Gordes Village: Living in the Village of Gordes

The Origins of Gordes

Among the most beautiful villages in France, Gordes holds a privileged place. Located in the heart of the Vaucluse, in the Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur region, it is an essential stop for anyone wishing to visit the Luberon Regional Nature Park. Its hilly landscape comes from the fact that the village sits on the flank of one of the Vaucluse mountains. Its rich history has left a fascinating cultural heritage.

Gordes was originally built on top of a rocky outcrop by the Vordenses, a Celtic people seeking protection from invasions. The Romans then took over, leaving behind a few remains such as the Roman road linking the Apt valley to Carpentras. In the Middle Ages, a fortress was built at the top of the village to protect the surrounding area, and fortifications later enclosed the village a few centuries afterwards.

Life in Gordes unfolded gradually, though the village regularly suffered from wars and plague. The small town lived mainly from craftsmanship until the 19th century. However, it gradually emptied of its inhabitants, and it was only after the Second World War that it came back to life thanks to the arrival of several renowned artists. In the 1980s, the railway helped bring the village back to life, and tourism developed there little by little.

Must-See Sights in Gordes

Strolling through the sloping streets lined with dry-stone houses is a real pleasure for both visitors and residents of Gordes. At the top, the feudal château, a true landmark of the Luberon, is remarkably well preserved. As for the Saint-Firmin church, named after the village's patron saint, it dates back to the 18th century and offers a colourful visit. At the foot of the Château de Gordes, not far from the Saint-Firmin church, a local market draws crowds with the quality of its produce and its unique atmosphere.

Located 4 km from the stone fortress, the Abbey of Sénanque is a wonderful example of Romanesque architecture. It stands in the heart of the Sénancole valley, amid superb lavender fields. As for the village of Bories, it is a genuine curiosity made up of stone shepherds' huts. Around the village, there are numerous walking trails for lovers of nature and hiking.

The heart of Gordes offers a lively cultural scene, with theatre, concerts, opera, art galleries and exhibitions of all kinds. Along the winding streets, numerous restaurants await locals and visitors alike for a moment of gourmet pleasure. Domaine de la Grange Neuve serves delicious Provençal cuisine made with local produce. Le Pizza Bella is a charming pizzeria, ideal for a quick bite. La Table de Xavier Mathieu is a must-visit gourmet restaurant in Gordes. Finally, L'Estellan is set in a stone mas typical of the region.

Living in Gordes

Outside the summer season, life in Gordes unfolds peacefully between village festivals, local produce and tradition. In summer, the village becomes livelier as tourists flock to discover one of the most beautiful villages in France and its heritage. Either way, life is sweet in Gordes, and the various shops and local stores along the sloping streets allow everyone to stock up on essentials.

The weekly market held in the centre of the village also brings residents all the local produce they need. During the Christmas period, a special market with around forty stallholders is held in the Château de Gordes and the Chapelle des Pénitents, offering artisan goods and gourmet products to all.

As for local life, the village has a nursery and two schools. A hospital is also available for the elderly. Various associations organise activities throughout the commune, and a library welcomes all residents. Interestingly, the population of this village of 1,670 inhabitants is older on average than most French communes, which is why most of its facilities are geared towards older residents.

Property Prices in Gordes

More than 90% of homes in Gordes are detached houses, nearly 50% of which are second homes. Indeed, many investors buy property in Gordes to rent out seasonally or to use as a summer home. As the village's activity is itself largely seasonal, many workers in the tourism and leisure sector stay in Gordes and the surrounding area during peak season. Expect to pay around €8,600 per square metre.

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