Les Cabanes de Provence – Unique Accommodations, Spa & Nature

Les Cabanes de Provence: unusual accommodations in Provence with private spa in the heart of nature

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Tag: Hilltop villages

Provence in winter: 8 ideas between Ventoux and Baronnies

Diary

Provence doesn't go to sleep in winter, it simply changes its rhythm. The villages regain their tranquility, the light is clear, and the markets are filled with the aroma of truffles. Here are eight ideas to enjoy the season, starting from our lodges in Lafare and Plaisians.

1. Truffle markets

From late autumn to late winter, black truffles reign supreme at the markets. Those in Carpentras and Richerenches are among the most renowned in the region. Even without buying anything, the atmosphere and aroma are worth the trip. Be sure to check opening days and times with the tourist offices.

2. Mont Ventoux under the snow

When the snow falls, the Giant of Provence transforms. On its northern side, the Mont Serein resort welcomes skiers and snowshoers, depending on the snow conditions. From your lodges, the view of the white summit is already a spectacle.

3. The hilltop villages in complete tranquility

Séguret, Gigondas, Brantes or Le Barroux: without the summer crowds, the narrow streets can be explored in silence. A beautiful way to enjoy the bright winter days.

4. Village markets

The markets in Vaison-la-Romaine and Buis-les-Baronnies continue throughout the year. Olives, goat cheeses, honey and olive oil: everything you need to create a Provençal dinner to enjoy in the warmth.

5. Cellars and Estates

Gigondas, Vacqueyras, Beaumes-de-Venise: winter is a wonderful season to visit the wineries, take the time to chat with the winemakers, and leave with a few bottles. We can also organize a tasting during your stay.

Wake up to views of the Dentelles de Montmirail from your bed, near Mont Ventoux, Lodge Mont Ventoux in Lafare

6. Nyons and olive oil

Less than an hour from Plaisians, Nyons is the olive capital of Nyons. The mills and cooperatives there offer their new oil in winter, a true local treasure.

7. Winter walks

The clear skies and cool temperatures make hiking very pleasant. Around Lafare, as in the Baronnies region, the trails offer stunningly clear views. Set off in the middle of the day, when the sun warms the rock.

Cozy wood-burning stove for winter evenings in the cabin, Lodge Nid Perché in Lafare

8. A hot bath under the stars

This is our favorite idea. After a day outdoors, nothing beats your own private heated spa under a starry winter sky. At Lodge des Baronnies II, the indoor whirlpool bath and the cozy fireplace complete the cocoon. Lodge Nid Perché, The wood-burning stove warms the cabin.

Prepare for your winter stay

  • Pack warm clothes and good shoes: mornings can be chilly, even in the sun.
  • The road to the summit of Mont Ventoux is closed for part of the winter: check before planning a drive up.
  • The days are shorter: go for a walk in the late morning and return before nightfall to enjoy the spa at sunset.
  • Some restaurants close in the off-season: consider booking, or order a meal basket to dine quietly at home.

Winter is also the quietest season to enjoy our lodges: fewer people on the roads, peaceful villages, and silent nights. A true escape to recharge before the return of warmer weather.

To choose your base, discover our lodges in Lafare and Plaisians.

Book a winter stay

See you very soon at Cabanes de Provence!,
Hortense, Les Cabanes de Provence

10 walks around the Dentelles de Montmirail

Getaways in Provence

From our lodges in Lafare, the Dentelles de Montmirail are right there, towering above the vineyards. These jagged limestone ridges are a fantastic playground for hiking, climbing, or simply strolling from village to village. Here are our ten favorite walks, from the most leisurely to the most challenging.

Limestone cliffs of the Dentelles de Montmirail seen between the pine trees, climbing site near Lafare

Walks starting from Lafare

1. The Turk's Rock

This is the perfect "home" walk. A path starts from the village of Lafare and climbs towards the Rocher du Turc, offering superb views of the Dentelles de Montmirail and the Comtat plain. Ideal for a morning stroll before returning to your spa.

2. La Roque-Alric

Very close to Lafare, this tiny village seems to cling to its rocky outcrop. A short walk is all it takes to explore it and enjoy the absolute tranquility of the place.

3. The summit of Saint-Amand

The highest point of the Dentelles, at 734 meters, Saint-Amand offers a panoramic view stretching from Mont Ventoux to the Alpilles on a clear day. A beautiful hike for experienced walkers.

Gigondas and Séguret side

4. The Dentelles circuit from the Cayron pass

The Col du Cayron is the classic starting point for approaching the Grandes Dentelles, those spires that delight climbers. The path winds at the foot of the cliffs, between holm oaks and pines.

5. Gigondas, between vineyards and narrow streets

Climb up to the square and church of Gigondas for the view, then descend through the vineyards. The village cellars await you for a tasting, in moderation.

6. Séguret

Classified among the Most Beautiful Villages of France, Séguret is best explored on foot, through its cobbled streets, fountains and stone houses built against the hillside.

Beaumes-de-Venise and Le Barroux area

7. The Notre-Dame d'Aubune chapel

Above Beaumes-de-Venise, this Romanesque chapel and its sculpted bell tower overlook the Muscat vineyards. A short walk, ideal at the end of the day when the light gilds the stone.

8. Suzette and her points of view

This small hilltop village offers one of the most beautiful views of the southern face of the Dentelles and Mont Ventoux. The surrounding paths wind through vineyards and scrubland.

The Dentelles de Montmirail and a village perched amidst the vineyards, a landscape of the Vaucluse

9. Le Barroux and its castle

The Château du Barroux overlooks the plain. Park at the bottom of the village and walk up the narrow streets: the view from the top is worth every step.

10. Vaison-la-Romaine

A little further north, Vaison-la-Romaine blends ancient sites, a Roman bridge, and a medieval upper town. A lovely urban stroll for a more relaxed day.

And what about climbers?

The Dentelles de Montmirail are also a renowned climbing area, with routes of all levels on a very distinctive limestone. If you're a beginner, go with a qualified local instructor: it's the best way to discover the cliffs safely. We can provide you with some contacts.

Dentelles de Montmirail mountain range and wooded valley, hike starting from the Lafare huts

Where to take a break?

After your walk, the terraces of Gigondas, Séguret, or Beaumes-de-Venise invite you to linger. Wineries often open their cellars for tastings, and village markets overflow with local produce perfect for a picnic: goat cheese, olives, seasonal fruit, and freshly baked bread. If you prefer, we also prepare packed lunches to take with you on your walk.

The village of Lafare and its vineyards at the foot of the Dentelles de Montmirail, a stone's throw from the cabins in Provence

Our tips before you leave

  • In summer, access to the forest areas of Vaucluse may be regulated in case of fire risk: check the map of the day before leaving.
  • Leave early in the morning on sunny days, with water and good shoes: the paths are often stony.
  • Ask us: we will gladly suggest the walk that matches your current desire.

After a hike, there's nothing like relaxing in your lodge's private heated spa. Our three lodges in Lafare, the Lodge Nid Perché, THE Mont Ventoux Lodge and the Dentelles Lodge, are at the foot of the Dentelles.

Book a lodge in Lafare

See you very soon at Cabanes de Provence!,
Hortense, Les Cabanes de Provence