Gordes, located in the Provence region of France, is a typical mountain village known for its beautiful stone buildings, winding streets and magnificent natural scenery.

Known as the "Stone City", Gordes's architectural style and the surrounding natural environment complement each other, as if time has stopped. Today, we will provide you with a detailed travel guide to take you to an in-depth understanding of this charming town.

How to get to Gordes

Gordes is not far from some of the larger cities in Provence, such as Avignon and Marseille, but because it is located in the mountains, there is no direct train or flight. Here are some common modes of transportation:

- Self-driving: If you plan to explore Provence, the most recommended way is to drive yourself. Starting from Avignon, the drive takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes. The scenery along the way is very charming and it is a good opportunity to enjoy the scenery of the Provence countryside. You can park in the parking lot of Gordes and walk into the town.

- Public transportation: If you don't rent a car, the most convenient way is to take the train to Avignon or Aix-en-Provence and then take a bus to Gordes. Although the transportation is relatively complicated, the bus route from Avignon to Gordes takes about 1.5 hours.

Must-see attractions in Gordes

As one of the most beautiful towns in the Provence region, Gordes has many attractions worth seeing. Here are a few must-see places:

1. Château de Gordes

- Tickets: Adults €7 (about $7.50), children free

- Opening hours: April to October, 10:00–18:00 every day

- Highlights: The castle is located on the top of the mountain, overlooking the entire town and the surrounding mountains. Various art exhibitions are often held in the castle, which also allows visitors to better understand the history of Gordes. Standing on the balcony of the castle, the scenery is picturesque, and photography enthusiasts must not miss it.

2. Abbaye Notre-Dame de Sénanque

- Tickets: Adults €6 (about $6.50); ​​Students €3 (about $3.20)

- Opening hours: 9:30–18:00 daily (extended to 19:00 in July and August)

- Highlights: This abbey was built in the 12th century. Behind it are vast lavender fields. Especially in summer, the purple lavender flowers form a strong contrast with the ancient buildings, and the scenery is very charming. The abbey itself is also full of a peaceful spiritual atmosphere and is a good place to relax.

3. Gordes Old District

- Free

- Highlights: The small streets and narrow alleys of Gordes are the charm of this town. Most of the houses here are built of gray stone and retain the medieval style. You can stroll here, admire the ancient buildings, and feel the unique historical atmosphere. In addition, there are some small shops and cafes in the neighborhood, suitable for a stop and enjoy a cup of local coffee or lavender ice cream.

Best Time to Travel

The best time to travel to Gordes is usually spring and autumn, especially:

- Spring (April-June): Spring is warm and pleasant, and it is the season when Provence flowers are in full bloom. There are fewer tourists and the temperature is moderate, which is perfect for hiking and visiting attractions.

- Summer (July-August): Although summer is the busiest time in Gordes, it is also the season when lavender blooms. If you don't mind more crowds and higher temperatures, summer is the best time to visit lavender fields.

- Autumn (September-October): Autumn has moderate temperatures and fewer tourists, making it an ideal time to explore Gordes and the surrounding countryside. Especially during the grape harvest season in autumn, you can experience the local vineyard culture.

Winter (November-March) has fewer tourists, lower temperatures, and some attractions and shops may be closed. If you like a quiet trip, this is a good time.

Accommodation Recommendation

Gordes has a wide range of accommodation options, including luxurious hotels and affordable inns. Here are a few recommended accommodations:

- La Bastide de Gordes：This five-star hotel is located on the cliffs of Gordes and offers the ultimate luxury experience. The hotel has a spa, an outdoor pool and several restaurants with beautiful views overlooking the entire town. It is perfect for tourists who want to relax.

- Le Jas de Gordes：If you prefer a rustic stay, this small family hotel offers a warm and comfortable environment at a relatively affordable price. There are beautiful gardens here, which are suitable for tourists who like nature and tranquility.

Food Recommendation

Provence's cuisine is rich and varied, and Gordes also has some restaurants that offer authentic Provencal dishes. Here are a few recommended restaurants:

- Le Jardin de Gordes: This restaurant offers a rich variety of local dishes, such as pan-fried lamb chops, lavender honey and local cheeses. The restaurant's terrace overlooks the beautiful view of Gordes and is definitely worth a try.

- La Trattoria: If you like Italian food, this restaurant is a good choice. It offers classic pasta, pizza and other dishes. The interior of the restaurant is warm and suitable for family gatherings.

At the local market, you can also buy some local specialties such as olive oil, lavender honey and Provence spices to take home as souvenirs.

Practical tips

1. Walking is the best way: Gordes' streets are mostly paved with stone and the terrain is high. It is recommended to wear comfortable shoes and walking is the best way to explore this town.

2. Avoid peak times: If you want to avoid the most touristy times, it is recommended to visit the attractions in the morning or evening, when there are not only fewer tourists, but also the light is more suitable for photography.

3. Bring a camera: Gordes is a paradise for photography. Every street corner and every window has a unique beauty that cannot be missed.

4. Book accommodation and restaurants in advance: During the peak tourist season, accommodation and restaurants in Gordes are often fully booked in advance, especially during the lavender season. Make sure to make reservations in advance.

The charm of Gordes

Gordes is a town full of history, art and natural beauty. Its unique stone buildings, warm sunshine and tranquil environment attract thousands of tourists. If you plan to go to Provence, Gordes is definitely a destination you can't miss. I hope this guide can help you better plan your trip and let you fully experience the unique charm of this "Stone City".

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