What to See in Lourmarin

Lourmarin may be a small village, but it has a lot to offer visitors. Here are some of the top spots not to be missed:

Lourmarin Castle
Built on the edge of the village, Château de Lourmarin, a stunning 15th-century Renaissance-style castle, was restored in the early 20th century by industrialist Robert Laurent Vibert and donated to the Academy of Sciences, Agriculture and Arts.

• Address: Route du Chateau, 84160 Lourmarin, France
• Hours: 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. (hours vary depending on the season)
• Ticket prices: Adults €6, Children €4

Village Fountains
Lourmarin has several beautiful fountains, each with its own character. The Fontaine Basse (Lower Fountain) in Place Fontaine dates back to 1765, while the Fontaine aux Trois Masks (Three Masks Fountain) features impressive sculptures symbolizing the Rhone, Durance, and Luberon rivers.

Place d’Ormeau and Place Henri Barthélemy

• Place d’Ormeau is ideal for soaking in the laid-back village atmosphere. There are cafes around the square where visitors can relax with a coffee.
• Place Henri Barthélemy, located near the Lourmarin Tourist Office, is a great starting point. Stop by for a map and tips on how to explore the village.

Rue Henri de Savornin
The main street is lined with boutiques, art galleries, and cafes. Side streets offer quaint views, traditional Provencal architecture, and hidden gems such as the Lourmarin Wash House, an old covered fountain used until World War II.

Cultural Insights and Historical Sites

• Church of St. Andre and St. Trophimos
  The Church of Saint-André et Saint-Trophime (Église Saint-André et Saint-Trophime) is a beautiful 12th-century church on Rue Carrette, offering a serene place to learn about the village’s religious history and admire medieval architecture.
• Tomb of Albert Camus
  Lourmarin was chosen as the resting place of the famous writer Albert Camus, awarded the Nobel Prize for Literature in 1957. Camus’ grave in the local cemetery is a must-visit for literature fans.
• Protestant Temple
  Built in 1818, the Protestant Temple is the largest Protestant church in Vaucluse and a reminder of the village’s historic Protestant community. The surrounding paths offer beautiful views.

Restaurants

Lourmarin’s restaurants mix traditional Provencal flavors with a modern twist. Here are a few spots to try:

• Pizzeria Nonni: Known for its delicious pizzas, this restaurant also offers a vegan-friendly menu.
• Piazza Ormeau Café: Cafés around Piazza Ormeau serve coffee, local wines, and small plates perfect for people-watching.
• Desserts: For dessert, try freshly baked pastries at a local patisserie or enjoy artisanal homemade ice cream at the village ice cream shop.

Shopping and Souvenirs

Lourmarin’s stores offer unique Provencal items such as handmade pottery and lavender products. Boutique Alexine has a charming selection of accessories and housewares from the region. Local olive oil, honey, and wine also make great souvenirs.

Practical Information and Tips for Your Visit

• Best time to visit: Spring and fall are ideal, with pleasant weather and fewer crowds.
• Local events: Lourmarin has a lively market every Friday morning where you can buy fresh produce, artisanal goods, and Provencal specialties.
• Wear comfortable clothes: Comfortable shoes are essential for walking around the cobblestone streets and hills.
• Parking: Generally available except during the busy summer season. During peak season, arrive early to secure a spot.

Getting to Lourmarin

Lourmarin is easily accessible from major regional cities. Here are some common ways to get there:

• By car: The most convenient way to visit Lourmarin is by car, especially if you plan to explore other Provencal villages. Ample parking is available, except in peak summer.
• By train: The nearest train station is Aix-en-Provence, about 40 km away. From there, rent a car or take a cab.
• By bus: Regional buses connect Lourmarin with neighboring towns and cities, though schedules may be limited.