Brignoles lies at the heart of the Côtes de Provence wine region.
Brignoles
Traditional authentic Provençal market town
It's a busy town in a very central location and close to the motorway, so it's a good base if you're looking to explore a wide area of Provence (Aix in 30 minutes, the beach in 30 minutes, Nice in one hour).
Events in Aix-en-Provence
Market day is on Wednesday and there is a fragrant flower market on Saturdays.
Events in Aix-en-Provence
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Beaujolais Nouveau
The new Beaujolais has arrived!
The third Thursday in November is when this year's Beaujolais hits the shelves and is cause for celebration across France.
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Fête de la Musique
Music festival celebrated across France on the summer solstice
The Fête de la Musique is a celebration that takes place every summer solstice on 21 June in cities, towns and villages across France.
History & Culture in Aix-en-Provence
It has some Roman history thanks to the nearby Roman road, the Via Aurelia (a Roman tomb can be seen in the town's museum), but Brignoles came into its own during medieval times when the Counts of Provence used to stay here for the summer. Noble families settled here and the 10th century castle was converted into a palace (Palais des Comtes de Provences).
Brignoles made money initially from agriculture and then in the 19th century from its tanneries.
Afterwards, bauxite mining proved to be a valuable source of income and today, it's the wine industry which sustains the area.
A marble quarry to the south west of Brignoles, which has been mined since Roman times, is still in use.
Sights & Attractions in Aix-en-Provence
The medieval centre is guarded by towers and gates. The church, Saint Sauveur, was built upon an existing 11th century church (which subsequently became the chapel) and is built in a Romanesque style. Many of the 16th and 17th century buildings have been renovated - look out for Roman façades and decorative alcoves. You'll also find a Knights Templar house dating back to the 12th century, a 'Jewish quarter' and plenty of mansion houses with fascinating histories.
The highlight of the town is the Palais des Comtes de Provences. The building dates back to the 12th century and now houses the Musée du Pays Brignolais. The exhibits include all sorts of items from Brignoles history and an ancient Christian sarcophagus, as well as paintings, etchings and drawings.
The Abbaye de la Celle is a 13th century Benedictine convent and lies 2km south west of Brignoles. The attached priory is now a hotel, but you can still visit the cloisters, chapter house and the refectory.
Sights in Aix-en-Provence
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Cours Mirabeau
One of the most beautiful boulevards in France, if not Europe
This 400 metre long stretch of of tree-lined boulevard divides Aix en Provence's old town at its northerly end from the new to the south.
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Atelier Cezanne
Cezanne's work studio, as the famous French painter left it
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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Calisson Museum
Take a visit to the place where they make Provence's most famous confectionery - Calissons
Located not far from Aix centre, this museum and shop explains a little about the history of how this unusual sweet is made.
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Site Memorial des Milles
Factory used as a prison during World War II, now a museum
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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Museum d'Histoire Naturelle
Great collection of dinosaurs and plant fossils
The Muséum d'Aix was founded in 1838 by Henri Coquand, geologist ; it is one of the oldest in Provence.
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Wildlife Art Gallery, Aix en Provence
Painter & sculptor Aurélien Raynaud collection of wildlife inspired art
Aurélien Raynaud displays his unique gift in capturing the wonderful wildlife kingdom in a range of artforms.
Dining in Aix-en-Provence
Restaurants in Aix-en-Provence
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Mickael Feval Restaurant
Fine dining restaurant with 1 Michelin star
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
The sophisticated restaurant located at the Renaissance Hotel
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
Provencal cuisine in a beautiful setting overlooking the hotel grounds
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
Michelin-starred restaurant in a charming chateau
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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Jardin Mazarin Restaurant
A modern restaurant serving fine food and great cocktails
If you are looking for a great meal and a few drinks to end your evening look no further than Jardin Mazarin in the centre of Aix.
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Pierre Reboul Restaurant
Modern French cuisine in a vibrant modern restaurant
Enjoy imaginative yet authentic French cuisine at Pierre Reboul's funky restaurant in Aix. The menu is redesigned every six weeks together with matching wine.
