Well, let me tell you that after this trip, I couldn’t have been proved more wrong. My little nephews had the time of their lives in Provence. And I was amazed by all the incredible things we discovered along the way. Seeing the world with kids really brings places to life in a different way than I ever thought possible before. For anyone planning a trip to Provence and is considering bringing their kids, DO IT! It will be a different kind of trip, but one you and your kids will remember for the rest of your life!

Table Of Contents

1. Book a Vacation Home / Villa
2. Where to Stay with Kids in Provence
3. Don't Plan Anything on the First Day
4. Be Prepared with Snacks
5. Explore the Exciting Outdoor Markets
6. Practice some Elementary French
7. Go for a Provencal Picnic
8. Ride the Colourful Carousels
9. Take an Exciting E-bike Tour 
10. Canoe Along the Pont du Gard
11. Solve the Intrigue Dans la Ville
12. Step Back in Time inside the Rocher Mistral
13. Discover the Immersive History of the Pope's Palace in Avignon
14. Try out a Provençal Pastime
15. Hike into the Ochre Quarries of Roussillon
16. Admire the Flora and Fauna inside the Parc de Camargue
17. Discover the Ruins of the Château des Baux-de-Provence
18. Get Artsy at the Carrières des Lumières
19. Take a Workshop inside the Musée de la Lavande
20. Tips for Dining Out with Kids
21. Additional Tips for Visiting Provence with Kids

Book a Vacation Home / Villa

Before you even start to plan your trip itinerary, my one big recommendation for those travelling with kids is to book a vacation home rental. And one with a pool! Provence has some of the best rental properties anywhere in Europe. You can find literal castles and houses built from the ruins of 17th-century houses. Which is where we stayed. Our kids LOVED exploring the old house and playing in the huge olive grove we had access to outside. It was like a minature Disneyland for them. And a great way to entertain them without even leaving the property.

Go for a Home with a Pool

The addition of a private pool was also a huge bonus for us. The Summer weather in Provence can get pretty hot. And the pool was the perfect way to cool off after a long day. We were there in early May, and even then, the pool was handy for those surprisingly hot afternoons. The pool is also a fantastic way of tiring the kids out! After playing around for just an hour in the pool, the kids were tired enough to allow us to have a relaxing night in. Sitting on the terrace, looking out at the view and enjoying a glass of local wine, all while the kids are sound asleep. Pure perfection.

Vrbo is my favourite site for booking vacation rentals. And their search filter even allows you to select “private pool,” so you ensure you’re only looking at houses with this option.

Where to Stay with Kids in Provence

I recommend choosing your home base in a little village within walking distance of the town centre. This means you don’t always need to get in the car for dinner or groceries. But being in a smaller village has many benefits (primarily price) over staying in the larger, more touristy towns like Aix-en-Provence or Marseille. My personal recommendation is to look for places in the Luberon Valley. The Luberon is perfectly situated in Provence. It is pretty central, meaning you are within an hour of all the big sights and popular destinations. Long car rides are tough on the kids, so keeping them to a minimum was a big plus for our kids.

Small towns are also great as the kids felt very quickly that they got the lay of the land. It was nice to be able to take them to the same bakery or grocery store every day, and literally, by the second day, they could find their way on their own since there was just one road into town.

Don’t Plan Anything on the First Day

Unless you’re travelling from somewhere nearby in Europe, the first day you arrive is bound to be filled with jetlag. Children are even more susceptible to jet lag because their brain is less mature. So as much as you might want to get going right away with holiday fun, trust me and take it easy. You want to set yourself up for a good few weeks ahead; therefore, that first day is best spent relaxing. Let the kids and yourself adjust to the new time zone. Settle in, get comfy in your new digs and soak in the Provencal atmosphere.

If your holiday home has a pool, take the kids for a swim. This was a great way to wake our bodies up after a long flight. But an activity that didn’t involve leaving the home base. Another great bonus of the holiday home that we booked as they had lots of board games for the kids to play. Consider bringing your own deck, cards, or a small board game if your rental doesn’t provide any. These were great, leisurely activities for the kids to enjoy on the first day. And even more useful to keep them occupied on more relaxing afternoons when we stayed in.

