From Lavender Fields to Hilltop Villages – These Are the Best Views in Provence
You don’t have to travel far to find stunning views in Provence. The landscapes here unfold before you like the backdrop of a romance film, all golden-lit from the region’s ever-present sun.
From the hilltop villages of the Luberon to the limestone cliffs of the Calanques, Provence is a place of unparalleled beauty. Whether you’re gazing at the medieval stone houses of Gordes, the monk-tended lavender fields of the Senanque Abbey, or the tapestry of rooftops unfurling before you from Marseille’s highest vantage point, these views in Provence will leave you spellbound.
Valensole Plateau – A Sea of Lavender
Location: Alpes-de-Haute-Provence
There’s not just one viewpoint in the Valensole Plateau to seek out, but as you drive this breathtaking area in Provence, you’ll understand why it had to be included in the list. Particularly in summer, this plateau is awash with colour. First, the pastel pink sage, then vibrant rows of lavender, closely followed by bright yellow sunflowers and golden wheat. It’s a feast for the eyes.
Drive my lavender route and you’ll be amazed by the display. But even out of season, this area has a lot to offer. The hilltop village of Valensole has a charming centre, where you’ll find beautiful markets and boutiques. Saint-Croix offers a more nautical feel, being perched on the side of the Lac de Sainte-Croix.
Related Reading: Flower Seasons of Provence
My favourite, Moustiers-Sainte-Marie, is a treasure trove of curiosities – from tiny churches and charming cobbled streets, to artisanal pottery workshops, and whimsical waterfalls. Climb to the Notre-Dame de Beauvoir for a view of the town, but don’t forget to also look up to find the golden star hanging between the cliffs.
Gorges du Verdon – the Grand Canyon of Europe
Location: In between Var and Alpes-de-Haute-Provence
One of the most breathtaking natural attractions in Provence, the Verdon Gorge cuts a deep ravine between steep limestone cliffs, where the turquoise waters of the Verdon River flow.
Dubbed the “Grand Canyon of Europe”, it’s a spectacular sight – whichever way you look at it. Drive the length of the cliffs above for dramatic views of the gorge as it winds through the mountainous landscape. Or head straight for Pont du Gelatas – a bridge that awards you with a view of the gorge as it opens up to flow into the Lac de Sainte-Croix.
Related Reading: Exploring the Verdon Gorge
Speaking of the lake, it’s a fabulous spot for a day out in Provence. It’s also here, near the bridge, that you can hire pedalos, electric boats and kayaks to paddle up the gorge and experience it further.
Mont Ventoux – the Giant of Provence
Location: Upper Vaucluse
Mt Ventoux is the highest peak in Provence (1,910m), and one of the most famous viewpoints in the region. A hotspot for cyclists, the mountain has played a starring role in the Tour de France 18 times since it premiered in 1951.
Luckily, you don’t have to cycle to the top to appreciate the 360-degree views it affords. You can drive to the summit via the town of Bedoin in around 40 minutes. You’ll start the mountain climb in dense forests before the landscapes take on a lunar quality as you gain elevation.
Mont Ventoux is often mistaken for having snow on it, due to the limestone scree you’ll find at the top. That said, it does wear a snowy cape between November to April. During this time, the mountain peak is closed for safety.
Île de la Barthelasse – Best Views of Avignon
Location: Vaucluse (Directly opposite Avignon)
In the middle of the River Rhône, in between Provence and the Occitanie region, lies the île de la Barthelasse. A peaceful area laced with orchards, serene farmhouses (some of which have been transformed into luxury accommodation), and beautiful walking and cycling trails, it’s a green oasis near some of Provence’s most popular attractions.
Walk along the west banks of the island and you’ll be rewarded with the best vantage point of the UNESCO city. Let your gaze rest upon the remnants of the Pont Saint-Bénezet, with its tiny chapel. Beyond lies the walled city, and from here you can see the Papal Palace rising above the rooftops of the old town.
Related Reading: Best Things to do in Avignon
To get there, simply stroll over the Pont Édouard Daladier, or take the free navette (ferry) that crosses the river from the bottom of the stairs that lead to the Rocher des Doms (there’s also a remarkable view from up here).
If you’re making a day trip to Avignon, there’s free parking on the île de la Barthelasse and a shuttle bus that will drop you off in Avignon.
While you’re in the area, pop over to Villeneuve-les-Avignon if you can. The lesser-visited city has an excellent market every Saturday. The Fort Saint-André at the head of the village was built to protect the Kingdom of France, and it’s intriguing to visit in its own right.
Gordes – Quintessential Provençal Village
Location: Luberon (Vaucluse)
You cannot travel to the Provence region without visiting the hilltop village of Gordes! It is the quintessential Provence village, with its jumble of cobbled lanes, beautifully preserved stone houses, and the thousand-year-old château at the helm.
It’s one of the most photographed villages in France, and it’s not hard to gather why. The Gordes lookout is the perfect place to view it in all of its splendour. Sit on a stone perch and take in the sight of the village houses cascading down the hillside, and the Luberon Valley spreading out into the distance below.
