You shouldn't let the lines of parked cars put you off stopping at Les Baux de Provence. This is one of the loveliest hilltop villages you'll come across, and it's worth the fight through the crowds to take a look. Ideally, don't come in midsummer, otherwise you will be sharing every nook and cranny with a thousand other tourists.
Les Baux de Provence
Stunning medieval village with the best castle in Provence
Les Baux dates back to the Middle Ages when its awesome castle was used to control and protect the surrounding area.
Today the narrow streets are filled with gift shops, art galleries, gourmet food shops and cafés. It's a very pretty place full of olde worlde charme. I guess some may call it twee, but without this restoration, the village would have been unlikely to survive into the 21st century, and Provence would have been a lesser place to visit.
Watch this
Events in Les Baux-de-Provence
Events in Les Baux-de-Provence
See all Events in Les Baux-de-Provence-
Beaujolais Nouveau 
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.
-
Visit website 
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 Les Baux-de-Provence
In the Middle Ages, Les Baux was a fortress of castle and dwellings, from which the Lords of Baux aggressively controlled their many properties (towns and villages) in Provence. For a while they considered themselves to be the sole rulers in Provence, which was not appreciated by the count of Provence. The Baux Lords were warriors and liked to meddle in other disputes. But they also established a court of love in Les Baux, attracting troubadours and beautiful ladies. Chivalry and feud lived side by side.
In the late Middle Ages, the lords of Les Baux began to lose their power, weakened by the endless wars and disputes they were involved in. Finally their dynasty came to an end with the death of princess Alix de Baux. After a few shuffles of ownership, Les Baux fell to the French King. In the 16th and 17th century the village and castle attracted protestants from all around; it was an ideal hiding place for the persecuted. However, the hatred for everything catholic was so strong that the protestant newcomers destroyed the opulent interior of the castle.
In 1632 Richelieu had enough of this lawlessness and had the castle and ramparts demolished, which the population itself had to pay for. It was the death knell for Les Baux. In 1642 the King gave the fortified town to the Grimaldis (of Monaco), but they never bothered with it. Gradually, it became a ghost town with half a dozen vagabonds, outnumbered by stray dogs. Even the discovery of bauxite in the 19th century (named after the town) nearby did little to raise its fortunes.
However, everything changed in the 20th century, particularly with the efforts of Raymond Thuiler, owner of the luxury hotel Oustaù de Baumanière in the nearby Val d'Enfer (Hell's Valley). The village underwent many renovations, and the castle is still currently under restoration.
Sights & Attractions in Les Baux-de-Provence
The main attraction here is the castle, and you can read more about it on our page Château des Baux. It really is worth the entrance fee - if you're bringing the family, have a look at the château's website to find out their calendar of events and plan your trip accordingly. If you're not so bothered about participating in medieval shows and catapult demonstrations, try to visit outside July and August so that you have space to breathe and to explore the ruins.
There are two churches in the village. Notre Dame du Chateau (12th - 16th century) is within the castle grounds and the old 12th century priory, St Vincents was built into the rocks on the southern side. It features a ribbed barrel vault in the nave, modern stained glass windows (by Max Ingrand), and a funeral chapel with Gothic vaulting.
On your way up to the castle, you'll pass an old isolated stone window façade. It's all that is left of a 16th century mansion, the Manville Residence. It bears an inscription 'Post Tenebras Lux 1571', a Calvinist saying meaning 'After the darkness, light', and is a reminder of the Huguenot influence of that time. Other mansions from the 16th and 17th centuries have been turned into art galleries - the Musée Yves Brayer features paintings of Provençal landscapes by the said artist, and the Musée des Santons holds a large collection of Christmas figurines. The town hall can be found in one of the most impressive 16th century Renaissance houses, the Hotel de Manville.
On the outskirts of Les Baux is the unique cultural space of Les Carrieres de Lumieres. A disused quarry, it is now used to show audio-visual art installations, featuring artists such as Monet, Chagall, Renoir and Van Gogh. Check their website to find out the latest exhibitions.
The area round Les Baux de Provence is renowned for its olives and olive oils, and vineyards, and there are several who offer guided visits and tastings - check at the tourist office for details.