Start Small

Instead of planning on heading out on some big adventure, choose a smaller one instead. Go out and explore your local village. And little else. Learn where all the different stores are in town. Check out where you can find your local boulangerie (bakery), the grocery store, and all the nearby restaurants. The kids loved exploring our little home-away-from-home. And were especially in awe of how old some of the buildings were. We even found a doorway with the date 1621 posted above the entrance. Which totally blew their socks off!

There was nothing inherently “popular” or “touristy” about our village, but that was one of the joys we found the kids enjoyed. They didn’t care about any top sights or popular attractions. To them, even these little discoveries made them feel like they were adventurers. On their first big mission of exploration!

Be Prepared with Snacks

The French have a completely different eating schedule than those of us in North America are used to. Eating dinner at 6pm is absolutely unheard of. Most restaurants don’t even open until 7:30 or 8pm. Lunchtime is less of an issue, but even cafes will close in the afternoon while they prepare for the dinner service.

To ensure you don’t have any grumpy kids on your hands, be prepared with lots of snacks. By dolling these out throughout the day, we found that our six and eight-year-olds could easily make it to a later dinner reservation. I loved shopping for unique snacks in the French grocery stores. It was so cool to see the unique options they had for sale. And often, we found many alternatives to the ones we had back home. But if you have really fussy eaters who might need something familiar, it’s always a good idea to bring some snacks from home, just in case.

What are the Best Kind of Snacks for Kids in Provence?

Our favourite snacks were honestly the fresh fruit we bought from the markets. They loved chowing down on melon any time of the day. And strawberries, apricots, blueberries, and cherries were the perfect on-the-go treat. We also would carry around some croissants that were perfect for bigger appetites. And those tiny Hairbo packets (whose factory is actually in Provence) we found in almost every little grocery store were ideal treats for well-behaved kids.

Explore the Exciting Outdoor Markets

One of the first outings I recommend doing with the kids upon arriving in Provence is hitting a local market. Preferably one near your home base. This is the best way to introduce the kids to exploring a new city before diving into a big touristy town. I always recommend going to one of the smaller markets over the busy ones in larger cities. While the Sunday Market in Isle-sure-la-Sorgue is amazing, it can be overwhelming with so many people. And the little ones are bound to get swallowed up by the big crowds. 

Interacting with the Locals

And don’t think the smaller markets are anything to look down on. Even the most humble market in Provence is a fantastic place for kids. Here they can learn, just by looking, about all the different kinds of Provencal produce. Foods are unique to this part of the country. 

And there will be a lot of opportunities for them to interact with the local vendors. In my experience, the vendors loved interacting with kids. They would come out from behind their booths and stalls to show off their produce. They would even slice into melons and give them apricots to try! I think the kids ate more samples than real meals throughout the trip! One of their favourite finds was a lovely woman who made freshly pressed apple juice from her nearby orchard. The kids adored her version of “special apple juice!“

And our kids really got a kick out of being in charge of the cash and doing all our transactions. They loved working out the math and studying the different coins and bills we would use in the market. In Canada, cash is also becoming almost obsolete, so that was a novelty all in itself.

Practice some Elementary French

The markets are a great place for older children to practice any French they might have learned for the trip. I always recommend to my adult readers the importance of speaking even the smallest bit of the local language when visiting a new country. It’s amazing how saying “bonjour” can change how the locals greet you. And even if all your kids learn is this one word, it really goes a long way! 

Go for a Provencal Picnic

One way we got the kids engaged with a visit to the market was to help us pick up all the different elements for a little picnic. I created a scavenger hunt printout where the kids could mark off each element of the picnic as we went along until we had everything we needed for a beautiful Provencal spread! Included in our checklist were the following:

• Saucisson (cured sausage) 
• Baguettes
• Cheese
• Fruit (whatever was in season)
• Jam
• Juice
• Nuts
• And Olives (for the adults, of course)
• Chicken and Fries/Potatoes (almost all markets have rotisserie chicken cooked and ready to eat!)

Provence is chock-o-bloc with incredible picnicking options. And, of course, you can seek out those iconic viewpoints and vistas that make for the most picturesque picnic spots. But we often preferred whatever was close by to the markets. This meant we could eat up quickly as the kids were starving after salivating at the food in the market all morning. We often packed a small, foldable picnic blanket, but often we ended up in the park.

