Holiday rentals in the Luberon

Three iconic places to discover in the Luberon

The Luberon is home to some of Provence’s most memorable sights. From stone villages perched high on the cliffs to a Cistercian abbey nestled in the heart of the valleys, these three sites form the backbone of an authentic exploration of the Vaucluse plateau. Each tells a unique story – that of a region which has successfully preserved its landscape and architectural identity.

1. The village of Gordes

Gordes clings to the cliffside, forming a compact cluster of stone houses that seem to have been carved out of the rock itself. From the village’s winding streets, the view opens out onto the Vaucluse plateau and the silhouette of the Luberon massif. At the summit, the 16th-century Renaissance castle watches over the ochre-coloured roofs and sun-bleached façades. It is one of the region’s unmissable stops, where a leisurely stroll and contemplation go hand in hand, particularly during the golden hours of evening when the light softens the stone.

2. Sénanque Abbey

Near Gordes, Sénanque Abbey lies nestled in a valley that has remained unspoilt since the 12th century. This Cistercian foundation exudes tranquillity and austerity, much like the order that has inhabited it for centuries. But it is in summer that the site reveals its true character: the surrounding lavender fields form a fragrant, mauve veil whose undulations follow the contours of the land. This landscape, one of the most photographed in Provence, offers an immersion in the very essence of the Provençal countryside.

3. The Village of Les Bories

Not far from Gordes stands an open-air museum: the village of Les Bories. Around twenty small dry-stone huts, built without mortar, emerge from the rocky terrain. Dating back several centuries, these structures tell the story of how the inhabitants of the Luberon shaped their environment using the materials at their disposal. Listed as a historic monument, this ethnographic site embodies Provençal ingenuity and the plateau’s vernacular architecture, transforming a simple stroll into a living lesson in rural history.

Together, these three destinations paint a picture of a region deeply rooted in its past, where every stone, every dry-stone wall and every lavender field contributes to the magic of a stay in the Luberon.

The ideal season for booking a holiday let in the Luberon

Every season transforms the Luberon. The garrigue landscapes, hilltop villages and lavender fields offer very different atmospheres depending on the time of year. The choice of your holiday depends on what you’re looking for: contemplative solitude or lively village life, active walks or relaxation in the warm sunshine.

Spring paints the Luberon in a thousand shades. The almond and cherry trees come into bloom as soon as the first fine days arrive. Temperatures remain mild and the villages begin to come to life without becoming overcrowded. It’s the ideal time to explore the small Provençal markets and walk the hiking trails without the stifling heat of summer. Holiday rentals offer terraces where you can enjoy the gradually lengthening evenings.

Summer is the peak season in the Luberon. The sun shines intensely, and it can get very hot in the middle of the afternoon, but the nights remain cool. Restaurant terraces fill up, village festivals follow one after another, and the atmosphere is electric. This is when holidaymakers flock to the festivals and the local scene is buzzing with activity. A holiday let with a swimming pool is therefore a real asset for cooling off.

Autumn brings a sense of calm to the Luberon. The harvests begin: grapes in the Ventoux vineyards, olives being prepared, and late-season fruit at the markets. Temperatures drop gradually, and the autumn light bathes the village stones in a golden glow. It is a season of transition, between the intensity of summer and the tranquillity of winter. The roads are less congested, accommodation remains affordable, and conditions for hiking become pleasant.

Winter rarely brings frost to the Luberon, except at the highest altitudes. The days are short but bright. The mistral can blow vigorously, purifying the air and offering skies of crystalline clarity. The villages regain a sense of local intimacy. Holiday rentals offer a cosy retreat, with a fireplace or heating, for contemplative stays or shorter but more intensive getaways.

Holiday rentals remain the most flexible option in the Luberon: they adapt to your pace, your seasonal preferences and your budget. Whether you’re looking for the hustle and bustle of summer or the tranquillity of winter, you’ll find what you’re looking for.

3 activities you simply must try during your holiday in the Luberon

A holiday in a holiday let in the Luberon is all about soaking up the Provençal countryside and discovering the region’s authentic charm. With its oak forests, hilltop villages and renowned local produce, the region offers experiences that reveal its true spirit. Here are three unmissable activities that will enrich your visit.

