Richerenches Truffle Market
Head to the Avenue de la Rabasse in Richerenches for the famous Saturday truffle markets, which take place from November to March every year.
Barjols
Traditional rural town in the heart of Provence
Barjols is a charming town in the centre of Provence Verte - green Provence - and is well known for its abundant water sources. With 43 fountains and lavoirs (communal wash basins) it shows off the richness of this liquid gold, all year round.
Located just to the south of the Verdon National Park, at the head of a valley that allows for lovely views of the Var.
Events in Aix-en-Provence
The market takes place on Sunday mornings on La Place de la Rouguière, and there are stalls selling local produce, flowers, clothing and general souvenirs.
On Thursday and Saturday mornings you'll find a food market on La Place Capitaine Vincens.
There is very little other shopping to be had in Barjols.
Events in Aix-en-Provence
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Markets in Provence
Read our Provence markets page to find out which market to visit when in Provence. From the vibrant array of local produce to the delightful scent of freshly baked delicacies, visiting a Provencal market is an absolute must for anyone exploring the charms of Provence.
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Fête de la Musique
The Fête de la Musique is a celebration that takes place every summer solstice on 21 June in cities, towns and villages across France.
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Bastille Day
Bastille Day is celebrated across the whole of France with a bang...well, several in fact, fireworks always feature heavily.
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European Heritage Days
Exceptional locations around France, including Provence, will be open to visit on the Journées du Patrimoine - a European wide event inspired by by France’s Journées Portes Ouvertes which started in 1984.
History & Culture in Aix-en-Provence
With Roman heritage and an active church in the 14th century, Barjols then became known for processing leather.
In the 19th century, the village was home to 24 tanneries, 19 tan mills, three paper mills, and a card manufacturing factory. This was a time of prosperity and it lasted throughout the 20th century where Barjols became renowned for French leather.
Sadly, international competition meant that the tanneries slowly closed down and the last of them shut in 1983. The old tannery buildings have now been converted into artist's workshops.
Above all, Barjols is known for its yearly celebration of Les Tripettes, a bizarre feast that mixes the profane with the sacred. Imagine attending a church mass, which concludes by a joyous dance of everyone in attendance. Flutes and drums provide the music, no-one can resist; even the priest jumps up and down. History tells that in the 6th century an abbot, Marcel, returns from a trip to Rome, where he met the Pope. Soon afterwards he dies and is interred in his monastery near Montmeyan. Because he is well known, people flock to his grave, and miracles are said to have occurred. Marcel is elevated to sainthood and his tomb and relics continue to receive pilgrims from far away.
Then the decline of the monastery begins and in the early 14th century it's not much more than a ruin. The monks have gone; the only person left is the groundskeeper. One night Saint Marcel appears before him, asking the groundskeeper to move his body to a place "more dignified and more religious." The gardien relates his dream to the bishop of Brignolles who consults others in power. Two villages, Aups and Barjols, offer to receive the relics of Saint Marcel.
While the bishop hesitates, wanting to measure the distance between the monastery and each village to know which is closer, the people of Barjols are pushed by those of a nearby village Tavernes (from then on known as les avocats) to take matters into their own hands. The Barjolais listen to the advice and set out for the monastery. The poor guardian had forgotten to lock the door and the removal of Saint Marcel was a cinch.
On the way back to Barjols, the "thieves" meet up with women from the village (les Tripettes), who are busy cleaning the tripe of a slaughtered cow, a yearly ritual to commemorate a time when the village was besieged and famine was near, were it not for a lone cow. The women join the procession back into the village, into the church. There everyone, young and old, celebrates the arrival of Saint Marcel, as well as les Tripettes and their bounty, with utter joy by chanting and dancing.
Ever since, the occasion is celebrated each year with a solemn mass, followed by dancing and a procession through the village where at each stop the authentic flutes and drums play again, the muskets fire into the air and everyone dances and sings, 'San Marcel, San Marcel, les Tripettes, les Tripettes.'
Sights & Attractions in Aix-en-Provence
Barjols is full of fountains of different styles, shapes and sizes.
It's a fun way to explore the village to discover all these fountains and the other sights and attraction. Try the tourist office for a map so you can follow a trail.
The church - Collégiale Notre Dame de l’Assomption - dates back to the 11th century with various additions from the 13th and 16th centuries.
Sights in Aix-en-Provence
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Wildlife Art Gallery, Aix en Provence
Aurélien Raynaud displays his unique gift in capturing the wonderful wildlife kingdom in a range of artforms.
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Atelier Cezanne
Cezannes studio was created in Aix-en-Provence in 1902 and this is where he worked until he died in 1906.
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Site Memorial des Milles
At the beginning of World War II, France interned all Austrian and German nationals who were living in France at the time, and Les Milles was the prison for the south eastern region.
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Musee Granet
This is Aix's fine art gallery, housed in the 17th century Palais de Malte. The collections includes works by a variety of European painters, including two by Rubens and a small selection of Paul Cezanne.
