Charming Villages of Provence: A Complete Guide

Provence is so much more than lavender fields and the Mont Ventoux. It's a mosaic of hilltop villages, stone houses, shaded squares and lively markets – perfect for slow travel days between your rides or hikes around Mont Ventoux.

Staying at Villa Vintour in Malaucène puts you right in the heart of this charming region, with many beautiful villages just a short drive away.

Why Provence's Villages Are So Special

• Stone houses with pastel shutters and climbing roses
• Weekly markets with local produce, cheese, wine and lavender products
• Small cafés where time seems to slow down
• Roman ruins, chapels and medieval streets full of history
• A relaxed, authentic rhythm of life

Must-Visit Villages Near Mont Ventoux

1. Malaucène – Your Provençal Home Base

Just outside Villa Vintour, Malaucène combines authentic Provençal life with a sporty vibe.

Highlights:

• Lively weekly market with local products
• Charming old streets, fountains and small squares
• Perfect starting point for cycling and hiking around Mont Ventoux
• Restaurants, cafés and bakeries within easy reach

2. Vaison-la-Romaine – Where History Comes Alive

A beautiful town where Roman ruins meet a medieval hilltop village.

Don't miss:

• The Roman theatre and archaeological sites
• The old bridge over the river Ouvèze
• The medieval upper town with narrow streets and stone houses
• The large Provençal market (one of the best in the area)

3. Bédoin – A Classic Cycling Village

Known worldwide as a starting point for the Mont Ventoux climb, but also a great place to stroll.

Why visit:

• Lively cafés full of cyclists and locals
• Shops with cycling gear and regional products
• Pleasant village square for a coffee or apéritif

4. Crillon-le-Brave – A Hilltop Gem

A tiny hilltop village with breathtaking views over vineyards and the Ventoux.

What you'll love:

• Peaceful atmosphere, ideal for a sunset walk
• Stone houses and narrow, photogenic streets
• Panoramic views over the countryside

5. Séguret – One of the "Most Beautiful Villages of France"

Séguret is a postcard-perfect village, nestled among vineyards.

Highlights:

• Cobbled streets winding uphill
• Wine estates in and around the village
• Beautiful views over the Rhône Valley

6. Gigondas – Village of Wine & Views

For wine lovers, Gigondas is a must.

Good reasons to stop:

• Renowned red wines and friendly wine cellars
• Terraced vineyards and dramatic mountain backdrop
• A small square perfect for a leisurely lunch

Themed Days Out from Villa Vintour

Need some inspiration during your stay at Villa Vintour?

1. Market & Wine Day Morning: market in Malaucène or Vaison-la-Romaine Lunch on a terrace Afternoon: wine tasting around Gigondas or Séguret
2. Cycling & Village Hopping Morning ride around Mont Ventoux Lunch in Bédoin or Malaucène Afternoon stroll in Crillon-le-Brave or Séguret
3. Relax & Culture Slow breakfast at Villa Vintour Visit Roman sites in Vaison-la-Romaine Aperitif in the evening on your terrace with a view of the hills

Villa Vintour: The Perfect Base to Explore Provence

From Villa Vintour, you can discover a new village every day and still come back to peace and comfort.

At Villa Vintour you'll enjoy:

• A private pool to cool off after your excursions
• Spacious rooms, ideal for families and groups
• Terraces and outdoor spaces for dining al fresco
• A location close to Mont Ventoux and charming villages

Ready to explore the most charming villages of Provence? Book your stay at Villa Vintour and start your journey from Malaucène