Domaine Les Davids: Wine, Nature and Art

A Restored Estate Between the Ventoux and the Luberon

Settled between the Ventoux region and the Montagne de Lure, in one of the most unspoiled corners of the Luberon Natural Regional Park, Domaine Les Davids is far more than a simple vineyard. It is owned and lovingly restored by Belgian entrepreneur and patron of the arts Sophie Le Clercq. As a result, the estate has become a unique destination. Here, organic farming, architecture, gastronomy, art and nature coexist in remarkable harmony.

Spread across hundreds of hectares of preserved landscapes, Les Davids invites visitors to slow down and reconnect with the rhythms of nature. Whether you come for the wines, the contemporary art promenade, the Provencal cuisine or a stay in one of the restored hamlets, the experience feels deeply rooted in the land itself.

A Historic Estate Reimagined by Sophie Le Clercq

The history of Domaine Les Davids stretches back to the sixteenth century, when vineyards were already cultivated on the land by the Sinety family near Apt. Over time, the estate evolved into a rural agricultural property. Later, it became part of the protected Luberon Natural Regional Park in 1977.

When Sophie Le Clercq acquired the estate in 2000, she chose to restore its biodiversity through organic polyculture. Today, vineyards coexist with orchards, vegetable gardens, aromatic herbs, olive trees and truffle oaks. This diversity is not only ecological but also essential to the philosophy of the estate. Additionally, the presence of multiple crops encourages natural ecosystems, protects the soil and supports the native yeasts used in the winemaking process.

Exceptional Wines from Five Distinct Terroirs

The estate now extends over 320 hectares, including 35 hectares of vineyards spread across five distinct terroirs. Located between 580 and 680 meters above sea level, the vineyards benefit from a wide variety of soils and exposures. In fact, the limestone soils, formed millions of years ago, give the wines their fresh taste and distinctive character.

Seventeen grape varieties are cultivated organically across the property. The result is a range of wines that express both the richness of the Rhône Valley and the singular character of the Luberon landscape. From elegant reds to vibrant rosés and refined whites, Les Davids produces wines known for their balance, freshness, and aging potential.

Visitors can taste these wines at the Comptoir des Davids, the estate’s cellar with views of the aging barrels. Throughout the year, the domaine organizes tastings and blending workshops. In these workshops, guests can learn more about the winemaking philosophy and the diversity of the terroirs.

Gastronomy Rooted in the Land at Domaine Les Davids

At Les Davids, wine is inseparable from food and hospitality. The estate’s organic gardens and orchards supply many of the ingredients used in its seasonal cuisine. On the Terrace overlooking the vineyards and the Luberon hills, guests can enjoy brunches, wine pairings and generous Provencal dishes prepared with local produce.

The menu celebrates regional specialties through simple yet refined cooking: vegetable platters, artisanal cheeses, cured meats and seasonal recipes designed to complement the estate’s wines. During summer evenings, the Terrace becomes one of the most atmospheric places in the region. Here, visitors can experience the softness of a Provencal sunset while tasting local cuisine.

Another highlight of the estate is the Fournil, the artisanal bakery dedicated to organic sourdough bread. Using ancient grains such as spelt, the bakery produces breads, focaccias, pastries and savory tarts inspired by traditional methods. The bakery also offers seasonal vegetables and carefully selected local products.

A Contemporary Cultural Destination

One of the most fascinating aspects of Domaine Les Davids is the way contemporary art and architecture have been integrated into the landscape. Sophie Le Clercq, a longtime supporter and collector of contemporary art, believes that art can help people experience nature differently.

In 2021, the estate inaugurated a spectacular gravity-fed winery designed by the renowned architect Marc Barani. Emerging from the hillside, the building blends smoothly into the surrounding landscape. Its architecture follows the natural winemaking process by gravity. Meanwhile, its monumental concrete vats and panoramic Terrasse create an impressive dialogue between design and terroir.

Inside the winery, visitors encounter monumental artworks by Belgian artist Yves Zurstrassen, including a vast ceramic fresco that transforms the entrance corridor into an immersive artistic experience. Other contemporary artists have also contributed to the cultural identity of the estate. This reinforces the idea that Les Davids is not simply a vineyard but a living cultural landscape.

The Art Promenade Through the Luberon Landscape

Among the most remarkable experiences at Les Davids is the art promenade imagined by Belgian landscape architect Bas Smets. Designed as a 2.3-kilometer loop, the walk invites visitors to explore the many layers of the Luberon ecosystem. This happens through a sequence of changing atmospheres and landscapes.

The promenade encourages visitors to immerse themselves slowly in nature. Walkers pass through eight distinct ecological and geological environments. Here, forests, rocky slopes and open landscapes reveal the diversity of the region. Moreover, artworks are gradually integrated into the walk, always in dialogue with the surrounding environment rather than dominating it.

Artists such as Lionel Sabatté, David Nash or Thomas Saraceno have inspired the spirit of the project. It seeks to reconnect art with the living world. Open freely throughout the year during daytime hours, the promenade perfectly embodies the philosophy of Les Davids. It focuses on protecting and revealing what already exists rather than imposing upon it.

Staying at the Hamlets of Les Davids

For visitors wishing to experience the estate more deeply, Les Davids also offers beautifully restored accommodations spread across several hamlets within the Luberon landscape.

Hameau de Cournille, settle among ochre hills and surrounded by untouched nature, brings together three independent stone houses. These houses combine traditional architecture with modern comfort. They offer pools, landscaped gardens, pétanque courts, tennis facilities and a refined spa with jacuzzis and saunas. This creates a peaceful and intimate atmosphere ideal for family gatherings or extended stays in the Provencal countryside. 

Hameau de Treimars, perched above the vineyards with views of the Montagne de Lure and the Grand Luberon, offers a more private setting with several houses designed for larger groups. It preserves privacy and elegance. This is complemented by pools, yoga and fitness spaces, wellness treatments and gardens integrated into the historic agricultural landscape. 

Finally, the Presbytery of Oppedette, located in a Provencal village, overlooks the spectacular gorges carved by the Calavon River and combines authentic character with modern comfort. It welcomes families and groups in a unique and exceptional setting.

A Living Vision of Provence

Domaine Les Davids is ultimately much more than a wine estate. This project focuses on preserving biodiversity, celebrating craftsmanship, and promoting meaningful encounters between people, culture, and nature over the long term.

Under the guidance of Sophie Le Clercq, the domaine has become a rare example of how agriculture, architecture, gastronomy and contemporary art can coexist without compromising the integrity of the landscape. Whether visitors come for a tasting, a walk through the art promenade or a stay among the vineyards, Les Davids offers an experience of Provence that feels authentic, thoughtful and alive.

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Cover image by © Frederik Vercruysse