The parks in Provence were exceptional. The one in Saint-Remy has playscapes designed to look like owls, bats, and all different animals! And best of all, they had big tables for us to eat at. So the kids could run around and play after eating while the adults just lounged around and casually snacked on all the collections of goods we found that day.

Ride the Colourful Carousels

Another one of the delights of Provencal towns is the Carousels. You could find these carousels open on Market days and weekends in so many cities, not just the big tourist ones. Tickets to ride the carousels were inexpensive. These aren’t tourist traps but something the locals rely on to entertain their kids. The French claim to have invented the carousel. Saying it is derived from Louis XIV’s jousting competitions.

And while the origins of the first carousel might be contested, French engineer and inventor Charles D. W. Garnier patented the first steam-powered carousel in 1861. These French carousels often showcased beautiful handcrafted wooden horses, intricate designs, and ornate decorations, adding to their allure. And the kids LOVE them. So be sure to check them out while you’re in town.

Take an Exciting E-bike Tour 

Now that we’ve settled into life in Provence, it’s time for a real adventure! One of the best ways to explore the stunning Provencal landscape is on a bike. There is nothing like being able to smell the countryside, stop easily on the side of the road to soak up a gorgeous view or just admire the changing scenery without being obscured behind car windows. But if you’re like me, you can’t imagine how people possibly have the strength to bike up those steep hills to reach those picturesque perched villages. Well, the answer is an e-bike. 

What is an E-bike?

An e-bike, short for electric bike, is a bicycle that is equipped with an electric motor. It combines traditional pedal power with this motor to provide varying levels of assistance, depending on the rider’s preference. Whenever you feel like you need it, you can turn up and down the motor to assist with propulsion. There was no better feeling when the hill would start to get steep than the feeling of the motor kicking and your bike simply soaring like it was nothing up the steep hills.

Renting e-Bike in Provence

We knew the kids would love this activity, and happily, we found a company that could accommodate the kids. Sun-E-Bike, at their location in Bonnieux, set us up with a bike trailer for the 6-year-old. The trailer was so roomy, and we referred to it as his personal Provencal chariot.

The older 8-year-old is really tall for his age, so he was above the weight limit for the child trailer. Thankfully, even though I hadn’t considered this, they quickly sorted us out with a tandem bike he could ride with his dad. Riding the tandem bike was great since the kid didn’t have to do any work. But he got to experience the entire trip just like the rest of us! If your child is going to ride tandem, even if they don’t need to make much of an effort, they must know how to ride a bike. That way, they feel comfortable peddling and keeping their balance on the back of the bike. The kids had a BLAST on the ride! The little one who rode in the trailer brought his colouring books and wasn’t bored every minute.

Going with a Guide

We also booked a guide for the day (or an accompanist, as listed on their site), who was one of the best parts of the experience. Having her lead us, we didn’t need to worry about using a map or ensuring we were on the right road. Instead, we just followed behind her like a flock of sheep.

We rode an astonishing 37km without breaking a sweat! Passing through all different small hilltowns and perched villages. The kids would scream in excitement as we saw various animals on the side of the road. And they enjoyed spotting the colourful flowers in bloom as we went. We even found a roadside cherry grove and snacked on fresh cherries plucked right from the tree! We stopped at a boulangerie to pick up sandwiches and drinks and picnicked under the plane trees. Definitely make reservations in advance. We had already done so, but when we showed up, I saw a few people get turned away who didn’t.

Canoe Along the Pont du Gard

The Pont du Gard is a remarkable ancient Roman aqueduct located near the city of Nîmes. It is considered one of the most well-preserved and impressive examples of Roman engineering and architecture anywhere in the world. The Pont du Gard was crucial in providing fresh water to Nîmes during the Roman period. It remained in use for centuries until the fall of the Roman Empire. Over time, the aqueduct system fell into disrepair, but the Pont itself survived relatively intact. 

Introducing kids to these Roman sights is a fantastic way of making history come alive. This structure is unchanged from when it was first built, and it really makes you feel like you’ve gone back in time without a trace of the modern world around you.