Sights in Les Baux-de-Provence
See all Sights in Les Baux-de-Provence-
Visit website 
Château des Baux, Les Baux de Provence
Wonderful interactive medieval castle with far reaching views
This is one of the best castles we have ever visited, and not just in France! Situated on a rocky outcrop, this fantastic medieval castle has a strong military background, where it was used in the defence of the realm of Provence.
-
Visit website 
Musee Yves Brayer paintings, Les Baux de Provence
A beautifully restored 16th Century building
Opened in 1991, the Yves Brayer Museum displays a hundred or so canvas paintings, watercolours and drawings representative of the artist's work.
Read more about Musee Yves Brayer paintings, Les Baux de Provence
-
Visit website 
Carrieres de Lumieres, Les Baux de Provence
Spectacular multimedia show in a disused quarry
Originally a stone quarry, the Carrieres de Lumieres has been transformed into a backdrop for a stunning audio visual show, where images are projected on to the walls and the floor. Each year a different artist and theme is chosen to lead the display.
-
Parc Naturel Regional des Alpilles 
Parc Naturel Regional des Alpilles
The Alpilles regional park - the largest in France
This large natural area envelops 16 small towns and villages between the Luberon and the Camargue, not far from Arles.
-
Visit website 
Saint Vincent Church, Les Baux
A 12th century church partly built into the rocks behind it
This is one of three churches in the old village of Les Baux and has been built partly into the rock face behind it.
Dining in Les Baux-de-Provence
Restaurants in Les Baux-de-Provence
See all Restaurants in Les Baux-de-Provence-
Enquire 
La Cabro d'Or Restaurant, Les Baux de Provence
Gourmet restaurant in the beautiful Alpilles region of Provence
Head chef Michel Hulin uses fresh produce from the restaurant's extensive organic kitchen garden, as well as locally grown olive oils.
Read more about La Cabro d'Or Restaurant, Les Baux de Provence
-
Enquire 
Domaine de Manville Restaurant, Les Baux
Gourmet Provençal restaurant in a luxury 5 star hotel
Fine regional cuisine by a Michelin-star experienced chef, made only with fresh local produce. Located at the Domaine de Manville Hotel.
-
Enquire 
L'Oustau de Baumaniere Restaurant, Les Baux de Provence
Three Michelin starred restaurant with fantastic views of the Alpilles
Beautifully presented French cuisine awaits you at L'Oustau de Baumanière. The elegant dining room is set in a vaulted stone hall and it opens up on to a terrace for dining during the warmer seasons.
Read more about L'Oustau de Baumaniere Restaurant, Les Baux de Provence
-
Enquire 
Benvengudo Restaurant, Les Baux
Creative fine dining based on fresh Provençal produce
Chef Mathieu Groshenry has worked in more than one Michelin-starred restaurant before returning to his birthplace, Provence, to create an ever-changing menu based on regional produce.
-
Enquire 
Le Mas d'Aigret Restaurant, Les Baux
Provençal specialities in an extraordinary environment
This restaurant is situated in Le Mas d'Aigret Hotel and they serve traditional Provençal cuisine made with fresh seasonal produce.
-
Enquire 
La Reine Jeanne Restaurant, Les Baux
Traditional Provençal cuisine with stunning views
Authentic, refined cuisine using fresh market produce in a menu that changes with the seasons.
Nightlife in Les Baux-de-Provence
Bars & Clubs in Les Baux-de-Provence
See all Bars & Clubs in Les Baux-de-Provence-
Enquire 
21 Chai d'Oeuvre Bar, Saint Remy de Provence
Wine and champagne bar with a terrace
This bar is located in the centre of Saint Remy de Provence. It has a good selection of wines by the glass, as well as bottles and champagne. They even serve charcuterie and cheese plates.
Read more about 21 Chai d'Oeuvre Bar, Saint Remy de Provence
-
La Cave des Pas Sages 
La Cave des Pas Sages
Popular wine bar with live music, 15 mins form the Palais des Papes
Small wine bar situated in one of the cobbled streets of Avignon that hosts regular market stalls.
