Rambling in the Luberon

Rambling in the Luberon

tourhub | Walkers' Britain | Rambling in the Luberon | JPP
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21 Views
8 Days From

$1720

This tour is no longer available, please see similar tours below or send an enquiry

Tour Overview

Embark on a captivating journey through the picturesque Luberon region of France with our "Rambling in the Luberon" tour. This self-guided adventure begins and ends in the charming town of Isle sur la Sorgue, renowned for its vibrant Sunday market and scenic canals. Wander through cedar forests, lavender fields, and ancient stone villages, visiting highlights such as the majestic Gordes, the serene Senanque Abbey, and the historic Chateau de Buoux. Enjoy comfortable accommodations in hotels and guesthouses, with options to upgrade for added luxury. With luggage transfers, detailed route notes, and an emergency hotline, this tour offers a seamless and enriching experience of Provence's natural and cultural treasures. ...more ...less

Highlights

  • The famous Auberge des Seguins in Buoux

  • Picturesque village of Isle sur la Sorgue and its Sunday morning market

  • Natural spring Fontaine de Vaucluse, the 5th spring on the planet

  • Gordes & the Senanque Abbaye surrounded by lavender fields

  • Bonnieux with its two churches

  • Chateau de Buoux and 12th century Chapelle de Ste. Marie

  • Saignon: the Luberon village perched high above the world

Itinerary

tourhub | Walkers' Britain | Rambling in the Luberon | JPP | Route Map

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Day 1 : Arrive Isle sur la Sorgue

Location: Isle sur la Sorgue

Accommodation Name: 2 star hotel

Arrive in the town of Isle sur la Sorgue which is surrounded by the crystal clear waters of the Sorgue River. The town's Sunday market is among the most colourful in Provence with a mixture of antiques, crafts, ceramics and food. Stroll the canals which are boarded by quaint cafes, restaurants and antique shops. Lose yourself among a labyrinth of narrow streets and in the town's warm, Provencal charm. Accommodation: 2 star hotel in a balcony room set on the banks of the Sorgue River. The hotel has a swimming pool and car parking facilities. Upgrade to 4 star hotel available. ...more ...less

Day 2 : Transfer to Fontaine de Vaucluse walk to Gordes 13km/8 miles, 4h, +450m/-200m

Location: Fontaine de Vaucluse

Accommodation Name: 3 star 19th century charming hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast

A short transfer by taxi will take you to Fontaine de Vaucluse, the mysterious spring that heads the Sorgue River. Through cedar forests you follow a 300 year old mur de la peste: a stone wall built to protect Provence from the 1720 plague. After walking through Cabrieres and its castle, the path leads to Gordes, a town built of majestic grey limestone, rising dramatically out of the valley and crowned by its Renaissance castle.
Accommodation: 3 star 19th century charming hotel with heated swimming pool, garden and restaurant.

Day 3 : Circular walk to Senanque Abbey 10km/6 miles, 3h, +250m/-250m

Location: Gordes

Accommodation Name: 3 star 19th century charming hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast

small market on Tuesday June - September
Today's circular walk takes you through thyme-laden fields dotted with old stone huts and down into the Senancole valley. Soon Senanque Abbey will appear: built in 1148, and still in use, the abbey is one of the best conserved Romanesque buildings in France and certainly one of its most magnificent. You will have time to explore the abbey before returning to Gordes via a cobbled path.

Day 4 : Transfer to Goult, walk to Bonnieux 11 km/6.8 miles, 3.5h, +350m/-250m

Location: Bonnieux

Accommodation Name: 2 star family run hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast

Market on Thursday morning June to September
Short morning transfer to the village of Goult. Crossing the Calavon Valley you pass the ruins of ancient stone farmhouses before reaching the town of Lacoste. Crowned by the ruins of the castle of the Marquis de Sade, Lacoste offers a stunning ensemble of old village gates and cobbled streets, not to mention the haunting allure of the castle. A great place to have a picnic or lunch in one of the restaurants. You continue to Bonnieux which is another gem of the Luberon, immortalised in Peter Mayle's "A Year in Provence". Visit its beautiful town square and the old cobbled steps leading to its 12th century church.
Accommodation Two nights in a 2 star family run hotel located right in the heart of Bonnieux. Upgrade to a 3 star family run B&B located in the centre with swimming pool.

Day 5 : Circular walk 14km/8.6 miles, 4h, +400m/-400m

Location: Luberon

Accommodation Name: 2 star family run hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast

Market on Friday mornings
Climbing to the highest reaches of the Luberon mountains you reach its cedar forests. Its dark green canopy providing the perfect shade and shelter for a picnic lunch, and awe-inspiring views extending from the Alps all the way to the Mediterranean Sea. Return to Bonnieux.

