Bonnieux

Bonnieux is a classic perched village of the Luberon, in the Vaucluse department of Provence, its stone houses rising in tiers up a steep hillside to an old church reached by a long flight of steps and a stand of cedars at the summit. From the top the view opens across the valley to neighbouring hill villages such as Lacoste and, on a clear day, to the slopes of Mont Ventoux beyond.

The setting is the heart of the Luberon regional park, a countryside of vineyards, cherry orchards, lavender and oak woods threaded with quiet roads and marked walking trails. Summer is warm and fragrant, with the lavender at its peak in July, while spring and autumn bring softer light and the vineyards into colour. For families and groups who want a village base with long views and a pool, luxury villa rentals in Bonnieux sit among the vineyards and orchards around the hill.