National Geographic Traveler recognized the Luberon Experience as one of their top Tours of a Lifetime.
This is a small-group tour that doesn’t feel like a tour… it’s truly an experience. The Luberon is the most beautiful area in Provence, stretching 34 miles on either side of a small, rocky mountain range, an hour north of the Mediterranean Sea.
This is the area Peter Mayle described in his best-selling book, “A Year in Provence” and was featured in the 2006 movie “A Good Year.” Our base is the ancient perched village of Bonnieux with sweeping views across the valley. Our family lived in this village for six months several years ago, and we now have a second home there. Our friends always give our groups a warm welcome. Because of our relationships and the size of our groups, our trips include many unique experiences that wouldn’t be possible on your own or with another tour.
Our Stay
Our 10-room, family-owned hotel has a beautiful garden and swimming pool in the village. By the end of the week Bonnieux will feel like home to you too.
The Luberon
Offers a wide diversity of experiences for a week-long stay: a rich history dating back to prehistoric and Roman times, incredible landscapes of mountains and farmland, hilltop stone villages, the ruins of old castles, delightful outdoor markets, and outstanding cuisine and wine.
Highlights of our week include:
- A walking tour of Bonnieux. Including a visit to our friend’s historic home with the ancient caves that date back over 1500 years.
- Visits to nearby perched villages, including Lacoste, Roussillon and Saignon.
- Outdoor markets at L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue, Saint-Saturnin and Bonnieux.
- A private tour and wine tasting at one of the top wineries in the region. Hosted by our good friend Nathalie, the winemaker.
- A special lunch at a friend’s home featuring a casual meal of local specialties of seasonal produce.
- Visit a privately-owned ancient abbey in an isolated setting facing the Luberon mountain.
- Several options for walks. Including an easy walk in the Fôret de Cèdres (on top of the Petit Luberon mountain) and a morning walk to Lacoste.
- A day in Les Alpilles, a mountainous area an hour west of the Luberon. We visit Roman ruins, the sanitarium where Van Gogh spent a year painting, a family-owned olive mill, and an incredible light and music show.
- Memorable meals in various settings, where we’ll experience Provence’s famous specialties and cuisine.
- There is plenty of free time to enjoy the village and our beautiful little hotel.
We always provide interesting options for those who prefer other activities.
The Luberon Experience, our signature tour in Provence, in 2006. Over 800 people have joined us– and many have returned for a second and even a third time. We now offer one or two Luberon Women’s Week trips each year.
