We launched The Luberon Experience, our signature tour in Provence, in 2006. Over 700 people have joined us– and many have returned for a second and even a third time. The Luberon Experience was recognized by National Geographic Traveler as one of their top Tours of a Lifetime. We now offer two Luberon Women’s Week trips each year.
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 during our six month stay in the Luberon 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 10-room, family-owned hotel is located right in the village with a beautiful garden and swimming pool. 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.
– A visit to 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. We always provide interesting options for those who prefer other activities. One morning you could also rent electric bikes to explore the countryside on your own.
– 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 a variety of settings, where we’ll experience the famous specialties and cuisine of Provence.
– Plenty of free time to enjoy the village and our beautiful little hotel.