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Shan-Art Gallery
A small gallery with a good collection of contemporary and modern art.
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Musee des tapisseries Tapestry
The Musee des Tapisseries houses a rich collection of 17th and 18th Century tapestries, including a collection called 'Grotesques' - theatrical taspestrie made in Beauvais cir. 1689, and also 'L'histoire de Don Quichotte' of 1735 unique in the world.
Dining in Aix-en-Provence
Restaurants in Aix-en-Provence
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Mickael Feval Restaurant
This elegant restaurant is a must-visit for any lovers of modern cuisine and cooking methods. They embrace local produce and evolve their dishes according to the seasons.
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Le Comptoir du Clos
Open daily, the Clos du Comptoir offers a sophisticated atmosphere for lunch and dinner in the same setting.
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Villa Gallici Restaurant, Aix en Provence
A quiet atmosphere, beautiful grounds and wonderful flavours can be found at Villa Gallici Restaurant. Part of the 5 star Villa Gallici hotel you can indulge in lunch or dinner at this top quality restaurant.
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Le Art Restaurant
Located inside the luxury Chateau de la Gaude, this Michelin-starred restaurant serves the elaborate cuisine of chef Matthieu Dupuis-Baumal.
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Le Pain Quotidien, Aix en Provence
Le Pain Quotidien is an international chain of delis and cafes across europe. Serving breakfast, brunch, lunch, dinner and snacks soups and hot food.
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La Bastide de Venelles
Enjoy home cooked meals made using the best fresh produce in a stunning setting, just outside of Aix.
Nightlife in Aix-en-Provence
Bars & Clubs in Aix-en-Provence
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Le Scat Nightclub
The Scat Club plays live music every night, and not just jazz the club plays pop, rock, funk and R'n'B.
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Mistral Nighclub
The Mistral is Aix-en-Provence's answer to those looking for a trendy night out listening to the latest DJ's.
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Le Cardeur Bacchus Bar
This small bar has a nice seating area outside next to one of Aix's many fountains and it catches the sun late into the evening.
Things to do in Aix-en-Provence
At the top of the village on the road towards Drauguigan, you'll find a footpath on the right taking you to the Vallon des Carmes. The walk follows a river featuring many waterfalls until you eventually reach a view point and the main waterfall des Carmes. There are some caves up here too as well as a number of other paths that explore the area.
Other hikes will take you through the surrounding countryside and forests - ask at the tourist office (maps available for a small fee).
There is an outdoor swimming pool open during the summer, and a couple of municipal tennis courts.
Things To Do in Aix-en-Provence
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Sainte-Victoire Aquatic Centre, Venelles
This leisure centre has two indoor pools, a 50 metre outdoor heated swimming pool, with terraces and beaches, and water sports.There is also a weights room and dance studio.
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Tour Designer in Provence
Tour Designer in Provence provide tailor made tours of the best of Provence with day trips and walking tours on offer.
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Set Golf Course
Set in the beautiful wooded countryside, this 18-hole golf course was designed by American architect Ronald Fream. The club incorporates the David Leadbetter Academy that offers lessons to suit players of all levels.
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Gulli Parc Indoor Play Area
The area is split into two areas - one for the 1-5 years age group, and the other for 6-12 year olds.
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Gardanne Swimming Pool, nr Aix-en-Provence
Just to the south of Aix is the town of Gardanne. They open an outdoor swimming pool in the summer, with a 50m pool, baby pool, slides, playgrounds and a relaxation area.
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Provence Wine Tours
Provence Wine Tours offer a variety of wine tours from private visits, to group tours and even corporate events.
Watersports in Aix-en-Provence
Watersports in Aix-en-Provence
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Lac de Sainte Croix, Gorges du Verdon
A really fabulous lake with excellent leisure facilities and watersports.
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Verdon Canoe, Gorges du Verdon
Explore the beautiful Gorges du Verdon by paddling down the river in canoes or kayaks. A fun activity for everyone to explore the beautiful Gorges du Verdon and paddle on the beautiful blue water.
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Les Guides Action and Aventure, Aiguines
A team of state qualified guides sharing their enthusiasm for great outdoor activities with you.
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Aventure et Nature Watersport, La Palude sur Verdon
The vastness and richness of this protected site offers an extraordinary dimension to sports such as rock-climbing and canyoning.
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La Bonde Lake, Cabrieres d'Aigues
Bonde Lake is situated in the heart of the Luberon and offers activities and relaxation for all the family.
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Cable Wakeboarding, Le Muy
Cable park on Lake Rabinon (5 hectares) where you can water ski, knee board, and wake board.
Villas in Aix-en-Provence
Villas in Aix-en-Provence
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Le Lieutenant Villa, Bonnieux
The Lieutenant is an apartment for rent for holidays in Provence, located on the 1st floor of a pretty country house in Bonnieux.
