Another village noted for being one of the 'most beautiful villages in France', Menerbes has a wonderfully authentic feel to it and is full of historical charm.
Menerbes
Medieval village in the heart of the Luberon
With medieval churches and houses, and a number of Renaissance homes there is certainly enough here to warrant a visit.
Events in Aix-en-Provence
Events in Aix-en-Provence
See all Events in Aix-en-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 Aix-en-Provence
Man has settled on the site of Menerbes since prehistoric times, its elevated position allowed for easy defence against invading tribes.
The Romans enjoyed these surroundings, remains from their villas have been identified.
During the Middle Ages, Menerbes was the site of a big confrontation between the Protestant Hugenots and the Catholics. From 1573-78 during the Wars of Religion, the Protestants held Menerbes against a great Catholic force for 15 months before an agreement was negotiated. Sadly the town did not fare as well as the Protestants, much of the village suffered from fire damage and the defensive towers were destroyed during the assault.
Sights & Attractions in Aix-en-Provence
The citadel was rebuilt after the Wars of Religion (and again in the 19th century) and sits impressively on a rock overlooking the west, whilst the church Notre Dame des Graces also dates from the 16th century. There is a small castle (the Castelet) that has been built on the ruins of an old fortress, an impressive bell tower and an 18th century chapel, St Blaise. Two arched fortified gates, the Porte St Sauveur and Porte Notre Dame were used as entrances to the village until the 18th century.
Famous artists including Picasso have lived in Menerbes, and this arty tradition continues today as you will see through the number of art galleries strewn through the village.
In the middle of Menerbes in a beautifully restored Renaissance house, is the House of Wine et Truffles. It runs workshops on wine tasting and on wines from Provence and also one on discovering black truffles. There is also a shop if you just want to buy. Of course, the area also has its fair share of vineyards if you prefer to visit them directly.
On the road out to Bonnieux you will find the corkscrew museum, where you can view over 1,000 examples of this clever little instrument.
And on the road to Lacoste, there is the Dolmen Pichone, a Neolithic tomb made using dry stone technique.
The Abbey of Saint-Hilaire is a Carmelite convent building from the 12th and 13th centuries, where you can pay a small fee to explore chapel, cloisters, terraces and caves.
Sights in Aix-en-Provence
See all Sights in Aix-en-Provence-
Visit website 
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.
-
Visit website 
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.
-
Visit website 
Musee Granet
Fine art gallery showing European paintings & sculpture
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.
-
Visit website 
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.
-
Visit website 
Shan-Art Gallery
Gallery of modern & contemporary art in Aix
A small gallery with a good collection of contemporary and modern art.
-
Carriere de Bibemus 
Carriere de Bibemus
The quarry that inspired Cezanne in many of his paintings
An old quarry, the Carrieres de Bibemus lies on the western slopes of Montagne St Victoire and is a place that inspired Paul Cezanne through out his life.
Dining in Aix-en-Provence
There aren't many shops or cafés/restaurants in Menerbes, but you'll be able to enjoy Provençal food and pizza.
Restaurants in Aix-en-Provence
See all Restaurants in Aix-en-Provence-
Visit website 
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.
-
Enquire 
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.
-
Enquire 
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.
-
Enquire 
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.
-
L'Auberge Provencale 
L'Auberge Provencale
Great quality cuisine and a wonderful atmoshpere
Located just south of Aix this newly refurbished restaurant serves great quality food at an affordable price.
-
Le Poivre d'Ane Restaurant 
Le Poivre d'Ane Restaurant
Delightful restaurant in the tourist trap area of Place Cardeurs
Open for dinner only, this restaurant is popular with the locals of Aix. French classics are on the menu, and all the dishes are beautifully presented.
Nightlife in Aix-en-Provence
Bars & Clubs in Aix-en-Provence
See all Bars & Clubs in Aix-en-Provence-
Le Scat Nightclub 
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.
-
Enquire 
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.
-
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 Aix-en-Provence
As a 'perched village', Menerbes sits on top of a rock 230m above sea level and has impressive views over the Luberon.
You'll find a car park at the bottom and then you must take a walk to explore the village, which is of course the best way to do it. The narrow streets follow the contours of the slim hilltop and have a historical ambience. Some of the houses you pass by are a bit ramshackle, others have clearly had some money spent on them.
