Luberon National Park: A Provencal Paradise
Discover the enchanting Luberon National Park in Provence: a blend of stunning landscapes, hilltop villages, and rich biodiversity, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.
The Luberon National Park, a sprawling protected area in the heart of Provence, France, offers a captivating blend of stunning landscapes, charming hilltop villages, and rich biodiversity. This UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and Global Geopark is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, history buffs, and anyone seeking an authentic Provencal experience. Explore dramatic ochre cliffs, wander through fragrant lavender fields, hike scenic trails, and discover picturesque villages perched atop rolling hills. Whether you're drawn to the area's natural beauty, cultural heritage, or opportunities for adventure, the Luberon National Park promises an unforgettable journey through one of France's most enchanting regions. The park's diverse ecosystems support a wide array of flora and fauna, making it a paradise for nature lovers. Discover the magic of Provence in this protected haven.
A brief summary to Luberon National Park
- Petit Champeau, Mérindol, 84360, FR
Local tips
- Visit during the shoulder seasons (spring or fall) for pleasant weather and fewer crowds.
- Explore the hilltop villages in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the midday heat and tourist rush.
- Wear comfortable shoes for hiking and exploring the cobblestone streets of the villages.
- Check local market schedules and plan to visit at least one for a taste of Provencal life.
- Book accommodations and tours in advance, especially during peak season.
Getting There
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Driving
Assuming you're arriving from a nearby town like Apt or Bonnieux, the final approach to various points within the Luberon National Park typically involves driving along well-maintained D-roads (départementales). From Apt, follow the D900 towards the eastern part of the park or the D943 towards the western side. From Bonnieux, take the D36 to explore the Petit Luberon. Be aware that parking can be limited, especially in the popular villages like Gordes and Roussillon. Arrive early, especially during peak season, to secure a spot. Parking fees vary but expect to pay around €3-€5 for a few hours in the main village car parks. Some free parking is available further from the village centers, requiring a short walk.
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Public Transport
While a car is the most convenient way to explore the Luberon, public transport is an option for reaching some of the larger towns. From Avignon or Aix-en-Provence, take a regional bus (TransVaucluse or LER) to Apt, a central hub within the Luberon. From Apt, local buses connect to some of the surrounding villages, but service can be infrequent, especially on weekends. A single bus fare typically costs around €2-€3. Check the bus schedules in advance, as services may be limited, and plan your itinerary accordingly. Keep in mind that reaching more remote areas of the park via public transport can be challenging.
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Taxi/Ride-Share
Taxis are available in larger towns like Apt and can be used for shorter trips within the area. Ride-sharing services like Uber may also be available, but their coverage can be limited in the more rural parts of the Luberon. A short taxi ride within a town will cost approximately €10-€15. For longer distances, such as from Apt to Gordes, expect to pay around €30-€40. Confirm the fare with the driver before starting your journey.
Discover more about Luberon National Park
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Église Notre-Dame Dalidon
8.1 km
Discover the serene beauty and rich heritage of Église Notre-Dame Dalidon in Oppède, a must-visit Catholic church in Provence, France.
Le Mas Vermentino
8.6 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
8.7 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.
Domaine Les Roullets
8.9 km
Discover the serene charm of Domaine Les Roullets, where luxury meets nature in the heart of Provence's stunning vineyards.
Parking de la forêt de cèdres
9.0 km
Discover the serene beauty of Parking de la Forêt de Cèdres, your gateway to nature and scenic adventures in Bonnieux, Luberon.
Eglise Saint Luc
9.1 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
9.9 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.
L'enclos Des Bories
12.4 km
Explore L'enclos Des Bories: A Hidden Gem in Bonnieux, Showcasing the Timeless Beauty of Provençal Dry Stone Architecture.
1 Av. Clovis Hugues
12.5 km
Discover Bonnieux, a charming hilltop village in Provence, offering stunning views, rich history, and delightful local culture.
Hôtel Restaurant Panoramique César - Logis Hôtel
12.6 km
Explore the best of Provence at Hôtel Restaurant Panoramique César - a culinary haven with stunning views and authentic French cuisine.
Luberone
12.7 km
Discover Luberone in Bonnieux - where chic fashion meets the charm of Provence for an unforgettable shopping experience.
Le Carillon
13.0 km
Experience authentic French cuisine in the heart of Provence at Le Carillon, a charming restaurant that delights with seasonal flavors and local ingredients.
Maison Valvert / Absoluut Valvert
13.0 km
Experience the enchanting charm of Provence at Maison Valvert, a cozy bed & breakfast in Bonnieux offering stunning views and warm hospitality.
