by Janis / 0 comments - Orginally published:9th September 2025

7 beautiful Provençal locations

Gary and I have visited the stunning region of Provence in southern France on several occasions. The idyllic hilltop villages and the tucked-away Provençal towns never fail to whet our insatiable appetite for more.

Living in the southeast of the UK, we’re so lucky to have France, on our doorstep; this allows us a few options when we travel. Depending on our mode of transport, usually by car, we love road-trippin’ through France particularly with our new EV; we can either jump on Le Shuttle and arrive in Calais in 35 minutes or leisurely cruise with Brittany Ferries, DFDS or P&O on the open waves.

During our latest EV French road trip, we visited the delightful medieval towns of Provins in Île-de-France and Semur-en-Auxios in Bourgogne-Franche-Comté. We explored Sisteron, located at the foot of the breath-taking Rocher de la Baume, and Antibes on the French Riviera, both of which are in Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur.

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We have three nights in the Provençal town of Saint-Remy-de-Provence, from here we explore our seven charming Provence locations. We then hit the road again and visit Sète, and head back north to Albi, Bergerac, Poitiers and Le Mans.

Did you catch our inspiration for this French road trip?

Our 7 beautiful Provençal locations

We'll be discovering the following;
  1. Valensole
  2. Saignon
  3. Pernes-les-Fontaines
  4. L'Isle-sur-la-Sorgue
  5. Goult
  6. Menerbes
  7. Eygalières
You can click on the link to jump to the section, and to return, just click on the title.
The charming hilltop town of Valensole is renowned for its stunning lavender fields that lie like mounds of fluffy lilac cushions as far as the eye can see. However, a spoiler alert; we visited in September. We knew this before our trip that the harvesting would be over.
Charming village square in Provence featuring a historic stone fountain surrounded by vibrant flower displays, with colorful shutters and a traditional boulangerie. This picturesque scene captures the authentic charm and daily life of southern France’s most beautiful villages.
Place des Héros de la Résistance

But hey, we’ve already started to plan our Provence trip for next year, and we will be in the region in June, so fingers crossed we get to see the fragrant lavender fields in person.

Don’t let the absence of lavender sway you from visiting Valensole, as the surrounding olive groves are so welcoming to see. During the autumnal months, it is a delightful village to amble around, it has a true ‘lived-in’ feel and a great place for a spot of lunch. As luck would have it, the brasserie we chose was serving a delicious lavender Crème Brûlée.

The Chapelle Saint-Mayeul in Provence stands out with its pastel-hued façade, rustic charm, and distinctive bell tower set against a clear blue sky. This historic chapel is a hidden gem in one of France’s most picturesque villages, offering cultural depth and timeless Provençal beauty.
Chapelle Saint-Mayeul
The Église Saint-Blaise de Valensole rises majestically above the narrow village streets, showcasing its centuries-old stone façade and Romanesque architecture. This historic Provençal church is a must-see landmark for visitors exploring the cultural heart of southern France.
Église Saint-Blaise de Valensole
Valensole is a small traditional Provençal town, and in September, it was pleasantly lacking the influx of tourists, which made it even more relaxing to explore. It was a joy wending our way around the quiet, narrow streets and lanes.
Historic stone lavoir in Valensole, Provence, framed by colorful flowers and pastel village houses under a tiled roof. This traditional Provençal washhouse offers a glimpse into local heritage and adds rustic charm to one of the region’s most picturesque villages.
Valensole’s historic ‘lavoir’
It’s beautiful around the Place des Héros de la Résistance, with the cascading central fountain surrounded by floral displays and welcoming shops. Nearby here is Valensole’s historic ‘lavoir’, a public washhouse which was once a vital part of the local community.

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You will find us across many forms of social media. You will find our latest posts, some throwbacks, links to historic events with our 'On this day' posts, across Facebook, X, Bluesky & Threads. Each week, themed visual content on Instagram, and our narrated travels on YouTube. Collections of the images in our posts are also collated into boards on Pinterest.

We’re now in the Vaucluse department of Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur, in the Luberon village of Saignon, which only has a population of around 900 residents.

What is especially pleasing about the medieval village of Saignon is that it is closed to traffic, and as you amble along the main narrow street leading through Saignon, you can almost sense the capturing of time.

