Bonnieux

Driving down the hill from Lacoste, across the Vaucluse plateau, and through the orchards, one finds Bonnieux, a bustling village of shops, cafés, restaurants, lodgings, and artists.

It is a remarkably short walk up to the now abandoned 12th century Roman/Gothic church that caps the town. From its altitude of 425 metres (1,394 ft), the views are stunning, including the Monts de Vaucluse, Mont Ventoux, and also Lacoste, Gordes and Roussillon.

In July the church evidently becomes a richly atmospheric setting for classical music concerts. Strangely, the town seems more proud to have its own bank than this glorious old building.

Nearby is the lovely little town on Menerbes. I was so taken with how the sky and the paint color match!