La Bastide
13.2 km
Indulge in the finest French cuisine at La Bastide in Bonnieux, where culinary artistry meets breathtaking Provençal views.
LUBERON WINE GOURMET
13.2 km
Experience the best of Luberon with exquisite wine tastings, premium olive oils, and delectable pastries at Luberon Wine Gourmet.
Unmissable attractions to see
Vieux château de Mérindol
1.5 km
Experience the rich history and breathtaking views at Vieux Château de MéRindol, a must-visit castle in the heart of Provence.
Aussichtspunkt Durance
2.2 km
Discover breathtaking panoramic views of the Durance River valley from Aussichtspunkt Durance in Mallemort, a serene escape into the heart of the Provençal countryside.
Rochers de la Croix de Fer
4.6 km
Hike through dramatic rock formations near Mérindol in Luberon Regional Natural Park, experience panoramic views, diverse trails, and rich biodiversity in the heart of Provence.
Arche du Bausset
6.2 km
Discover the breathtaking Arche du Bausset near Ménerbes, a natural arch offering stunning views and unforgettable hiking experiences in the heart of the Luberon region.
Château La Verrerie
6.7 km
Explore the enchanting Château La Verrerie, a premier winery in the Luberon region, where exquisite wines and captivating landscapes come together.
Point de vue
8.1 km
Discover breathtaking panoramic views of the Luberon region from this scenic spot near Puget, offering a tranquil escape into the heart of Provence's natural beauty.
La Forteresse d'Oppède le Vieux
8.1 km
Discover the enchanting La Forteresse d'Oppède le Vieux, a medieval fortress offering breathtaking views and a glimpse into Provence's rich history.
Ruines d'Oppède Le Vieux
8.2 km
Explore the haunting beauty of Ruines d'Oppède Le Vieux, a captivating ghost town in Provence, rich in history and stunning landscapes.
Oratoire
8.3 km
Explore the serene beauty and rich history of Oratoire, a hidden gem in Oppède, Provence, perfect for a tranquil escape into nature.
Sentier de découverte
8.6 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.
Sentier botanique
8.8 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
8.8 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.
Dolmen de la Pitchoune
8.9 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.
Ménerbes
8.9 km
Discover Ménerbes, one of France's most beautiful villages, a hilltop haven in the Luberon offering stunning views, rich history, and authentic Provençal charm.
Joe Downing Memorial
8.9 km
Discover a tranquil memorial garden in Ménerbes honoring American artist Joe Downing, who found inspiration in Provence's beauty, leaving a legacy of vibrant art and color.
Essential places to dine
Restaurant Le Bigre
1.9 km
Experience exquisite French cuisine at Restaurant Le Bigre in Mérindol, where local flavors meet exceptional service in a charming setting.
La Terrasse Des Cigales
1.9 km
Experience exquisite French cuisine at La Terrasse Des Cigales in Mérindol, where every dish tells a story of tradition and flavor.
La Bastide du Grand Tilleul
2.0 km
Discover exquisite French and Mediterranean cuisine at La Bastide du Grand Tilleul, a culinary haven in Mérindol.
L'Echauguette
8.2 km
Experience authentic French cuisine at L'Echauguette in Oppède—where gourmet dining meets local charm.
L'ESCANDIHADO
8.7 km
Experience authentic Italian pizza at L'ESCANDIHADO in Ménerbes—where every slice tells a story of flavor and tradition.
La Table de L'Épicier
8.8 km
Discover Provençal culinary excellence at La Table de L'Épicier in Ménerbes—an unforgettable dining experience awaits.
Le Galoubet
8.8 km
Experience the charm of Provençal cuisine at Le Galoubet in Ménerbes—where Mediterranean flavors meet exceptional hospitality.
Restaurant Les Saveurs Gourmandes
8.8 km
Experience exquisite French and Mediterranean cuisine at Restaurant Les Saveurs Gourmandes in Ménerbes - where every dish tells a story.
Bistrot le 5
8.8 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
8.9 km
Discover the charm of Café du Progrès in Ménerbes – where authentic French cuisine meets warm hospitality amidst stunning landscapes.
Le Champ des Lunes - Domaine de Fontenille
9.7 km
Experience exquisite Provençal cuisine amidst breathtaking landscapes at Le Champ des Lunes - Domaine de Fontenille.
Restaurant Tayac MENERBES
10.0 km
Experience exquisite Provençal cuisine at Restaurant Tayac in Ménerbes - where local flavors meet exceptional dining.
LA BERGERIE
10.3 km
Discover La Bergerie: A charming French restaurant in Maubec offering authentic cuisine and breathtaking views.
