Chateau de La Barben, Salon-en-Provence
17th century castle with ornamental gardens, also a charming B&B
This wonderful fortified castle sits on top of a rock formation, giving it an almost undefeatable defensive position to protect the inhabitants of the local area. First referred to in the 11th century, the present day castle was created in the 17th century, when elements of the Renaissance were incorporated into the castle.
The interior consists of around 60 rooms, of which just over a dozen are open to the public. The rooms are lavishly decorated with tapestries, painted ceilings, sculptures and murals. The gardens consist of orangeries, greenhouses, ponds and terraces. Chateau de La Barben is situated between Salon & Aix en Provence.
Guided visits are available and in the summer months a candle lit night visit is available on Thursdays.
The chateau also has a number of rooms and suites available as B&B, with breakfast served in the medieval kitchen or on the terrace.
When to come
Opening dates & times:
- February 6th to 21st from 14:00 to 17:00
- Weekends from February 27th to March 27th from 14:00 to 17:00
- April 2nd to September 18th from 11:00 to 17:00
- Weekends from September 24th to November 2nd from 14:00 to 17:00
- The château is open every day for groups by appointment only
- Closed December to January
How to get passes
Prices:
- Adult - 9 euros
- Children under 12 - 7 euros including a ticket for the great "riddle game"
