Lacoste
Medieval village in Provence, previous home to the Marquis de Sade
Lacoste perches on top a hill in the heart of the Luberon region and is a stunning medival village. The views from the top over the Luberon are quite wonderful.
The village walls date back to the 12th century and the ruined castle at the top dates from the 16th-18th century. This château is most famous for being the home of the infamous Marquis de Sade. It's now owned by millionaire fashion designer Pierre Cardin who has launched a stylish opera festival at the castle which is held in July.
No cars are allowed in the village, but there is free parking below the village and some parking at the castle at the top of the village. Note it is a steep walk from bottom to top.
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History & Culture in [locality]
Lacoste has been a site for human populations for many centuries thanks to its agricultural land, plentiful water supply and wonderfully sunny aspect that is also protected from the Mistral wind.
It had its fair share of plagues, wars and general thievery in the Middle Ages, but emerged in the 16th century as a relatively peaceful place where its inhabitants could prosper. Its famous castle was built at this time. It actually dates back to the 11th century but became famous when the property was bequeathed to the de Sade family in 1716.
During the following years, the castle was restored and gentrified. Donatien Alphonse Francois, better known as the Marquis de Sade (aristocrat, writer and revolutionary politician, infamous for his hedonistic lifestyle, scandals and imprisonment), inherited the castle in 1763 and lived there on and off until 1778. He was renowned for hosting debauched parties at the castle; he also created a 120 seater theatre and undertook many extensions and improvements.
The castle suffered during the French Revolution, when it was vandalised and its stones were used to build houses in the village. It wasn't until the 20th century that it began to undergo restoration under the guidance of Andre Bouer.
After his death in 1994, Pierre Cardin bought the estate in 2001 and continued the renovations. The castle is still largely a ruin, but it's possible to visit small areas of what's left. It hosts art exhibitions during the year, and an arts festival in July.
Sights & Attractions in [locality]
Apart from the castle, there are a number of other historical sites worth going to see.
The church Sainte Trophime is situated just outside the medieval town walls, and the town's ancient gateways with their arched Romanesque features provide suitable architectural interest. You will also find a square tower with a pretty belfry.
Wandering around Lacoste feels a bit like a step back in history, it retains its authenticity because the medieval buildings have not been restored to within an inch of their lives. The lack of Disneyfication is reflected in the lack of shops and services in the village.
There are a couple of artisan workshops (painters, ironworkers, stone mason, jewellery) - pop to the tourist office in the church square to find out more.
There are two cafés, one by the tourist office and other is outside the village, which has fabulous views over towards Bonnieux and had a cameo role in the Russel Crowe film, A Good Year. It also offers B&B accommodation.
The Savannah College of Art and Design has an outpost in Lacoste, it offers a range of art and design courses in English.
Sights in Provence
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Gorges du Verdon
The French Grand Canyon, the Grand Canyon of Verdon, the Gorges du Verdon, by whatever name this natural phenomenon is referred to it will remain to the beholder as one of the most spectacular sites in Europe.
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Les Arenes, Nimes
The Nimes Roman Arena is an amphitheatre that dates back to the end of the first century AD. It is an impressive sight, with two levels of 60 superposed arches.
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Maison de la Truffe, Aups
The truffle has a long history here in Aups; for many years now they have been grown, harvested, retailed, shared and eaten.
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Fort de Buoux, Apt
The ruins of Fort de Buoux lie on top of hill at the head of the Apt valley. This defensive stronghold was used to protect the surrounding towns and land from Lourmarin to Silvergues and the ruins you see today date from the 13th century.
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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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Monastere de Saorge Monastery
Beautiful baroque architecture, examples of 17th- and 18th-century frescoes and furniture and a large terraced garden.
Events in [locality]
Lacoste hosts a weekly market on Tuesday mornings.
Events in Provence
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Liszt en Provence festival, Uchaux
Uchaux is the venue for this series of summer concerts that celebrates the music of Liszt. Set in the fabulous grounds of Chateau Saint Esteve, the venue could not be more magical or romantic.
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Arelate Festival
Relive the Roman days in Arles during the Arelate Festival, with daily shows that will transport you back into the days of gladiator battles and horse races.
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a-part Festival, Les Alpilles region
'a-part' re-invents nature and surrounding landscapes with contemporary art that invigorates your senses, promoting new artists alongside established names.
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Anniversary of the liberation of Avignon
As part of the Commemoration of the liberation of Avignon, a day of festivities honouring this historical event takes place.
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Reves de Camargue Horse Show
Come and watch this memorable horse show with dancing horses and cowboys at the Mas des Jasses de la Ville/Manade Fernay.
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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.
Things to do in [locality]
Just to the south of Lacoste is the Forêt des Cèdres, a wonderful natural park filled with Atlas Cedar trees. There are natural trails and discovery trails for both walkers and cyclists.
Other hiking trails include the Grand Randonee GR97 which is the tour of the Luberon, and the Luberon Cycling path passes through Lacoste (it runs from Cavaillon to Forcalquier).
Things To Do in Provence
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Nyonsoleiado Waterpark, Nyons
Waterpark complex that contains a lagoon, 25m pool, whirlpool basin, waterslides for children and adults, cascades of water, rivers, paddling pools and much more.
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Wave Island Waterpark, Monteux
This huge waterpark covers an area of 4.7 hectares and includes a surf simulator, waterslides and a river feature called river land.
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Aqualand Waterpark, St Cyr Sur Mer
Aqualand in St Cyr Sur Mer offer you 11 wicked slides in a great park environment with drinks, food, and shops for you to enjoy.
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Domaine Le Sagittaire Waterpark, Nyons
In the depths of the Drôme countryside in the French Provence, this 5 Star Residential Campsite comes complete with an entirely heated Aquatic Complex, which is open to the public.
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Aqualand Waterpark, Frejus
With numerous slides, including the King Cobra - unique is western Europe - this is the largest waterpark on the Cote d'Azur! Inludes a rest area, show area, clockroom, fast food, grill and pizzeria, ice creams, drinks, and shop.
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Aqualand Waterpark, Sainte Maxime
This is probably the most family orientated waterpark on the Cote d'Azur. With several friendly slides, a fun pool, food and drinks, ice creams, and shopping all at hand.
Where to stay in [locality]
Lacoste is a bit thin on the ground for accommodation and decent restaurants, try the area around Bonnieux for a better choice of nice B&B's and hotels.
