Gordes and The Luberon villages in Provence are a beautiful delight for the senses, from quaint hilltop villages to the purple of the lavender fields, to bustling markets. At the heart of this area is a solid food culture, built on traditions, shaped by seasons, and elevated by artisans who honour the region.
Fresh Produce Markets
The morning fresh produce markets are the beating heart of Provence, with most residents spending an hour or more at the village market, which are brimming with local and seasonal produce and products. Here you can fill your arms with sun-ripened tomatoes, melons, truffles, along with a selection of olives. Local producers offer samples, turning your market stroll into a tasting tour of the area.
Cooking Class
All food lovers can benefit from a Provençal cooking class. Gordes and The Luberon villages have a number of holiday homes, where you can have a private hands-on cooking class, where your private chef will teach you about the techniques, ingredients, and culture behind each dish you prepare. Most cooking classes start with a visit to the local market, where you select your ingredients, under the guidance of your chef, helping you select the finest quality.
Liquid Gold
Provence is renowned for its olive oils, referred to as “liquid gold” in the region. Those near Gordes can enjoy guided tastings, learning about pressing techniques, the different olive varieties, along with samples. Some of the mills also provide pairing sessions, where you can try their olive oils with tapenades, bread, or goats cheese.
Vineyard Tastings and Lunches
If you are a wine lover, your holiday isn’t complete without a vineyard tour and tasting, along with a leisurely lunch. Luberon is filled with vineyard dining experiences with estates specialising in rose wines. Many of these estates offer lunches or platters, where you can enjoy lunch as you gaze over the vineyards.
Try Goats Cheese
The Provence region is known for goats cheese, with Luberon being a great place to try this delicious cheese. Dairies can be found between Roussillon and Gordes, where you can tour the facilities, while sampling fresh and aged varieties.
Relax with a Sunset Dinner
Gordes and Luberon villages offer a spectacular dining setting with terraces that gaze over valleys, while the warm glow of the sun setting stretches out over the horizon. From Michelin-star restaurants to family-owned bistros, you will find the perfect location, that helps create a magical Provençal evening with mouthwatering food.
Conclusion
Provence is a food lovers paradise, with morning farmers markets, vineyard lunches, hands-on cooking classes, and memorable culinary experiences with goats cheese and olive oils. Gordes and The Luberon villages offer you the opportunity to taste your way through southern France. If you are looking for a cooking class that blends traditional techniques with local produce, then give Cooking Classes in Provence today to book your hands-on private cooking class at your home kitchen, holiday rental kitchen, or one of our ideally-located workshop kitchens in Provence.