1. Hiking in the Luberon Regional Nature Park

The park’s trails wind through landscapes shaped by time: limestone gorges, pine forests and clearings where Provence reveals itself. Walkers will discover picturesque villages nestled on the hillsides, cool springs and viewpoints overlooking the valley. The trails cater for all abilities, from casual walkers seeking peace and quiet to those who enjoy more challenging hikes. It’s an immersion in the region’s Mediterranean flora and rural traditions.

Address: Luberon Regional Nature Park, 84400 Apt.

2. Discovering Apt’s Provençal market and its local produce

For centuries, Apt has been a hub for the Luberon’s artisanal expertise. On the Place de la Bouquerie, the market comes alive with colours and scents: renowned candied fruits, honey with distinctive flavours, locally grown fruit and vegetables, dried aromatic herbs and olive oil. Strolling amongst the stalls, chatting with the producers and sampling local specialities tells a story of the land and the passing down of traditions. It is a moment of genuine interaction where the region reveals itself through its flavours.

Address: Place de la Bouquerie, 84400 Apt.

3. Tasting Luberon AOC wines at local vineyards

For generations, the Luberon’s wine estates have been cultivating grape varieties that find a unique expression in this terroir. A tasting invites you to discover full-bodied reds, fine rosés and delicate whites that embody the character of the Mediterranean climate. The winegrowers share their passion for cultivation techniques and the choices that give each vintage its distinct personality. It is a sensory experience and a chance to connect with people amidst the vineyards.

Address: 84160 Cadenet.

Our guests’ favourite amenities when booking a holiday rental in the Luberon

When staying in a holiday rental, the comfort of the accommodation is just as important as its location. In the Luberon, where summers are hot and sunny, travellers are primarily looking for facilities that allow them to enjoy the region to the full without compromising on their day-to-day well-being. Families, couples and groups of friends appreciate accommodation designed with their relaxation and independence in mind.

• Air conditioning or cooling system: essential for coping with the intense summer heat without sacrificing a comfortable night’s sleep.
• Swimming pool or access to a communal pool: allows children to swim in complete safety and adults to cool off on scorching days.
• Fully equipped kitchen: essential for preparing meals, sampling local produce from the market and sharing convivial moments around the table.
• Terrace or balcony: provides an outdoor space for dining at sunset or having breakfast whilst enjoying the views of the Luberon.
• Washing machine: handy for longer stays or family holidays with young children.
• Car park or garage: keeps your car safe and makes it easier to get around to the hilltop villages and places of interest.
• High-speed internet connection: allows you to stay connected without being glued to the screen, ideal for occasional remote working.
• Efficient heating: in spring and autumn, nights can be chilly at higher altitudes; good heating ensures cosy nights.
• Small garden furniture: sun loungers, tables and parasols transform the courtyard into a real relaxation area.
• Leisure facilities: board games, books or access to streaming services for quiet evenings.

Choosing a holiday rental with these facilities ensures a stay that meets your expectations, suits the number of people in your group and fits your budget. The Luberon offers a wide variety of accommodation that meets these criteria, ranging from traditional country cottages to modern holiday flats and houses with swimming pools.

What is the average price of a holiday rental in the Luberon?

Prices for holiday rentals in the Luberon vary depending on the size and standard of the accommodation. For a small property or a studio, you can generally expect to pay between 60 and 100 euros per night in the low season, rising to between 120 and 180 euros in summer. A family-sized property, with three to four bedrooms, costs between 120 and 220 euros per night outside the summer season, and between 200 and 400 euros during July and August. More spacious or upmarket rentals can easily exceed 250 euros per night in the off-season, reaching 500 euros or more in the height of summer.

Several factors influence these price ranges. Location plays a major role: a house in the heart of a village such as Lourmarin or Ménerbes costs more than a property in a rural area. Proximity to iconic sites, access to a private swimming pool and modern facilities also affect prices. Rates fall significantly if you rent by the week rather than by the night, with volume discounts of up to 15–25 per cent on longer stays.

Seasonality is a major factor: April–May and September–October offer the best value for money, whilst July–August is the peak season. To plan your budget effectively, compare several listings, read the cancellation terms carefully and check reviews from previous guests. Booking in advance, three to four months before your departure, will often allow you to negotiate better rates.