Les Baux-de-Provence

Location

Les Baux-de-Provence is a small village located in the Alpilles mountains of the Provence region in southeastern France, about 25 kilometers south of Avignon. It is known for its stunning views, historic castle, and rich cultural heritage.

URL

https://www.lesbauxdeprovence.com/en/

Average Length of Visit

4-8 hours

History and Culture

Les Baux-de-Provence has a rich history dating back to Roman times, and the town's architecture and layout have remained largely unchanged since the Middle Ages. The town is known for its historic castle, the Château des Baux-de-Provence, which is a major tourist attraction. Les Baux-de-Provence is also known for its art and culture, including the annual Carrieres de Lumieres exhibition.

Attractions

• Château des Baux-de-Provence (a historic castle with stunning views of the surrounding countryside)
• Carrieres de Lumieres (an immersive multimedia exhibition held in a former quarry)
• Eglise St-Vincent (a historic church with beautiful frescoes)
• Musee Yves Brayer (an art museum featuring the works of local artist Yves Brayer)

Day-Trip Ideas

• Avignon
• Saint-Remy-de-Provence
• Arles

Transportation

The closest airport is Marseille Provence Airport, which is about a 50-minute drive away. Les Baux-de-Provence can also be accessed by train or bus from nearby cities like Avignon. Once in Les Baux-de-Provence, the town is small enough to explore on foot.

Accommodations

Accommodation options in Les Baux-de-Provence range from bed and breakfasts to small hotels and vacation rentals. Prices can be high during peak season (July-August), so it is recommended to book in advance.

Food and Drink

Les Baux-de-Provence is known for its cuisine, which includes local specialties like Ratatouille (a vegetable stew) and Tapenade (a spread made with olives and capers). Local drinks to try include the wines produced in the region.

Safety

Les Baux-de-Provence is generally considered a safe destination, with low crime rates. However, as with any tourist destination, be cautious of pickpocketing and scams such as fake ticket salespeople. It is recommended to use common sense and take necessary precautions.

Climate and Weather

Les Baux-de-Provence has a Mediterranean climate with mild winters and hot summers. The best time to visit is in the spring (April-June) or fall (September-November) when the weather is mild and the crowds are smaller.

Cost

Les Baux-de-Provence can be an expensive destination, especially during peak season. However, it is possible to visit on a budget if you plan ahead and choose more affordable options. Expect to spend around $100-150 per day, including food, transportation, and activities.

Currency

Euro (EUR)

ATMs are available in Les Baux-de-Provence, and credit cards are accepted in most places.

Primary Languages

French, but English is also widely spoken.

Miscellaneous

It is worth noting that some of the attractions in Les Baux-de-Provence, such as the Château des Baux-de-Provence, may not be fully accessible to visitors with mobility issues due to the hilly terrain and steep stairs.