Discover the Best Things to Do in Gordes, France – Ultimate 2025 Guide

Planning a getaway in the South of France? On diegoenfrance.com, I explore the most charming villages and share the best of every corner I visit.

With this guide, you’ll discover what to see in Gordes, one of the most spectacular destinations in Provence.

In this article, you’ll find:

ℹ️ Population in Gordes, France : 1,700 inhabitants. Source INSEE

⭐ Looking for more things to do beyond visiting Gordes? 👉 Get inspired with my ultimate guide: 30 Ideas for Exploring Provence with Family

What else you’ll find in my article about what to do in Gordes, France

In this article, you will immerse yourself in the charm and magic of Gordes, Vaucluse, a destination that offers much more than beautiful views.

Here you will find a complete guide ranging from amazing hotels with dreamy views, offering unique experiences such as open-air cinemas, magic shows and vintage car rides.

In addition, I will take you through magical walks through lavender fields and make you discover the gastronomic restaurants with Michelin stars.

Read on to discover the best things to do in Gordes and how to turn your trip into an unforgettable experience for the whole family.

Disclosure : Some of the links below are affiliate links, which means that if you sign up for a service through them, I may earn a commission at no additional cost to you. This helps me maintain and grow the blog—and continue offering detailed content for free to readers like you. I only recommend sites I’ve personally used and truly love.

Top Things to do in Gordes, France: My 12 Must-Sees

Discover the top things to do in Gordes with your family through 12 unforgettable experiences that capture the essence of this charming region of France.

From exploring picturesque landscapes to diving into unique cultural experiences, Gordes, France, offers a variety of activities that will delight both children and adults. Get ready for an unforgettable family adventure in one of the most beautiful villages in the country.

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Take a ride in a classic vintage car in Provence

What a good experience! Rent a vintage car and your trip will be transformed into something unique. You have a fleet of classic cars at your disposal, including the Citroën 2cv, Citroën Méhari, Volkswagen Beetle and Volkswagen Combi Van, each offering a nostalgic driving experience while cruising through the picturesque landscapes of the South of France.

You will be suggested routes designed to discover the hidden charms of the region, from tranquil lavender fields to idyllic villages nestled in rolling hills, while also being happy to tailor tours to personal preferences.

✴️ Vehicle delivery service at your place of residence or vacation.
▶️ With the option of free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, and the flexibility to book now and pay later, this exciting adventure is perfect.

You can make your reservation on the Yes Provence website.

⭐ Do you want to take something typical with you or do some useful shopping during your tour in Gordes and surroundings? 👉 Discover the best stores and stores for tourists in France

Château de Gordes: A Journey Through Provençal History

✅ Recommended by diegoenfrance.com for its cultural richness and heritage value

The Château de Gordes, with nearly a thousand years of history, rises majestically above the valley, standing as one of the village’s treasures and was declared a Historical Monument in 1931.

This ancient medieval fortress is a blend of architecture through the centuries, with three distinct sections representing its successive expansions.

Closely linked to the Gordes family, one of the oldest in Provence, the castle is a living testimony to the region’s history.

Architectural Details That Make the Château de Gordes Unique

During the visit, one of the highlights is the impressive fireplace located in the dining room. Classified as a Historical Monument in 1902, this fireplace measures 7.20 meters long and 4.50 meters high, and is one of the finest examples of Renaissance fireplaces in France.

Another fascinating aspect of the visit is the Renaissance-era doors. Made from 16th-century oak, these doors are true works of art with their rich decoration.

And don’t miss the monumental spiral stair, whose steps are carved from a single block of stone sourced from the quarries of Ménerbes, Oppède, and Saint Pantaléon.

The Château de Gordes is not only a must-see for its architectural beauty, but also for its rich cultural history, currently hosting cultural exhibitions throughout the year.

⌚ Opening hours: 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 2 p.m. to 6 p.m.

🎟️ Entry from €4 for children and €6 for adults.

Get to know the Art of Stone: Tour the Village des Bories in Gordes

✅ Featured on diegoenfrance.com for its authenticity and rural history

The Village des Bories, in Gordes, Vaucluse, originally known as “Les Cabanes,” is a fascinating hamlet located at an altitude of 270 meters.

This settlement, lacking a cemetery and church, represents a typical example of temporary dwellings that, in Mediterranean countries, complemented permanent villages and were linked to seasonal agricultural work.

