If you think Provence is only lavender fields and sunny beaches, think again.
Hidden between hills, olive groves, and vineyards are small villages that capture the true heart of southern France.
Here are ten of the most charming ones to explore — far from crowds and full of magic.
1. Séguret — The Stone Balcony of Provence
A medieval gem overlooking vineyards near Vaison-la-Romaine. Cobbled streets, calm cafés, and sweeping views make Séguret a peaceful stop for travelers.
2. Moustiers-Sainte-Marie — Gateway to the Verdon
Moustiers-Sainte-Marie is a picturesque Provençal village built into the cliffside at the entrance to the Gorges du Verdon, famous for its narrow pedestrian streets, cascading fountains, and dramatic setting between towering limestone walls. The village is celebrated for its historic earthenware tradition, its Romanesque church with a notable bell tower, and its classification among France’s « Most Beautiful Villages » that draws visitors for both craftsmanship and spectacular views.
The Gorges du Verdon : a dramatic turquoise river canyon in southeastern France, carved up to 700 meters deep and about 25 kilometers long, often called Europe’s Grand Canyon.
3. Bormes-les-Mimosas — A Garden by the Sea
When the mimosas bloom, this coastal village bursts into yellow. A perfect mix of floral beauty and Mediterranean views.
4. Lourmarin
Once home to Albert Camus, Lourmarin is full of art galleries, cafés, and olive trees. It embodies slow Provençal life at its finest.
5. Roussillon — The Red Village
Famous for its ochre cliffs and warm red houses, Roussillon glows under the Provence sun like a painting.
6. Gordes — The Icon of Provence
Built on a cliff, Gordes offers unforgettable sunsets over the Luberon valley.
7. Eygalières — Quiet Elegance
Loved by artists and locals, Eygalières has markets full of lavender and wine.
8. Saint-Rémy-de-Provence — Van Gogh’s Inspiration
Van Gogh painted some of his most famous works here. Walk the same olive groves that inspired him.
9. Bonnieux — Stone Stairway of Provence
Bonnieux’s charming hilltop village features stacked stone houses, narrow winding lanes and elegant medieval facades that frame panoramic Provencal views. Perched above the valley, this village offers views of vineyards and Mont Ventoux.
Mont Ventoux is one of the Tour de France’s most iconic and feared climbs: used intermittently as a long, exposed ascent or summit finish, it creates dramatic race moments, large time gaps, and memorable stories in cycling history.
Mont Ventoux’s iconic peak
10. Les Baux-de-Provence — A Castle in the Rocks
One of the most dramatic sites in southern France — stone ruins, narrow alleys, and stunning panoramas.
