My top 6 terraces in Vaucluse
Away from Prying eyes or not!
Vaucluse in terrace mode, a Provençal art of living
More than just a way of life in Provence, the terraces are an institution, an invitation to make the most of the beauty of the day or the tranquility of the starry night. Under the plane trees of the village square, in the shade of an umbrella, or sheltered behind a century-old stone wall, relaxation, contemplation and memories of blessed moments invite themselves to the table.
A view to a terrace in Ansouis, one of France’s most beautiful villages.
Castle Square in Gordes
One of the 7 most beautiful villages in France and situated in Vaucluse, Gordes is an acropolis of pale stones overlooking the Calavon valley, its vineyards and its almond trees. Ideal for lovers of romantic walks with the scents of Provence! You cannot help but love the charm of the narrow streets and the colourful shops, the vaulted passages and the cobblestones used by the pilgrims of St Jacques de Compostelle… not to mention the castle square and its fountain, where you can bask in front of the impressive edifice, reconstructed in 1525!
It’s worth the detour
The cellars of the St Firmin palace, the Borie village, the Cicerstian Abbey of Sénanque , the museum of the history of glass and stained glass, the Summer nights festival in August.
At Saint-Romain in Crillon-le-Brave
A country bistro on the edge of a cliff in the charming hilltop village of Crillon-le-Brave.
It’s unique selling point? A panoramic view of the Dentelles de Montmirail, the entirety of the Comtat Venaissin plain and the Piémont valley of Ventoux. Wow moment guaranteed! Comfortably seated under the umbrellas of the belvedere-style terrace, you can enjoy the regional products and local wines featured on the menu.
A firm favourite
Treat yourself to a chic and charming stay at the Crillon Le Brave hotel and spa and a bike ride in the vineyards of the Dentelles de Montmirail, between prairie and piedmont plain.
Accommodation in Crillon-le-Brave
At the Utopia bistro in Avignon
How about enjoying a lovely terrace, shaded by 2 large lime trees, just behind the Palais des Papes? Close to places of interest but sheltered from the tourist hustle and bustle which reaches the city during the summer, the Utopia bistro is perfect for relaxing, lazing around, daydreaming… A great place to have a snack before catching a movie in the repertory cinema. Unless you would prefer to listen to the jazz musician on the terrace on sunny days. A warm ambiance, a tad cosy, a little boho, we’re a fan!
To see/ do nearby
A visit to the legendary Palais-des-Papes and the Avignon Bridge,
A stroll around the Rocher des Doms,
A wine-tasting on a barge at the edge of the Rhône
Pond square at Cucuron
Part of the exceptional Luberon scenery, Cucuron (french page) – a once-fortified picturesque Provençal village – jealously guards the ruins of a 14th-century castle. Cucuron is also a collection of colourful facades, restaurants and cafes situated around a pond which is bordered by low walls in the style of the old washhouses. The pond, which used to supply the local mill, is one of the most typical views in this small Provençal village. We love its lively and colourful side and we never tire of admiring the pretty colour palette, complemented by the hues of the stalls on market day. How pleasant it is to come and sit by these calming waters, under the large and sturdy plane trees, among which one specimen with a record height of 32 metres takes centre stage.
village of Oppède-le-Vieux
In many ways this place seems frozen in the Middle Ages. How charming!
Perched on a hill and surrounded by generous vegetation, this secret little village defies the passage of time and basks in the grandeur of its monuments: medieval and renaissance houses, the 12th-century church of Notre-Dame de Dolidon, castle ruins, washhouses, and the Saint-Laurent and Saint-Antonin chapels, all of which combined creates a timeless atmosphere. In the village square, a warm break awaits you with “Le Petit Café” and “L’échauguette”.
Did you know?
Scenes from the TV movie “L’amour en Héritage” were filmed here!
Accommodation in Oppède-le-Vieux
A MUST-SEE at Ménerbes
And if we were to combine a wonderful plate of flavours with a background of Mount Ventoux? In Ménerbes, a village in Luberon which is classed as amongst the most beautiful in France, this is possible with Bistro 5. Facing the Giant of Provence, the establishment offers an eclectic menu of both more refined and more basic dishes (happiness also lies in the sharing platters :-). Rated very highly, the amazing quality of the establishment applies to all criteria: welcome, product and food quality, service and environment). A place that you will enjoy with your partner. A breath-taking view and a delight for your taste buds = wow moment guaranteed!
It’s worth the detour
The aromatic garden of the Citadell will intoxicate you with its perfumes.
Discover the Ochre path in Roussillon.
Maubec is the starting point for many walking trails and bike rides.