Renting a Canoe along the Gardon River

And while visiting the historic site and the nearby museum is a great option for the kids, an even better way to explore the Pont du Gard is along the water. We rented canoes from Canoe Collias, just 15 minutes from the Pont du Gard historic site. You can park your car in their parking lot, where you pick up your rental canoes. 

Although called “canoes,” the boats were more like a cross between a canoe and a kayak. They were sturdy, made of heavy plastic, and used double-sided ores to paddle along the river. After signing your rental agreement, a member of the Collias crew will help sit you and the kids for lifejackets and give you a very short crash course on how to paddle down the river. If someone in your group has some experience in canoeing, this will be a big plus since most of us were newbies and probably could have used a little more guidance. But luckily, my dad knew what he was doing, so with a few lessons from him, we were quickly on our way. The kids sat in a three-person canoe, primarily controlled by their dad at the back. The rest of us sat in two-person canoes. 

Courses along the Gardon River

We opted for the 8km Pont du Gard course. This was rated as a beginner course which takes about two hours to complete without stopping. The journey took us 2-hours, but that was going at a pretty fast pace. We arrived at the end of the day and needed to hustle to ensure we arrived at the pickup spot by 5pm, their last pickup of the day. I would advise leaving yourself 3 hours or more for your journey. This way, you can take ample breaks along the way. 

You canoe down the Gardon River, passing through the massive Gorges Des Gardon. This canyon was carved out by the river Gardon, and this spectacular landscape is one of France’s most impressive geological sites. From the start of the course, you will canoe for about an hour and a half before passing right underneath the enormous three-tiered Pont du Gard. After passing under the Pont du Gard, you continue for about 30 additional minutes, where you will spot the endpoint. From here, you are met by a member of the Collins crew who drives you back to your car. This was a huge plus, as you don’t need to worry about paddling back.

Picnic on the Gardon

Each canoe is paired with a watertight barrel to place your belongings inside. If you plan in advance, you can aim to bring some picnic food and supplies. That way, when you arrive at the stunning Pont du Gard viewpoint, you can simply pull your canoe over to the side of the river and stop for lunch. There is also a small beach where you can swim if the weather is warm enough! A great way to cool down. Just be sure your canoe doesn’t float away…

The kids could do their fair share of paddling, but their favourite part of the experience was just being on the water. They loved spotting the different flora and fauna we came across. There were grey herons, eagles flying overhead, beavers nibbling wood offshore and lots of perch and pike swimming under our feet. And although our arms were certainly tired at the end of the journey, it had all been worth it for our amazing experiences along the way. Be SURE to wear lots of sunscreen and large-brimmed hats to keep the sun off. Bring lots of water and pack some towels in the watertight barrel to dry off if you get wet.

Prices & Info

Location: 194 Chemin St Privat | 30210 Collias (with Private parking, Toilettes and changing rooms)
Prices: 25€/Adult | 19€/Young Adults from 13 to 17 years old | 13€/children from 6 to 12 years

Solve the Intrigue Dans la Ville

My nephews love a good scavenger hunt! They are obsessed with solving riddles and figuring out context clues. So when I came across Intrigue Dans la Ville, I couldn’t believe such a perfect thing existed in Provence. “Intrigue dans la ville” is a game designed for families that offer entertaining and educational puzzles set within various Provencal villages. Your mission, should you choose to accept it, revolves around a fictional historical crime in the village. You receive a suspects pack with beautifully illustrated pictures of the people suspected of the crime. You must explore a town to crack the mystery and solve the various game puzzles. Hidden in plain sight are clues. And throughout the game, you will learn more about the town’s history. As you unravel the game’s various enigmas. 

Where can you Buy Intrigue de Ville?

You can pick up the game package for Intrigue de Ville at the Tourist Information Centre in whichever village you choose to explore. There are over 22 destinations across Provence where you can find unique puzzles. Each with its own storyline and investigation unique to the specific city. Right now, only two spots offer an English version of the game; Vaison-La-Romaine and Avignon. You can check their website to find the participating villages’ list. 

The game cost €12, but I would have paid twice as much! This wasn’t some cheap printed PDF. The game came in an adorable cloth pouch and contained a detective booklet, an illustrated set of suspect cards, a historical town map, a personalized pencil, and a letter introducing the mission to the players. The additional contents of each game are different depending on where you play. In one town, we received a mirror required to solve different puzzles. And your kids even get a little button that designates them as investigators!

