Menerbes: good village for base in Provence?
 

We (2 adults, 2 young children) are considering renting a home in Menerbes for 1-2 weeks. I'm not familiar with this particular village. To the Provence experts, does this sound like a good base from which to explore the Luberon as well as other highlights of Provence (Pont du Gard, Les Baux, etc.)? We will have a car. Also, can we purchase all the basics (food, supplies) in Menerbes or will we need to drive to a larger town?

This is a great location from which to explore the Luberon and other sites. You can purchase the basics in Menerbes - and be sure and visit the local markets and purchase fruit, vegetables, cheeses, etc.

Check out the villa location on a mapping site like www.via-michelin.com or www.mappy.com. You can plot the drive times and distances to different Provencal sights. Menerbes is in the middle of the Luberon but not so convenient for Pont du Gard. Let me recommend L'isle sur Sorge, a cute little town on the edge of the Luberon. They divided the river into a number of canals and historically used water wheels to power the town. The town is built around these waterways. I think kids would enjoy it as long as they're not so young as to fall into the water.

Menerbes is an excellent location. Lots of vineyards around there - very pretty area.

Stu Dudley

Coincidentally, we were just over in Menerbes this PM with some friends who were up visitng from Aix. It really is one of the prettiest villages around and you'll be fine for smallish purchases - maybe supplemnted by one or two trips during your stay to one of the large supermarkets in a nearby town.

Definately a good base.

-Kevin