If you're dreaming of a trip that blends world-class wine tasting with some of the most charming sights in Provence, the Vaucluse region is your perfect destination. Here, rolling vineyards meet hilltop villages, centuries-old abbeys, and colorful landscapes that seem lifted from a painting.

Discovering the Best of Vaucluse: Wine, Villages & Timeless Scenery

Nestled in the heart of Provence, the Vaucluse region offers a perfect blend of rich wine culture and breathtaking historical sites. Known for its sun-drenched vineyards producing renowned wines like those of Châteauneuf-du-Pape and Gigondas, Vaucluse invites visitors to indulge in unforgettable wine tastings amid stunning natural scenery. Beyond the vineyards, the region is dotted with majestic abbeys such as Sénanque, Silvacane, and Le Barroux—serene, centuries-old sanctuaries that showcase the area's deep spiritual and architectural heritage. Whether you're a wine lover or a history enthusiast, Vaucluse offers a truly enriching escape.

Gordes

Start your journey in Gordes, one of the most picturesque villages in France. Perched dramatically on a rocky outcrop, Gordes offers stunning views over the Luberon valley.

As you wander the stone-paved alleys, treat yourself to a fresh smoothie at the Bar a Jus, and explore the local art galleries—be sure to stop by Gallerie Camy to admire her beautiful Japanese-inspired sculptures.

Finally, don’t miss the Château de Gordes, a Renaissance castle that dominates the village center. In the 14th century, the castle was a true military fortress and became part of the ramparts protecting the villagers from the assaults of enemy troops. In the 17th & 18th centuries, the cellars were used as a prison and at the end of the 19th century and the beginning of the 20th, the castle became the heart of village life. It housed a bégude (a café), the boys' school, the school canteen, the post office, the Justice of the Peace office, and a pharmacy.

Abbaye de Sénanque

Just a short drive away, the Abbaye de Sénanque sits serenely among fragrant lavender fields. This 12th-century Cistercian abbey is renowned for its peaceful ambiance and pure Romanesque architecture. As a working monastery, visiting hours are thoughtfully planned around the monks’ daily routine, so be sure to check ahead. Guided tours led by welcoming volunteers share the abbey’s rich history and its tradition of simplicity—reflected in the absence of decoration, allowing for quiet reflection and devotion.

Joucas 

Less visited than Gordes, the village of Joucas charms with its authentic character, narrow winding lanes, and breathtaking views without the crowds—perfect for a peaceful afternoon stroll. Here, you can enjoy dinner in a wonderfully charming setting at L'Agachoun restaurant.

Wine Tasting in Vaucluse: Top Picks

No trip to Vaucluse is complete without wine tasting. Here are two local estates offering distinctly different experiences, so you can discover which style suits you best as your passion for wine grows.

Domaine de la Citadelle: an elegant, refined experience

Domaine de la Citadelle, located near Ménerbes, is an elegant winery with a modern tasting room and its own Cork Screw Museum (yes, really!). Prices reflect the refined atmosphere, with elegant wooden furnishings and a picturesque terrace overlooking the vineyards.

Domaine Boisson: authentic, locally loved

In contrast, Domaine Boisson in the village of Cairanne welcomes true wine enthusiasts who appreciate authenticity over ambiance. Tastings take place in a modest tasting house, where you can meet a member of the Boisson family—dedicated winemakers whose expertise and passion for terroir, tradition, and technique are shared from generation to generation. 

At the estate, the climate and soil dictate the rhythm of vineyard cultivation. Season after season, manual work supports the growth of the vines: the soil is tilled to better control vegetation, and the vines are thinned to regulate grape production. Harvesting is done by hand, and the grapes are carefully sorted to keep only the ripest and healthiest ones. The quality of the wines and their vinification depends on this meticulous selection, following the family motto: "What is good to eat is good to vinify."

Certified organic since 2020, the estate is in constant pursuit of excellence in its winemaking. 

Colorado de Rustrel

To finish this visit in the Vaucluse region, we recommend taking in the natural wonders of the Colorado de Rustrel —spectacular ochre quarries with fiery red, orange, and gold rock formations that create a surreal, desert-like landscape. The walking trails here offer unforgettable scenery and a fascinating insight into the region’s geological and industrial past.

Whether you're sipping wine in a cellar, admiring the stonework of a medieval abbey, or hiking through the vibrant ochre hills, Vaucluse is a region that delights all the senses—and invites you to slow down and savor every moment.

If you’re traveling to France and want seamless internet for every adventure, explore our eSIM store for reliable, high-quality data plans designed to keep you connected wherever you go. Visit our eSIM store and choose the best data plan for your trip. Enjoy!