Gordes

From Roussillon, I headed west towards Gordes.  Luckily, the only mountain I had to climb in my toy car to get there was at the very end.  In fact, it was the hilltop on which Gordes sits, looking liking a majestic medieval town stuck in time.

Not only is the view of Gordes itself beautiful, but also the views from Gordes are breathtaking.  Be prepared to take a camera and to shoot lots of photos.  The culinary scene in Gordes is pretty good too.  So, take your appetite as well.

View of Gordes when driving into the town.

View walking into the town from the parking area just outside town.  I suggest parking here because it's just easier.  There are some places in town, but save yourself the time and frustration of driving into this tiny hamlet and instead park right outside.  Plus, it gives you a good opportunity to take in more of the views since you won't be focused on the road (or the crazy French driver flying at you head-on).

The town center is open and surrounded by old stone buildings.

And lots of shops.

It's quiet and peaceful here.

And there are plenty of places to pop into when the rain starts coming down like this.

As my rain shelter, I personally chose a modern looking restaurant which served new twists on old French favorites.  This was their version of a goat cheese salad.  The goat cheese was wrapped in a phyllo dough and crisped in the oven, then drizzeled with a balsamic reduction.  Well done.

The scallop and shrimp gnocchi did not disappoint either.

But the best part of Gordes was without a doubt the landscape surrounding it.

Not to mention all the little stone walkways that lead you to the magnificent views.

Pretty cool.  I would definitely stop here again for lunch and to soak up the countryside.

On my way back to Aix, I stopped at this monastery.  It was the only thing in the entire valley and of course has been there for hundreds of years.  If you have time to swing by L'Abbaye de Senanque, I suggest it.