Provençal Things To Do
Anyone who knows us knows we have a deep love for all things France.
Provence is truly special—from the food and wine to classic French farmers’ markets, endless varieties of cheese, quiet villages, lavender fields, and the sound of cicadas in the summer air. We’ve shared a few of our favorite places and experiences here, and we hope you’ll fall in love with it just as we have.
Whether you’re arriving early or staying on a bit longer, Provence invites you to slow down and explore at your own pace. Below are a few favorite ways to enjoy the region during your stay in the Luberon.
For those looking to extend their travels, feel free to reach out to Howell Tourism (aka us). We’re always happy to share favorite spots in the French Riviera, elsewhere in France, or beyond—clearly we have opinions.
Just ask.
See & Explore
Hilltop villages
Wander through postcard-perfect villages like Gordes, Lourmarin, Roussillon, and Saignon. Each offers a slightly different rhythm—markets, cafés, and sweeping views.
Lavender fields
From late June through mid-July, lavender is in bloom. Highlights include Abbaye de Sénanque, Valensole, and fields throughout the Luberon.
Carrières de Lumières (Les Baux-de-Provence)
An unforgettable immersive art experience set inside a former stone quarry.
Roman History in Arle
Visit the Roman arena, theatre, and sites that inspired Van Gogh.
Village Markets
Stroll a local market for fresh produce, flowers, and regional specialties. Favorites include Lourmarin (Friday) and Apt (Saturday).
Cycling or eBikes
A beautiful way to move between vineyards and villages, with routes suitable for all levels.
Surrounding Villages & Towns
The Luberon is known for its picturesque villages, each with its own character. Some of our favorites include:
Lourmarin – lively cafés, boutiques, and a charming château
Gordes – iconic hilltop village with sweeping views
Roussillon – famous for its ochre cliffs and colorful streets
Saignon – quiet, understated, and wonderfully local
Saint-Rémy-de-Provence – elegant shops, markets, and history
Les Baux-de-Provence – dramatic ruins and panoramic scenery
Arles – Roman heritage, art, and vibrant culture
For those interested in history and architecture, these nearby sites are well worth a visit:
Abbaye Notre-Dame de Sénanque – a stunning 12th-century abbey set among lavender fields near Gordes
Château La Coste – For a unique blend of art, architecture, and wine, Château La Coste is well worth a visit. The estate features outdoor installations and pavilions by world-renowned artists and architects set among vineyards and rolling Provençal landscapes, alongside wine tastings and dining options.
Eat & Drink
Look for menus built around seasonal vegetables, olive oil, herbs, and local cheeses.
Classic Provençal cuisine
A must in Provence. Favorites include Lourmarin (Friday) and Apt (Saturday)—perfect for fruit, cheese, bread, and flowers.
Farmers markets
Enjoy relaxed tastings at nearby estates producing elegant rosés, whites, and reds, especially in the Luberon and Ventoux regions.
Wine tastings
Restaurant recommendations
Provence is deeply seasonal, ingredient-driven, and meant to be enjoyed slowly. Below are a few of our favorite restaurants in and around the Luberon, ranging from relaxed local spots to destination dining.
We recommend making reservations in advance, especially in summer.
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Restaurant de Tourrel — Saint-Rémy-de-Provence
Refined, contemporary Provençal cuisine in a beautiful historic setting.Le Mas Les Eydins — Bonnieux
Intimate and understated, with thoughtful dishes inspired by the surrounding countryside.L’Oustau de Baumanière — Les Baux-de-Provence
A true Provençal institution and Michelin-starred destination, known for elegant, seasonal cooking.La Table des Amis — Bonnieux
Warm, local, and unfussy—perfect for an easy, authentic meal.JU – Maison de Cuisine — Bonnieux
Modern, creative plates with a relaxed atmosphere; great for lunch or dinner.La Fenière – La Gout du Bonheur — Cadenet
A celebration of local ingredients and Provençal traditions, beautifully executed.
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For additional dining inspiration, we recommend exploring the Michelin Guide, which highlights many exceptional restaurants throughout Provence.
View the guide online. For ease while traveling, you may also wish to download the Michelin Guide app. -
Summer in Provence brings some of the region’s most beloved ingredients. When dining out, keep an eye out for:
Figs
Strawberries
Tomatoes and summer vegetables
Melon
Zucchini flowers
Fresh herbs like basil, thyme, and rosemary
Olive oil and local cheeses
Wine tasting
The Luberon is known for elegant rosés, fresh whites, and refined reds. Many wineries offer tastings by appointment.
Nearby favorites:
Domaine de Fontenille (Lauris) – Beautiful setting with polished, modern wines
Domaine de la Citadelle (Ménerbes) – Excellent rosé and a welcoming tasting experience
Optional day trip to Châteauneuf-du-Pape
Approx. 1.5 hours from Bonnieux
For wine lovers, Châteauneuf-du-Pape makes for a wonderful full-day excursion into the southern Rhône.
Château de Beaucastel
Domaine du Vieux Télégraphe
Château La Nerthe
Pair your visit with lunch in Avignon or the village of Châteauneuf-du-Pape for a classic Provençal day
Lavender in Provence
One of the most iconic sights in Provence is lavender in bloom. Fields typically peak from late June through mid-July, with harvest beginning later in July.
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The most expansive and dramatic lavender fields in Provence, with rolling rows stretching as far as the eye can see. Best visited early in the morning or near sunset.
Approx. 1.5–2 hours from the Luberon. -
Lavender blooms slightly later here than elsewhere, making it a great option if traveling in late July. A charming village with scenic drives and walking paths.
Approx. 1.5 hours from Bonnieux. -
A stunning 12th-century abbey framed by lavender fields. While smaller in scale, the setting is quintessentially Provençal.
Approx. 30 minutes from Bonnieux. -
Scattered fields can be found throughout the Luberon near Bonnieux, Apt, and Ménerbes. Less dramatic than Valensole, but easy to enjoy while exploring nearby villages.
Spa treatments
The spa at Hôtel Capelongue offers a serene setting for relaxation, with treatments inspired by the surrounding landscape. Appointments are recommended in advance.