Place de la Fontaine in Provence offers a charming stone-paved square with a historic fountain, surrounded by ivy-covered buildings and leafy trees. This peaceful spot embodies the rustic beauty and timeless atmosphere of southern France’s most picturesque villages.
Place de la Fontaine
Saignon is perched on a rocky outcrop overlooking the Luberon Valley and is known for its ancient architecture and stunning panoramic views. We arrived mid-afternoon, and Saignon was really quite tranquil, which we found set it apart from some of the more bustling tourist destinations in the region.
Visitors approach the historic Notre-Dame de Pitié church in Provence, framed by lush greenery and set against a vibrant blue sky. This Romanesque gem is a must-see landmark on any cultural or heritage tour of southern France.
The Notre-Dame de Pitié
Charming house entrance in Saignon, Provence, adorned with lush greenery, colorful flowers, and rustic green shutters. This picturesque corner captures the authentic village atmosphere and floral beauty of southern France’s most enchanting destinations.
Quiet lanes in Saignon

The Notre-Dame de Pitié is a beautiful 12th century Romanesque church; it has magnificent views across the Provence countryside and has been a significant site of pilgrimage since the Middle Ages.

Head along the cobbled streets of Saignon passing pretty shuttered houses with ivy-clad walls, to the main square, Place de la Fontaine. This charming square with old fountains and a washhouse is a delightful place to sit in the dappled shade and admire the tranquil surroundings.

Breathtaking panoramic view from Rocher de Bellevue in Provence, showcasing rolling hills, vineyards, and lush countryside under a blue summer sky. This scenic lookout captures the natural beauty and charm of rural southern France, ideal for road trip and travel inspiration.
View from Rocher de Bellevue
Just a short hop from here is the Rocher de Bellevue, the rocky promontory which is an iconic spot in the village of Saignon. Head up the easy climb to the top to enjoy a breathtaking 360-degree view.

There are so many incredible places to discover in France, so many regions, and I love planning road trips. I often use the DK Guides,

I find them extremely informative, easy to follow and the pictures and maps tempt you into searching for more

Image
The historic town of Pernes-les-Fontaines is nestled between L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue and Carpentras in the Vaucluse department of Provence. This charming town was originally named Pernes and officially adopted the moniker Pernes-les-Fontaines in 1936.
Historic stone gateway and chapel of Notre-Dame in the village of Pernes-les-Fontaines, Provence, showcasing medieval architecture and cobbled streets. This well-preserved landmark offers a glimpse into the region’s rich heritage and is a must-see stop on any Provence road trip.
Porte and La chapelle Notre-Dame

Pernes-les-Fontaines still retains significant sections of its original fortifications, and most notably, the ancient gates of Porte Notre-Dame, Porte Villeneuve and the Porte Saint-Gilles date from the 13th and 14th centuries.

The fortified gate of Porte Notre-Dame dates back to the 14th century, an it is adorned with two towers that overlook the Nesque River. A delightful little chapel sits upon the bridge and leads you through the impressive gates and the historic covered market beyond.

La Halle Couverte in Pernes-les-Fontaines, Provence, is a historic covered market hall built with stone columns and a traditional timber roof. This charming medieval structure is a picturesque reminder of the town’s vibrant past and a must-visit site on a cultural tour of southern France.
La Halle Couverte
As you may have guessed from its name, Pernes-les-Fontaines has an unusually large number of fountains. In fact, there are more than 40 ancient fountains, many of which date from the 18th century and are classified as historic monuments.
The Gigot Fountain stands beneath a medieval stone tower in the charming village of Pernes-les-Fontaines, Provence, capturing the rustic elegance of historic southern France. Surrounded by narrow cobbled streets and shuttered houses, this tranquil spot is a hidden gem for cultural explorers and photographers alike.
Gigot fountain
The Cormoran Fountain in Pernes-les-Fontaines, Provence, stands in front of a historic stone gateway, offering a glimpse into the town's medieval charm. This beautifully carved fountain is one of the town’s many water features and a highlight of any cultural road trip through southern France.
Cormoran fountain
As you amble around Pernes-les-Fontaines, you’ll discover a fountain around nearly every corner, and the fountains themselves are works of art. Keep a lookout for the Gigot fountain and the Cormoran fountain, which are two of the most beautiful in the town.

