Provence in a 2CV: A Scenic Drive From Villages to Vineyards

Join us on an unforgettable journey through the picturesque landscapes of Provence in a 2 CV, affectionately named 'Fleurette'. 

From the winding canals of L'Isle-sur-la-Sorgue to the breathtaking views of Gordes and the serene beauty of Ménerbes, we explore some of the most beautiful spots in this stunning region.

This is going to be epic and we can't wait to share this scenic drive with you!

What is a Citroën 2CV?

The Citroën 2CV is a classic French car that has captured the hearts of many.

First introduced in 1948, this little car quickly became a symbol of French ingenuity and charm.

The name "2CV" stands for "Deux Chevaux," which means "two horses" in French, referring to its modest horsepower.

Designed to be affordable and practical, the 2CV was built for rural France.

It had to carry a basket of eggs across a ploughed field without breaking them!

Its simple design includes a lightweight body, a soft top, and a unique suspension system.

This made it perfect for bumpy country roads.

Despite its humble beginnings, the 2CV became an icon.

Its quirky looks and reliable performance won over drivers everywhere.

Today, driving a 2CV is like stepping back in time.

It offers a fun and nostalgic experience, perfect for exploring the scenic routes of Provence.

With its distinctive round headlights and cheerful character, the Citroën 2CV continues to be a beloved classic car around the world.

Provence in a 2CV: Our Road Trip

One fine autumn day, we contacted Laurent from Deuche Forever to organise a 2CV tour of Provence. 

Here's the story of our sunny afternoon, which you can also follow on video on our youtube channel:

Meeting at the garage

Our ten-year-old daughter, Aimée, has been dreaming about touring Provence in a 2CV since we arrived in the Luberon. 

Just before heading back to England, we had to make her dream come true. 

So, we called Laurent and set up this fantastic afternoon ride.

Laurent has loved cars since he was a kid. His passion for the iconic 2 CV is truly inspiring.

He founded Deuche Forever, which offers amazing experiences, letting people explore stunning Provence in these charming vintage cars.

Whether it's a romantic getaway, a fun trip with friends, or a special event like a wedding, Laurent makes every ride unforgettable. 

We met Laurent at his garage, tucked away between Cavaillon and L'Isle-sur-la-Sorgue. This place is a paradise for car lovers (and particularly for Aimée!)

Planning our Provence in 2CV Tour

Together, we plan the tour we're going to take. We choose to discover some of the most beautiful sites in the Luberon.

We'll first reach L'Isle-sur-la-Sorgue, before making our way to Fontaine-de-Vaucluse, known for its beautiful springs. 

Next, we'll head to the stunning hilltop village of Gordes, a true gem of the region. 

After that, we'll visit the enchanting windmill of Joucas, followed by the quaint village of Goult. 

Finally, we'll end our journey in the lovely village of Ménerbes before coming back 'home' (ie to the garage!)

The Road to L'Isle-sur-la-Sorgue

And we're off to explore some of the most beautiful spots in the Luberon, ready to hit the road and make some great memories! 

We're being driven in a beautiful 1954 Citroën 2 CV affectionately named 'Fleurette’.

This is just the beginning of our wonderful journey through Provence in a 2CV.

The Country Town of L'Isle-sur-la-Sorgue

As we drive into the heart of L'Isle-sur-la-Sorgue, we're immediately charmed by its unique character. 

This picturesque town is famous for its winding canals, vibrant markets, and charming antique shops.

The streets are lined with beautiful old buildings, their façades adorned with colourful shutters and blooming flowers. 

We pass by bustling cafes where locals and tourists enjoy a leisurely afternoon. 

The sound of the river Sorgue gently flowing through the town adds to the serene atmosphere. 

We navigate through narrow streets, so tight that only our 2 CV, 'Fleurette', can pass. 

The Wheels of L'Isle-sur-la-Sorgue

L'Isle-sur-la-Sorgue is also known for its old water wheels. 

These wheels have been here for a long time.

They were once very important for the town's work and industry.

The wheels used the river's power and provided renewable energy. Today, only about fifteen of the original seventy wheels are still here. 

They remind us of the past and show a connection between old and new. 

The Road to Fontaine-de-Vaucluse

Leaving L'Isle-sur-la-Sorgue, we drive along the scenic route towards Fontaine-de-Vaucluse. 

We're following the winding course of the river Sorgue, which guides us through lush green landscapes.

The road is lined with tall trees that create a canopy overhead, providing dappled shade as we drive. 

As we get closer to Fontaine-de-Vaucluse, the scenery becomes even more stunning. 

The hills rise up around us, and we catch glimpses of the crystal-clear waters of the Sorgue, sparkling in the sunlight.

It's a beautiful and peaceful drive, setting the perfect tone for our next stop. 

The Village of Fontaine-de-Vaucluse

Arriving in Fontaine-de-Vaucluse, we're greeted by the breathtaking beauty of this charming village. 

Nestled at the foot of a towering cliff, the village is famous for its stunning natural spring, one of the largest in the world. 

The clear, emerald-green water flows from a deep underground source, creating an enchanting and serene atmosphere.

It's a place of natural wonder and tranquillity, making it easy to see why it's such a beloved spot in Provence. 

