Gordes: the Art of Slow Living in Provence

View from outside the village

Visiting Gordes feels like stepping into a postcard of Provence. A hilltop village built from pale stone, where every narrow street opens onto a view that calls for contemplation. We visited in May — the perfect season to experience the region: warm days without the summer crowds, and just a light sweater needed for evenings.

A Village Steeped in History

Classified as one of Les Plus Beaux Villages de France, Gordes traces its origins back to Roman times. In the Middle Ages, its strategic hilltop location made it a natural stronghold, with the fortified castle, still standing today, as its centerpiece. More recently, during World War II, Gordes became a hub of resistance, a memory that shaped its resilient and authentic identity. Walking its streets today, you feel the weight of this layered history blending seamlessly with everyday Provençal life.

What to See in Gordes

The central square: lively and charming, surrounded by cafés and little shops, perfect for a coffee or a glass of rosé in the late afternoon.

The cobbled alleys: getting lost in the stone lanes is the best way to soak in the medieval atmosphere.

The Château de Gordes: overlooking the village, this imposing castle now hosts exhibitions that change throughout the year.

Views over the Luberon Valley: breathtaking panoramas await at every corner, inviting you to pause and take it all in.

Gastronomic Experiences

In Gordes, food is never just about eating. Meals here are part of the Provençal art of living — generous, unhurried, and deeply connected to the land. Olive oils from local groves, produce from nearby markets, and wines from the surrounding Luberon all come together to create experiences that feel both refined and rooted in tradition.

/// Lunch at Clover Gordes

Inside the elegant Les Airelles hotel, chef Jean-François Piège’s Clover Gordes is a refined yet welcoming restaurant. Before the meal begins, a selection of local olive oils is brought to the table for tasting, each one with its own aromatic profile, from fruity to herbal, showcasing the richness of the region.

The highlight was the starter, the house classic: Œuf de poule sous la cendre, girolles mijotées au Savagnin. A simple egg transformed into something extraordinary, cooked under ashes and paired with girolles and a delicate touch of Savagnin wine. Service was impeccable, and to our delight the restaurant is dog-friendly, we went with our dog, who was warmly welcomed.

Adress: : 61 Rue de la Combe Airelles, 84220 Gordes

We highly recommend reserving before going, by clicking here.

/// Dinner at Tigrr

In the evening, we tried Tigrr, the lively sister restaurant of the one in Megève. Perched with beautiful views over the Luberon valley, it combines a cosmopolitan energy with Provençal charm. The setting is stylish yet relaxed, with soft lighting, upbeat music, and an atmosphere that feels both chic and playful.

The menu is inspired by contemporary Asian cuisine, featuring sushi, curries, and flavorful stir-fries — dishes that are light yet full of character, perfect for a summer night. The cocktails are another highlight, crafted with creativity and best enjoyed on the terrace as the sun sets. With its vibrant mood and panoramic backdrop, Tigrr is less about tradition and more about enjoying Gordes in a festive, elegant way.

Address: Le Village, 84220 Gordes

To reserve click here.

Beyond Gordes: The Serenity of the Abbaye de Sénanque

Just a short drive from Gordes, the Abbaye de Sénanque is one of the most iconic sights in Provence. Founded in the 12th century, this Cistercian abbey remains a place of peace and contemplation, where a small community of monks still lives in silence and prayer. Surrounded by fields of lavender that burst into bloom in June and July, the abbey becomes a vision of color and fragrance, its pale stone walls glowing softly against the violet rows. Even outside of the lavender season, the atmosphere is deeply moving — the simple Romanesque architecture, the cloisters bathed in light, and the sense of timeless devotion invite visitors to slow down and breathe. Visiting Sénanque is less about sightseeing and more about experiencing a quiet, enduring spirit that has shaped the region for centuries.

Practical note: Open from Monday to Saturday: 9:45 a.m. to 11 a.m. (last admission) and 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. (last admission) Sunday: 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. (last admission). Guided tours are available. The abbey is not dog-friendly, so plan accordingly if traveling with pets. For more information, find it here.

Practical tips for visiting Gordes

Best time to visit: Early morning or late afternoon, when the village glows in golden light and is less crowded.

Parking: Several paid car parks sit at the foot of the village. Be prepared for a short uphill walk to reach the center.

Exploring: Wear comfortable shoes — Gordes is steep, with cobblestone alleys.

Food & drink: Book restaurants in advance during summer, especially those with terraces overlooking the valley.

Market day: Tuesday morning is market day — lively, but also busier and harder for parking.

Dog-friendly note: Dogs are welcome in the streets and on terraces, but not always inside monuments (e.g., the château).

How long to stay: Half a day is enough to explore the highlights, but staying overnight lets you enjoy Gordes when day-trippers leave.