Gordes voted the most beautiful village in the world, according to Travel and Leisure magazine

And the 2023 prize for the "most beautiful village in the world" is awarded to... Gordes! Already classed as among the most beautiful villages in France, Gordes has been doubly celebrated this year by the American magazine Travel & Leisure, placing it ahead of other superb locations listed around the world, with Shirakawago in Japan and Giethoorn in the Netherlands also on the podium.

Perched on a rock in the heart of the Vaucluse mountains, the Provençal village is one of the Luberon's best-known picture postcards, characterised by the pretty dry-stone houses typical of the Apt region. Once frequented by art world celebrities such as André Lhote, Marc Chagall, Victor Vasarely and Pol Mara, who came here for inspiration, Gordes is now "the place to be", as evidenced by the presence of beautiful craft shops, luxury hotels and fine restaurants. Peter Mayle's autobiographical novel A Year in Provence, adapted into a film starring Marion Cotillard and Russell Crowe, has helped make this French community a destination of choice for the many foreigners who visit France. 
 

What to see in Gordes?

Gordes Castle
One of the town's most impressive structures is the Château de Gordes, whose foundations date back to the 11th century. Interestingly, the lords of Gordes never resided in the castle, but were more than happy to collect taxes from neighbouring residents... Over the centuries, the castle was used in a variety of ways, including as a grain storehouse and a prison. Today, the castle functions as a museum, which you can visit for an additional fee.
 
Saint-Firmin Church
The main church in Gordes is dedicated to Saint Firmin, who was a senator from Pamplona and became a Christian before becoming a martyr. The church was built in the 18th century in Romanesque style and can be visited free of charge.
 
The Cellars of San Fermín Palace
To escape the hot summer days, head for Les Caves du Palais Saint-Firmin, a historic semi-troglodyte site made up of cellars on 7 levels with a chapel, storage rooms, cisterns, a bread oven, an oil mill... rediscovered by a family some sixty years ago and since then transformed into a museum. The visit begins with a short film, followed by exhibitions highlighting the restoration of the caves and what they were once used for.
 
Abbey of Notre-Dame de Sénanque
Bordered by scrubland and lavender fields, this abbey is a jewel of Romanesque art and a testimony to early Cistercian architecture. Founded in 1148, it is home to a community of Cistercian monks who share their days between prayers and the production of honey, vegetables and lavender. A spiritual quest rooted in silence, rigour and working the land. Part of the building is open to the public: you can visit the church, the cloister, the chapter house, the boiler room and the former dormitory.
 
Terrace Theatre
One of the characteristics of the village of Gordes is that it is situated in the middle of terraced slopes, which have been fashioned by farmers. During the summer months, theatrical performances take place in the open air, on the outskirts of the village, between the cliffs and the plain.
Summer evenings festival: https://festival-gordes.com/
 
The village of Les Bories
This village was classified as a Historic Monument in 1977 and houses the largest collection of bories, dry-stone huts dating from the 17th century, including sheepfolds, bakeries, cellars, fences, enclosures and walls. It is a traditional heritage site that represents the unique identity of the Provencal countryside. A veritable wonder!

>>> Discover our expert guide to Provence

Gourmet restaurants in Gordes

Les Bories
Chef Gregory Mirer is passionate about contemporary cuisine, fusing traditional dishes with exotic flavours. The setting is refined and intimate. 
Address: Rte de Sénanque, 84220 Gordes
Telephone: +33 4 90 72 00 51
Price: €€€€
https://www.hotellesbories.com/en/restaurants-and-bars-michelin-star-restaurants-gordes-provence
 
Clover Gordes
A taste experience with Provençal notes with signature dishes from chef Jean-François Piège, such as wild calamari à la Carbonara, grilled blue lobster and soufflé pizza. Exceptional setting
Address: La Bastide, 61 Rue de la Combe 84220 Gordes
Tel: +33 4 90 72 12 12
Price: €€€€
https://airelles.com/en/destination/gordes-hotel

>>> Explore our luxury villas and beautiful farmhouses in Provence