The Wonderful Village of Lauris
/The village of Lauris, two kilometres from the vacation villa, is a unique gem – a traditional local hamlet with weekly markets, excellent bakeries, al fresco lunch spots and a botanical garden.
Many holiday-makers vacation in the south of France for the big sites like breath-taking Gordes, ochre-walled Roussillon, and Michelin-starred Lourmarin. Stunning as these famous sites are, there is another side to the Provence countryside, equally as enriching, that is often ignored by large groups. The small, less-touristy villages give visitors a chance to have a more authentic experience of Provence, offering holiday-makers a peek into southern France before the time of mega-coaches and organized tours. The charming village of Lauris is one of these increasingly rarer finds. Roumanille’s location two kilometres from town affords the opportunity to experience authentic France at its best, from a comfortable and spacious villa.
Built on a plateau framed by its impressive castle, Lauris’s intimate feel and small alleys give holiday makers a peek into the “real France”. A stroll through the castle gardens with their sweeping views of the southern Luberon countryside and the Durance River is a wonderful way to immerse oneself in the landscape away from coach-loads full of crowds. Losing oneself in the winding allies that lead to the Eglise Notre Dame de Purification church conjures the feeling of a past time – when life was slower. The unaltered architecture of its sandstone terraced homes dotted with bright shutters and window boxes of flowers is a photographer’s dream – even more so because, apart from the occasional resident, it can be experienced alone.
The farmers market in the town square brings locals from the area hawking their delicacies: fresh-made cheeses, wine, preserves, fish and local meats – cured and raw, alongside seasonal produce, sweets, baked goods and homemade crafts. Grab a strong café at Nulle Part Ailleurs across from the blue shuttered town hall and take in the shopping scene before making a few purchases yourself. If your timing misses the market, the same delights can be found in the traditional boulangeries, boucherie, and fresh grocers that line Avenue Joseph Garnier, the main drag through town. These vendors are ideal sources for a perfect Provencal meal prepared at the villa and enjoyed by the pool, or on the terrace of Roumanille.
If a busy day touring nearby sites has not left time for home meal preparation, holiday-makers have delicious options in the local restaurants such as:
Lou Pebre d'Aïe (+33 4 90 08 27 54)
Bistrot Jeannette (+33 4 90 08 43 31)
Packed with locals at lunch, especially on the weekend and market days, these restaurants provide excellent sustenance with locally sourced ingredients. We especially like the lunch special at Bistrot Jeannette, and a long dinner at the highly acclaimed Lou Pebre d'Aïe is a wonderful way to cap off a day of touring.
Looking for a tipple – local style? Pop into the Café Parraud. You won’t find craft cocktails, but solid wine, draft beer and pastis are sure to hit the spot. A locals’ favourite – particularly on game days – it’s the perfect place to grab a drink and watch Lauris wrap up its day at dusk.
Provence has many amazing sites that draw millions over the peak holiday seasons. Roumanille’s unique position in the town of Lauris gives access to a rare gem – an authentic rural southern France village. Come experience the magic of Lauris!
Our recommendations:
Lou Pebre d'Aïe (+33 4 90 08 27 54): Excellent dinner and lunch specials, booking is a must.
Bistrot Jeannette (+33 4 90 08 43 31): Wonderful salads, fish and charcuterie among other delights
Though not in the centre of town, for a splurge, consider dining at Michelin-starred Les Champs de Lunes (+33 4 13 98 00 00) following a wine tasting at Domaine de Fontanille