Hiking trails abound in the Luberon and Menerbes has the luck of being right on one of them that will take you south to the hills of the Luberon. There are many more trails towards Bonnieux and the Foret des Cedres (also good for mountain biking).
You may also like to read about our Day Trip to Menerbes.
Things To Do in Aix-en-Provence
See all Things To Do in Aix-en-Provence-
Enquire 
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.
-
Enquire 
Indian Forest
Tree top adventures near the heart of Aix-en-Provence
An exciting path through the forest...but not on the ground! This tree top adventure will have you swinging from the branches and enjoying the sights and sounds of nature.
-
Sainte-Victoire Aquatic Centre, Venelles 
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.
-
Enquire 
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.
-
Enquire 
Aix Golf Course
6-hole course, driving range & putting green only five minutes from Aix
Open to all, this small golf club offers a clubhouse, restaurant, driving range, putting green and 6 holes. It is home to an academy that offers lessons at all levels.
-
Gardanne Swimming Pool, nr Aix-en-Provence 
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.
Watersports in Aix-en-Provence
Watersports in Aix-en-Provence
See all Watersports in Aix-en-Provence-
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.
-
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.
-
Raille Lake Watersports 
Raille Lake Watersports
Sailing, windsuring, watersports and more in this lake near Apt
Just to the north of Apt lies the Plan d'Eau de la Raille. You can practice all sorts of watersports here, with a sailing & windsurfing school. All equipment is available to rent - dinghies, windsurfs, pedal boats and kayaks.
-
Enquire 
La Bonde Lake, Cabrieres d'Aigues
Swimming, watersports & trails
Bonde Lake is situated in the heart of the Luberon and offers activities and relaxation for all the family.
-
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.
Holiday Rentals in Aix-en-Provence
Holiday Rentals in Aix-en-Provence
See all Holiday Rentals in Aix-en-Provence-
Visit website 
Le Mas Des Secrets Villa, Bonnieux
Wonderful holiday rental farmhouse in Bonnieux, in the Luberon’s golden triangle, with swimming pool and a lovely, unobstructed view of the countryside.
-
Visit website 
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.
-
Visit website 
Infiniment Bonnieux Villa, Bonnieux
This fully restored nineteenth-century farmhouse for holiday rental is located 3 km from Bonnieux, a lovely Provençal village perched in the foothills of the Luberon in Provence.
-
Visit website 
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.
-
Visit website 
Le Mas Douceur De Vivre Villa, Bonnieux
A few kilometers from the charming village of Bonnieux, enjoying a superb view of the Luberon, this tastefully restored old farmhouse will amaze you as soon as you arrive.
-
Visit website 
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
Hotels in Aix-en-Provence
See all Hotels in Aix-en-Provence-
Check Booking.com 
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.
-
Check Booking.com 
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.
-
Check Booking.com 
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.
-
Check Booking.com 
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.
-
Check Booking.com 
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.
-
Check Booking.com 
Aquabella Hotel
Centrally located hotel with access to Thermes Sextius Spa
The 3 star Aquabella hotel is centrally located in Aix en provence, offering easy access to the old town. The Thermes Sextius Spa is integrated into the hotel allowing for relaxing spa treatments.
How to get to Aix-en-Provence
Transfers for Provence
See all Transfers for Provence-
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 
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 
Marseille Taxis
Taxis in Marseille
300 vehicles at your disposal. All taxi services and transfers airports and Railway stations.
-
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 
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 Aix-en-Provence
Property for Sale in Aix-en-Provence
See all Property for Sale in Aix-en-Provence-
Visit website 
Villa for Sale | STZ250285
A Provencal villa at the foot of the village of Grimaud.
-
Visit website 
Villa for Sale | VAL240008
Set in the prestigious Domaine de Terre Blanche, Villa Augusta is the epitome of contemporary luxury.
-
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 | VAL240033
Elegant villa in the sought-after Terre Blanche estate
-
Visit website 
Villa for Sale | VAL250082
Nestled in the heart of the prestigious Terre Blanche estate, this superb property of approximately 428 m² of living space is set on one hectare of landscaped grounds, one of the largest on the estate, offering spectacular views of the surrounding hilltop villages and a rare living environment that is both luxurious and peaceful.