Visiting this place feels like a journey into a mineral world, where one can discover a simple lifestyle deeply rooted in history and tradition.

A jewel of rural dry stone architecture

Listed as a Historic Monument and converted into a museum of rural habitat, the Village des Bories is located 4 km from the village of Gordes, on the slopes of the Vaucluse Mountains, facing the Luberon.

Built in the early 17th century, this village is an exceptional testament to the ancestral art of dry-stone construction, a skill that has now vanished.

During the 17th and 18th centuries, the expansion of farmland led to the extraction of thousands of tons of stones from the soil, transforming the landscape with the appearance of “clapas” (stone heaps), walls, enclosures, “restanques,” and stone huts.

A visit to this site is an immersion into the engineering and way of life of past centuries.

Here you’ll explore unique structures and feel transported to another era, gaining a deeper understanding of how people of the time used natural resources for their daily needs.

The experience at the Village des Bories is a unique opportunity to appreciate the simplicity and beauty of a way of life that has stood the test of time.

⌚ Opening hours: 9:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m.

🎟️ Entry: €4 for children and €8 for adults.

Visit the Abbey of Sénanque: A Refuge of Peace and Beauty

✅ Abbey featured on diegoenfrance.com as a gem of Provençal Romanesque architecture

The Abbey of Notre-Dame de Sénanque, delicately situated in its Provençal valley, is an emblem of resistance and serenity that has bravely faced the onslaught of the mistral for nearly 900 years.

Founded in the 12th century by a monastic order influenced by the figure of Saint Bernard, the abbey is a magnificent example of Romanesque architecture, characterized by its smooth, pure lines and human proportions.

This sober and spiritual structure, where the invisible becomes visible and nothing distracts from prayer, has been described as a miraculously preserved relic of the Middle Ages.

Immersed in the creux of its Provençal valley since the 12th century, Notre-Dame de Sénanque Abbey is one of the purest testimonies of Romanesque Cistercian architecture.

The monastic community residing in the abbey continues a nearly thousand-year-old tradition, living according to the Rule of Saint Benedict.

A Spiritual Experience in the Heart of the Luberon

The abbey offers visitors the unique opportunity to experience the atmosphere of reflection and spirituality that prevails in this sacred place.

During the visit, you can admire the abbey church, the old dormitory, the cloister, the warming room, and the chapter house, all built between the 12th and 13th centuries.

The abbey invites visitors to join this peaceful environment, requesting respect for the silence and the contemplative atmosphere. For non-French speakers, the self-guided tour with a HistoPad is recommended.

ℹ️ Due to limited space, it is advised to book online in advance to fully enjoy this experience of tranquility and historic beauty.

⌚ Visiting hours from Monday to Saturday: 10:30 a.m., 2:00 p.m., and 3:30 p.m.

🎟️ Entry: €4 for children and €8 for adults. Parking.

Family Chromatic Adventure: Explore the Ochre Trails of Roussillon

✅ Nature activity selected by diegoenfrance.com as a must-do experience near Gordes

If you are looking for an exceptional activity for the whole family in the heart of Provence, don’t miss the Roussillon Ocres trail. This wonderful walk is located a stone’s throw from the picturesque village of Roussillon, easily accessible and a real jewel of the region.

You have two options for immersing yourself in the natural color palette:

Both trails are safe and perfectly conditioned so that children can explore and wonder without risk.

It is a unique opportunity to show them the natural beauty while having fun.

So put on your most comfortable shoes, get your camera ready and enjoy the adventure on the trails des Ocres!

Remember to bring water and a good hat for the sun.

Family Bike Ride: Exploring Gordes on Wheels

✅ Rental service reviewed on diegoenfrance.com for its quality and family-friendly options

Exploring the Luberon by bike is an unmatched experience to enjoy the natural splendor and cultural richness of this region.

Bike rides through the Luberon allow you to immerse yourself in serene and picturesque landscapes, passing vineyards, lavender fields, and charming villages.

For this activity, Rent Bike Luberon offers a wide range of bikes suitable for all ages and skill levels.

⭐ Bike delivery service to your home or accommodation in the Luberon.

👉 Check their website here

⭐ Already have your itinerary through Gordes and want to make the most of your trip? 👉 Don’t miss this essential guide with the best tips for traveling through France without surprises.