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La Bastide Bitrona Villa, Bonnieux
Beautiful holiday villa with swimming pool for rent in the South of France, near the village of Bonnieux in Provence.
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La Bastide De La Forêt Villa, Bonnieux
Come and discover this house with large swimming pool, near Bonnieux, for a holiday in the heart of nature.
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La Prairie Du Luberon Villa, Bonnieux
Stone house with pool for rent in Bonnieux - La Prairie du Luberon
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La Bohème Villa, Bonnieux
Magnificent villa near Bonnieux, in the heart of the Luberon, with swimming pool, for a unique holiday.
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Au Cœur Du Village Villa, Lourmarin
Beautiful holiday home for rent in Provence, in Lourmarin, with garden and swimming pool.
Holidays Rentals in Aix-en-Provence
Holiday Rentals in Aix-en-Provence
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La Villa Saint Vincent Villa, Bonnieux
Elegant and pleasant Provencal holiday villa, located in a residential area a few minutes away from the picturesque village of Bonnieux with a beautiful view of the Luberon and Mont Ventoux.
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La Bohème Villa, Bonnieux
Magnificent villa near Bonnieux, in the heart of the Luberon, with swimming pool, for a unique holiday.
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La Villa Plein Soleil Villa, Cadenet
Architect-designed villa for holiday rental, with swimming pool, in the heart of the Luberon with an elevated position in the village of Cadenet.
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La Bastide De La Forêt Villa, Bonnieux
Come and discover this house with large swimming pool, near Bonnieux, for a holiday in the heart of nature.
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Le Mas Des Jardins Toscans Villa, Bonnieux
A magnificent "Mas" in Bonnieux to rent in the Luberon, with a large landscaped garden for a dream holiday between Bonnieux and Lacoste.
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Au Cœur Du Village Villa, Lourmarin
Beautiful holiday home for rent in Provence, in Lourmarin, with garden and swimming pool.
Hotels in Aix-en-Provence
There are a couple of budget options in Barjols, ask at the tourist office. Barjols is probably not a place that tourists would like to stay, it still has a fairly industrial feel and lacks the charm of some other Provençal towns. You might be better staying in Cotignac or the surrounding area and then take a day trip to Barjols.
Hotels in Aix-en-Provence
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Villa Gallici Hotel
Under the light Cézanne once knew, the Villa Gallici Hotel is an 18th century Provençal house and a member of Relais et Châteaux portfolio.
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Le Pigonnet Hotel
The five star Pigonnet hotel in Aix is an 18th-century mansion surrounded with stunning floral gardens, situated just outside the centre of Aix-en-Provence.
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Renaissance Hotel
Built in 2013 this modern, contemporary five star hotel in Provence combines art work in contemporary spaces, filled with uber stylish furniture and fittings.
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Moulin de Lourmarin Hotel, Lourmarin
Located in one of the most beautiful villages in France, this former oil mill welcomes its guests in an enchanting setting surrounded by lime trees.
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La Maison d'Aix Hotel
This hotel is a beautiful renovated house located on a quiet street, and walking distance to all the hustle and bustle of Aix.
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Hotel du Globe
The hotel has 46 rooms and is well located to visit all the main attractions of Aix-en-Provence.
How to get to Aix-en-Provence
Transfers for Provence
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Private Jet and Helicopter Transfers
With an International fleet of jets and helicopters based across Europe it is quick and easy to get a private charter flight for business, pleasure or an airport transfer.
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Helicopter Transfers and Scenic Flights
With a long history and experience in the VIP transport industry this company is proud of its personal and high-quality services.
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Radio Aixois Taxi
49 air-conditioned vehicles at your disposal for local transport, airport and rail station transfers, and touristic excursions.
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Avignon City Taxis
Avignon City Taxis at your disposal 24/7 for taxi services and transfers airports and railway stations in Avignon and in the entire region.
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Helicopter Airport Transfers & Scenic Flights
Created in 1976 this company has grown and has now transported well over 100,000 passengers. They have a fleet of 12 craft to meet client demands.
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Chabe Airport Transfers, Marseille
Chabe Transfers are a well known luxury transfer and taxi service operating in the South of France.
Property For Sale in Aix-en-Provence
Property for Sale in Aix-en-Provence
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House for Sale
Set on a 2,090 m² plot in the heart of a peaceful hamlet surrounded by nature, this character-filled stone property is a true haven of tranquillity.
House for Sale
€750,000 -
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Villa for Sale
Exceptional provençal property in the heart of the Gulf of Saint-Tropez
Villa for Sale
€3,675,000 -
Hotel for Sale
Located just 100 meters from the sea, this unique property, currently operated as a charming 4-star hotel, enjoys a spectacular view of the sea and Saint-Tropez.
Hotel for Sale
€6,600,000 -
Villa for Sale
A beautifully renovated 16th century bastide with panoramic views.
Villa for Sale
€2,150,000
