Mirabeau

Last update on Feb 5, 2026

On the D973, between Pertuis and Manosque.

Discover the charming village of Mirabeau in the Vaucluse

Strategically located at the crossroads of three departments, Alpes de Haute Provence, Bouches du Rhône, and Var, Mirabeau sits peacefully amid the rolling hills and small valleys of the Luberon Regional Nature Park, with Mont Mourre-Nègre rising to 1,100 m in the distance.

A pretty Provençal village

Mirabeau is dominated by a medieval-looking castle that seems to watch serenely over the village. Surrounded by pine trees in a magnificent setting, it is unfortunately not open to visitors.

The 12th-century Romanesque church of Saint-Jean-Baptiste is also full of charm. You will be charmed by the old houses in the center, the cafés, and the narrow streets.

The Durance river enabled the village to flourish

From the 12th century onwards, village life was linked to the Durance river that borders its territory. In the past, Mirabeau controlled the passage of the Durance via a ferry at the entrance to the Canteperdrix gorge.

It also allowed the cultivated plains to be irrigated, contributing to the village's growth. Today, you can enjoy a refreshing dip there on hot summer days. If the water is too cold, you can take a lovely walk along the river.

What to do in Mirabeau?

If you enjoy hiking, the Canteperdrix gorge trail awaits you 2 km from the village. This 200-meter-long natural gorge rises between 40-meter-high limestone walls. You walk along the Aigue River on a 3-hour round trip.

Rock climbing attracts climbers to the rocky pillars of the gorge. Fifteen equipped routes allow you to discover this renowned climbing site in the region. Nature lovers can explore the marked trails around the village. Follow the GR de Pays trail that crosses the municipal territory.

Discovering local producers is one of the activities on offer: Provence PDO olive groves, Vin de Pays PGI vineyards, and livestock farms. Neighboring villages such as Beaumont-de-Pertuis and La Bastidonne enrich your stay with their markets and heritage sites.

What to see

La Madeleine chapel. Pillars of the Pont Mirabeau.
Canteperdrix.

Things to do

Tennis, climbing, swimming and fishing.
Hiking.

Accommodation

Hotels.
Bed and breakfasts.
Vacation rentals.

Your questions about Mirabeau

You have sent us several questions about this pretty village located in the Vaucluse department. Here are our answers to your most frequently asked questions about the town of Mirabeau.

What are the attractions in Mirabeau?

The Canteperdrix gorge is Mirabeau's main natural attraction. This spectacular gorge can be visited all year round. The Château des Mirabeau has dominated the village since the 16th century. You can also visit the 12th-century Romanesque church of Saint-Jean-Baptiste in the center of the village. The 19th-century suspension bridge spans the Durance River for 160 meters. This historic monument connects Mirabeau to La Roque-d'Anthéron. The banks of the Durance offer a preserved natural heritage. Explore the hiking trails in the Luberon Regional Nature Park. Tourism focuses on discovering these natural sites and built heritage.

How do I get to Mirabeau?

You can reach Mirabeau via the D996 from Pertuis (12 km) or Manosque (15 km). This departmental road crosses the commune from north to south. The nearest highway exit is at Pertuis on the A51, a 15-minute drive away. You can also reach the village from Aix-en-Provence via the D556 and then the D996 (25 km). There is no regular public transportation to the town. A car is essential for visiting Mirabeau and Provence in general.

What is the history of Mirabeau?

The history of Mirabeau dates back to the Middle Ages with the construction of the castle in the 12th century. The Mirabeau family settled in the village in the 16th century. Honoré Gabriel Riqueti, Count of Mirabeau, was born in the castle in 1749. This revolutionary orator left his mark on French history. The ancient heritage bears witness to several eras. The Romanesque church dates from the 12th century. The suspension bridge was built in 1835 to replace an old ferry. The most visited monument remains the Canteperdrix gorge, a natural and cultural site. Marcel Pagnol chose Mirabeau as the location for his 1986 film “Jean de Florette.” This film made the village famous throughout the world.

What events take place in Mirabeau?

The village festival takes place every year on the first weekend of August. This local tradition has been bringing residents together for over a century. You can enjoy entertainment, dances, and village meals. The summer market is held in the town hall square on Thursday mornings in July and August. Cultural events are limited in this small town. The “Luberon en musique” festival sometimes schedules concerts in the church. Provençal traditions continue with Christmas Mass and the Saint-Jean procession. Neighboring villages offer larger festivals: the Aix-en-Provence festival 25 km away and Pertuis en Fête 12 km away.

What is the population of Mirabeau?

According to the latest INSEE statistics, Mirabeau has a population of 800. The demographic has remained stable for twenty years. The commune of Vaucluse is experiencing slight growth with the arrival of new residents. The inhabitants are spread between the village center and the hamlets. Demographic data shows an aging population, as in many small rural villages in the Luberon. Approximately 300 residences make up the commune's housing stock.

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