Gordes Itinerary | Frenchdetours

gordes

abbaye de senanque

village des bories

Musee de la lavande

EXPLORE AND EXPERIENCE

Gordes is among the 156 villages classified as "The Most Beautiful Villages in France", due to its architecture, charm, and its position on the hilltop. In fact, the best place to see Gordes is before you get to town! There are several vantage points where you can get spectacular photos of this unique village (just follow the line of cars!). Getting the right shot requires some patience!

Be sure to see:

The Castle, began in 1031 and redesigned during the Renaissance;

The beautiful church dedicated to Saint Firmin, patron saint of the village;

The Cellars of the Saint Firmin Palace;

Chapel of the White Penitents;

Market Day is Tuesday

You will no doubt recognize some scenes from this famous village thanks to Peter Mayle's book A Year in Provence. The Hotel de la Renaissance was also featured in the spin-off movie "A Good Year".

There are so many unique boutiques, but you have to wander into ISA (International Style Addict) where they go above and beyond! Where else can you find a chair made entirely of stuffed animals?

rue de la Combe

84220 Gordes

L'Abbaye de Sénanque was founded the 9th of the Calends of July 1148 (23th of June) by Cistercian monks from Mazan in Ardeche. A perpetual place of prayer, visits are limited but available. Please check for times using link above. The lavender fields here are probably the most photographed in France! Peak photo-ops take place in July!

village des bories

Dating between the 17th and 19th centuries, the "bories" are the most successful and spectacular examples of what is known as dry-stone building, which consists of selecting stones and assembling them without mortar or binder. Open all year from 9 am to sunset.

STAY AND SAVOR

Perfectly situated next to the large parking lot you will find Oh My Juice just waiting to quench your thirst or serve you a sweet treat! I made this discovery as I walked down the path from the nearby Hotel des Bories & Spa (more about that later). A Detox (fresh mint, apple and lime) Juice was exactly what I needed to trek back up the hill!

When you are ready for something a bit stronger, head to Les Caves du Palais St Firmin to sip wines in the underground caves.

Les Bories & Spa*****. You owe yourself this treat! The ultimate in indulgence, the rooms are large, comfortable and have every amenity, including a balcony with a stunning view over the countryside. Located slightly out of the village, you feel away from it all, while still close to all you want to do. Walk past the heliport, (yes, there is a heliport) for a scenic stroll into town. Be sure to reserve dinner in the gourmet restaurant.

La Bastide de Gordes***** If you would rather stay right in town, another spectacular option is La Bastide de Gordes. Every luxury, every detail - perfection. You feel a part of history here. Dine on the patio at l'Orangerie.

I am sure there are other 3-star and 4-star hotels in Gordes, but aren't you worth this indulgence?