The iconic region of the Luberon is a massif (a compact group of mountains) in Provence, which is located in the South of France. Situated in the heart of the UNESCO-classified Luberon Regional Natural Park, the area is beloved for its diverse landscapes, which range from forests to lavender and wheat fields to vineyards. The park is also known for having richly varied flora and fauna, including a number of rare species.
Between the Mediterranean climate, 300 days of sunshine each year, mountain backdrop, and cultural appeal, Luberon is a popular choice for buyers seeking permanent residences or second homes. Aside from numerous natural sites to explore, you’ll also be able to enjoy festivals, historic monuments, and high-calibre gastronomy year-round.
Moreover, the Luberon’s strategic location means homeowners will have easy access to international airports, TGV rail links, and major hubs like Aix-en-Provence and Avignon. The Marseille Provence Airport is only 90 minutes away, making Luberon an ideal location for frequent travelers or homeowners who welcome guests or renters.
Table of Contents
What Makes a Luberon Village Ideal for Investment?
What type of key investment criteria does the Luberon offer? Let’s go over the region’s benefits for high-net-worth individuals.
Architectural Prestige and Historical Charm
You’ll find unique, centuries-old homes here that are impossible to replicate and difficult to find elsewhere. And while modern renovations allow for comfortable living, there are also strict preservation laws that maintain the area’s cultural integrity.
Lifestyle Appeal
Between culture, gastronomy and outdoor activities, you’ll never be at a loss for how to spend your time. The Luberon has access to local markets, Michelin-starred restaurants, and wineries, along with art galleries, historic landmarks, and exciting festivals. To get your heart pumping, you can go cycling or hiking in your free time.
Strong Rental Demand
The Luberon sees especially high occupancy rates during the summer season, making it a savvy location to invest in rental property. There’s also a growing interest in off-season stays, especially from remote workers and retirees looking for a temporary change of scenery. Plus, affluent travelers are known to visit the Luberon year-round.
Renovation Incentives and Sustainability Grants
There are a few ways to get even more out of your property investment when you buy in the Luberon. Homeowners have the potential to increase rental and resale value by modernising their properties. Also, the French government may offer subsidies if you make eco-friendly upgrades to your home.
Types of Properties Available to Buy
There are all sorts of properties to buy in the Luberon, including elegant stone farmhouses and village properties, historic manor houses and renovated mills. You may be able to find an 18th or 19th century farmhouse that’s an ideal renovation project or an expansive, turnkey estate with all of the modern luxuries you could want, like a fully equipped kitchen and a heated swimming pool.
It’s also common to find property in the Luberon with multiple buildings in addition to the main house, offering you your own little hamlet. You may find a home with horse stables, guest accommodation or other outbuildings that you can convert into whatever you like, such as extra living, workspaces or storage. The Luberon is also home to a lot of vineyard properties too, many wine estates have dedicated spaces to make and store wine, plus all of the equipment you’ll need to produce as a hobby or even commercially.
Let’s take a look at some of the best places to live in the Luberon that offer some great investment potential.
Gordes: The Crown Jewel of the Luberon
Set on a hilltop, the iconic and well-known Provençal village of Gordes has received international recognition. This charming, stunning commune is characterised by honey-hued stone buildings that are often constructed using local limestone, along with exclusive estates and panoramic views.
One of the best ways to take in the valley below is by visiting the Chateau de Gordes. When you’re finished, wander the narrow, cobblestone streets of the village to find art galleries, boutiques and galleries.
Gordes has high demand for resale properties and seasonal rentals, and the area’s limited inventory contributes to consistent market strength. The village is also highly accessible for overseas buyers thanks to the Marseille airport and the high-speed TGV train.
Lourmarin: Culture, Community and Provençal Sophistication
The vibrant village of Lourmarin is known for its art and history, reflected in its boutique galleries, cosmopolitan atmosphere, and Renaissance architecture. Bibliophiles will love to know that famous writers like Henri Bosco, Albert Camus, and Peter Mayle, who wrote “A Year in Provence,” once called Lourmarin home.
Hosting concerts, festivals and weekly markets, Lourmarin has year-round appeal. One of the most-visited sites here is the beautifully preserved Château de Lourmarin. Additionally, the village boasts excellent shopping and dining options, which can be found along its quaint streets.
Lourmarin is popular with holidaymakers and international residents, and the area is experiencing an emerging interest in equestrian properties and vineyard estates. Overall, the village is an attractive option for those seeking a socially active lifestyle without giving up the feel of authentic Provence.
Bonnieux: Golden Triangle Access and Gourmet Prestige
Located on a hillside in the Luberon’s prized Golden Triangle, a highly desirable area in the region, Bonnieux has a terraced layout and an iconic church tower where you can soak in sweeping views of the landscape.
