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Gordes

Gordes ('most beautiful villages of Provence') is 38 km east of Avignon, in the Luberon district of Provence-Alpes-Cote d'Azur

Tourist Information and places to visit

Gordes is a beautiful traditional Provencal 'village on a rock' with narrow cobbled streets that wind ever higher through the tall, ancient houses to the church and castle at the top, with views across the Luberon mountains and region. It is often said to be the most photogenic of the Provencal villages - no mean accolade, given the competition. And it is the most visited of all the villages in the region.

A large part of the attraction of Gordes, curiously, is when it is seen from across the valley. From here you can appreciate the whole village running in terraces down the slope of the hill, with carefully planted Italian Poplar trees and plants breaking the whiteness of the village. This (on a sunny day) is one of the great views of France!

The village itself, while very attractive, almost fails to live up to the high expectations that this view has prepared you for. But it is still highly recommended! Many of the houses, in the white stone of the region, are now pristinely restored, with fine period doorways and windows, and interspersed with luxury shops and restaurants (especially around the village square). The highlight of Gordes is...Gordes itself. It is a simply lovely, traditional Provencal hilltop village, and has a myriad of narrow and cobbled streets that wind their way ever upwards to the church, castle and fine views that await you at the top.

The castle, also now lovingly restored, was rebuilt in 1525. As well as some fine features, including a grand renaissance staircase and ornate fireplace, it also houses a museum of art exhibits - a trend set by artist owner Victor Vaserely who rented the castle for a long period during the 20th century.

As with all of these stunningly attractive Provencal perched villages, visiting Gordes outside high season is preferable.

Nearby

Senanque Abbey
Abbey de Senanque

Abbaye de Sénanque is a beautiful 12th century abbey in the valley near Gordes (and still has resident monks). Squeezed between lavender fields and hills, with simple architectural lines, this is to me a 'perfect' abbey. After following the road the few kilometres from Gordes to the abbey, be sure to find time to carry on a few more kilometres along the same road - it is one of the most scenic roads in the region, as it winds its way through the craggy hills of the petit Luberon.

Village of the Bories. Sitting on the edge of the Vaucluse mountains, the bories are ancient stone dwellings, dating back up to 3000 years. The Village of the Bories is now classified as a National Monument, and is a fine example of such a village, with numerous buildings, sheep-pens, bread ovens etc to explore.

See also 'Luberon' in the Holiday Ideas section for other villages in this region.

Visit Gordes, France: travel, tourism, gites and hotels

Gordes, most beautiful villages of France, Provence
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PLAN A VISIT TO GORDES, FRANCE

Hotels Gordes

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PLACES TO VISIT NEAR GORDES

Map of Gordes, France
Places to visit - Gordes

Explore places within about 70 kilometres on a map at Visit Gordes.

Some of the closer places are listed below (distances from Gordes are approximate and direct - as the crow flies. Only places listed on the france this way site are shown!)

 

Tourist Classifications for Gordes

- Most beautiful villages in France

 

Information and photos

This travel guide has information, holidays and photos of Gordes when available. If you have any photos or relevant information please send them to us! Full credit will be given if they are used.

 


 

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