The famous lookout can be found here, on the D15 road into the village. But there’s another spot I personally prefer, down below on the D2. Find this viewpoint here.
Or, for the most privileged view in town, book a meal or a stay at the iconic Bastide de Gordes.
Abbey de Senanque – Lavender Valley
Location: Luberon (Vaucluse)
While you’re in Gordes, make a little detour to the Senanque Abbey, a Cistercian abbey tucked away in a peaceful valley in the Luberon. Famed for its lavender fields, it is a scene not to be missed while travelling in Provence.
Inhabited by monks, it’s a quiet sanctuary where you can appreciate the feats of both architecture and nature on display. The monks tend to the lavender fields – creating products from both the flowers and essential oils. You can shop for these products in the little gift store on-site.
When the lavender is in bloom (approx mid-June to mid-July), expect you won’t be alone to appreciate this view. But it’s well worth a visit in the quieter months too – this is when to come to appreciate the interior of the abbey and the daily life of those who live here.
Bonnieux – Luberon Views
Location: Luberon (Vaucluse)
Still in the Luberon, but this time in the chocolate box village of Bonnieux, further south. Climb the stone stairs through the village to reach the Église Haute, a 12th-century Romanesque and Gothic-style church. From here, you’ll have incredible views over the valley, neighbouring villages, and even Mont Ventoux in the distance.
Related Reading: Guide to the Luberon Valley
For lunch with a view, walk back down the stairs and amble along to Les Terrasses – a casual brasserie serving salads, pizzas and a few other Italian-inspired dishes. Book a terrace table and you’ll be perched just above the terracotta rooftops of the town, with the spire of the Église Neuve adorning the view.
The village of Lacoste, with its hilltop chateau, can be seen on your left. And in lavender season, the valley here is a patchwork of purple.
Calanque d’en Vau – Dramatic Coastlines
Location: Calanques National Park, near Cassis (Bouches-du-Rhone)
I was completely blown away when I first saw this view in Provence. There’s something so striking about the sky-high limestone cliffs, the shades of green and gold reflected in the wild garrigue, the shimmer of the Mediterranean, and the blue sky that is synonymous with the south of France. It’s breathtaking in the truest sense of the word.
To find this one, you’re going to need to strap on your hiking shoes, but trust me when I say it’s worth working up a sweat for.
Found near the end of the Calanques de Cassis hiking trail, you’ll walk here from the seaside village of Cassis. The trail starts at the natural harbour of Port-Miou and goes up and over the hill to Calanque de Port Pin. From here, you can follow the coastal route around the headland until you see this view reveal itself before you.
You can reach this calanque via boat or kayak, which affords another vantage point of the deep canyon. But I think the view from above is the winner. Once you’ve snapped some pictures, follow the rocky trail down to the beach and reward yourself with a dip in the beautiful, clear waters below.
You can read all about the Calanques National Park here. Find the details of the Calanques de Cassis hike here.
Route des Cretes – Highest Sea Cliff
Location: Between Cassis and La Ciotat (Bouches-du-Rhone)
The road between Cassis and La Ciotat is one of the most spectacular in Provence. Carved into the limestone cliffs of Cap Canaille, the highest sea cliff in France, you’ll have a hard time keeping your eyes on the road during this scenic drive.
Luckily, there are plenty of spots to pull over and take in the views. One of my favourites is here at the Falaises de Cassis lookout. The view stretches across Cassis, with its terracotta rooftops, to the calanques and beyond. Do watch your step here, though, as there aren’t any safety barriers.
Related Reading: Complete Guide to Cassis
A little further along, the Parking Du Belvédère also offers striking views in the same direction, but with a more elevated vantage point. Finally, take a little detour to the edge of the military base, and you’ll find an orientation table to get your bearings.
While driving the route may be the easiest option, there’s an incredible hiking trail along the edge of the cliff face. The Cap Canaille Trail is 14km return and best attempted when the wind isn’t blowing too strongly.
Notre-Dame de la Garde – The Mother of Marseille
Location: Marseille Centre (Bouches-du-Rhone)
Known locally as La Bonne Mère (the good mother), the statue of the Virgin Mary at the top of the Catholic basilica is said to watch over the residents of Marseille. Perched on the peak of the highest hill, it can be seen from almost everywhere in the city. And its prominent position affords it spectacular views.
Climb the stone stairs up the hill on foot, or take the small tourist train. Once you make it to the top, views of the sprawling city, bustling Vieux Port, azure Mediterranean Sea, and Frioul Islands await. Don’t miss the opportunity to poke your head inside either. The gilded interior is lavish with intricate mosaics and votives, and the underground crypt is a reflective space.
Related Reading: Best Things to do in Marseille
Visit at golden hour to witness the city sparkling under the setting sun, and bring a picnic to enjoy while you wait. It’s also the perfect spot to enjoy the Bastille Day fireworks.
Stay off the motorways and explore country lanes to find your own pièce de résistance in Provence – whether that’s an ancient olive grove set against an agrarian backdrop or the ruins of a grand chateau. Provence still has secret spots, and I encourage you to seek them out – in addition to the must-see views I’ve highlighted above!
