Stay : On the road to the medieval castles of the Alpilles
The history of the Alpilles goes back well before the Middle Ages. That said, this period, full of feats of arms, heroism and betrayals, remains a pivotal time for the region. Many vestiges remain from these troubled times. Among these, the castles erected on impregnable eagle peaks are today the delight of history lovers and tourists in general.
Summary of the stay
Best time to go
5 days
€€ - Charm and comfort
Detail of the stay : On the road to the medieval castles of the Alpilles - 5 days
Day 1: The citadel of Baux-de-Provence
Steps: Les Baux-De-Provence
In summer, come early to find a place. All the parking lots are not free. You can then visit the small cobbled streets of Les Baux-de-Provence and the many shops that are sheltered behind facades that are sometimes thousands of years old. You can have lunch in one of the many restaurants, some of which open onto panoramic terraces with incredible views. Among the must-sees, don't miss a visit to the quarry of lights and the artists' trail of the Val d'Enfer. Many walks in the surroundings are also possible.
CARRIÈRES DE LUMIÈRES
Day 2: The castle of Aureille
Located approximately halfway between Saint-Rémy and Salon, it is a ruin whose omnipotence can still be guessed. Perched at the top of a mound overlooking the village, the castle of Aureille has been standing guard since the 12th century. Unfortunately, this castle is a private property and cannot be visited. That said, one can enjoy the view and the lovers of historical vestiges will be able to discover many wonders in the village itself: facades, monuments, fountains... Beautiful walks are also to be made in the surroundings with the discovery of several mysterious caves.
Day 3: The castle of Tarascon
Steps: Tarascon
This one is not a ruin. In fact, it is doing quite well. Powerfully anchored on its foundations, the castle of Tarascon is an exceptional monument. It is a real challenge to time. Built in the 15th century on a rocky island overlooking the Rhone, it has watched over the city for centuries. Its visit alone could be a theme for a walk. But in addition, the castle houses the René d'Anjou art center which is a bridge between heritage and modern art. To complete the visit, after having lunch in one of the many restaurants of the city, you can go and discover the famous tarasque, the mythical animal symbol of the city.
CHÂTEAU DE TARASCON - CENTRE D'ART RENÉ D'ANJOU
Day 4: The castle of the counts of Provence
The city of Châteaurenard is proud of this castle which protects the population, from the top of the Griffon hill, since the 13th century. This ancient fortress of the Counts of Provence is classified as a historical monument. Guided tours allow you to discover the architecture of the place and the daily life of its former inhabitants. It houses, in addition to a permanent exhibition and many temporary exhibitions, a refuge of the LPO. In the surrounding area, the city offers excellent restaurants, several wine shops and a museum of agricultural tools.
Day 5: The castle of Queen Jeanne
On the road toEyguières, its martial silhouette, camped on a rocky eminence, dominates the landscape. The castle is in ruins, but these ruins are imposing and give off a strong presence. Visiting them could be the occasion of a nice country walk, with a picnic at the end. This castle and its small church, below, belonged to Queen Jeanne. Visiting the ruins is like stepping back in time a thousand years. A piece of advice, however, is to avoid the visit on hot days with strong mistral winds.
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