You can take the game at your own pace, but we found that with breaks for food and exploring, we spent about 3 hours playing. Once you complete the game, you discover the guilty suspect. And reveal a three-digit code. You then return to the tourist office and open a safe using the 3-digit code to see if you captured the correct suspect. If you solve it correctly, your kids will get a certificate as a souvenir! If the tourist office is closed when you are finished, you can always punch in the code online to see if you got the right answer.

Do You Need to be able to Read French to Play?

As mentioned above, the game is currently only available in English in two cities in Provence. The rest of the cities only have French versions available. We did two different investigations, one in Saint-Remy and one in Merindol. Both my brother and I took French immersion in school, but it’s been ages since we read French daily. So while we knew how to read some French, we mainly used Google Translate‘s Google Lens function to translate the live text. This worked absolutely perfectly! Albeit, maybe it took us a bit more time than if we had an English version.

If you happen to be in a town where they only have the French version, don’t let that put you off. If you have mobile data, you can definitely get by using Google Translate. But if you want to do the English version, that just gives you more direction of where to visit. If you have kids aged +6, this is an absolute must!

Step Back in Time inside the Rocher Mistral

One of the most exciting and undiscovered things you can do with your kids is to take them to the Rocher Mistral. When I first found a brochure on this park, I was a bit skeptical. I hadn’t heard anything about it anywhere online and had been doing extensive research. Turns out, deep in the heart of Provence, is a historical park specifically for kids! 

Rocher Mistral is located inside the thousand-year-old castle of La Barben. The ancient castle was only open for adult, historical guided tours for years. But in 2021, the castle was transformed into a children’s theme park where your kids can journey through time! One of the reasons I think this park is less popular with tourists is because the park is primarily geared towards French speakers. But for English-speaking customers, you can pick up specific flyers at the entrance to the park with all the information and maps in English! Each of the shows also has a sign in front explaining the story.

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New for 2023, there are audio guides available in English and German on request! And even without understanding the language, the action speaks for itself for the most part. I would just avoid the Puppet show or Theatrical Stage Shows, are these are primarily speaking performances. Stick with the immersive experiences, stunt shows and exploration throughout the castle grounds.

There are three different kinds of admission tickets you can purchase. You can buy a ticket for a day visit or the nighttime show. There are also combination tickets that allow you to experience an entire day’s worth of activities.

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The Shows 

During the day, you can experience ancient revolts and booming cannon fire. From exhilarating stunt shows and sword fights to comedic performances and mesmerizing dance routines. The castle is an incredible hub of amusement!

As twilight descends upon the castle of La Barben, a magical hour dawns. Their 2023 immersive light show plunges you into a Napoleonic epic. At dusk, at the foot of the castle in the magnificent French-style gardens, stories and figures of the past come to life! The set design, sound and lighting effects are almost on par with Disneyland-like experiences.

Each performance or walkthrough is about 20 minutes long. Actors tell the stories of the castle and of Provence through these performances. All the actors speak French, but there are English cards outside the attractions that give you an overview of the performance you’ll see.

You can also tour various historical parts of the castle, including the castle apartments, the chapel and the old kitchen. Here you’ll find original artifacts, furniture and decor in the family for over 500 years!

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What is there to Eat?

For those wanting to spend the day at the castle, they allow you to bring in your own food. But there is also a restaurant inside called the Auberge Daudet (reservations recommended) and a more casual marketplace called La Guinguette de Marius, where you can find many kid-friendly meals. The food is excellent quality and very reasonably priced.

There is also an adorable Provençal market selling products from local craftsmen in the marketplace. These producers are heirs to centuries-old know-how! There is also a small traditional French carousel which kids can ride for free. If you have some downtime, there is also a boules field where kids can try their hand at this Provençal game.

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Hours & Admission

Location: Chemin de la Baou, La Barben, France
Hours: Open April-November. Check their website for the most up-to-date schedule of events. Close through the week during the off-season.

