After strolling to the village to pick up fresh croissants, serve breakfast on the pretty terrace overlooking the vineyards before venturing out to explore the Luberon. This attractive villa in Provence is perfectly located away from the tourist crowds yet near some of the Luberon’s most famous villages including Gordes and Roussillon.

Villa Les Vignes was once an ancient bergerie, made out of local stone and located at the foot of the authentic village of Joucas. It’s wonderful to sit out in the south-facing garden (meaning you are protected from the mistral) overlooking vineyards and beautiful Luberon landscapes. The swimming pool is especially inviting in the warm summer months and there is a picturesque terrace for al-fresco dining in the shade. As evening approaches, the sunsets over the vines are idyllic.

Inside, the thick stone walls keep the villa cool in the summer and comfortable during winter months although there is also air-conditioning throughout. Admire characterful features such as exposed wood beams, Provençal ceilings and the lounge’s grand fireplace, alongside a blend of modern and classic furnishings. The garden room is a relaxing place for your morning coffee overlooking the garden and countryside beyond.

The villa sleeps up to 8 guests across four bedrooms – three doubles and a quad with four single beds. There are also three bathrooms – one en suite (downstairs) and another two on the first floor.

It really is lovely to be able to easily wander to the hilltop village to explore its flower-filled lanes and come across old stone houses, sculptures and a striking windmill on the edge of the village (do visit inside). The village is home to a couple of restaurants and a delightful épicerie with a good range of products and fresh bread. There are some great walks from the village including a challenging hike through the Gorges du Véroncle.

Meanwhile, the iconic hilltop villages of Gordes and Roussillon are just 6km away, both classified as two of France’s ‘Plus Beaux Villages’. Other Luberon gems nearby include Ménerbes and Bonnieux or head a little further south to the likes of Lourmarin, Ansouis and Cucuron (all three with Michelin starred restaurants!).

Discover canoeing along the Sorgue near Fontaine-de-Vaucluse, horse-riding, cycling and yet more atmospheric markets in local villages and towns. Don’t miss L'Isle-sur-la-Sorgue’s Sunday morning brocante and Velleron’s Farmer’s market most summer evenings.

Furthermore, if you can find the time, visit the UNESCO World Heritage sites of Avignon or soak up the romance of Aix-en-Provence, both brilliant days out from your holiday home in the Luberon.

In the Luberon region of Provence, Villa Les Vignes enjoys beautiful vineyard views on the edge of a small village, only 6km from the famous perched village of Gordes. The nearest airports are Avignon, Marseille and Nimes or arrive by train into Gare d’Avignon TGV (fast trains from Paris to Avignon take 2 hours 40 minutes).

It’s fantastic being able to stroll to Joucas, an authentic small village with a little épicerie for a nice range of groceries and bread as well as a couple of restaurants. There is also a tennis court and small children’s play area within walking distance. Joucas is very well located a short drive from many Luberon highlights but the village is also away from the usual tourist trail. Explore the village’s narrow lanes, old houses and colourful flowers, then venture further afield with some wonderful hikes within easy reach including Les Gorges de Véroncle.

You are almost equidistant between the red-hued village of Roussillon (6km) and artistic Gordes (6km), both officially classified as two of France’s ‘Plus Beaux Villages’. Across both villages look out for wonderful restaurants, atmospheric weekly markets, art galleries (especially in Gordes) and stunning views. Just outside Roussillon, walk along Le Sentier des Ocres to admire the everchanging red colours against the verdant pine trees and Provençal blue skies.  

Other gems of the region include Ménerbes (15km), Bonnieux (15km) and Oppède le Vieux (18km) whilst market lovers won’t want to miss the atmospheric stalls across Apt (16km) on a Saturday morning (the largest market in the region) and Coustellet (12km) on a Sunday.

Discover landscapes of vineyards, orchards and forests as you explore the many walking and cycling trails or admire the scenery on horseback – carriage rides are also possible through the Luberon countryside.

Beyond the Luberon, head to the lavender fields of Sault (30km), the antique stores of L'Isle-sur-la-Sorgue (22km), the hiking trails near Fontaine-de-Vaucluse (23km) and the Sorgue River for canoeing/kayaking in glorious surroundings. Golf lovers can tee off at Golf de Saumane (22km) only half an hour by car.

Meanwhile, visit the wine-bars, markets and unesco World Heritage sites of Avignon (42km) or venture as far as Les Alpilles for Roman ruins, endless olive groves and picture-perfect villages including Eygalières (35km) and Les Baux-de-Provence (50km).

Accommodation