Bonnieux: Gardens, Roman Heritage and Culture

Bonnieux brings together several distinct visitor themes: the Jardin de la Louve, the Pont Julien and remains of medieval fortifications, exhibitions by the Fondation Blachère, and wine tastings at Borélis – Cave de Bonnieux. A few kilometres to the south lies the Forêt des Cèdres. For planning your trip, the different opening times and visitor conditions matter just as much as the attractions themselves: the garden, exhibitions and wine tastings should not be assumed to be available at all times.

A terraced garden with set visiting days

The Jardin de la Louve carries the French “Jardin remarquable” label. This Provençal garden covers 1,600 m² and is laid out on two or three terraces. The terraces give the garden a clear spatial structure, setting it apart from the buildings, where history takes centre stage. From May to October, the garden is open to visitors on Thursdays by appointment. As the schedule may change, check it before your trip.

Roman dating and medieval remains

The Pont Julien in Bonnieux was built on the Via Domitia and probably dates from between 27 BC and AD 14. The date should be understood as a period, not a specific year of construction; it places the bridge in a Roman context. In 2026, the Pont Julien is open year-round, every day, and free of charge. Before your visit, check whether the conditions have temporarily changed. A much later period is represented in Bonnieux by the surviving remains of 13th-century towers and defensive walls. The Église Haute, also known as the Vieille Église, can be reached by a staircase of 86 steps shaded by centuries-old cedars. Thus, the Roman and medieval heritage comes with different access information: free daily access to the bridge is specified for 2026, while the church is described by the exact number of steps.

Exhibitions in the former railway station

The Fondation Blachère moved into Bonnieux’s former railway station in 2023. It holds solo and group exhibitions there. The move adds a more recent cultural landmark to the older buildings; individual exhibitions may change. If you are interested in a particular exhibition, check the current programme before travelling.

Wine tradition and tastings

Borélis – Cave de Bonnieux is considered the oldest cooperative winery in the Vaucluse département. You can taste wines from the AOC Luberon and AOC Ventoux appellations on site. These two appellations give the area’s wine heritage a specific regional context. Tasting availability and conditions may change; check them before your visit.

Forêt des Cèdres south of Bonnieux

A few kilometres south of Bonnieux, the Forêt des Cèdres lies on the ridge of the Petit Luberon. It covers about 250 hectares and is characterised by Atlas cedars. At this size, it is a much larger landscape than the 1,600 m² Jardin de la Louve. The comparison makes the difference between a terraced garden and an extensive forest tangible; its southern location and the ridge give the surrounding area its own distinctive landscape setting.

Discover more destinations: Cucuron, Vaison-La-Romaine, Oppède-Le-Vieux, Richerenches, Saint-Martin-De-Castillon, Saint-Romain-En-Viennois, Roaix, Buisson

For the wider travel overview: Vaucluse.