-
Ajmi Jazz Club 
Ajmi Jazz Club
One of France's top Jazz venues playing live music in the heart if the city
The Ajmi has played host to numerous talented international Jazz artists, and the Ajmi is classed as one of the top 3 jazz venues in France and is located in the heart of Avignon next to the beautiful Palais des Papes.
-
Enquire 
Bokao's Nighclub
For dance, electro and retro sounds and a non-stop party atmosphere
With a varied musical line-up, Bokao's combines good fun and great music.
-
Le Longchamp Bar & Brasserie, Isle sur la Sorgue 
Le Longchamp Bar & Brasserie, Isle sur la Sorgue
Popular riverside spot for a drink and a bite to eat
This place is a bar, restaurant and tabac all rolled into one, on the side of the river in the centre of Isle de la Sorgue.
Read more about Le Longchamp Bar & Brasserie, Isle sur la Sorgue
-
Le Cardeur Bacchus Bar 
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.
Things to do in Les Baux-de-Provence
Nature lovers are spoilt for choice in this area. The Alpilles Regional Country Park welcomes walkers, mountain bikers, rock climbers and horse riders. Note that during the summer, the risk of wild fires can be high causing the local authorities to close off access to some forested trails - this is to protect the area from accidental fires as well as for your safety.
Other sports on offer around Les Baux de Provence include tennis and an 18-hole golf course. Or try a spa day at one of the many luxury hotels in the area.
Things To Do in Les Baux-de-Provence
See all Things To Do in Les Baux-de-Provence-
Enquire 
Domaine de Manville Golf Course, Les Baux
Golf course of the 5 star hotel Domaine de Manville
The Domaine de Manville has a renowned architect and landscaper designed 18-hole golf course allying technicality and game attraction in an eco-responsible and respectful way to produce a truly very special course.
-
Parc Naturel Regional des Alpilles
Parc Naturel Regional des Alpilles
The Alpilles regional park - the largest in France
This large natural area envelops 16 small towns and villages between the Luberon and the Camargue, not far from Arles.
Watersports in Les Baux-de-Provence
Watersports in Les Baux-de-Provence
See all Watersports in Les Baux-de-Provence-
Enquire 
Caminaterra Activity Company, Vedene
Adventure tourism company with a wide range of activities
This company offers all kinds of activities, from climbing and pot-holing to canyoning, canoeing, kayaking, hiking and via ferrata.
-
Enquire 
Canoe Evasion, near Isle sur la Sorgue
Canoe trips between Fontaine de Vaucluse & Isle sur la Sorgue
This company offers a 2 hour river descent from Isle sur la Sorgue to Fontain de Vaucluse in canoes.
-
Enquire 
Kayak Vert, Fontaine de Vaucluse
Canoe along the green coloured rivers of the Sorgue
This company offers an 8 kilometre canoe trip along the river near Fontaine de Vaucluse.
-
Le lac de Monteux, Monteux 
Le lac de Monteux, Monteux
Leisure centre with plenty of water based fun & activities
Located in the heart of the EcoQuartier Beaulieu, Lake Monteux is an open every day of the year. Ideal for the whole family, this area offers a multitude of activities.
-
AFDA Canoe & Kayak, Lauris 
AFDA Canoe & Kayak, Lauris
Canoe or kayak trips along the river in the South Luberon
This company offers two different types of excursions by kayak or canoe for either an hour and 15 minutes or 3 hours.
-
Enquire 
Mistral Kite Passion Watersports, nr Salon de Provence
Kite surfing school in the Camargue
If you're looking to try out kitesurfing for the first time, this company can help you get to grips with the basics from professional instruction.
Read more about Mistral Kite Passion Watersports, nr Salon de Provence
Holiday Rentals in Les Baux-de-Provence
Holiday Rentals in Les Baux-de-Provence
See all Holiday Rentals in Les Baux-de-Provence-
Visit website 
Mas Glamour Villa, Saint-Rémy-de-Provence
Located a few minutes from the village centre of Saint-Rémy-de-Provence, you will be able to take full advantage of the restaurants and shops of the village whilst having a haven of peace to relax in.