Day 6 : Bonnieux to Buoux 14km/8.6 miles, 4h, +250m/-150m

Location: Buoux

Accommodation Name: Auberge des Seguins

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

The first half of the walk is leisurely along back country roads. Be sure to look back to admire Bonnieux as you leave. On the plateaus you walk through truffle oak plantations and by exquisite stone villas. After the Col du Pointu Pass, you have reached the Grand Luberon. A quaint path through the oak forests leads to the Chateau de Buoux then up to the 12th century Chapelle de Ste. Marie. You walk alongside imposing cliffs before taking a cobbled mule track descending in hairpin turns to the base of the Aiguebrun Valley where you will find your overnight accommodation.
Accommodation: The 2 star Auberge des Seguins at the base of the Aiguebrun Gorge is a breathtaking 17th century goat farm restored and converted into a hotel in harmony with the original buildings. The property boasts no television, wifi or cell phone reception - a lovely escape from modern life where you can enjoy your surroundings.

Day 7 : Walk Buoux to Apt via Saignon, 12km/7.5mi, 4h30, +400m/300m

Location: Apt

Accommodation Name: 2 star family-run hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast

Walk at the base of the Aiguebrun Gorge, the only permanent river of the Luberon mountains, its massive limestone walls and luxuriant vegetation. You climb out of the canyon to reach the lost hamlet of Sivergues before crossing the Aiguebrun and climbing up to the Claparèdes plateau, with its lavender fields and truffle oak plantations. Soon after you reach the medieval village of Saignon, a truly hidden gem of the Luberon and the ruins of its three castles. Stop off at one of the shady cafe terraces to enjoy a refreshing drink before continuing onwards down to Apt.
Accommodation: 2* family-run hotel located in the pedestrian area of Apt.
Upgrade option to an elegant 3* hotel in a 19th century house in the old town of Apt.

Day 8 : Transfer to Saignon, walk to Rustrell, transfer to l'Isle sur la Sorgue (End of Tour) 12km/7.5mi, 4h, +400m/-300m

Location: Saignon

Meals Included: Breakfast

Short morning transfer to Saignon (10min). Crossing the Calavon Valley, you reach the world’s largest ochre deposit: a stunning palette of yellow, orange, and red sands. The maritime pine trees with their long and bright needles offer a beautiful contrast to the ochre soils. Before arriving in Rustrel, consider taking a short detour to discover the historic ochre quarries in an area known as the “Colorado Provençal.” Here, you can choose between two loop routes to explore the heart of this unique and colourful landscape. From Rustrel, transfer to Isle sur la Sorgue where arrangements end.

What's Included

  • Accommodation
    7 nights in hotels and guesthouses

  • 7 breakfasts & 1 dinner

    Enjoy 7 breakfasts and 1 dinner during your stay.

  • 7 nights in hotels and guesthouses on a twin share basis with ensuite facilities

    Stay for 7 nights in hotels and guesthouses with ensuite facilities on a twin share basis.

  • Luggage transfer

    Your luggage will be transferred for you during the tour.

  • Taxi transfers days 2, 4 & 8

    Taxi transfers are included on days 2, 4, and 8.

  • Information pack including route notes, maps

    Receive an information pack that includes route notes and maps.

  • Emergency hotline

    Access to an emergency hotline is provided.

  • GPX files

    GPX files for navigation are included.

What's Not Included

  • Lunches, dinners & beverages

    Lunches, additional dinners, and beverages are not included.

  • Entrance fees

    Entrance fees to attractions are not included.

  • Travel Insurance

    Travel insurance is not included and must be arranged separately.

  • Travel to the start and from the end point of the trip

    Travel to the starting point and from the end point of the trip is not included.

  • Personal expenses such as laundry and phone calls

    Personal expenses like laundry and phone calls are not covered.

  • Unscheduled transfers required during the trip

    Any unscheduled transfers required during the trip are not included.

  • Upgrade to charming hotels or guesthouses

    Upgrades to charming hotels or guesthouses are not included and will incur additional costs.

  • A supplement will apply if you are travelling solo or book a single room

    A supplement will apply if you are traveling solo or book a single room.

  • Guide - this is a self guided holiday

    This is a self-guided holiday; no guide is included.

  • Excess Luggage

    Excess luggage is not included and may incur additional charges.

Accommodation

7 nights in hotels and guesthouses. Accommodation upgrade package available. The hotels described are our usual choice of accommodation, however if these are not available then alternatives are used and if these are of a different standard you will be informed at the time of booking. Baths/showers: Many rooms with ensuite/private facilities have a shower rather than a bath, usually because of limited space. Some hotels/guesthouses may however have a separate room in the house where a bath is available to guests. ...more ...less

Grading

The walking on this tour is varied: Introductory - Moderate. (Grade 2). Although due to the length of walks and terrain we would classify the tour as more moderate. Note that some trails are quite rough and stony. A reasonable level of fitness and ability on rocky paths is required. You need good boots throughout the tour: The trails are generally good, but on occasion there are steep or winding sections of loose limestone shingle. Carry plenty of drinking water and adequate protection against the sun, including a sun hat. ...more ...less

Mode of Transport

Taxi transfers on days 2, 4, and 8. Luggage transfer is included. Travel to the start and from the end point of the trip is not included.

