Attractions and Places To See around Gordes - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Gordes include a variety of historical sites, natural features, and cultural points of interest. This hilltop village in Provence is situated within the Luberon Regional Natural Park, characterized by diverse landscapes. The area offers a blend of ancient architecture and scenic views, including famous lavender fields.
Best attractions and places to see around Gordes
- The most popular attractions is Pont Julien, a bridge that is a Roman work dating back to the year 3 AD. Its structure includes large holes designed to allow water to pass through during flash floods, enabling it to withstand time.
- Another must-see spot is Fontaine-de-Vaucluse, a natural monument and settlement. Visitors can explore the source of the Sorgue, which is the largest resurgence in Europe, emerging from a 230-meter-high cliff.
- Visitors also love Ochre Trail, a trail through former ocher breaks. This site offers a play of colors from yellow to orange and red, providing a unique landscape for exploration.
- Gordes is known for its notable landmarks, natural features, and historical sites. The region offers a variety of attractions to see and explore, from ancient Roman structures to natural springs and colorful geological formations.
- The attractions around Gordes are appreciated by the komoot community, with over 900 upvotes and 280 photos shared.
Last updated: April 23, 2026
Pont Julien
Highlight • Bridge
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Fontaine-de-Vaucluse
Highlight • Monument
Its flow is enormous: it is ranked fifth in the world with an annual flow of 630 to 700 million cubic meters. The beauty of this natural site makes it one of the most visited places in the department. In the past, it attracted many poets and writers who came to meditate here: Petrarch, Chateaubriand, Frédéric Mistral and René Char are a few examples.
A word of advice: in the height of the tourist season, go and visit the source early in the morning, because the flow of tourists is also significant.
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Sign up now to discover places like this
Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.
Sign up for free
The Ochres of Roussillon
Highlight • Natural Monument
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Gordes
Highlight • Castle
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Ochre Trail
Highlight (Segment) • Trail
Once you've paid the entrance fee and are on your way, you feel like you're in the Brice Canyon. If you have children, please bring old clothes 😉
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Sign up for free to discover even more attractions around Gordes.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Tips from the Community
The view is fascinating. The sunlight can change within a very short time and the rocks can shine in various shades of ochre and even orange. Worth seeing!
2
0
Definitely recommended, the visit: It is called Colorado Provencal
1
0
The place is the namesake of the department of Vaucluse. Until 1946, this was also the official name of the municipality. In order to avoid confusion, it was decided in that year to change the name to Fontaine-de-Vaucluse. Vaucluse is derived from the Latin "Vallis clausa" which means "closed valley". During the Middle Ages, the village church was a place of pilgrimage because of the tomb of Bishop Veranus of Cavaillon.
9
2
It is in this village that the source of the Sorgue emerges from the rocks, which is the largest resurgence in Europe. The underground river emerges from the depths above a dizzying cliff 230 meters high. Its flow is enormous: it is ranked fifth in the world with an annual flow of 630 to 700 million cubic meters. The beauty of this natural site makes it one of the most visited places in the department. In the past, it attracted a number of poets and writers who came to meditate here: Pétrarque, Chateaubriand, Frédéric Mistral and René Char are a few examples. A word of advice: in peak tourist season, go visit the source early in the morning, because the flow of tourists is also significant.
4
0
The Ochre Trail (Sentier des Ocres) near the mountain village of Roussillon leads through the former quarries and offers remarkable landscapes that have been shaped by the ochre industry and nature over two centuries. For a small entrance fee, you can immerse yourself in the formation of ochre and the history of its use. The beautifully laid out trail through the former quarries is a unique experience. We were here in mid-March in the best weather; the colors were particularly intense and there were hardly any visitors with us.
1
0
This village has a beautiful view of the Luberon, is very touristy and very busy. It is market on Tuesday. Also many art galleries and an open museum about the "bories", a kind of stone hut.
2
0
spectacular views, nice for a stop .. try Cafe Cercle Republican for a stop .. from the terrace you have phantasmic views
2
0
The village of Gordes is with Roussillon one of the most visited in all of the Luberon. It must be said that it is impressive perched on its rock. In the past, its economy was based solely on the exploitation of olives. If you want to see this past, then you must absolutely visit the Saint-Firmin cellar, located in one of the many sloping streets of the town. Its castle houses a museum of contemporary art and every year new artists are invited to exhibit their works.
