The cultural village of Menerbes
It is said that Menerbes comes from Minerva (Minerve in French), the Roman goddess of wisdom and a supporter of the arts. Fitting to it’s name, it is also village where Peter Mayle wrote his book “A Year in Provence” and its sequels and has attracted a number of artists and noblemen in the past giving it a cultural setting. Menerbes is also another little town with the “Les Plus Beaux Villages de France” label that has heaps of charm and sophisticated beauty.
Nestled in the heart of the picturesque Provence region, Ménerbes stands as a timeless testament to the allure of French beauty and charm. This enchanting village, perched atop a hill with panoramic views of the Luberon Valley, exudes a captivating ambiance that beckons travelers from around the world. Renowned for its winding cobblestone streets, ancient stone houses adorned with vibrant bougainvillea, and a skyline dominated by a medieval church tower, Ménerbes effortlessly captures the essence of Provencal elegance. The vibrant colors of the local markets, the aroma of lavender wafting through the air, and the warm hospitality of its residents add an unparalleled richness to the experience. As you wander through this historic gem, it's easy to see why Ménerbes is not just a destination; it's an immersion into the timeless beauty of southern France, a place where history, culture, and natural splendor seamlessly converge, making it an unmissable stop on any traveler's journey. The Luberon region is filled with towns in close proximity and therefore you can easily combine visiting a few of them in one day. For example, visiting Oppede, Bonniuex, and Menerbes is a great combination. Keep in mind that market day is here on Thursday mornings, which we sadly missed.
The hilltop town is scatted with blue shutter windows that is sleepy in the mornings and comes to life closer to noon. It is less crowded than Roussillon and Gordes for instance, which makes it peaceful to stroll around and take in the feeling of the town. Stores, galleries and a few cafes start to trickle open as we walk around the main street. The pink bougainvillea, chic little boutiques and stunning stone buildings give that feeling of traditional Provence. The town is surrounded with vines and orchards with a fortification on top with a tower (La Citadelle) and castle (castle Le Castellet) on each end.
We had pre-booked lunch reservations in the town of Ansouis, but if you are looking for a place to eat in Menerbes, Maison de la Truffe et du Vin is apparently a darling spot. It is dedicated to fresh truffles when in season and it holds tastings with local wines. It is located in a beautiful garden with views of the valley all focused on truffle themed dishes.
