transport from Gorde to neighboring villages

There is a public bus that connects Cavaillon, Robion, Coustellet, Cabrières-d'Avignon, Gordes and Roussillon. In Coustellet, you could connect to a bus to Avignon. I would seriously rethink the decision not to have a car because getting around from Gordes is going to take a lot of time without one. Without a car, I would base myself in Avignon. The bus map for the Vaucluse Department can be found at http://www.vaucluse.fr/fileadmin/user_upload/pdf_docs/d_deplacements/Docs_bus/Plan_reseau_TransVaucluse.pdf. I don't know the answer to the taxi question.

Without a car, the best bases are Avignon, Arles, and Nimes. Otherwise, you will need to study bus schedules carefully, and be prepared to take taxis when there are no suitable buses. But a rental car would really make staying outside of the big cities much easier. I did not have a car, and had several nights each in Arles and Avignon, and accepted up front that I would be limited in where I could go, so this was fine for me. But if that's not fine for you, plan on a car rental.

There are plenty of tour companies which will pick you up in Gordes. Perhaps get in touch with the TI office in Gordes - they will no doubt be able to assist.

• Kevin

I am also planning a trip without a car in the Luberon area and besides walking I have discovered that I can rent an electric bicycle which from all reviews is very effective in getting from one hill town to another and that is what I think I may do. Google sun-e-bike for one, but there are others originating from different towns and there are regular (totally manual) bicycle options if you are up to it.

A rental car in this particular country/rural area gives you much more flexibility and enjoyment.

That may very well be true Kent, but one reason we travel is to step outside our comfort zone and try new things.