Bonnieux

On the northern slope of the Luberon, Bonnieux is at the summit of the combe facing the one of Lourmarin. Behind the village, on the crest of the Luberon Nature Park, the three communes (Bonnieux, Ménerbes and Lacoste) and the forest of cedars from the Middle-Atlas stretch out over approximately 250 hectares.

The architecture of Bonnieux, papal town for about 500 years, testifies to the prestige of its inhabitants over the centuries: ecclesiastical dignitaries, counts, lords... up until the modern times of the 19th century. Less touristy than Gordes, the village has kept all its authenticity, its steep sloping streets, its fountains and washhouses, its old church - or upper church, a mix of Romanesque and Gothic - and a view that is worth it all...

High up in the village, the Tour Philippe tower was designed by the artist and sculptor Philippe Audibert who wanted a view of the sea, but died before completing his project. On a clear day, you can see down to the Etang de Berre by the Mediterranean!

To see if possible, the Jardin de la Louve (info from the tourist office), a magnificent orchestration of nature, it was created in 1990 by Nicole de Versian and has received a distinction: the "remarkable garden" label.

In spring, the sweet fragrance of lavender accompanies your walks, and this until the end of summer, while the bees delight in this flower to produce for us their lavender honey. Its essential oil has medicinal properties (calmative, antiseptic, bactericide...). Two distilleries to visit: Les Agnels in Buoux and Apt Aromatiques in Apt. At the pass, going in the direction of Apt, the Mas des abeilles welcomes you to sample all their products made with lavender.  

You can also meet the Artists and Craftspeople of  

Bonnieux through the AMP - Art et Métiers du Patrimoine - (this

association has as its objective the passing down of old and modern know-how with respect for the Heritage.