Stone houses climbing a hillside, long stairways leading to panoramic viewpoints, and a village that opens wide onto the Luberon valley. This is one of those places where the setting does most of the work.
Bonnieux, perched on the northern slope of the Petit Luberon in Vaucluse, is a classic Provençal hilltop village with sweeping views stretching toward Mont Ventoux and the surrounding valleys. Its position along the historic route through the Luberon made it an important crossing point between regions.
The village is best explored on foot. Narrow, steep streets reveal old houses, fountains, remnants of ramparts, and shaded terraces where daily life still feels present. At the top, the Vieille Église offers one of the best viewpoints, reached by climbing through the village.
Bonnieux also works as a base for exploring nearby highlights such as the Pont Julien, a remarkably preserved Roman bridge, and the Forêt des Cèdres, a large cedar forest with accessible walking trails and wide views over the region.
On Friday mornings, the village hosts a lively market with local products and artisan goods, adding another layer to the experience.
👉 Local Tip: Climb all the way to the old church instead of stopping halfway. Most visitors turn back early, but the best views are at the very top.