In brief : Perched on a rocky spur in the heart of the Alpilles massif, Les Baux-de-Provence combines art, history, and spectacular landscapes in an unmistakable mineral setting. Between stone alleys, cultural sites, and hiking trails, the village emerges as a must-see in the PACA region.
In the north of the Bouches-du-Rhône, Les Baux-de-Provence dominates the scrubland from a rocky promontory. This medieval village, classified among the Most Beautiful Villages of France, stands out for its monumental ruins and light stone houses. Entry still occurs through the Eyguières gate, the only access until the 19th century.
The atmosphere is preserved, balancing authentic calm and moderate liveliness. The narrow alleys come alive with the rhythm of art galleries, local shops, and shaded terraces.
The castle of Baux
In the north of the Bouches-du-Rhône, Les Baux-de-Provence dominates the scrubland from a rocky promontory. This medieval village, classified among the Most Beautiful Villages of France, stands out for its monumental ruins and light stone houses. Entry still occurs through the Eyguières gate, the only access until the 19th century.
The atmosphere is preserved, balancing authentic calm and moderate liveliness. The narrow alleys come alive with the rhythm of art galleries, local shops, and shaded terraces.
Carrières de Lumières
Just 500 meters from the village, an extraordinary cultural site impresses with its monumental scenography. In these former limestone quarries, the Carrières de Lumières project works by great masters onto the stone walls each year, using more than 100 video projectors.
The experience is immersive and sensory, attracting both art lovers and curious visitors. This unique place was once a film set for Jean Cocteau.
Alpilles Massif
Surrounded by the Alpilles massif, the village serves as an ideal starting point for outdoor activities. The Val d’Enfer trail, famous for its fantastical rock formations, directly evokes the universe of Dante.
Hiking enthusiasts can reach higher ground via the Baumayrane ridge or cycle through marked routes like Roquemartine. On horseback, the rides offer a unique perspective on the diverse landscape of scrubland, olive groves, and white rocks.
Gastronomy
The surrounding agricultural environment shapes a generous regional cuisine. Markets are filled with local products from the massif: olives, tapenades, honey, artisanal sweets, and cheeses.
Winery estates like Mas Sainte Berthe or Mas de la Dame welcome visitors for friendly tastings. As for dining, the village offers numerous refined addresses to savor the Provençal culinary art.
Religious and Cultural Heritage
The built heritage of the village unfolds along the squares and buildings. The Saint-Vincent church, semi-troglodyte, hosts remarkable contemporary stained glass windows by Max Ingrand. The chapel of the White Penitents, restored in the 1930s, and the Yves Brayer Museum (located in the Porcelet hotel) enrich the visit with an artistic dimension.
Other curiosities include the funerary steles of Trémaïe and Gaïe, as well as the inscription Post Tenebras Lux 1571, reminding us of the historical significance of the place.
Activities in Les Baux de Provence
The treasure hunts offered to children allow for a playful discovery of the local heritage. Golfers can enjoy an 18-hole course at the Domaine de Manville, while relaxation enthusiasts can indulge in some time at the spa of the Baumanière hotel.
The village also thrives on the rhythm of seasonal festivities, such as Christmas in Baux, which attracts visitors and families each winter in a warm and heritage-rich atmosphere.
Practical Information
📍 Access : Les Baux-de-Provence is located 30 minutes from Arles, near the sites of Glanum, the Montmajour abbey, and the Van Gogh landscapes in Saint-Rémy-de-Provence.
📞 Tourist Office : Maison du Roy – 13520 Les Baux-de-Provence – +33 (0)4 90 54 34 39
🌐 Official site : lesbauxdeprovence.com