Admission: Day Ticket: Adults 25€ (advance purchase) / 28€ | Children 6-12 19€ (advance purchase) / 22€ | Children under 5 are FREE | Night Ticket: Adults 19€ (advance purchase) / 22€ | Children 6-12 15€ (advance purchase) / 18€ | Children under 5 are FREE | Day + Night Ticket: Adults 36€ (advance purchase) / 39€ | Children 6-12 26€ (advance purchase) / 29€ | Children under 5 are FREE

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Discover the Immersive History of the Pope’s Palace in Avignon

Throughout my travels, I’ve seen my fair share of kids looking confused and bored in museums. And I was worried that although we didn’t have many museums on the list, I wanted them to have fun at the ones we did visit. Thankfully the Pope’s Palace in Avignon, also known as the Palais des Papes, has some of the most interesting technology to enhance the kid’s experience.

The Pope’s Palace is the largest Gothic Palace in Europe! Surrounding the Palace is an imposing fortress-like structure that the kids really got a kick out of. They felt like they were sneaking into a well-fortified castle! Many people don’t even know that the Pope ruled not in Rome but in Avignon for over 70 years! It all started when Pope Clement V, a Frenchman, was elected Pope in 1305. He preferred to reside in France rather than Rome, as he had close ties with the French monarchy. Avignon was a Papal State whose territories were directly controlled by the Pope.

The History of the Pope’s Palace

The construction of the Palace began in 1335 and took about twenty years to complete. Skilled architects and craftsmen worked hard to create a stunning palace that would reflect the power and importance of the Pope. The Palace is enormous, with towering walls and majestic towers. It was home to nine different popes and was designed like a fortress to impress and protect them. The Palace consisted of numerous rooms and chambers that served various purposes, including residential areas for the popes, administrative offices, ceremonial halls, chapels, and more.

When the Papacy moved back to Rome in 1377, the Palace remained, but as the years went by and it remained unused, it began to deteriorate. During the French Revolution in 1789, revolutionary forces seized and sacked the castle. This meant that the once-powerful castle’s grandeur was gone, leaving nothing but an empty shell.

HistoPads

Today, these rooms are still void of decorations. Making it a rather austere experience. And difficult for adults, let alone kids, to understand how this place would have once brought visitors a sense of awe and intimidation. But thanks to their new HistoPad technology, history comes to life all around this. The HistoPad is a digital tablet that enhances the immersive experience of exploring the Palace of the Popes in Avignon. 

The HistoPad offers augmented reality and multimedia immersion, allowing visitors to visualize the Palace as it was in the 14th century. It provides virtual visits to nine main rooms with audio commentaries, musical illustrations, text labels, and zoom capabilities to examine details. Geolocation beacons trigger the HistoPad in each room, offering animated maps for orientation. Additionally, there is a fun and interactive treasure hunt for younger kids, with virtual objects and hidden coins around the different rooms around the castle. This mini-game was something the kids loved and made them more actively engage with the stories they were learning.

Admission and Hours

The Palais des Papes is open every day, all year round. From Jan-Feb 10h – 17h | From Feb-March 10h – 18h | From March -end of May 9h – 19h | From June-Dec 10h – 17h | From end of Dec. 10h – 18h
Tickets: Adults €12 | Children (8-17 years old) €6.50 | Kids under 8 are FREE

Try out a Provençal Pastime

Pétanque, also known as boules, is probably the sport that Provence is best known for. In North America, we call it bocce. But this game is more leisurely and languid than exhausting. In every town, even the smallest village, you’ll find the Boulodrome. The boulodrome is a large, flat, sandy or gravelly area, usually under shady trees. It’s here where locals gather to play their daily round of boules. The game is fairly simple, making it perfect for kids to learn and play!

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How to Play Boules

The game can be played one-on-one (called “tête-à-tête”), in teams of two players each (known as “doublets”), or in teams of three players each (called “triplets”). The game begins when a player from one team throws “the jack” (a smaller ball, usually in a different colour) to a desired location in the playing area. The aim of the game is to get your large metal balls (the boules) closest to the jack to score points. The same player who threw the jack throws their first metal ball. Attempting to get it as close to the jack as possible. The opposing team member then tries to throw their ball closer to the jack or to knock the opponent’s ball away.

