A Dreamy Village In The South Of France Boasts Beautiful Views And Storybook Charm

You've had your heart set on traveling to France for many years. The croissants, the cheese, the wine... not to mention the beautiful scenery. And when you think of France, the first city that typically comes to mind is Paris. But, to experience the quaint countryside villages sitting serenely atop hills with stunning views, head south.

Situated in the south of France, in the Luberon region of Provence, you'll find a tiny town that boasts beautiful views and exudes storybook charm: Lourmarin. It's undoubtedly one of the prettiest villages in France and it's easy to see why. Narrow, quiet cobblestones streets are lined with colorful, ivy-clad buildings. It's charm is further enhanced by the scent of lavender that fills the air from the nearby fields, and its many outdoor cafés where people meet to relax and catch up on the daily gossip while sipping coffee and nibbling pastries. There's certainly a relaxed vibe in Lourmarin that's as calming as lavender itself.

With a population of approximately 1,200 people, Lourmarin is yet another underrated French destination like Annecy, and remains one of the hidden gems of Provence. It's the perfect stop for a day when you're doing a road trip, or to stay a while and take in the ambiance of this fairytale village, really unwind, and live like a local. Here, time seems to stand still.

While Marseille is the perfect home base for exploring the French Riviera, it's also located just under an hour's drive to Lourmarin. Those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the seaside city can find tranquility and charm in the village of Lourmarin. While warmer months tend to draw out more tourists, Lourmarin still remains one of the quieter hidden gems in Provence region.

Despite being such a small town, Lourmarin has many shops along its winding streets that specialize in locally made crafts, food, art, and so much more. The locals of Lourmarin host a weekly market every Friday morning where they sell their handcrafted soaps, carved olive wood, wine, olive oil, and satchels of lavender, which make for a unique and lovely scented souvenir of your visit. The joy of browsing the many shops at your own leisurely pace and strolling around the vibrant Friday market creates a truly unforgettable experience that immerses you in local life.

When you've had your fill of shopping, make your way to the beautifully restored Château de Lourmarin, the first Renaissance castle to be built in Province. A must-visit for history lovers, this 15th century château is perched on a rocky hilltop adjacent to the village itself, and was actually build on the site of a 12th century fortress. The château is open to visitors for a modest fee and is surrounded by lush greenery — it offers a striking glimpse into the past with its well-preserved collection of art, furniture, and musical instruments dating back to the 16th century.

Like all of France, Lourmarin is also a foodie paradise. Despite its compact size, Lourmarin is home to an impressive amount of delightful restaurants. With menus focusing on local, seasonal ingredients, each meal promises to be one you'll remember. With its stunning interior, outdoor terrace, and ever-changing menu dictated by local sources, Bacheto is the perfect spot to enjoy Provençal classics. Beyond just dining, Les Pastras offers a seasonal truffle hunt with an experienced guide, followed by a truffle tasting and Champagne. 

The best time to visit southern France to avoid crowds is May. But, it's during June and July that the lavender fields are bursting with vibrant purple flowers, which in turn fill the air with the pleasant and calming aroma. Rent a car to explore the lavender fields — and the region — and pack a picnic to enjoy while you snag that coveted photo for Instagram. 

As far as places to stay, travelers searching for a dose of luxury and solitude have an endless choice of stunning private villas to rent, many with pools. Less than 15 minutes outside of Lourmarin, the gorgeous estate property of Domaine de Fontenille combines a Relais & Châteaux hotel, winery, and restaurant. Stays here start at around $295 per night and will transport you into a scene of elegance and tranquility within its 35 hectares of gardens, not to mention its vineyards and cellars, accessible by tour. In the village, you'll find quaint and affordable accommodations that embody the beauty and peace of this fairytale town in Provence.