Lourmarin

The village of Lourmarin is situated at the entrance to the valley cut into the Luberon by the Aigue Brun river. It is surrounded by fields of vines and olive trees. It’s narrow cobbled streets, are lined with fountains. Classed one of the most beautiful villages in France it is home to a Roman church, a Protestant temple and a magnificent chateau.

Lourmarin has a lively but authentic atmosphere. Restaurants and cafes are plentiful. Charming boutiques line the main street. Artists can be seen at work in their studios.  The writer Henri Bosco described Lourmarin as “the most charming village in the Luberon.” Throughout it’s history it has attracted writers, from Albert Camus to Peter Mayle, with its special atmosphere.

You will not find traffic lights or paid parking spaces in Lourmarin. Everybody is able to park and then explore its pedestrian old streets. Rue de La Juiverie where the Ajoucadou apartments are located is the oldest street in the village. It is now lined by antique shops, book shops, artist studios and stylish boutiques.

The weekend in Lourmarin begins every Friday morning with one of the largest and most colourful markets in the Luberon. Almost everything is on sale from wonderful food to poterie, Provencal linen, clothes, hats and baskets. From April to the end of September either on Saturday or Sunday, or on both days, Lourmarin also hosts either an antique market or an artisan market. These markets are great opportunities to pick up unique items for the home. Most weekend evenings there is also a musical recital at the Chateau.

Lourmarin is also the perfect base from which to tour the region. Aix en Provence, Arles, Saint Remy de Provence, Les Baux de Provence and Avignon are all within easy reach. As is the seaside. Resorts such as Cassis, Bandol, and Sanary Sur Mer, are all an hour away. Closer to home the picturesque villages of the Luberon await: Grambois, Gordes, Ménerbes, Roussillon, Bonnieux, Goult, Ansouis, Cucuron, Vaugines, Oppède-le-Vieux, Lacoste.