Cucuron – the Bassin de l'Etang
The Bassin de l'Etang in Cucuron

The Bassin de l'Etang in Cucuron

Luberon

This is the emblematic site of Cucuron, a charming Provençal village nestled on the southern slope of the Luberon.

This large basin, shaded by centuries-old plane trees and flanked by welcoming café terraces, is the perfect place to relax, stroll, and enjoy a meal at one of the local restaurants.

The Bassin de l'Etang, with its impressive proportions, far exceeds the size of a simple wash basin. In the Middle Ages, this vast body of water, fed by Luberon springs, served as a watering place for livestock. At the time, water, a precious resource, played a crucial role in the village’s economic growth. The basin also provided the energy for several mills located downstream.

Cucuron – the Bassin de l'Etang
The Bassin de l'Etang in Cucuron

In the 19th century, the mills were dismantled, the plane trees planted, and the basin became primarily ornamental, a meeting and leisure place for the villagers. Its impressive dimensions—61 meters long, 13 meters wide, and 2 meters deep—evoke the image of a grand pool, although swimming is prohibited. The basin is instead used as a stage for cultural events: markets, local festivals, and concerts find an ideal setting here. This unique site, both typically Provençal and strikingly original, was immortalized in several films, the most famous being *The Horseman on the Roof* (1995) with Juliette Binoche and Olivier Martinez.

Cucuron
Cucuron, a village in the Luberon

Find a guesthouse near Cucuron

Around the Bassin de l'Etang, you will discover the beating heart of Cucuron, an authentic Provençal village. This enchanting and serene setting promises to leave lasting memories of your journey through the Luberon.

Getaways in Provence