Our selection of the best accommodation and dining in the département
Related articles: Vaucluse, The Beating Heart of Provence [1]
What to See and Do in Vaucluse [2]
12 Villages to Visit in Vaucluse [3]
TO STAY & EAT
AVIGNON
La Mirande [4]
This historic mansion hotel is a world unto itself, its supremely elegant rooms done up in period style, a charming tearoom and bar and a private garden terrace. Chef Florent Pietravalle, who earned a Michelin star in 2019, offers a sought-after chef’s table and a cooking school for adults and kids.
Set within an acre of gorgeous grounds, and filled with art and antiques, this superb 18th-century mansion’s five elegant guest rooms could not be more beautiful or more hospitable.
MÉNERBES
In a postcard-worthy setting among rolling vineyards, its Provençal farmhouse décor and exceptional dining are second to none. It’s a great base for exploring the many picturesque local villages, as well as being within easy walking or cycling distance of Ménerbes.
LOURMARIN
This restaurant a mile from Lourmarin in tiny Cucuron is a standout in all of Provence. Michelin-star chef Nadia Sammut is among the very first to create non-gluten gastronomy [8], with local wines to match, in a quintessential Provençal setting. It’s a treat to dine then stay the night at their well-priced inn where you’re treated like one of the family.
CHÂTEAUNEUF-DU-PAPE
You won’t find anything quite like these totally secluded contemporary eco-bungalows set on – or in – a beautiful turquoise lake 10 minutes from Châteauneuf-du-Pape. Each bungalow has a hot tub, (one with a sauna), terraces and total privacy. Meals are delivered by golf cart to your door at the hour requested.
GARGAS
Coquillade Village [10]
With a history dating back to the 11th century, this hamlet amidst 42 hectares of vineyards, forest and lavender fields, overlooks the Luberon national park. With an award-winning spa, Coquillade Village boasts 63 rooms and suites, three restaurants and bars and is home to the critically acclaimed Aureto winery.
BONNIEUX
Restaurant Edouard Loubet [11]
Botanist, sportsman, wine aficionado and two-Michelin star chef Édouard Loubet creates a Provençal cuisine of originality and finesse in a dream setting overlooking the Luberon massif. At the adjoining stunner of a hotel, the Domaine de Capelongue, expect astonishing views and contemporary elegance, plus a pool and spa.
LA-ROQUE-SUR-PERNE
Château la Roque [12]
A romantic ambiance with hospitality to match at this perfectly located, lovingly restored five-room château on beautiful grounds with panoramic views of Provence. Gourmet meals can be prepared at your request.
WHERE TO EAT
L’ISLE-SUR-LA-SORGUE
Maison Jouvaud [13]
An institution on the “island” for its head-spinning array of stupendously delicious pastries, handmade chocolates and traditional sweets, especially the renowned local apricots, strawberries and other fruits candied whole.
17 Place aux Vins [14]
If a glass of local wine is one of your favourite things, this is the perfect spot for sampling some, alongside a few nibbles, either in the restaurant or on the spacious outdoor terrace.
GIGONDAS
L’Oustelle [15]
If you treat yourself to one blow-out meal in Vaucluse, make it this one. Sit in the handsome dining room, the favourite of local winemakers, or out under plane trees in the lovely village square. Tip: If the all-truffle menu is available, go for it.
ANSOUIS
La Closerie [16]
At this Michelin-star restaurant set in an old post office, you’ll dine like a king on dishes concocted with the finest local ingredients while enjoying stellar views over the Luberon. At €54, the seasonal chef’s menu is a bargain.
Want to be inspired by more French foodie experiences and enjoy classic French food, wine and recipes? Head to our sister website, Taste of France, here [17].
VAUCLUSE ESSENTIALS
GETTING THERE
BY AIR
Vaucluse is within an easy 70km drive of Marseille Airport [18], which has connections with several UK cities, as well as Montreal, Canada (Air France).
BY TRAIN
The TGV [19] from Paris to Avignon takes 3.5 hours.
TOURIST INFORMATION
- provenceguide.co.uk [20]
- oti-delasorgue.co.uk [21]
- luberoncotesud.com [22]
- luberoncoeurdeprovence.com [23]
From France Today magazine
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