0 km
Experience the essence of Provence at Brasserie St André, where authentic French cuisine meets stunning Luberon views.
Café Capelongue
3.8 km
Discover the culinary delights of Café Capelongue in Bonnieux, where local flavors and stunning views come together for an unforgettable dining experience.
Restaurant Bar Tabac d'Alain Sanchez
4.4 km
Discover the cozy charm of Bar Tabac d'Alain Sanchez in Goult, where authentic French cuisine and local wines await amidst a welcoming Provençal atmosphere.
Bar Coquillade
6.4 km
Discover the enchanting Bar Coquillade in Gargas, where exquisite drinks and a charming ambiance create the perfect retreat for every traveler.
Le Restaurant & Bar à cocktails de la Ferme de la Huppe
8.9 km
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.
Bar Nulle Part Ailleurs
10.1 km
Experience the charm of Bar Nulle Part Ailleurs in Lauris, where delightful drinks and a warm atmosphere create unforgettable moments.
L'ambroisie
10.1 km
Discover the essence of Provence at L'ambroisie, a charming bar in Mérindol offering exquisite local wines and a welcoming atmosphere.
La Cave à Aimé - Mérindol
10.2 km
Experience the charm of La Cave à Aimé, a delightful wine cellar in Mérindol, showcasing the finest local wines and authentic Provençal culture.
Le Tonneau
10.5 km
Discover the enchanting Le Tonneau in Lourmarin, a wine bar that offers an exquisite selection of local wines in a charming atmosphere.
Le Cercle Républicain
10.5 km
Discover Le Cercle Républicain in Gordes, a delightful bar and café offering stunning views, local flavors, and a charming atmosphere in the heart of Provence.
Bar Le Troquet
11.0 km
Discover Bar Le Troquet, a lively bar in Apt, where authentic drinks meet local charm in a cozy atmosphere perfect for socializing.
Bar a tapas les collegues
13.6 km
Savor authentic Spanish tapas in a vibrant bar setting in the heart of Cadenet, perfect for food lovers and travelers alike.
Bar Moderne
14.9 km
Discover the charm of Bar Moderne in Taillades, where exquisite drinks and a welcoming atmosphere await every visitor.
Brasserie Artisanale Lub'
15.4 km
Explore the vibrant craft beer culture at Brasserie Artisanale Lub', a charming brewpub in Taillades offering unique flavors and a cozy atmosphere.
Cosy Pub
18.6 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and exquisite flavors at Cosy Pub, Cavaillon's premier cocktail bar and restaurant.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
La Maison Café
10.5 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean at La Maison Café, a cozy bar and lounge in the heart of Lourmarin.
One Klub
18.2 km
Experience the electrifying nightlife at One Klub, Cavaillon's premier disco club, where music and dance unite for an unforgettable night out.
Summer party LAMANON
20.4 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at Summer Party Lamanon, where music and energy flow in an unforgettable experience for all party lovers.
RICHEBOIS DISCOTHEQUE
23.6 km
Discover the pulsating energy of Richebois Discotheque, where vibrant music and delectable dining create an unforgettable nightlife experience.
Les Templiers - Resto Club
28.4 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Aix-en-Provence at Les Templiers, a dance restaurant and cabaret club blending exquisite dining with electrifying entertainment.
Top 60
29.4 km
Discover the energy of Aix-en-Provence at Top 60, a thrilling night club offering electrifying music and a vibrant atmosphere for an unforgettable night out.
Cherry's Club & Restaurant Avignon
35.2 km
Discover the electrifying nightlife of Avignon at Cherry's Club & Restaurant, where delicious dining meets vibrant disco vibes.
Club Privé Billionaire
35.9 km
Discover the electrifying nightlife at Club Privé Billionaire, Le Pontet's premier night club for dance, music, and unforgettable experiences.
L'Étage
35.9 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at L'Étage, a premier disco club in Le Pontet, where music, dancing, and excitement await every night.
Carré Rouge
35.9 km
Discover the electric nightlife at Carré Rouge, where pulsating beats and vibrant crowds create an unforgettable party experience in Le Pontet.
Le Diva - Resto Club
36.1 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Le Diva, a premier Resto Club in Aix-en-Provence, blending exquisite dining with pulsating dance floors.
District Club Underground
36.2 km
Discover the electrifying nightlife of Châteaurenard at District Club Underground, where music, dance, and vibrant energy come together.
Maya Bay
36.4 km
Discover the vibrant lounge atmosphere of Maya Bay in Aix-en-Provence, offering an exquisite hookah experience and stylish ambiance for relaxation.
IPN
36.5 km
Unleash your inner party spirit at IPN, the ultimate night club in Aix-en-Provence, where music and dance create unforgettable memories.
The Scat Club
36.5 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife and live music at The Scat Club, a must-visit night club in the heart of Aix-en-Provence.