France Tourist Information

If you’re tempted to tour France and discover all the delightful things it has to offer, take a peek at the official French Tourism website. The local tourist offices dotted around the towns and cities provide some extremely useful information and handy pointers for around each region.
The extremely picturesque town of L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue lies between Cavaillon and Carpentras, also within the Vaucluse region of Provence. The Sorgue River encircles the historic streets of L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue, with branches of the river snaking off along the attractive canals.
The iconic Maison René Char overlooks the tranquil Sorgue River in L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue, surrounded by leafy trees and bustling riverside cafés. This picturesque Provençal townscape blends cultural heritage with vibrant local life, making it a must-see destination in southern France.
Maison René Char by La Sorgue

It’s such a pleasure strolling along the quaysides, criss-crossing over the attractive bridges, so many adorned with planters full of vibrant blooms. L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue is so different from many other Provencal towns and such a contrast to the ancient ochre hilltop villages.

Not only is L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue known for its winding waterways and riverside cafés, you’ll also spot an inordinate number of waterwheels, many of which are still in working order. The river served as an essential source of industry, with the waterwheels being used for the local factories.

A moss-covered waterwheel gently turns in the sunlight beside a peaceful river in L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue, one of Provence’s most picturesque villages. This charming relic of the town’s industrial past adds character to a popular stop on a French road trip through southern France.
 Riverside waterwheel
Charming pastel-coloured house with mint-green shutters nestled in the narrow historic lanes of L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue, Provence. This picturesque corner captures the timeless beauty of French village life and is a must-see stop on a Provençal road trip.
Historic lanes in L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue
Take a stroll through the narrow lanes into the old town of L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue. It is such a lovely place to explore, particularly in the Place de la Liberté. Here you’ll find the collegiate church of Notre-Dame-des-Anges, housing some of the most impressive examples of Baroque architecture in Provence.
A vibrant display of antiques and vintage treasures lines the canalside brocantes in L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue, Provence’s famous hub for flea markets and second-hand finds. Shaded by trees and full of rustic charm, this picturesque spot is a must-visit for lovers of French décor and history.
 Canalside brocantes
L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue truly comes alive on market days. The Sunday market, which originated in 1596, is a famous and lively Provençal market, featuring a wide array of local produce and crafts. On Sundays, the 300 permanent antique shops are joined by stalls along the canals. The town also hosts two major international antique fairs each year, at Easter and in August.

I love nothing more than planning a trip through France and so often I use the DK Eyewitness books.  I find them extremely informative, easy to follow and the pictures and maps tempt you into discovering more.

We used a previous version of this book to plan our French road trips, now you can grab the revised copy.

DK France Cover
The tiny village of Goult is nestled within the Parc Naturel Régional du Luberon and is perched high on a hilltop. The attractive and very peaceful village is full of quaint dry-stone homes, all with the obligatory pretty, wooden pastel window shutters.
A charming village square in Goult, Provence, features ivy-covered stone buildings, pastel shutters, and a cosy café terrace buzzing with lunchtime diners. Bathed in golden sunlight, this idyllic scene captures the timeless allure of southern France and its relaxed, scenic way of life.
Lunchtime in Goult
Goult may be small, but it is undoubtedly worth taking a stroll around its ancient streets. Soak up the peaceful vibes within Place de la Libération and pop into Saint-Sébastien Church.
A peaceful village corner in Provence features pastel-hued houses with rustic shutters and a sunlit olive tree at the center of the quiet square. This charming Provençal scene captures the timeless beauty and relaxed atmosphere of southern France, perfect for travelers seeking authentic French countryside experiences.
Serene village of Goult
As we wend our way through the serene streets, it truly is a delight admiring the Ochre-coloured homes which lead you along Goult’s solitary main road. Narrow lanes branch off to offer you stunning views across the Provence countryside.
A peaceful, sunlit street winds through a charming Provençal village, lined with pastel-hued buildings, green shutters, and local shops. This quiet lane captures the timeless beauty and relaxed rhythm of life in southern France, perfect for discovering hidden gems in Provence.
The quiet streets
A picturesque view of the stone tower at Château de Goult in Provence, framed by lush greenery and traditional village charm. This hidden gem in southern France offers a perfect glimpse into the region’s rich medieval history and architectural beauty.
Château de Goult
Nearing the end of the lane, passing under vaulted archways, is a 12th century castle, the Château de Goult, which unfortunately is not open to visitors. If your timing is right, enjoy a tranquil lunch in one of a handful of Goult’s bistros.

