Lourmarin, a Provencal and picturesque village
The village
Peaceful and charming village located at the base of the Lubéron, in the Vaucluse, Lourmarin is definitely worth a visit. 50 km from Avignon, the small village of Lourmarin is surrounded by olive trees, vines and almond trees.
Labelled "one of the most beautiful villages in France", it offers a Provençal lifestyle with its shaded café terraces, restaurants and shops. The narrow and winding alleys, typically Mediterranean, meander through beautiful old houses, shaded squares and fountains. All the charm of Provence, loved by Albert Camus, who lived and wrote in Lourmarin, and who is also buried there. You can follow his steps as well as those of his friend, Henri Bosco, a writer too, by following the literary tours across the village.
But, Lourmarin is also a dozen restaurants offering you typical dishes of Provence and 2 restaurants classified in the Michelin Guide.
The fortress
Built in the 12th century, its purpose was to protect the Lourmarin valley, which was then reputed to be the most dangerous passage in Basse Provence. Today, the Lourmarin Fortress has disappeared and the Lourmarin Castle was built on its site a few centuries later.
The Lourmarin Castle
The castle, which was built in the 15th and 16th centuries, stands in front of the village in an exceptional setting. Built on the remains of the old 12th century fortress, it is the first Renaissance castle in Provence. To get there, all you have to do is follow the streets bordered by fountains around the castle. Built in 1526, the Renaissance aisle is the only part accessible to the public. The spiral staircase is a curiosity not to be missed, as are the richly furnished apartments. In summer, the castle becomes an artists' residence, and concerts are regularly given on the terraces. This gave him the nickname of "Villa Médicis".
Saint-André and Saint-Trophime Church
Dating from the 11th century, the Romanesque church is a mixture of Romanesque and Gothic art. In the adjacent cemetery are the graves of Albert Camus and Henri Bosco.
Activities in Lourmarin
This typical village of Provence is the perfect destination for a stay. Lourmarin is full of activities to satisfy young and old alike. For the sportsmen, you will have the choice between swimming, tennis, archery, mini-golf or even a fishing session! You can also visit the surrounding Provençal villages and discover the mills and fountains, during hikes or mountain bike rides.
For those who prefer quieter activities, many events are organized in the village such as concerts, plays, fairs, or exhibitions.
And on Friday mornings, Place Barthélémy hosts the traditional Provençal market, which brings together nearly 200 merchants!
Stay in Lourmarin
That's it, you're convinced and you want to come and spend your holidays in Provence? All you have to do is look for the ideal place for your holiday rental. Lourmarin has hotels where you can stay and whose location is ideal for visiting Provence and its surroundings. For those who want more autonomy, why not opt for a holiday home (with a swimming pool?), a hotel apartment or a holiday residence? Whichever place you choose, you will not be disappointed by Lourmarin and its surroundings.
