Solo Summer 2025 Days 4 & 5: Avignon and the hill towns of the Luberon Valley

I arrived in beautiful Avignon yesterday and immediately slipped into the relaxed rhythm of southern France. After checking into my lovely hotel (and it really is very nice; check out the video I posted on Facebook), I wandered to a nearby square where I sipped an Aperol Spritz and people-watched as the sun began to set. Dinner followed at a cozy local restaurant—simple, delicious, and exactly what I needed.

Today was a full and magical day exploring the Luberon Valley with a small group tour I booked through Provans Tours. Our guide, Veronica—who also happens to be the co-owner of the company—was absolutely fantastic. She’s passionate, knowledgeable, and full of insight about the region. The tour took us to four of the most charming villages in Provence, each with its own distinct character and beauty.

1. Fontaine-de-Vaucluse

This picturesque village is famous for its deep emerald-green spring—the source of the Sorgue River and one of the most powerful natural springs in the world. The water literally gushes out of a cliffside cave, and the village itself is nestled in a lush, tree-lined valley. It’s tranquil and dreamy, perfect for a morning stroll along the riverside. There’s also a fascinating connection to the poet Petrarch, who once lived here.

2. Gordes

Gordes is perched dramatically on the edge of a plateau and looks like it’s been plucked straight from a postcard. It’s known as one of “Les Plus Beaux Villages de France” (The Most Beautiful Villages of France), and it’s easy to see why. The honey-colored stone buildings cascade down the hillside, and the views of the surrounding countryside are breathtaking. The town is also home to a Renaissance château that towers over the main square.

3. Roussillon

Roussillon is unlike anywhere I’ve ever been—rich in color thanks to the surrounding ochre cliffs and deposits that paint the town in shades of red, orange, and gold. It felt like walking through an artist’s palette! I was especially lucky to get a last-minute seat for lunch on the balcony at Omma, a stunning restaurant that overlooks those famous umber cliffs. The food was exquisite, and the view made it even more memorable. Truly a highlight of the day!

4. Ménerbes

Our final stop was the quieter but equally charming Ménerbes, a hilltop village with an artistic and literary heritage. Once home to artists like Picasso and made famous by Peter Mayle’s A Year in Provence, it’s a peaceful place with narrow cobbled streets, stone houses, and lovely panoramic views. It was the perfect way to wind down the tour.

After returning to Avignon in the early evening, I got some work done (because I still have bills to pay), then grabbed a quick dinner at a spot just around the corner from my hotel.

Tomorrow, I’ve booked an all-day wine tour in the Châteauneuf-du-Pape region—and let’s just say, after a day of wine tasting, who knows what tomorrow’s post will bring! Stay tuned…