The Road to Gordes

Leaving Fontaine-de-Vaucluse, we head towards the stunning hilltop village of Gordes. 

Our journey takes us along beautiful, typical Provençal roads. 

We drive through the garrigue, with its fragrant wild herbs and rugged landscapes. 

The rocky terrain is dotted with low shrubs and twisted trees, creating a unique and captivating scenery.

We take the road from Lagnes to Cabrières d'Avignon, which offers magnificent views of the Luberon. 

This peaceful drive through the garrigue perfectly sets the stage for our arrival in Gordes.

Cabrières-d'Avignon

We cross the quaint village of Cabrières d'Avignon.

The Abbey of Sénanque

But before reaching Gordes, Laurent takes us to the north of the village to admire the famous Sénanque Abbey from above. 

The Hilltop Village of Gordes

Approaching Gordes, we take the departmental road D2, which offers a breathtaking panorama of the perched village. 

The sight of Gordes, with its stone buildings cascading down the hillside, is truly stunning. 

As we enter the village, we drive past charming, narrow streets and quaint houses. 

We pass by the impressive castle, which stands proudly at the heart of the village. 

The Road to Joucas

After soaking in the beauty of Gordes, we continue our journey towards Joucas. 

The route is filled with scenic views and historic charm, making this part of our trip truly memorable.

We glimpse views of the Roussillon countryside and in the far distance, the hilltop village of Saignon.

The Windmill of Joucas

Arriving at Joucas, we park 'Fleurette' right next to the charming windmill.

The mill stands proudly against the sky, its stone structure and wooden blades a reminder of a bygone era. 

We step out of the car and take a short walk around the mill, admiring its historic beauty. 

A Scenic Drive Around Roussillon

Leaving Joucas, we head towards the region of Roussillon. 

Our journey takes us along beautiful, typical Provençal roads that wind through vibrant vineyards, lush orchards, and serene woodlands.

It's becoming late in the day, and the low-angled sunlight adds a golden glow to the landscape.

Being late October, the autumn colours are beginning to show, painting the scenery with warm hues of red, orange, and yellow. 

The fields are filled with rows of grapevines, their leaves glistening in the sunlight. 

We pass by beautiful olive orchards, heavy with ripening fruits. 

As we drive through the woods, tall trees create a cool, shaded canopy above us, and the air is filled with the scent of pine.

The landscape is a tapestry of colours and textures, offering a feast for the eyes at every turn. 

And we enjoy a beautiful view of Roussillon and its colourful ochre-façades.

The Village of Goult

From the serene countryside, we make our way to the charming village of Goult. 

Our 2 CV, 'Fleurette,' expertly navigates the narrow, winding streets, climbing steadily towards the historic Moulin de Jérusalem.

This picturesque windmill, perched on a hill, offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. 

After taking in the stunning panorama, we descend through the village, passing by ancient stone houses and quaint alleyways.

The peaceful ambience and rustic beauty of Goult add another memorable chapter to our Provençal adventure. 

The Village of Ménerbes

This scenic drive through Provence's countryside is a perfect prelude to our next destination: the hilltop village of Ménerbes.

Arriving in Ménerbes at the end of the day, we are immediately captivated by the charm of this beautiful hilltop village. 

The stone houses, with their pastel shutters and climbing vines, are a picture of Provençal elegance.

We drive through the narrow, winding streets, passing by cosy cafés and artisanal shops.

However, at this time of the day, the village is quiet and peaceful, with stunning views of the surrounding vineyards and rolling hills. 

The history and beauty of Ménerbes make it a perfect final stop on our journey, leaving us with lasting memories of this enchanting place. 

Last Moments Of Our Tour of Provence in a 2CV

As our journey comes to an end, we find ourselves descending a picturesque road, illuminated by the golden light of the setting sun.

The warm hues of the late afternoon sun cast an enchanting glow over the landscape, creating a perfect end to our day. 

Our beloved 2 CV, 'Fleurette,' carries us gently through the serene Provençal countryside, leaving behind a trail of unforgettable memories.

Thank you for joining us on this enchanting adventure through Provence.

We hope you enjoyed the beauty, history, and charm of this incredible region as much as we did.

Until next time, à bientôt!

Book your Tour of Provence in a 2CV

To organise your own tour of Provence in a 2CV with Deuche Forever, just like we did, contact Laurent here.

Laurent is the chauffeur, offering a unique experience of exploring Provence in a 2CV Citroën car. 

The advantage of having a chauffeur is that you can fully appreciate the stunning landscape without worrying about the driving.

And if you don’t mind, please let him know you came after reading this article on our blog, French Moments.

Just a quick disclaimer: we were not paid to write this article. It genuinely reflects our wonderful experience. Laurent was fantastic, driving us in the 2CV through the beautiful Luberon countryside.

It was a journey we will never forget, filled with stunning views and charming villages.

Plan Your Provencal Escape

Are you feeling inspired? It's time to plan your adventure in this captivating corner of Provence.

Whether you're drawn to the lavender fields, the vineyards, or the charming villages, the countryside of Bonnieux and Lacoste promises a memorable escape.

So, pack your bags and immerse yourself in this idyllic region's rustic allure and natural splendour – your Provencal adventure awaits!

🇫🇷 Read this article in French on our blog Mon Grand-Est!

All photos © French Moments