Cereste is a charming village in the wilder landscapes to the east of Apt, still part of the Luberon but not bothered by tourist buses or influencers. Instead, a real, living village with restaurants and cafes, alive year-round. Cereste has several shops, including a bakery, butcher, mini-market, greengrocer, bank and pharmacy, everything one might need.
In the Roman era this was a staging point on the Domitian way, an important road linking Italy to Spain, which was already an ancient route when the Romans paved it.
Hiking paths head off into the surrounding countryside, making this a destination for walkers. The village has been here since the 12th century and the medieval part is still there, alongside the more modern part with its amenities along the main street through the village. In the old part of the village you will find twisting lanes, beautiful facades, fountains and the remains of the ancient ramparts, as well as some fine gargoyles in the Place de Verdun.
The architecture reveals the wealth and activity that must have passed through down the years, with a mix of medieval, Renaissance, and th century. Cereste is now the linking point between two worlds, that going towards Apt and the honeypots of the Luberon to the west, while the road to the east takes you to huddled mountain villages and the high plains that lead to the Alps.
Just outside Cereste is a curiosity worth a hike or drive - Carluc priory - three ancient chapels in varying states of disrepair, along with rock tombs, dating back to the s, in a setting of greenery and calm that may awaken the spiritual side of visitors.