Check out our Q&As

  • What type of accommodation is provided during the tour?

    The tour includes 7 nights in hotels and guesthouses, typically with ensuite facilities. There is an option to upgrade to more charming hotels or guesthouses. If the usual accommodations are not available, alternatives will be used, and you will be informed at the time of booking. ...more ...less

  • Are meals included in the tour package?

    The tour package includes 7 breakfasts and 1 dinner. Lunches, additional dinners, and beverages are not included.

  • Is luggage transfer provided during the tour?

    Yes, luggage transfer is included in the tour package.

  • What kind of support is available during the tour?

    An information pack including route notes and maps, GPX files, and an emergency hotline are provided. However, this is a self-guided holiday, so no guide will be present.

  • Are there any additional costs not included in the tour price?

    Yes, additional costs not included are lunches, dinners, beverages, entrance fees, travel insurance, travel to the start and from the end point of the trip, personal expenses such as laundry and phone calls, unscheduled transfers required during the trip, and excess luggage.

  • What is the difficulty level of the walks on this tour?

    The walking on this tour is classified as Introductory to Moderate (Grade 2). Some trails are quite rough and stony, requiring a reasonable level of fitness and ability on rocky paths. Good boots are necessary, and you should carry plenty of drinking water and adequate protection against the sun.

  • What are some of the highlights of the tour?

    Highlights include the famous Auberge des Seguins in Buoux, the picturesque village of Isle sur la Sorgue and its Sunday morning market, the natural spring Fontaine de Vaucluse, Gordes and the Senanque Abbaye surrounded by lavender fields, Bonnieux with its two churches, Chateau de Buoux and the 12th century Chapelle de Ste. Marie, and Saignon, the Luberon village perched high above the world.

  • What kind of terrain can I expect during the walks?

    The terrain varies from cedar forests and stone walls to cobbled paths and back country roads. Some sections are steep or winding with loose limestone shingle. The trails are generally good but can be rough and stony in places.

  • Is there an option for a private tour?

    The information provided does not specify a private tour option.

  • Self-guided holidays - inclusions

    We have designed our self guided walking and cycling tours to include a number of elements to help you enjoy your holiday more, while leaving out some things to give you more freedom to tailor the trip to your needs and interests. Refer to the Trip Notes for more information on the specific inclusions for each trip. What’s included: - Detailed Route Notes - Accommodation - Luggage transfers - Any scheduled transfers as per Trip Notes - Emergency support - Some meals (mostly breakfasts) What’s NOT included: - Transport to/from start/finish points - Most meals - Any entrance/park fees - Travel insurance - Personal expenses along the way - Unscheduled transfers required during the trip

  • Trip Grading & Preparation

    Match your level of fitness & requirements Please read this information carefully to find out which grade is most suited to your level of fitness and requirements. To make the most of your Walkers' Britain holiday it is essential and your responsibility to choose a trip that is well within your capabilities. All our active holidays are graded and clearly marked in each trip description. All mountains have uphill and downhill sections and by definition walking and cycling demand some effort. However all things are relative, and these grades assume that you are a reasonably active person who enjoys walking or cycling. Few trips are extreme and most allow ample time for sightseeing and enjoying the scenery. If in doubt about the grade of any holiday, please contact us for advice or request the tour dossiers, you can also chat with our team about the right travel insurance for you. Grade 1 – Introductory These trips involve walking for four to five hours per day or cycling for 15-50 km per day at a slow but steady pace. You will need a reasonable level of fitness and good health. Suggested Preparation 30 minutes of aerobic-type exercise (either road cycling or jogging), three times a week for three months leading up to your trip. Grade 2 – Introductory to Moderate These trips involve a combination of what is described in our Introductory and Moderate levels. The emphasis is on introductory activity but including several moderate stages. Grade 3 – Moderate These adventures involve walking for up to six hours per day or cycling for up to 65 km per day, at a steady pace. You will need a good level of fitness and be in good health. Suggested Preparation 45 minutes of aerobic-type exercise (road cycling or jogging) three times a week for three months leading up to your trip. Grade 4 – Moderate to Challenging This trip grading involves a combination of what is described in our Moderate and Challenging levels. The emphasis is on moderate activity but including several challenging stages. Grade 5 – Challenging These active holidays involve walking up to nine hours per day in mountainous terrain with steep ascents and descents, pass crossing & alpine weather conditions, or cycling for up to 80 km per day over undulating terrain, with some steep and sustained hills. You will need an excellent level of fitness, be prepared to carry a daypack weighing up to 8 kg and be completely comfortable in adverse weather conditions. Suggested Preparation 1 hour of aerobic-type exercise five times a week for three to six months leading up to your trip. We also recommend regular hill walking with a pack in variable weather conditions or road cycling.