The game continues with alternating throws between the teams until all the balls have been thrown. Points are awarded to the team with the ball closest to the jack. In some game variations, additional points can be scored for each ball of the same team closer to the jack than any of the opponent’s balls.

Where to Play Boules

If you’re staying in a holiday rental home, be sure to ask in advance if they have a boules or a Petanque set in the house that you can borrow throughout your stay. Some tourist offices also rent them out in larger cities. But if you head down to the local Boulodrome, you might also find that locals will happily invite you to play along with them, which is great fun! This kind of game can easily be played without a shared language. And it’s a fantastic way to meet your neighbours.

If you’d prefer to make a day of it, there are some great guided experiences around Provence where you can play boules with a professional! You will not only play the game but also learn all about the sport’s history and how to become a master of the sport! Food and drink (pastis for the adults) are served alongside the game, and a commemorative trophy will be offered to the winning team. It’s a great way to really get immersed into Provencal recreation.

Hike into the Ochre Quarries of Roussillon

The city of Roussillon is nestled in the beautiful countryside of the Luberon. But this city really sets itself apart from the rest as it is surrounded by these remarkable ochre cliffs. These magnificent geological formations showcase vivid colours ranging from deep reds to vibrant yellows, creating a surreal and enchanting environment. One of the best ways to get up close to these amazing formations is by hiking along the “Sentier des Ocres,” the site of the former ochre quarries of Roussillon.

They call it a “hike,” but it’s much more of a leisurely walk. There are two routes, the short walk, which takes 35 minutes and the long walk, which takes around 50 minutes. There is an entry fee of 2.50€ per person to walk through the Sentier des Ocres, but you don’t need to make reservations in advance. The trail is open every day from February to December. As you walk along, stop with the kids and read the various interpretation boards you pass by. Each one explains the geological landscapes, how these unique formations were made, and how the quarries mined them for their rich materials.

After your short hike, you should head into the town. Picnics are prohibited along the trail, so a trip into town is a great place to grab something to eat. In addition, the little village is a charming and welcoming place. With houses painted the same ochre colours as the hillsides you just explored. After lunch, stroll through the vibrant alleys, where kids can discover unique artisan crafts and local products made with the clay they found in the quarries.

Admire the Flora and Fauna inside the Parc de Camargue

The Parc de Camargue, or the Camargue Regional Natural Park, is a vast natural reserve and one of Europe’s largest river deltas. The area is renowned for its unique ecosystem, rich biodiversity, and cultural heritage. Making a day trip to the Camargue is a great idea for kids because there are many different things to do.

One of the most popular activities is Horseback Riding. The Camargue is famous for its white horses. These horses are a distinct breed known for their strength, agility, and beautiful white coat. Riding these magnificent horses through the marshlands and open plains of the park can be a thrilling experience for children. Be sure to book these tours in advance and drive directly to the farm, where you’ll meet your guide.

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Le Parc Ornithologique de Pont de Gau

If you prefer something more laid back, you can simply walk along the boardwalk inside the park to observe the wildlife on foot. The park has many animal species, including the iconic pink flamingos, herons, egrets, and many other migratory birds. Families can bring binoculars and make their way to various designated observation points to see if they can spot different birds scattered throughout the park.

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Discover the Ruins of the Château des Baux-de-Provence

Perched atop a rocky outcrop in the Alpilles mountains, watching over Provence, are the great ruins of the Château des Baux-de-Provence. Entering this medieval fortress is like stepping into a world frozen in time. Your kids can run around this amazing 10th-century castle, sneak into the dungeons, explore the ancient castle chapel, walk around the crumbling Saracen Tower and learn about the old troglodyte houses.

From the ramparts, you can gaze out over the vast Provençal landscape, stretching as far as the eye can see. The panorama lets you take in the rolling hills, vineyards, olive groves, and quaint villages. Creating a breathtaking backdrop that adds to the castle’s allure. Because the castle is open to the air, lacking roped-off areas that you might expect in a normal museum, it feels like you are an explorer discovering these ruins. Instead of a load of placards, your admission includes an audio guide which gives you live commentary on the history of the Château. And more specific information about the Lords of Baux and what life would have looked like in the Middle Ages inside the castle.