1
0
Frequently Asked Questions
What historical landmarks can I explore in and around Gordes?
Gordes and its surroundings are rich in history. You can visit the impressive Château de Gordes, which blends medieval and Renaissance architecture. Beneath the village, the fascinating Saint-Firmin Palace Cellars offer a glimpse into Gordes' artisanal past. Don't miss the ancient Roman Pont Julien, known for its ingenious flood-resistant design, or the unique dry-stone huts at the Village des Bories, a listed Historic Monument.
Where can I find the best natural features and scenic viewpoints near Gordes?
The region offers stunning natural beauty. The iconic Gordes Viewpoint provides a breathtaking panoramic vista of the village. You can also explore the source of the Sorgue river at Fontaine-de-Vaucluse, Europe's largest resurgence. For a unique landscape, walk the Ochre Trail, where former ocher breaks display a vibrant play of colors from yellow to red. The entire area is part of the Luberon Regional Natural Park, offering diverse flora and fauna.
Are there good hiking trails near Gordes?
Yes, Gordes is an excellent base for hiking. You can find a variety of trails, including moderate routes like the 'Trails of the Maquis de Gordes via Sénancole' or 'Historic streets of Gordes – Scenic view of Gordes loop from Abbaye Notre-Dame de Sénanque'. For more challenging options, consider 'Gorges de Véroncle'. You can find more details and routes in the Hiking around Gordes guide.
What cycling routes are available around Gordes?
The area around Gordes offers several cycling opportunities, particularly for mountain biking. Routes like 'View of Gordes – Vallon de la Grande Combe loop from Cabrières-d'Avignon' and 'Gordes – View of Gordes loop from Cabrières-d'Avignon' are popular moderate options. For more challenging rides, explore the 'Abbaye Notre-Dame de Sénanque – Murs Pass loop'. Discover more routes in the MTB Trails around Gordes guide.
What family-friendly activities are available in Gordes and the surrounding area?
Families will enjoy exploring the colorful Ochre Trail, which feels like a mini Grand Canyon. The natural monument of Fontaine-de-Vaucluse is also a fascinating spot for all ages. The Village des Bories offers an educational look at ancient Provençal life. Wandering through Gordes' cobbled streets, known as 'calades', is an adventure in itself, with many charming nooks to discover.
When is the best time to see the lavender fields near Gordes?
The lavender fields around Gordes, especially near Sénanque Abbey, are at their most vibrant from late June to early August. This is when the lavender is in full bloom, creating spectacular purple landscapes.
What unique cultural experiences can I have in Gordes?
Beyond the historical sites, you can visit the serene Sénanque Abbey, a 12th-century Cistercian monastery set amidst lavender fields. If you're in Gordes on a Tuesday morning, experience the bustling weekly market, offering local produce and crafts. The village also boasts numerous Art and Craft Galleries, reflecting its rich artistic heritage.
Are there any wheelchair-accessible attractions in Gordes?
While Gordes, with its steep, cobbled streets, can be challenging, the natural monument of Fontaine-de-Vaucluse is noted as being wheelchair-accessible, allowing visitors to experience the impressive source of the Sorgue river.
What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions around Gordes?
Visitors frequently praise the stunning panoramic views, particularly from the main Gordes viewpoint. The unique geological formations and vibrant colors of the Ochre Trail are also highly appreciated. Many enjoy the historical significance of sites like Pont Julien and the charm of exploring the village's ancient streets and hidden passages.
Are there opportunities for running trails near Gordes?
Yes, there are several running trails around Gordes. You can find moderate routes such as 'View of Gordes – Gordes loop from Gordes' or 'View of Gordes – View of Gordes loop from Abbaye Notre-Dame de Sénanque'. For a longer, more difficult run, consider 'Château de Gordes loop from Gordes'. More options are available in the Running Trails around Gordes guide.
Can I find local markets or unique shopping experiences in Gordes?
Absolutely. Every Tuesday morning, Gordes hosts a vibrant weekly market where you can discover fresh local produce, regional ingredients, and authentic Provençal crafts. Additionally, the village is home to numerous Art and Craft Galleries, showcasing the work of local and regional artists.
Most popular attractions around Gordes
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Still not found the Highlight you’re looking for? See guides of the top attractions in other regions:
