The village

Viens is a small perched village located in Vaucluse, Provence - around 60km east of Avignon and north of Aix-en-Provence. Its nearest town centre is Apt, famous for its expansive market which has taken place every Saturday since the middle-ages. Weekends are also perfect for brocantes and antique markets in picturesque neighbouring villages such as Bonnieux, Gordes, Roussillon and Ménerbes. Viens itself has a 13th Century castle and heritage listed clock-tower, narrow cobbled alley-ways and vaulted arches, with houses built into its 11th Century fortified walls. The local library is home to two original Picassos donated by his daughter-in-law who lives in the commune. Panoramic views of the magnificent Luberon Valley and protected national parkland make it an ideal destination for hikers and nature lovers. It has well sign-posted walking tracks through the bushland and is situated on the GR6 Hiking Trail. The village has good amenities including café/restaurant, grocery, boulangerie and post office.