If you’re looking for a breath of fresh air, you don’t have to go far! Just an hour from Marseille, Ansouis, listed as one of “France’s most beautiful villages” since 1982, is a real Luberon nugget! Perched on a rocky outcrop, this Provencal village boasts an authentic heritage of cobbled streets, picturesque calades and typical facades! A true haven of peace, Ansouis invites you to stroll and escape from the hustle and bustle of the big cities.
A Provencal village ranked among the top 10 most beautiful villages in France
The village was recently the subject of a prestigious ranking by the British daily The Times. Ansouis was named the sixth most beautiful village in France! It is also one of the 25 most picturesque villages in the country. It’s a real coup de coeur for our British neighbors, who particularly appreciate the beauty and tranquility of this perched village, still untouched by mass tourism (we’ll see if the ranking changes).
Easily accessible from Marseille, just 1 hour’s drive away (68.2 km), Ansouis lies at the gateway to the Vaucluse region. Nestling in the heart of the Luberon Regional Nature Park, the village is a haven of authenticity and easy living. Whether you arrive by car or train, you’ll quickly be immersed in the peaceful atmosphere of this Provencal village with its southern charm.
A journey back in time and an exceptional environment
One of the village’s must-sees is the Château d’Ansouis, a listed historic monument! Dating back to the 9th century, this medieval fortress offers spectacular views over the Aigues valley and the Luberon. Formerly the stronghold of the Sabran family, the château is now a must-see place to visit, with its furnished apartments, chapel, hanging gardens and, above all, its balcony offering a breathtaking panorama! In summer, the site is enlivened by cultural events, including film screenings, concerts and historical performances (a great way to combine culture with a getaway ).
As well as being a magnificent place for its age and its surroundings, the village of Ansouis is not just a historical heritage site, it’s also a lively artistic center! You’ll find art galleries, ceramics workshops, photography exhibitions and typical santons to liven up your stroll through the narrow streets.
A word to the wise!
If you really want to blend in: here, we pronounce the final “s” in Ansouis! And despite this pronunciation, the village isn’t “in Switzerland”, it’s actually in France! It’s both a local tradition, marking the attachment of the inhabitants to their village, and a nod to the purity of the Provençal language.
So, whether you’re a history buff, an art enthusiast or simply in search of some peace and quiet, Ansouis is the perfect place to spend a rejuvenating weekend, just a few kilometers from Marseille!