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Provence Holidays
Ménerbes Ménerbes - -1
Ménerbes Ménerbes - 2

Ménerbes, Luberon

Ménerbes is one of the most beautiful villages in France. Built on top of a hill, the village offers a breathtaking view of the Luberon. Inhabited since prehistoric times, this charming town has a rich historical past and has been very well preserved. There reigns here an incomparable sweetness of life! Reason why Ménerbes has attracted many artists!

What makes this village special?

The visit begins with a walk in the heart of the town, in order to admire the residences and mansions. Do not miss that of Dora Maar, the famous photographer who was Picasso's muse. It dates from the 18th century, and she came there every summer until her death in 1997. Le Castellet, a 16th century castle overlooking the village, was once the property of the painter Nicolas de Staël.

During your walk, you will come across the Saint-Luc church, built in the 16th century on the site of a priory. It is classified as a historical monument. The old Saint-Hilaire abbey, from the 13th century, which has retained its medieval character, is worth a detour. This former Carmelite convent, listed as a historical monument in 1975, has been renovated. It is one of the most beautiful abbeys in the Luberon! It can be visited freely or with a guide for a good part of the year. The estate is surrounded by cherry orchards, vineyards and olive trees from where you can discover splendid views of the Luberon.

But Ménerbes is full of other treasures! If you happen to be in the area between April and October, stop by the Hôtel d'Astier de Montfaucon, home to La Maison de la Truffe et du Vin du Luberon, on Place de l'Horloge. This former 17th century private mansion offers tastings and oenology workshops in its vaulted cellars, in order to appreciate all the particularities of the region's wines. The restaurant and the terrace invite you to taste the specialties of Provence. A visit to the shop allows you to bring back truffles, and the best of Provence! Finish your visits with the corkscrew museum, which exhibits more than 1,200 pieces, from the 17th century to the present day.

Finally, if you like to walk, take the many paths to discover the Luberon massif, crossing forests, scrubland, vineyards or lavender fields, with views of incredible beauty!

Distinctions and labels of the village:

The Most Beautiful Villages of France is a French association created in 1982 in order to promote the tourist arguments of small rural communes rich in a quality heritage . Today, the association has 164 villages spread over 14 regions and 70 departments.

Location

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