If you love Provence as much as we do, you'll want to start planning your visit now.

I so enjoy using the DK Eyewitness books, as they are extremely informative, easy to follow and the pictures and maps tempt you into discovering more.

We used a previous version of this book to plan our Provencal road trip, now you can grab the revised copy.

DK Provence Cover
6

Ménerbes

Explore its ancient lanes
The charming hilltop village of Ménerbes is extremely historic and picturesque. It is officially classified as one of "The Most Beautiful Villages of France” and has long been a haven for artists, writers, and those seeking a quintessential Provençal lifestyle.
A stunning panoramic view over the Luberon Valley from Ménerbes, showcasing lush vineyards, olive groves, and rolling hills under a partly cloudy Provençal sky. This scenic landscape captures the timeless beauty and agricultural richness of southern France.
View from Ménerbes
Ménerbes rose to international fame mainly due to the British author Peter Mayle, whose best-selling memoir, "A Year in Provence," was inspired by his life in the village of Ménerbes. So, as you may expect, Ménerbes can get a little busy at times. We visited late afternoon, and it was quite pleasant.
The cover for the Peter Mayle book - A Year in Provence
Charming narrow street in a Provençal village, lined with stone houses featuring pastel shutters and festooned with hanging lights. This picturesque alleyway captures the timeless appeal and tranquil ambiance of southern France’s hidden gems.
Narrow streets
Quaint cobbled street in Ménerbes, Provence, lined with rustic stone houses, artisan shops, and a traditional boulangerie. This charming village scene perfectly captures the relaxed pace and authentic beauty of southern France.
 Lanes in Ménerbes

Strolling through the narrow, cobbled streets is a delightful experience in itself. The village is built on a long, narrow ridge, offering stunning panoramic views of the surrounding vineyards, olive groves, and the Luberon valley. You'll find beautifully restored stone houses, Renaissance mansions, and the remains of ancient ramparts.

If you’re searching for other quintessential Provençal villages to visit, we can highly recommend Gordes and Roussillon; they are stunning.

Aug / 2022

Beautiful towns and villages to lure you to France, part V

Featured image for “Beautiful towns and villages to lure you to France, part V”

Crit'Air vignette required for driving in France

If you’re heading to France from the UK with your own vehicle, you’ll need a Crit’Air ‘clean air’ car sticker.

Just like our low-emission zones in the UK, France now legally requires the display of a Crit’Air vignette. The good news is, these stickers are readily available and affordable online through the official French government website.

The Crit’Air sticker lasts the lifetime of the vehicle, so it’s a one-off purchase. The RAC website offers an in-depth guide to everything you need to know and your requirements.

Eygalières is a charming village located in the heart of the Alpilles Natural Regional Park in Provence. Eygalières was full of authentic Provençal character. We loved the essence of the village as soon as we started to stroll around. It felt very tranquil and not as touristy as some places we had visited.
Restaurants around a junction in the provence town of the eygalières in southern france
Colourful streets of Eygalières

Eygalières was once a fortified, hilltop village; its origins can be traced back to Neolithic and Gallo-Roman times. The old village is perched on a rocky outcrop, offering strategic views of the surrounding plains.

The village has managed to maintain its historic charm with beautiful stone houses, narrow cobblestone streets, and a serene atmosphere. It has attracted many artists who are drawn to its understated elegance.

Charming stone building in Eygalières, Provence, featuring green shutters and vintage signage for "Postes Télégraphes Téléphones." This beautifully preserved post office captures the timeless character of one of the best villages in southern France.
The old Post Office in Eygalières
Charming café terrace in Eygalières, Provence, set against a rustic stone house draped in vibrant climbing vines. This peaceful village scene embodies the relaxed elegance and hidden beauty of southern France.
Peaceful Eygalières

We loved wandering through Eygalières, it felt so relaxed, and we really felt like we were in the heart of Provence.

A bustling market is held every Friday morning, and it’s when Eygalières comes alive. The Provençal market fills the main street and offers a wide variety of local products, including fresh produce.

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