A small village that tumbles down the side of a hill, Bonnieux may be less developed for tourism than other Provencal towns, but therein lies its charm: authentic, dusty, old, it is a labyrinthine sprawl of cobbled winding alleyways and passages, lined with independent shops and cute cafes. Crowning the hill with spellbinding panoramic views of the fields of Luberon, stands a small 12th century church, while at the bottom of the hill, the newer church holds some beautiful 16th century oil paintings. A great place for couples and families alike, this is a truly hidden gem of Provence, complete with a Friday market, ruined 12th century ramparts, a museum and a two thousand year old Roman bridge lying out-of-town. Whether you're cycling through the nearby cedar forest, learning about bread-making at the Boulangerie Museum or marvelling at the 425m high church tower, you will feel submerged in the beauty of Provence. Our pick of the best places to stay in Bonnieux offer a choice of either rural retreat or smart B&B in the centre of town.

What not to miss

• Marvel at the 16th century oil paintings held in the lower church.
• Head northeast, towards Pont Julien, a stone bridge with three arches built for Julius Caesar.
• Hire some bikes and journey through the cedar forest, down the marked botanical trails.
• Visit the Boulangerie Museum and learn about the history of breadmaking.
• Walk along the 13th century ramparts, and lose yourelf in the pretty streets and passageways.
• Browse the Friday morning market.
• Explore the 13th century Romanesque-Gothic church crowning the hill!

Picturesque, authentic and charming, Bonnieux is the ideal holiday destination for those who want to see the real Provence. However it's always busy during the peak summer months, so if you want to guarantee a room in one of the best places to stay in Bonnieux during July or August, you'll need to book well ahead.

The best places to stay in Bonnieux

For a central location

• Les Clos du Buis: a beautiful farmhouse offering colourful cottage-style rooms, suites and apartments marrying traditional decor with a chic regard for furnishing, all with gorgeous terraced views. Guests can enjoy cooking classes, tennis and lounging by the swimming pool.

For foodies

• La Bastide de Capelongue: a gorgeous countryside hotel, offering some rooms decorated in a traditional Provencal style, others with more modern features. There is an outdoor pool, terrace and an outstanding two Michelin starred restaurant serving French cuisine.

For an apartment or villa

• Our partner Booking.com has a wide range of villas and apartments in the nearby area.

Travel information

• The best time to visit is during the summer, when the temperature can reach highs of 29 degrees celcius.
• Fly to Marseille, and get a train to Aix-en-Provence, from where you can get a taxi to Bonnieux. The journey is 50 miles.
• If you want to rent a car, contact our partner Rentalcars.

Still not sure?

• Check out our recommendations in nearby Gordes or Isle sur la Sorgue,
• expand your search to include all the best places to stay in Provence
• or contact one of our Gurus for advice.

Weather

Monthly Weather in Bonnieux