Lioux is one of those villages that is not on the tourist trail but is the essence of real Provence. It is the perfect place to trek around in the beautiful, remote countryside of the Luberon, where the natural beauty just soothes and calms any disquieting thoughts, and the cares of the day are quickly whisked away by the sights, the sounds, the scents, and the gentle Provençal breeze.

There are no restaurants or shops in this sleepy little village. But Lioux is definitely worth a stop to have a view of la mairie, or town hall, against the magnificent cliff known as la Falaise de la Madeleine.

Not far from la mairie is a path that takes you up and around to the top of the cliff. We started to venture up the steep, rocky path, and about ten minutes into our trek, we came upon a feast for our eyes. Here was a beautiful lavender field, hidden in the hills. We continued hiking up to discover more fields of lavender, one after another. It was hard to contain our excitement.

Lavender in late June

It only takes about twenty minutes to get to the top of the lavender fields before ascending onto the cliff. Just hiking this twenty-minute part alone is worth it. But if you have the time and energy to do the entire circular route, which includes walking across the cliff and descending back down and around to la mairie, it takes a little over two hours. The views from the top of the cliff are very rewarding as you would imagine.

Along with a hike in Lioux, the nearby village of Joucas is another one of those places off the tourist trail that is filled with charm for days, cobblestone paths weaving their way through the village.

More sights on the “secret” lavender trail.

And a few more lavender fields nearby on a road between Lioux and Roussillon.

À bientôt!