Travel Journal
What to do and see around the Domaine de la Bastidonne?
Domaine de la Bastidonne
Located just 2.5 km from the small village of Céreste-en-Luberon (population 1,200), on the border between the Alpes-de-Haute-Provence and Vaucluse departments.
With a population density of just 24 inhabitants per square kilometer, the Alpes-de-Haute-Provence offers the perfect setting for a peaceful and relaxing holiday.
Thanks to its stunning landscapes and tranquil atmosphere, it’s the ideal place to feast your eyes and take your time.
Major landmarks
Nestled in the heart of a region rich in breathtaking landscapes and exceptional heritage, the Domaine de la Bastidonne offers the perfect starting point to explore the treasures of Provence. Whether you’re a nature lover, a history enthusiast, or simply in search of unforgettable views, the surrounding area is full of must-see sites. From the fiery ochres of Roussillon to the dizzying Verdon Gorges, and architectural gems like the Palais des Papes or the Pont du Gard, every excursion promises a unique experience. Here are some suggested walks, visits, and getaways to enhance your stay.
- The Ochre Trail in Roussillon
- The Provençal Colorado in Rustrel
- Sénanque Abbey in Gordes
- The Oppedette Gorges (a beautiful walk, with several routes of varying difficulty)
- The Verdon Gorges (about 1h15 by car), well worth the trip—try the Martel Trail starting from La Palud-sur-Verdon
- Lake Esparron-sur-Verdon
- Lake Sainte-Croix. If you search well and arrive early enough, you can find a spot to park, picnic, and swim in crystal-clear water
- Sisteron and its citadel
- Montagne de Lure (remarkable views over the Alps and Écrins massif, perfect for cooler temperatures in summer)
- Papal Palace and Bridge of Avignon (a guided tour of the Palace is a must to appreciate the monument’s grandeur)
- Mont Ventoux (by car or by bike)
- Calanques of Marseille. From Cassis, go on foot or take a boat tour—with the bonus of a swim in a sea cave
- Sainte-Victoire Mountain near Aix-en-Provence
- Les Baux-de-Provence and the Carrières de Lumières
- Pont du Gard in Remoulins
The villages of the Luberon and their hidden treasures
- Oppède-le-Vieux (note: many steps to reach the old church)
- The Cedar Forest in Bonnieux (they say grandmothers get lost there! Over 800 meters above sea level, it offers a cool haven in summer)
- The Bruoux Mines in Gargas
- The Madeleine Cliff in Lioux
- The castles of Southern Luberon on the 5-castle route: La Tour d’Aigues, Ansouis, Lourmarin, Lauris, Cadenet
- The hilltop villages of the Luberon: Bonnieux, Caseneuve, Goult, Joucas, Lacoste, Saignon, Viens
- For children: the Village des Bories in Gordes is worth a visit!
- Fontaine-de-Vaucluse: the largest spring in Europe. Worth seeing after heavy rainfall, when the flow of the Sorgue River at this spot is truly impressive.
Sports and leisure
For sports enthusiasts
- Tennis in Céreste-en-Luberon (courts can be booked at the U supermarket)
- Golf des Ocres in Villars
- Luberon Golf Course in Pierrevert (a renowned hilly course)
- Kayaking down the Sorgue River, departing from Fontaine-de-Vaucluse
- Horseback riding: Les Crins de Gaia in Forcalquier
- Buoux Cliffs – an iconic rock-climbing site known by climbers everywhere
- Skiing available within 2 hours during the winter
Cycling Routes
- The Calavon Greenway runs alongside the Domaine: a cycle path connecting Céreste-en-Luberon to Apt and beyond (Cavaillon / Forcalquier), and for the most ambitious: Athens to Lisbon! www.veloloisirprovence.com
- Bike rentals available in the village of Céreste-en-Luberon: Libr’&roues
- Numerous mountain bike trails start from Céreste-en-Luberon and the surrounding area. Rental companies from Apt can deliver bikes directly to the property.
Hiking Trails Around Us (3 Hours and More)
- The Mourre Nègre, the highest peak of the Grand Luberon, accessible on foot from the village of Auribeau
- For a shorter option, hike to Piégros starting from the Tour d’Embarbe
Scenic Walks
- On foot from the property, walk to the heart of the village of Céreste-en-Luberon via small country paths (about 40 minutes uphill)
- Reach the hamlet of La Viguière by walking through fields of lavender, wheat, melons, sunflowers, or everlasting flowers
- By car or on foot from the village, visit the Priory of Carluc with its remarkable rock-cut tombs
- Drive to the Col de l’Aire des Masques, then take the wide path on the left for a stunning view of the Alps and Mount Sainte-Victoire (above Aix-en-Provence) — an easy 20-minute walk there and back
For Children
- Tree-top adventure parks in Rustrel (https://coloradoaventures.com) or in Lagnes
- Conservatory of Ochres and Colour (Ôkhra) in Roussillon
- Spirou Park and Wave Island in Monteux
- The recreational lake area in Apt (inflatable water games, playgrounds, fitness equipment, skatepark, etc.)
- A wonderful selection of children’s books, games, and crafts at Librairie Fontaine in Apt
Culture
- Avignon Festival in July, with the world-famous “IN” and the wildly creative “OFF” program (recommended for all ages). The whole city comes alive with a truly unique atmosphere.
