You cannot fully experience the Provence region without visiting Gordes. It has been elected “the most beautiful village in the world” by the well-known American magazine Leisure + Travel, and not by chance. Narrow streets, stunning views of the valley, white tiled houses, charming restaurants, cafés and local boutiques are some of the reasons why this small Luberon village has such a great reputation. It also offers one of the most spectacular views in France overlooking the village and the surrounding valley. In this article, you will find everything you need to know about Gordes.
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Discovering Gordes – The most beautiful village in the world
Why visit Gordes Village ?
It is not only about its fame, but its natural and architectural beauty will leave you speechless. If you plan to visit it in spring or summer, you will have the opportunity to enjoy it with greenery everywhere. Since we have been living in France for the last few years, we have visited many French villages. But, Gordes is one of our favorites by far. It could easily be described as the village straight out of an old French movie. The cobblestone alleys, the old houses and the valley create a romantic scenery that not to be missed on your next trip to Provence ! As you can see in the photos below, it is truly magical in the beautiful summer light.
The best time to visit Gordes
Although it depends on your preferences and needs, we highly recommend visiting during the shoulder or summer season. At this time, the weather is sunny with high temperatures and everything around you will be green and colorful ! Gordes, like the whole surrounding area, is full of beautiful flowers, plants, palm trees and vineyards. However, if you decide to visit during the peak season, we recommend arriving at the village early, as it will be packed during the day. Whether you want to take beautiful photos or just have Gordes to yourself, it will be peaceful with an incredible soft light (at sunrise or even before 8am).
How to get to Gordes Village ?
Since Gordes is a small Provençal village, we highly recommend taking a road trip there. It is the perfect way to visit Gordes and the other amazing villages. Driving through the French countryside with such incredible views is one of the best things to do in France, especially in the summer. If you have enough time for this trip, you can rent a car directly in the village or in the main nearby city which is Avignon. Road trip to Provence is one of the most exciting things we have ever done in Europe. We had absolute freedom and could stop and visit any place without pressure. You will also find some parking lots in the village which are quite busy during the peak season. The main parking lot is at the entrance to the village (Route de Cavaillon) and is close to the famous viewpoint.
Another way to get to Gordes and the villages of Provence in general is to book day trips from Avignon. Since all these Luberon villages are very small, public transport is not a convenient way. However, there is still a bus from Avignon that can take you to Gordes (bus number 17). That’s why we recommend booking a day trip from Avignon instead of using the local bus. But, it is a great alternative if you do not have enough time or do not want to spend a lot of money on a road trip !
Where to stay ?
In addition to its unique beauty, Gordes is one of the most well-kept places in the South of France. Everything is charming and with attention to detail. The same goes for hotels. Despite its small size, Gordes offers a wide range of hotels. More specifically, there are 5-star hotels such as the famous (La Bastide de Gordes), boutique hotels, Airbnb’s or villas that you can rent if you want more space. Obviously, most of the available accommodations are quite pricey. So, if you are on a budget, we highly recommend booking somewhere larger in Provence, such as Avignon, Aix-en-Provence or even Marseille. Of course, this option is more convenient if you have or rent a car. Whichever option you choose, get ready for the beautiful views and vibes of the French countryside.
Best things to do in Gordes Village
1-Visit the best viewpoint in Gordes
At the entrance of the village (Rue de Cavaillon), you will find the most famous spot of Gordes. This viewpoint is one of the most spectacular spots we have ever been to. On one side, it overlooks the village and on the other, it offers a wonderful panoramic view of the valley. Both are breathtaking and will leave you in awe ! Our advice is to wake up early to watch the sunrise from there. Everything looks even more magical with the morning glow. Imagine having your morning coffee or breakfast while admiring this view.
2-Stroll through the Old Town of Gordes
Gordes is a small village, so is its Old Town. However, there are many interesting places to visit there, such as Château de Gordes, Église (Church) Saint Firmin and the caves of the Palais Saint Firmin. Getting lost in the narrow alleys of the Old Town while feeling all the history is like stepping back in time. But, keep in mind that during the high season, the little streets will be overcrowded. That’s why we recommend heading out before 10am to get some quiet time before the crowds arrive.
3-Enjoy your coffee or meal in the center of Gordes
Gordes has some of the most charming and cozy restaurants and cafés we found in Provence. The local food and wine are delicious and nothing beats a sunny day enjoying a local meal or coffee ! Be aware that eating out in Provence is a bit expensive. But, we can assure you that it is really worth it. Of course, if you want something fancier, you can always enjoy your meals at one of the local hotels such as La Bastide. We have not tried it, but we think you will have an unforgettable experience trying Provençal cuisine.
4- Admire the view of Gordes at night
You can’t end your day in Gordes without admiring this magnificent view with the night lights. It is one of the most romantic things to do. That’s why we recommend taking a night walk to enjoy the view and lights. While this spots gets crowded at sunset, it is quiet at night. If you are looking for a relaxing moment in Gordes, this view at night will be that moment.
Bonus Tip :
If you plan to visit Gordes by the end of June or beginning of July, you will have the unique opportunity to enjoy the famous lavender of Provence in full bloom. Right between the villages of Gordes and Roussillon, there are countless lavender fields where you can stop and admire their amazing purple color and wonderful smell. However, keep in mind that these fields are private and should always be respected ! A must visit place to enjoy the lavender fields is the famous Abbaye Notre-Dame de Sénanque situated near Gordes. Entrance costs around 8€ and is only open for a few hours a day.
Other nearby places to visit in Provence
1-Roussillon
You can’t leave Provence without visiting the other gem called “Roussillon”. This village has a unique ochre color, as it is located in the heart of the largest ochre deposit in the world ! It is very picturesque and colorful, the perfect summer getaway. Just a few steps from the center, you will find the famous “Sentier des Ocres” which is a canyon that offers a short path through the ochre lands.
2-Murs
Murs is a lesser known small village located near Gordes. It offers stunning views of the surrounding valley. It is the perfect place to relax and disconnect. There is a chateau (castle in English) that is not open to the public visit. But, you can stroll around and admire the panoramic view of the outdoor space.
3-Lacoste
Lacoste is another incredible little village of Provence. You will feel like you are stepping back in time again. This medieval village has it all. Perfect views, narrow alleys, cobbled houses and colorful flowers are some of the reasons why it is so pretty. As you can see from the photos below, it is also very photogenic with many beautiful spots. We highly recommend it as the last stop of your Provence trip.
Final Thoughts
Gordes is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful and interesting places to visit in Provence. But, you can easily combine it with the other Provençal villages or the nearby cities of the South of France. Whichever itinerary you choose, the beauty of Gordes and the entire region will leave you with the best impressions.