L'AUBERGE DES CARRIERES LUBERON
11.2 km
Experience authentic French cuisine at L'Auberge des Carrières, where every dish tells a story of Provence's rich culinary heritage.
Cafe de France
11.2 km
Discover the culinary delights of Café de France in Lacoste - where authentic French cuisine meets charming ambiance.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
L'Ornate
8.7 km
Discover the unique charm of L'Ornate, a home goods store in Ménerbes offering exquisite French décor for your home.
Epicerie du Luberon
8.8 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.
Petits points de Provence
8.8 km
Experience the elegance of Provençal linens at Petits points de Provence, a hidden gem in the heart of Ménerbes.
L’Aparté
8.9 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
10.9 km
Discover local craftsmanship and sustainable goods at Les Choses Simples, a unique shopping destination in the beautiful village of Lauris.
Coup de Coeur
11.3 km
Explore Coup de Coeur in La Roque-d'Anthéron for unique gifts and local artisan treasures that capture the spirit of Provence.
Au Détour d'une Promenade
12.6 km
Explore the enchanting antique store Au Détour d'une Promenade in Bonnieux, where timeless treasures and unique collectibles await you.
COLOURS
12.7 km
Explore COLOURS in Oppède for a unique selection of home goods that embody the rustic charm and vibrant spirit of Provence.
Modern Heritage
12.8 km
Discover the enchanting treasures of Modern Heritage, an antique furniture store and art gallery in the heart of Cabrières-d'Avignon.
Somewear
12.9 km
Explore the chic and trendy styles at Somewear, Maubec's premier clothing store, where fashion meets quality and personalized service.
Le Château du Bois Provence
13.0 km
Explore Le Château du Bois Provence, the ultimate destination for lavender-infused cosmetics and authentic Provençal experiences.
EL STORE
13.9 km
Discover stylish clothing and accessories at EL STORE in Cavaillon, where fashion meets quality in a vibrant shopping atmosphere.
Vous Êtes Ici - Boutique de Créateurs
14.3 km
Explore the charm of Cavaillon at Vous Êtes Ici - Boutique de Créateurs, where local artisans showcase their handcrafted gifts and unique treasures.
Rayne
14.3 km
Discover Rayne in Cavaillon: Your go-to boutique for stylish men's and women's clothing, accessories, and exquisite leather goods.
Vintage
14.4 km
Discover unique fashion trends at Vintage, the premier men's and women's clothing store in Cavaillon, France.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
La Cave à Aimé - Mérindol
1.8 km
Experience the charm of La Cave à Aimé, a delightful wine cellar in Mérindol, showcasing the finest local wines and authentic Provençal culture.
L'ambroisie
1.8 km
Discover the essence of Provence at L'ambroisie, a charming bar in Mérindol offering exquisite local wines and a welcoming atmosphere.
Bar Nulle Part Ailleurs
10.8 km
Experience the charm of Bar Nulle Part Ailleurs in Lauris, where delightful drinks and a warm atmosphere create unforgettable moments.
Bar Moderne
11.9 km
Discover the charm of Bar Moderne in Taillades, where exquisite drinks and a welcoming atmosphere await every visitor.
Restaurant Bar Tabac d'Alain Sanchez
12.3 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.
Brasserie Artisanale Lub'
12.5 km
Explore the vibrant craft beer culture at Brasserie Artisanale Lub', a charming brewpub in Taillades offering unique flavors and a cozy atmosphere.
Brasserie St André
12.6 km
Experience the essence of Provence at Brasserie St André, where authentic French cuisine meets stunning Luberon views.
Café Capelongue
13.2 km
Discover the culinary delights of Café Capelongue in Bonnieux, where local flavors and stunning views come together for an unforgettable dining experience.
Cosy Pub
14.5 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and exquisite flavors at Cosy Pub, Cavaillon's premier cocktail bar and restaurant.
Maverick & Co | Bar à Vins - Bar à Bières - Tapas - Ambiance Jazzy Lounge
14.5 km
Experience the delightful fusion of exquisite wines, craft beers, and a jazzy ambiance at Maverick & Co in Salon-de-Provence.
The Quiet Man
14.6 km
Experience authentic Irish culture and hospitality at The Quiet Man pub in Salon-de-Provence, offering great drinks, food, and live music.
Le Tonneau
14.7 km
Discover the enchanting Le Tonneau in Lourmarin, a wine bar that offers an exquisite selection of local wines in a charming atmosphere.
Bar a tapas les collegues
15.6 km
Savor authentic Spanish tapas in a vibrant bar setting in the heart of Cadenet, perfect for food lovers and travelers alike.
Le Restaurant & Bar à cocktails de la Ferme de la Huppe
17.1 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.
Le Cercle Républicain
17.4 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.
