Gordes and the Luberon by van: 5 must-see highlights

Discover the treasures of the Luberon in a campervan: hilltop villages, fiery ochre cliffs and untouched nature. An authentic road trip in the heart of Provence.

By the Le Campeur editorial team · 16 September 2026

Between hills scented with thyme and villages of golden stone, the Luberon invites you to slow down. Gordes, a medieval gem clinging to the mountainside, is the perfect gateway. In your van, explore breathtaking landscapes, colourful markets and unique natural sites. Here are five essential stops for an unforgettable journey, where every turn brings a new surprise.

Gordes

This village, ranked among France’s most beautiful, overlooks the Calavon Valley. Its cobbled streets, stone houses and castle offer a journey back in time.

Where to sleep nearby

Camping des Sources Campsite ★ 4.5 4-star campsite with pool and stunning views of Gordes. 21-minute walk, clean facilities. › Viewpoint parking Senanque abbey Gordes Parking ★ 4.6 Free parking opposite Sénanque Abbey with lavender fields. Absolute peace, 30-minute walk. › Free mixed parking Gordes Parking ★ 4.6 Free aire with panoramic valley views. Picnic tables, 23-minute walk. › chemin des guillaumets, Maubec Motorhome area ★ 4.2 Free parking by the Calavon Cycle Route. 4 spacious pitches, 8-minute drive. › Spacious parking Cabrières-d'Avignon Parking ★ 4.4 Spacious, flat parking behind the town hall. Toilets and drinking water, 5-minute drive. ›

Sénanque Abbey

Just a stone’s throw from Gordes, this 12th-century Cistercian abbey is a masterpiece of harmony. In summer, its lavender fields make it a legendary spot.

Where to sleep nearby

Viewpoint parking Senanque abbey Gordes Parking ★ 4.6 Stunning views of the abbey and lavender. 30-minute walk, free and quiet. › Camping à la ferme Les Boudougnes Campsite ★ 4.6 Family-friendly campsite under oak trees, 7 km drive. Rustic setting, rated 4.6. › Icy river parking Fontaine-de-Vaucluse Parking ★ 4.3 Free overnight parking by the Sorgue. Clean toilets, 7 km drive. › chemin des guillaumets, Maubec Motorhome area ★ 4.2 Free parking by the Cycle Route, 7 km away. 4 spacious, level pitches in a quiet cul-de-sac. › Camping des Sources Campsite ★ 4.5 4-star campsite with pool and views. 21-minute walk, spacious pitches. ›

Roussillon Ochres

Dive into a mineral world of fiery hues, from deep red to golden ochre. The Ochre Trail takes you to the heart of this unique, moon-like landscape.

Where to sleep nearby

Mill parking Lioux Parking ★ 4.7 Stunning cliff views, 5-minute drive. Free, quiet and trailhead access. › Le Carina Apt Motorhome area ★ 4.4 Pool and restaurant 5 km away, €15 per night. Electricity and water at 9 flat pitches. › Gîtes Saint Estève Campsite ★ 4.8 4 pitches in the heart of vineyards, 360° views. Full services, 50-minute walk. › Gorge parking Murs Parking ★ 4.5 Forest and gorges 6-minute drive away. Discreet, shaded and free spot. › Camping des Chênes Blancs Campsite ★ 4 Heated pool under oak trees, 4 km away. Shaded, spacious campsite. ›

Pont Julien

This perfectly preserved 1st-century Roman bridge spans the Calavon River. A must-stop photo opportunity on any vanlife route.

Where to sleep nearby

Parking at Pont Julien Bonnieux Parking ★ 4.2 1 minute from Pont Julien: flat, clean parking with toilets. Quiet night near a Roman site. › Camping à la ferme — Bonnieux Campsite ★ 4.7 Nature campsite 5 km away, pitches by the fields. Absolute peace in the countryside. › Le Carina Apt Motorhome area ★ 4.4 Private aire 5 km away, €15 per night with pool and restaurant. Electricity and water at each pitch. › D194, Bonnieux Motorhome area ★ 4.1 Free aire in Bonnieux, 9 reserved pitches. Flat ground, 5-minute walk from the village. › Gîtes Saint Estève Campsite ★ 4.8 4 pitches in the heart of vineyards, 360° views. Full services (water, electricity, waste disposal). ›

Colorado Provençal

Near Rustrel, this natural site with its ochre cliffs evokes the great American canyons. An easy walk for an immersive experience in stunning scenery.

Where to sleep nearby

Camping à la ferme Les Boudougnes Campsite ★ 4.6 Charming setting under holm oaks, 20 family pitches. 8-minute drive (7 km). › Icy river parking Fontaine-de-Vaucluse Parking ★ 4.3 Free overnight parking (7:30 PM, 8 AM) by the Sorgue. Clean toilets, 7-minute drive (7 km). › Gorge parking Murs Parking ★ 4.5 Hidden forest spot with views of the Liou Gorges. 7-minute drive (6 km). › Camping des Sources Campsite ★ 4.5 4-star campsite with pool and panoramic views. 21-minute walk. › chemin des guillaumets, Maubec Motorhome area ★ 4.2 Free parking for 4 pitches by the Cycle Route. 8-minute drive (7 km). ›

Moustiers-Sainte-Marie

Nicknamed the pearl of the Verdon, this village is famed for its faience pottery and waterfall. A charming stop between the Luberon and the Verdon Gorges.

Where to sleep nearby

Parking viewpoint lake gorges La Palud-sur-Verdon Parking ★ 4.9 Stunning views of the lake and gorges, free. 6-minute drive, rated 4.9/5. › La Ferme de Vauvenières Campsite ★ 4.8 Bucolic lavender setting at 600 m altitude, peaceful. 7-minute drive, rated 4.8/5. › Camping le Vieux Colombier Campsite ★ 4.7 Family-friendly shaded campsite, 12-minute walk from the village. Rated 4.7/5, authentic vibe. › Motorhome parking Pont du Galetas Aiguines Parking ★ 4.3 By Lake Sainte-Croix, spectacular views, free. 6-minute drive, rated 4.3/5. › Quiet parking with countryside view Moustiers-Sainte-Marie Parking ★ 4.1 360° panorama over Moustiers and the mountains, secluded. 31-minute walk, rated 4.1/5. ›

See all spots on the map