More not-to-be-missed family activities in Gordes

⭐ Need easy snack ideas for your little ones during excursions? 👉 Check out this list of practical and healthy foods for traveling kids

The Tourist Map of Gordes with All Activities

So you don’t miss anything to do in Gordes, I’ve prepared this tourist map with all activities marked: monuments, family experiences, recommended restaurants, and nature walks.

Ideal for planning your itinerary by foot or car, this map helps you visualize everything that makes Gordes an unforgettable destination.

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Accommodation in Gordes, France

Top 5 best hotels in Gordes

Looking for where to stay in Gordes during your Provence getaway? This charming village offers a selection of unique accommodations combining comfort, authenticity, and dreamlike views.

From boutique hotels with spas to family-run farmhouses and Provençal-style country homes, this section helps you choose the perfect place to sleep in Gordes based on your travel style.

Diego’s tip: book your accommodation in advance, especially during high tourist seasons, to secure your preferred option and get the best rates.

The Comparator of the Best Family Accommodations in Gordes

Hotel Les Bories & Spa ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Les Bories & Spa, Gordes, is located in a protected natural setting, surrounded by idyllic landscapes.

The hotel spans over 8 hectares of land, featuring olive trees, cypress groves, ancient oaks, fragrant gardens, and blooming lavender fields—creating a setting that’s as serene as it is stunning.

Here, harmony and stillness meet the authenticity of the region, providing an unforgettable experience for those seeking rest, romance, and refined simplicity.

▶ Nightly rates from 285 €.

Airelles Gordes ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

The Airelles Gordes, majestically located above the charming village of Gordes, classified as one of the most beautiful in France, is a chateau that radiates a typically Provençal charm and offers an exceptional panorama of the Luberon massif.

This palace, renovated in the spirit of the 18th century bastides (country houses) of Aix, is located in the heart of the Luberon Valley, offering breathtaking views from its terraces and suspended gardens.

These views stretch over lavender fields and olive groves, which can be admired under the shade of cypress trees and dry-stone walls.

▶Rates per night from 855 €.

Le Phébus & Spa Relais & Châteaux ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Ideally located in the heart of the Luberon, in Provence, between the famous and picturesque villages of Gordes and Roussillon, this fabulous hotel represents the soul and authenticity of a family home.

Xavier Mathieu, the chef and owner, along with his family, welcomes you to this dreamy setting where the scents of garrigue and lavender mingle.

This hotel, located on a site classified as a historical monument, is a dry stone farmhouse of irresistible charm, offering the perfect place for stays full of discovery, gastronomy, relaxation and conviviality.

▶Nightly rates from €275

Mas La Pomarede ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Mas La Pomarede, a cozy guest house, is an old Provençal farmhouse dating from before the 19th century and has been restored preserving its original essence. Nestled in an idyllic setting of three acres of greenery, this property offers a unique experience in the French countryside.

The house is equipped with a variety of amenities to ensure a pleasant and relaxing stay. Guests can enjoy ample parking, a refreshing swimming pool, a bocce court, and several areas for resting and picnics. The environment is a true oasis of peace, where squirrels, cats and the friendly owners live in harmony with their guests.

Mas La Pomarede is the ideal place for those seeking a quiet retreat in the heart of Provence, offering an authentic Provençal experience, surrounded by nature and tranquility.

▶Nightly rates from 260 €.

Rent a house nearby: The Perfect Option for Families

If you are looking for an intimate and personalised experience, especially if you are travelling with family or a large group, renting a whole house can be the perfect solution. Not only does it give you the comfort of feeling at home, but it also offers you the opportunity to live like a local, cook your own meals and have communal spaces to share unforgettable moments.

👉 Stay in this restored 17th-century stone house

More accommodations in Provence

Where and What to Eat in Gordes: Authentic Flavors of Southern France

Traveling to Provence isn’t just a feast for the eyes—it’s also one for the palate. If you’re wondering where and what to eat in Gordes, the answer is simple: here, you eat very, very well.

The local cuisine is a celebration of fresh products, bold flavors, and recipes rooted in tradition.

In Gordes, you can enjoy everything from simple dishes like homemade tapenade or ratatouille to top-tier gastronomic experiences.

The village boasts three restaurants listed in the Michelin Guide, making it one of the most exciting destinations in Southern France for food lovers.