Known for its artisan shops, gastronomy and proximity to natural parks, Bonnieux is desirable for buyers looking for a permanent home as well as those interested in a luxury holiday rental. Notably, there’s been strong interest in architect-designed villas as well as restored farmhouses.
Overall, the robust rental demand in Bonnieux is supported by high-end culinary tourism.
Ménerbes: Timeless Beauty and Heritage Value
The small village of Ménerbes has standout vistas and charming streets for taking a stroll before dinner. It’s also an ideal place to watch the Provençal sunset.
Immortalised in literature and known for its unspoiled charm, Ménerbes appeals to buyers seeking both authenticity and serenity. Moreover, its stringent heritage protection ensures architectural continuity.
Buyers who are interested in restoring a traditional village house with high-end upgrades should consider looking for a property in Ménerbes. In addition to its aesthetic appeal, the area’s small-scale tourism adds to its exclusivity and quality of life.
Roussillon: Unique Landscapes and Creative Energy
Rustically charming, Roussillon’s shades of orange, red and yellow are owed to the local ochre deposits, which have been harvested for centuries. (You can learn more about this natural pigment by visiting the local Ochre Conservatory.)
Famous for its incredible ochre cliffs and colorful facades, Roussillon is a strong draw for artists, eco-tourists and photographers. For one of the best views of the striking cliffs, visit the Sentier des Ocres hiking area.
Roussillon has strong rental potential and is suited to investors looking for a distinctive setting with long-term growth prospects. Moreover, future infrastructure developments are expected to enhance regional connectivity.
Are There Hidden Gems Worth Discovering?
Yes, the Luberon absolutely has hidden gems that are worth your time to discover. Let’s discuss two of our favorite lesser-known areas.
Goult: Understated Luxury with Culinary Appeal
The tiny village of Goult is quiet and not yet overrun with tourists. Known for its gastronomical offerings, Goult has a lot of restaurants to choose from, particularly fine dining establishments, along with a weekly market to peruse.
Making your home in Goult means living an authentic Provençal lifestyle in an area with a strong sense of community and a growing reputation for culinary excellence. There’s also excellent potential here for property value appreciation, especially if you focus on making tasteful renovations to your home.
Oppède-le-Vieux
As one of the Luberon’s smaller villages, Oppède-le-Vieux has a lot of history despite its petite size. Set on a rocky outcrop under the ruins of a medieval castle, which offers excellent views of the countryside, the village’s narrow streets lead toward ancient stone buildings.
Despite the historical appeal, there’s a limited flow of tourism in Oppède-le-Vieux. This makes the village attractive to buyers who prioritise privacy. Moreover, since the architectural integrity of the village is protected by local heritage regulations, it also draws in preservation enthusiasts.
How To Make the Most of Your Property Investment in the Luberon
Maximising your return when investing in Luberon property means thinking past the purchase itself. From strategically choosing your location to making smart home improvements, there are a number of ways to unlock your new home’s full potential.
- When looking for a place in the Luberon to buy property, consider both established, high-demand locations and emerging, undervalued areas that have lower buy-in costs.
- Restore a bastide or traditional mas for modern luxury living that still preserves the region’s authenticity.
- Use renovation grants to your advantage. For example, the MaPrimeRénov’ grant offers subsidies for homeowners who make eco-efficiency upgrades to their properties.
- Balance your personal lifestyle requirements with property elements that seasonal renters are looking for.
- Leverage professional property management services to handle the administrative tasks of owning a rental home.
With a smart, measured approach, your Luberon property can be rewarding both lifestyle-wise and financially.
Final Thoughts: Finding Your Ideal Investment Village
The Luberon is much more than just a scenic destination. It offers a compelling mix of lifestyle quality, cultural heritage and investment resilience.
Gordes’ international appeal and low inventory make it a favorite for high-end buyers, and its architecture and unbeatable views make it a must-visit for seasonal renters. For those after a vibrant social scene, Lourmarin’s strong community is active year-round.
To live in the sought-after Golden Triangle, a property in Bonnieux may be the perfect fit, especially for buyers who love design as much as they do natural beauty. Roussillon is also a favorite amongst outdoor lovers, thanks to its bold ochre landscapes.
For Provencal timelessness, consider a primary or secondary home in Ménerbes or Oppède-le-Vieux, where peace and heritage are front and centre. And if dining is your preferred pastime, you’ll want to be surrounded by the culinary scene that Goult offers.
You can turn your dream of living in Provence into a lasting and rewarding reality. Work with a trusted luxury property specialist in the Luberon and benefit from local knowledge and advice tailored specifically to overseas buyers.
