Ménerbes is an old village that was largely unknown outside of Provence until author Peter Mayle took up residence nearby in the 1980s. His first book, A Year in Provence, chronicles the adventures of buying and fixing up an old mas, or house. His colorful descriptions of local craftsmen, village eccentrics, and culinary delights is a fun read and a great introduction to the Luberon.

The Luberon is known for its picturesque hilltop towns, such as Ménerbes. Driving along narrow winding roads, you'll see it perched on the hillside.

View of Ménerbes and its walls.

Ménerbes is about midway between Oppède-le-Vieux (5 kilometers/3 miles), a restored medieval town, and LaCoste (7 kilometers/4.5 miles), site of a châteaux of the Marquis de Sade (map). It's about 18 kilometers (11 miles) from L'Isle-sur-la-Sorgue and can be part of a nice day trip.

The town boasts a 16th century citadelle that was important during the Wars of Religion. Ménerbes is said to have held off a siege by 12,000 Catholics for over a year.

Like the other hilltop towns of the Luberon, Ménerbes is an interesting place to wander. Narrow streets and alleys wind through the village. As you wander you'll pass the Mairie, or town hall, as well as a variety of local shops. If you're in Ménerbes on Thursday evening, you can catch the local market.

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About the Luberon Hilltop Towns of the Luberon About Provence L'Isle-sur-la-Sorgue Gordes Roussillon About the Vaucluse