Considered one of the most beautiful towns in France, Les Baux-de-Provence is perched atop a rocky outcrop in the Chaîne des Alpilles. The area has been inhabited since around 6,000 BC and became the stronghold of a feudal domain in the Middle Ages. In the early 19th century, bauxite was discovered in Les Baux-de-Provence and was mined until the late 20th century.
Things to do in Les Baux-de-Provence
Dominating the townscape is the Château des Baux-de-Provence, the remains of a medieval fortress that was originally established in the 10th century. Today, it houses full-scale replicas of siege engines and Europe’s biggest trebuchet, a catapult used to throw projectiles. Don’t miss the tiny Chapelle des Penitents Blancs decorated with frescoes by Yves Brayer.
Spend time exploring the narrow streets of Les Baux-de-Provence and dine at one of its many cafes and restaurants serving quintessential French fare. Keep an eye out for the Fenêtre Post Tenebras Lux, a Renaissance-style window from a 16th-century bourgeois residence. At the Museum of Santon, you can get up close to nativity figurines that illustrate the Christmas traditions of Provence.
On the northern edge of Les Baux-de-Provence is the Carrières de Lumières, a unique multimedia experience that takes place in a series of former quarries. Masterpieces from artists such as Vincent Van Gogh, Gustav Klimt and Rembrandt are projected onto the walls, pillars and floors, accompanied by a symphonic score. During school holidays, family-friendly Tintin sessions are presented.
Getting around Les Baux-de-Provence
Les Baux-de-Provence is around 30 minutes’ drive from Arles and an hour from Marseille Provence Airport, which has flights to destinations across Europe and North Africa. Buses connect to Les Baux-de-Provence and the town centre is ideally explored on foot.