Gordes the pearl of French Provence The most beautiful village in France Walking tour 4k

Perched on a rocky headland in the Vaucluse Mountains, in the heart of the Luberon Regional Natural Park, Gordes is a quintessential postcard-perfect Provençal village.

The picturesque cobblestone streets lined with stunning yellow stone houses, fountains and arched walkways, and the majestic Renaissance castle towering proudly above the landscape have attracted artists such as Chagall and Vasarely, who came here for inspiration.

Situated on a cliff and on the edge of the Vaucluse plateau, Gordes is considered one of France's "most beautiful villages" and is home to many famous people and artists.

Gordes is located in the heart of the Luberon and is a major attraction, but also serves as a starting point for many other villages, such as Roussillon and Ocher, Colorado-Provençal, or Fontaine de Vaucluse.

Beyond the town, which still preserves medieval buildings dating back to the 13th century, at the foot of the cliffs (but otherwise inaccessible on foot) is the Senank Abbey, founded in the mid-12th century. Near the abbey walls is one of the most famous lavender fields in Provence.

The bright stone houses and cobblestone streets of Gorda have inspired many artists and photographers, including Marc Chagall. Gorda is a member of the Association of the Most Beautiful Villages in France.

You can see the town in half a day, although if you want to see more than the central square, be prepared to hike up the hills. From the castle there is a path leading down the steep streets, but then you will have to climb back up. Similar postcard-like scenes of Gorda, as in the title photo – this is the entrance to the town, but not quite there yet. There are places to park your car, but there are very few of them. So during peak season you might have to look around on the edge of the hill.