Nightlife in Aix-en-Provence
Bars & Clubs in Aix-en-Provence
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Le Cardeur Bacchus Bar
A bar & restaurant in the centre of Aix
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.
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Mistral Nighclub
Trendy club in the heart of Aix-en-Provence, international DJ's & acts
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 Scat Nightclub
Jazz club in the heart of Aix-en-Provence, live music & a great atmosphere
The Scat Club plays live music every night, and not just jazz the club plays pop, rock, funk and R'n'B.
Things to do in Aix-en-Provence
The river Le Caramy flows through Brignoles and offers a welcome piece of green in the town centre. During the summer, the area is popular with swimmers and there are picnic tables by the Notre Dame bridge.
It acts as the market centre for the area and so it can get pretty busy, although most of the traffic is kept away from the old town with a new ring road. The town centre has it's share of medieval architecture and grand mansions, and the main square (Place Caramy) hosts the town hall and a number of cafés that are perfect for watching the world go by. There are many fountains dotted throughout the centre, but many do not run due to the need to conserve water.
An old train line runs a 1950's railcar through Brignoles - it starts in Carnoules to the south west and goes in a circular route via Platanes and Sainte Anastasie. It runs in the summer months only and you can find out more at the tourist office.
Brignoles is surrounded by walking trails through forests - one that is well signposted is from Brignoles to Camps la Source vis the Chapel of St Sebastian - a loop of 11.5km.
Horse riding is popular in this area, and there is a karting track to the west of Brignoles.
Things To Do in Aix-en-Provence
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Gardanne Swimming Pool, nr Aix-en-Provence
Municipal outdoor swimming pool
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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Club Hippique d'Aix Marseille horse riding
A reputed, long-established equestrian club for all
The Club, established in 1932 has a long and interesting history. Situated on the banks of the river l'Arc over 30 acres, 5 minutes away from the city centre the Club Hippique Aix Marseille offers a full range of facilities.
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Gulli Parc Indoor Play Area
Indoor soft play area for kids up to 12 years old
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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Country Club Aixois Tennis, Aix en Provence
Renowned club with excellent facilities
Plenty of clay tennis courts are available at the Aix Country Club. It provide lessons and coaching, and there is a pro shop too. Other facilities include a pool and a gym.
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Sainte-Victoire Aquatic Centre, Venelles
Aquatic centre with indoor & outdoor pools, lazy river & childrens area
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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Set Golf Course
18-hole golf course close to Aix
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.
Watersports in Aix-en-Provence
Watersports in Aix-en-Provence
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Cable Wakeboarding, Le Muy
Wakeboarding cable park where you can learn the ropes in Le Muy
Cable park on Lake Rabinon (5 hectares) where you can water ski, knee board, and wake board.
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Lac de Sainte Croix, Gorges du Verdon
Beautiful lake in the Gorges du Verdon
A really fabulous lake with excellent leisure facilities and watersports.
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Verdon Canoe, Gorges du Verdon
Paddle down the gorge in canoe or a kayak
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 passion for adventure with many outdoor activities
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 best way to explore the Verdon Gorge!
The vastness and richness of this protected site offers an extraordinary dimension to sports such as rock-climbing and canyoning.
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Sunforce Watersports, Ramatuelle
Providing all watersports in the beautiful Pampelonne bay
Sun Force is located on the famous Pampelonne beach. Its owner, Pierre Tourneq, has been running this business for over 30 years, surrounded by a fully qualified team.
Holiday Rentals in Aix-en-Provence
Holiday Rentals in Aix-en-Provence
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Luberon Le Mas Wisteria Villa, Bonnieux
5 bedroom Villa in Bonnieux. Sleeps 10
Mas Wisteria is located 2.5km from Bonnieux, a lovely Provençal village perched in the foothills of the Luberon in Provence.
