In the southern region, the commune of Baux-de-Provence is distinguished today thanks to the praise of a prestigious international magazine. Well known in France, the small city would remain almost unknown with distant visitors. Despite obvious charms …
After Gordes, elected “The most beautiful village in the world”, The famous review Travel + Leisure, Reference in the world of tourism, honors another pearl of Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur. Its ranking of 25 “European villages off the beaten track” In 2023, several French destinations, one of which is located in the Bouches-du-Rhône in 2023.
Among these nuggets is the Baux-Provence, an exceptional village nestled in the heart of the lavender, vineyard and olive groves, an hour's drive from Marseille and Aix-en-Provence.
Hanging to a rocky spur, this medieval city overlooks breathtaking natural landscapes. Its ruined castle, a vestige of a glorious past, offers an exceptional panorama on the South plains, extending to Arles and La Camargue.
This territory has been inhabited from the Neolithic, almost 6000 years ago. However, it was only at the beginning of the Middle Ages that the village of leases is really born. In 1966, André Malraux had the entire site classified under the protection of the Ministry of Culture and the Environment. This recognition allows the municipality to integrate in 1998 the prestigious circle of “Most beautiful villages in France”, Then to be designated “site patrimonial remarquable” In 2019.
By browsing its picturesque alleys, you will discover the Museum of Santons, which retraces the history of Provence, as well as the Eyguières gate, which was for a long time the only access to the village until 1866. Do not miss the chapel of the White Penitents, built in the 17th century, the Saint-Vincent church or the Saint-Blaise chapel.
The medieval fortress of the 13th century is a must of the site, with its dungeon, its Sarrazine and Paravelle towers, its stately Colombier and the old Quiqueran hospital. It is open all year round and offers, in April 2023, immersive experience in the form of an escape game.
Another flagship attraction: the career of the Enlightenment. This exceptional place, having served as a decor for Jean Cocteau for “The Testament of Orpheus”, is today dedicated to spectacles of sounds and lights, plunging visitors into the universe of the greatest modern and contemporary painters.
Throughout the year, the Baux-Provence organize various events adapted to all audiences.
Beyond the Bouches-Du- Rhône and Vaucluse, other exceptional sites deserve the detour in the southern region. The Alpes-Maritimes and the Côte d'Azur also offer breathtaking panoramas, in particular thanks to the villages of Biot and Tende, classified among the “Most beautiful detours in France”.