- La Roque d’Anthéron Piano Festival (internationally renowned)
- Aix-en-Provence Opera Festival (world-renowned)
- Lacoste Festival (theatre, music, and dance) held in the courtyard of the Marquis de Sade’s château
- Campredon Art Center in L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue (modern and contemporary art exhibitions)
- Granet Museum, Caumont Art Center, Lambert Collection, and the Vasarely Foundation in Aix-en-Provence
- Le Bleuet Bookshop in Banon (one of the largest bookstores in France by volume)
- Learn French as a foreign language with Marina Depoorter in Viens
- Mucem – Museum of European and Mediterranean Civilisations in Marseille (notable for its architecture and location on the Mediterranean coast)
- Ôkhra – Ochre and Colour Conservatory in Roussillon
- Prehistoric Museum in Quinson
- SIRENE Observatory in Lagarde d’Apt: stargazing from the site of former nuclear missile silos on the Albion plateau
- The Haute-Provence Observatory in Saint-Michel l’Observatoire (Saint-Michel Astronomy Center) for star or solar observation, or attend an open-air cinema night in summer. It’s the only observatory offering technical guided tours of its installations.
- Pierroux Pottery in Roussillon offers workshops for learning clay techniques and sells its own creations on-site (the pottery in the Mas comes from here)
- The nativity scenes displayed on the houses by the residents of Castellet are charmingly simple and uniquely creative
- Les Correspondances de Manosque in late September – an original literary event with well-known authors and readers
- Antique and flea markets in L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue every weekend
Gastronomy
Wineries
- Les Davids in Viens – an organic, mixed-crop estate with on-site dining
- Domaine ALLOÏS – quality organic wines in Le Boisset de Caseneuve (10 km from us)
- Domaine de Mayol on the hills above Apt
- Château La Canorgue in Bonnieux
- Château La Coste in Puyricard – a vineyard estate worth visiting for its art center set among the vines, with on-site dining
- Domaine de la Blaque in Pierrevert
- Wine shop “V Comme Vin” in Apt – great for discovering a curated selection of regional and French wines
- Sylla Wine Cellar in Apt – a must-visit for local wine lovers
Honey, Vegetables, and Other Local Products
- Viens Apiary – honey from Estelle BRESC
- Olive oil from the mill in Saint-Saturnin
- Truffles in December and January
- Organic supermarket “Luberon Bio” in the industrial zone of Apt
- Organic farmers’ market “La Belle Ferme” in Manosque – home to our favorite goat cheeses!
- The Biscuiterie of Céreste (also serves coffee and light meals)
- The butcher in Céreste or Malaval Butchery in Apt for takeaway dishes
- Glazed (candied) fruits from Apt
- Lavender (bouquets, essential oil). We love visiting Aromaplantes in Sault — organic, with workshops and distillery tours
- Chauvin Workshops in Apt – sellers of ecological paints, ochres, and oxides
- L’Occitane outlet store in Manosque for direct purchases of skincare products
Simple and Friendly Restaurants (We recommend booking a day in advance for these places)
- La Pastorale – Located on the road to Reillanne, this restaurant is run by a Dutch couple who have lived in the region for about fifteen years. Seasonal, refined cuisine and very welcoming owners.
- Restaurant at the Abbey Garden of Valsaintes, near Simiane-la-Rotonde – Beautiful terrace with a stunning view and excellent food.
- Le Sanglier Paresseux in Caseneuve – The small road leading up to the village is charming, and the terrace offers lovely views.
- Also in Caseneuve, the Bistrot de Pays L’Authentic – Fresh seasonal products from local producers, affordable menus.
- Chez Eric in Monfuron – Excellent cuisine.
- Several pizzerias, including Guillaume’s pizza truck with a wide selection at good prices. For large groups, Pizza des Granons offers a spacious indoor dining room and outdoor tables.
Renowned Restaurants with Michelin Stars
- Le Bistrot in Lagarde d’Apt
- Le Couvent des Minimes in Mane
- Le Moulin in Lourmarin
Market days
| Day | Village | Distance |
|---|---|---|
| Monday | Forcalquier | 27km |
| Tuesday | Apt (Farmers' Market) Lacoste * Gordes * | 17km 32km 37km |
| Wednesday | Sault | 42km |
| Thursday | Céreste (Fish Market) Roussillon * | 3km 27km |
| Friday | Bonnieux * Lourmarin * | 27km 33km |
| Saturday | Apt | 17km |
| Sunday | Reillanne L'Isle-sur-la-Sorgue (Famous antiques market) | 12km 49km |
Useful Websites to Help Plan Your Holiday
www.cheminsdesparcs.fr – A great resource for planning walks and hikes in the Luberon Regional Park (49 routes for walking, cycling, mountain biking, and horseback riding, with the option of guided tours or sport instructors).
www.rando-alpes-haute-provence.fr – A site dedicated to hikes and outdoor activities in the Alpes-de-Haute-Provence.
www.visorando.com – Highly recommended for its excellent trail marking and maps.
www.luberon-apt.fr – Website of the Apt Tourist Office (offers details for 15 walking routes).