-
Visit website 
Julii Villa, Saint-Rémy-de-Provence
This holiday rental with swimming pool will allow you to fully enjoy all the shops and restaurants of Saint-Rémy-de-Provence, the city centre is accessible on foot.
-
Visit website 
Paradou Villa, Paradou
Beautiful 250m2 modern villa just a stone’s throw away from the center of Maussane-les-Alpilles.
-
Visit website 
Rêve De Provence Villa, Eyragues
Beautiful stone farmhouse for rent in the Alpilles: Rêve de Provence
-
Visit website 
Mas Des Etoiles Villa, Saint-Rémy-de-Provence
Mas with heated pool and tennis court for your holidays in Saint-Rémy-de-Provence - Mas des Etoiles
Read more about Mas Des Etoiles Villa, Saint-Rémy-de-Provence
-
Visit website 
Bastide Du Vallon Villa, Saint-Etienne-du-Gres
Superb bastide in the heart of its private valley for your holidays in the Alpilles. Let yourself be seduced by the charm of this 19th century property!
Read more about Bastide Du Vallon Villa, Saint-Etienne-du-Gres
Hotels in Les Baux-de-Provence
Hotels in Les Baux-de-Provence
See all Hotels in Les Baux-de-Provence-
Check Booking.com 
Baumaniere Hotel, Les Baux
A luxurious countryside hotel with gourmet restaurants
This charming 5 star hotel offers guests the best in luxury accommodation and services whilst still retaining an air of simple, classic style.
-
Check Booking.com 
Le Chateau des Alpilles Hotel, St Remy
A charming country chateau retreat with luxuriously decorated rooms
This charming chateau provides a wide range of accommodation from rooms and suites to mini apartments. Renowned for its beauty and excellent service, this is a very popular destination in Provence.
-
Check Booking.com 
B Design & Spa Hotel, Maussane les Alpilles
This new build hotel fits in well in rural Provence
A family run spa retreat in the heart of Provence offering visitors the chance to savor the best in French cuisine.
-
Check Booking.com 
Hotel de Tourrel, Saint Remy de Provence
Newly converted hotel with great attention taken to the design of the exterior & interior
This 17th century palais in charming Saint Remy de Provence is a historic-meets-contemporary sanctuary for lovers of all things gourmet.
-
Check Booking.com 
Auberge St Remy de Provence Hotel
Charming 3 star hotel in the centre of Saint Remy de Provence
Located just within a 5 minute walk from the town's main square, this small and charming hotel offers traditional Provençal decoration and a gourmet restaurant.
-
Check Booking.com 
Le Vallon de Valrugues Hotel & Spa, St Remy
Elegant & modern hotel with a luxurious spa in the historical Roman town
The Vallon de Valrugues is located in the centre of St Remy, a stylish Provencial town filled with chic boutiques and galleries.
How to get to Les Baux-de-Provence
Transfers for Provence
See all Transfers for Provence-
Enquire 
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.
-
Enquire 
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.
-
Enquire 
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.
-
Enquire 
Private Airport Transfers
Reliable private airport transfer & taxi service
Chabe Transfers are a well known luxury transfer and taxi service operating in the South of France.
-
Enquire 
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.
-
Enquire 
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.
Read more about Helicopter Airport Transfers & Scenic Flights
Property For Sale in Les Baux-de-Provence
Property for Sale in Les Baux-de-Provence
See all Property for Sale in Les Baux-de-Provence-
Visit website 
Villa for Sale | STZ250285
A Provencal villa at the foot of the village of Grimaud.
-
Visit website 
Villa for Sale | STZ260356
A peaceful villa with unobstructed views of the countryside
-
Visit website 
Land (Plot) for Sale | STZ250321
Contemporary villa with two building plots
-
Visit website 
Villa for Sale | STZ250324
Exceptional provençal property in the heart of the Gulf of Saint-Tropez
-
Visit website 
Hotel for Sale | STZ250294
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.
-
Visit website 
Villa for Sale | VAL240008
Set in the prestigious Domaine de Terre Blanche, Villa Augusta is the epitome of contemporary luxury.