Gastronomic Restaurants in Gordes Featured in the Michelin Guide

Among the typical dishes of Gordes and the region, don’t miss:

And the best part? You can enjoy these flavors on terraces with panoramic views or in award-winning gastronomic restaurants where every dish is a work of art.

Whether you’re looking for a relaxed meal in a family-run bistro or an unforgettable Michelin-starred dinner, in Gordes you’ll find where to eat well, where to enjoy, and where to savor Provence with all your senses.

🍽️ Want to enjoy local gastronomy without making faux pas at the table? 👉 Follow these essential tips to dine in French restaurants like a local

Nearby Villages Around Gordes That Will Also Steal Your Heart

Already explored everything there is to see in Gordes and still craving more? Good news: you’re surrounded by Provençal gems that are worth every kilometer.

From hilltop villages to ochre-colored hamlets and postcard-worthy markets, these destinations near Gordes are the perfect addition to your trip.

How to get to Gordes in the Vaucluse

Your Gateway to France

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The Magic of Driving in France

Once in France, touring the country by car is one of the most practical and charming ways to travel. This option offers not only comfort, but also the freedom to discover picturesque landscapes and stop wherever the moment inspires you.

Thanks to Rentalcars.com, you can easily find the perfect vehicle for your adventure. Compare prices among the leading rental agencies and book your car for pick-up at the airport, train station or multiple locations of your choice. Start your trip in total freedom and comfort!

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Moreover, as you journey through the charming French roads, what better company than a good playlist? Precisely, I have a very special one that I have prepared for you later on.

👉 What do I need to drive in France? Here’s what every traveler should know.

The route to Gordes, in the Vaucluse department, generally passes through picturesque landscapes, with winding roads offering panoramic views. It is important to note that the roads can be narrow and winding, so drivers should exercise caution.

Upon arriving in Gordes, visitors can explore its charming cobblestone streets, historic architecture and breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside.

🚗 Are you going to visit Gordes by car? 👉 Don’t miss these indispensable tips for stress-free driving in France

The Weather in Gordes

The climate in Gordes is Mediterranean, with dry, hot summers and mild, wet winters.

Average summer temperatures range between 25°C and 35°C, while in winter they typically range between 3°C and 10°C.

The region receives an average of 2,800 hours of sunshine per year, and most rainfall occurs during the autumn and winter months.

Gordes is known for its pleasant weather conditions, making it a popular destination for travelers seeking a warm and sunny retreat.

The History of Gordes: A Journey Through Time

A brief introduction

Gordes, considered one of the most beautiful villages in France, is located in the Provence region, in the southeast of the country.

Its history is rich and diverse, dating back to prehistoric times, as evidenced by archaeological finds in the surrounding area.

However, it is during the Roman period that Gordes begins to gain importance, as shown by the remains of Roman villas and ancient roads in the area.

Gordes’ distinctive character, with its stone houses perched atop a cliff, began to take shape in the High Middle Ages.

During this time, the fortress of Gordes played a crucial role in defending the region. The castle, which still dominates the village today, was built and rebuilt over the centuries, especially during the Renaissance, when it acquired many of its current features.

Over the centuries, Gordes has witnessed and played a role in France’s turbulent history, including the Wars of Religion in the 16th century, during which it suffered considerable damage.

In the 20th century, during World War II, Gordes played a significant role in the French Resistance. In fact, the village was heavily bombed in 1944, leading to a post-war reconstruction that aimed to preserve its authenticity and historic charm.

Today, Gordes attracts visitors from all over the world—not only for its beauty and exceptional architecture but also for its historical heritage.

The cobbled streets, the stone houses stacked upon one another, the majestic castle, and the stunning views over the Luberon Valley make Gordes a living testimony of French history and a symbol of resilience and cultural rebirth.

Conclusion: All the Best Things to Do in Gordes to Fall in Love with Provence

Now that you know the best things to do in Gordes and everything this village has to offer, there’s only one thing left to do: experience it!

From its thousand-year-old castle and the serenity of Sénanque Abbey, to nature trails, family experiences, and local flavors, Gordes gives you a Provençal postcard at every turn.

Save this article, download the checklist, and start planning your trip with all the information at your fingertips.

And if you fall in love with this gem of Vaucluse as I did, don’t forget to explore the nearby villages… because in Provence, magic is always just around the corner.

Frequently Asked Questions About Gordes