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Le Mas Du Haut Trigaud Villa, Bonnieux
4 bedroom Villa in Bonnieux. Sleeps 8
Superb 5 star rated property located in Bonnieux with swimming pool
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La Prairie Du Luberon Villa, Bonnieux
5 bedroom Villa in Bonnieux. Sleeps 10
Stone house with pool for rent in Bonnieux - La Prairie du Luberon
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Le Mas Des Secrets Villa, Bonnieux
6 bedroom Villa in Bonnieux. Sleeps 12
Wonderful holiday rental farmhouse in Bonnieux, in the Luberon’s golden triangle, with swimming pool and a lovely, unobstructed view of the countryside.
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La Bohème Villa, Bonnieux
6 bedroom Villa in Bonnieux. Sleeps 15
Magnificent villa near Bonnieux, in the heart of the Luberon, with swimming pool, for a unique holiday.
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Le Mas Entre Monts Et Merveilles Villa, Bonnieux
4 bedroom Villa in bonnieux. Sleeps 8
House for rent in Luberon - Le Mas entre Monts et Merveilles. The perfect holiday location in Provence!
Hotels in Aix-en-Provence
There are several nice B&Bs in the area.
Hotels in Aix-en-Provence
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Renaissance Hotel
Contemporary style 5 star hotel with works of art & stylish furnishings
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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Le Pigonnet Hotel
Grand hotel with magical gardens just outside centre of Aix-en-Provence
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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Moulin de Lourmarin Hotel, Lourmarin
Former oil mill converted into a charming Provencal style hotel
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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Villa Gallici Hotel
Small luxury hotel in the centre of Aix en Provence but surrounded by gardens
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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La Maison d'Aix Hotel
Small hotel built from an old house in Aix en Provence
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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Les Jardins d'Athena Apartment Residence
A residence located near Aix-en-Provence and Eguilles
Located on the gateway to Provence and Luberon, this aparthotel also boasts pleasant gardens and a swimming pool.
How to get to Aix-en-Provence
Transfers for Provence
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Avignon Taxis
Taxis in Avignon and the entire region
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
Monaco - Nice Helicopter Shuttles, plus French Riviera 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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Helicopter Transfers & Scenic Flights
Helicopter charter company based in Monaco with over 25 years experience
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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Helicopter Transfers & Scenic Flights
Passenger transport, aerial photography, freight , etc...
Helitec caters for all your helicopter needs from passenger transport to aerial photography, filming, transport of heavy goods, leisure flights over Provence and the South of France. A great way to see the most beautiful spots from the air.
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Marseille Taxis
Taxis in Marseille
300 vehicles at your disposal. All taxi services and transfers airports and Railway stations.
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Private Jet & Helicopter Transfers
Aircraft & helicopter charter company based at Nice Airport in the South of France
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.
Property For Sale in Aix-en-Provence
Property for Sale in Aix-en-Provence
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Villa for Sale | STZ250285
7 bedroom, 4 bathroom, 233.84m² Villa in Var
A Provencal villa at the foot of the village of Grimaud.
Villa for Sale | STZ250285
€2,690,000 -
Villa for Sale | STZ260356
4 bedroom, 2 bathroom, 237m² Villa in Var
A peaceful villa with unobstructed views of the countryside
Villa for Sale | STZ260356
€1,650,000 -
Land (Plot) for Sale | STZ250321
4 bedroom, 3 bathroom, 250m² plot in Var
Contemporary villa with two building plots
Land (Plot) for Sale | STZ250321
€2,625,000 -
Villa for Sale | STZ250324
5 bedroom, 4 bathroom, 314.73m² Villa in Var
Exceptional provençal property in the heart of the Gulf of Saint-Tropez
Villa for Sale | STZ250324
€3,450,000 -
Hotel for Sale | STZ250294
12 bedroom, 614.69m² hotel in Var
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 | STZ250294
€6,600,000 -
Villa for Sale | stz260423
4 bedrooms, 255.05m², Villa in Gassin
Stunning renovated villa with sea views, located in a private domain.
Villa for Sale | stz260423
€5,775,000






























