  • Route notes

    While our tours vary in terms of difficulty, route finding is made simple and convenient with our specially prepared package of maps and route notes. On many of the walks it is easy enough to navigate carefully using the route notes provided with a cursory glance at the map. As holidays reach the higher grades, you will need to take more care and we would expect you to have at least some knowledge of using a compass. Maps for our tours also vary considerably, from up-to-date GPS referenced additions, to old map copies which may still be the only ones obtainable for a particular area. The differences in style, grade and destinations of our tours are features that make them of continual interest and delight to our walkers & cyclists. Each set of route notes can contain the following elements relevant to the route: History and information on the region and the route you are walking. Detailed maps including points of interest and accommodation. Detailed step-by-step descriptions (with pictures) of the route and information on detours/optional additions. Transport timetables and information for getting there and away. Safety information and advice. Contact details of accommodation, transport, local representatives and emergency support. Advice for things to do along the way. Suggestions for dining and self catering.

  • How our self-guided holidays work

    Self guided walking and cycling holidays offer freedom, independence and choice, allowing you to tailor your holidays in the UK & Europe to your interest and travel style. Our detailed Route Notes will contain all of the information you need to plan how you would like to approach each day, giving you the freedom to set your own pace. As you are not limited by the constraints of group travel, you are free to shorten or lengthen your walk as the terrain permits and can even take a day off, although you may need to travel onto your next accommodation by taxi or public transport in order to do so.

Reviews from travellers on this tour

D Finch(California, USA)  

Rambling in the Luberon

16 Sep 2017

Directions very good overall, liked the hiking trails, Bonnieux and Buoux. We appreciate the work that went into organising the trip, and notes too.

M. Batdorf(Spokane, United States)  

Rambling in the Luberon

8 Oct 2024

Lodgings were great, loved Gordes and Bonnieux. Walks were overall nice, not difficult except the day trip to the cedar forest above Bonnieux. Hotel staff in Isle and Gordes were fantastic and the host at the B&B in Bonnieux is wonderful and very helpful. ...more ...less

A. Farrow(Ryton, UK)  

Rambling in the Luberon

09 Oct 2023

We would like to let you know how much we enjoyed our recent holiday, "Rambling in the Luberon" and thank you for making the arrangements for us. The hotels, especially Le Mas des Romarins, were all good. We were glad we were able to stay at L'Auberge des Seguins, despite being in dormitory accommodation, as it was such an idyllic spot. The staff there provided superb meals, dinner, breakfast and packed lunches big enough for 2 days! The Road Book was extremely useful, the directions very clear and all the transfers worked well. ...more ...less

C. Wiggers(Calgary, Canada)  

Rambling in the Luberon

21 Oct 2024

Our walk was well planned and we felt like we saw the highlights of the area.

S. Taylor(CA, USA)  

Rambling in the Luberon

05 Aug 2019

My husband and I took this trip for our anniversary in May 2019 and loved it! We upgraded our hotels one level and they were all excellent. The routes and materials were very easy to understand and follow. The difficulty was as portrayed.

M. Winborne(Merewether, Australia)  

Rambling in the Luberon

24 Sep 2024

Great walk. All accommodation good quality. Some steep and stony sections but not too difficult even though I had a fall before walking and had a tricky knee.

P. Winborne(Merewether, Australia)  

Rambling in the Luberon

1 Oct 2024

Rambling in the Luberon was a great trip although the walking was quite challenging in parts. Communication was excellent with each transfer proceeding exactly as planned. There were 3 us on this trip and we all greatly enjoyed the experience.

Read all 7 reviews

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Book with Confidence

  • Low Deposit

    Walkers' Britain requires a minimum deposit of 250 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 70 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of walkers' britain charges.

    Up to 70 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

    At 69 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.

    At 35 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.

Rambling in the Luberon

8 Days Starting and ending in Isle sur la Sorgue, France

Visiting: Isle sur la Sorgue, Fontaine de Vaucluse, Gordes, Bonnieux, Luberon, Buoux, Apt, Saignon

Tour operator:

Walkers' Britain

Tour code:

JPP

Group Type:

Independent

Guide Type:

Self Guided

Physical rating:

introductory to moderate

Tour operated in:

English

Trip Styles:

Small Group, Walking Hiking and Trekking

Interests:

Cultural, Gardens & Nature Tours, History

Activities:

Walking

From: $1720 (USD)

NB: Prices correct on 17-Mar-2025 but subject to change.