Les Baux-de-Provence
The basics
In French a baou is a rocky outcrop, and you’ll see why the town got its name as soon as you approach the village. To make the view even more spectacular, the town is crowned with the ruins of a castle that dates from the 13th century. Though the upper town has only 20 or so year-round residents, over 1.5 million visitors a year come to Les Baux to explore the many historic buildings. For greater insight into the history of the village, you can join a private tour.
Things to know before you go
- The castle has narrow pathways and may not be suitable for people with limited mobility.
- If you’re planning to visit Carrières des Lumières, consider booking tickets in advance to avoid disappointment.
- Les Baux is close to Avignon and it’s possible to combine a trip to both places into the same day.
- The village is also the site where the aluminum ore Bauxite was first discovered, in 1821.
How to get there
Les Baux de Provence is halfway between Arles and Avignon in northern Provence. Regional buses connect all three places. Alternatively you can travel by car or join a guided tour that also includes transport.
Trip ideas
When to get there
Les Baux welcomes over a million tourists a year – which means the small village is often busy, especially during the height of summer. Consider visiting outside of high season or planning to arrive early to beat the crowds.
Walk in Van Gogh’s Footsteps in Arles
The historic town of Arles has plenty of attractions, such as a Roman amphitheater almost as impressive as the Colosseum and the Camargue natural park with its flamingos. Arles is most famous however as the place Van Gogh called home for a time, and where he painted some of his most iconic works including Bedroom in Arles and Café Terrace at Night.
- Montmajour Abbey (Abbaye de Montmajour)
- Church of St. Trophime (Eglise St-Trophime)
- Les Halles Market
- Rhône River
- Little Palace Museum (Musée du Petit Palais)
- Palace of the Popes (Palais des Papes)
- Rocher des Doms
- Avignon Cathedral (Cathedrale Notre-Dame des Doms)
- St. Benezet Bridge (Pont d'Avignon)
- Tavel
- Pont du Gard
- Lavender Museum (Musee de la Lavande)
- Châteauneuf-du-Pape
- Nimes
- Senanque Abbey (Abbaye Notre-Dame de Sénanque)