Special Events & Activities

During the summer and holidays, the castle holds different special events for kids. This includes archery lessors, war machine demonstrations, a stonecutter workshop and even a working blacksmith. These special activities are included if you buy the activities admission ticket.

Throughout the year, there is also an Escape Game. This game teaches kids all about the history of Château des Baux-de-Provence while having fun! In teams of 2 to 6 people, you lead the investigation and explore the remains of the castle. You must discover the mysteries surrounding the last will and testament of the Princess of Les Baux. Kids solve a series of riddles and challenges to solve the mystery. Although they say it’s age +12, with some adult help, even younger kids will be able to participate in the game! The game costs an additional €5 in addition to the entrance ticket.

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Hours and Admission

The Château des Baux is open every day, all year round. January, February, November, December: 10am-5pm | March, October: 9:30 am-6pm | April, May, June, September: 9am-7pm | July and August: 9am-7.30pm
Admission: Adults €8 without special activities €10 with special activities | Seniors €7 without special activities €9 with special activities | Children (7-17 years old) €6 without special activities €8 with special activities | Free for children under the age of 7

Get Artsy at the Carrières des Lumières

Located essentially right underneath the Castle of Les-Baux is an old limestone quarry that has been transformed into an immersive art installation called the Carrières des Lumières. The dark and atmospheric stone walls, once left abandoned, have been adapted into a multimedia exhibition space where art, technology, and music combine to create an awe-inspiring audiovisual spectacle.

This kind of immersive art had a huge boom during the pandemic, and now we seem oversaturated by the model. But the Carrières des Lumières was one of the first places to create this kind of experience in 2012. They were some of the first to invent these state-of-the-art projections that could bring famous artworks to life. Enveloping the entire space in a mesmerizing display of colours, shapes, and movement. From Van Gogh’s vibrant paintings to Monet’s impressionistic masterpieces, the art comes alive in a dynamic and engaging way.

The vibrant visuals are paired with captivating music, which is fantastic for kids. Capturing their attention and sparking their imagination. The kids can run around as they please without being forced to sit still or stay in one place. The more you explore the dynamic views, the more you can understand the art and the space. This is a fantastic way to get kids to appreciate the beauty and significance of renowned paintings in a fun and accessible way.

In 2023, they even introduced the ‘World of TinTin‘ to Les Baux. These charming illustrated cartoons come to life inside the quarry, where your kids can literally step into the fantasy world of Hergé, one of the world’s greatest cartoonists.

Hours and Admission

Hours: The Carrières des Lumières are open every day, including public holidays. January, November, and December: 10am-6pm | February and March: 9.30am-6pm | April, May, June, September, October: 9.30am-7pm | July and August: 9am-7.30pm 

Because the Carrières des Lumières is so close to Les-Baux Castle, you can buy a combination ticket that gets you into both spaces at a discount.
Combination Ticket Price: Adults €18 without special activities €20 with special activities | Seniors €16,5 without special activities €18,5 with special activities | Children & Young Adults (7-25 years old) €14 without special activities €16 with special activities | Children under 7 are FREE
Carrières des Lumières ONLY Price: Adults €14,5 | Seniors €13,5 | Children and Young adults (7-25 years old) €12

Take a Workshop inside the Musée de la Lavande

There is no more iconic flower (and scent) that links your travel memories to Provence more than lavender. Deep in the heart of the lavender country, you’ll find the Musée de la Lavande. This museum offers visitors a captivating journey into the history of lavender, its cultivation, and its various uses over the years. It also houses a small exhibition space that showcases lavender’s cultural significance in Provence. From the minute you arrive at the museum, you’ll be swallowed up by the soothing scent of lavender. Visiting the museum during the summertime is also a great way to give your kids the opportunity to get up close to this brilliant plant!

Lavender Workshops

And while adults might love the museum, some kids might be slightly less enthused. But, recently, the museum has introduced workshops for kids to help them get hands-on with using and understanding the power of lavender. All workshops require general admission into the museum, although kids under 10 are FREE.

The most accessible program for all ages is their personalized lavender sachet workshop. This activity is so much fun. Each child gets to choose their own fabric wrapping to create their sachet. Then they can create a personalized mix of aromatic herbs to fill the sachet. Of course, lavender is the star scent, but they can mix in others like mint, rosemary, thyme and basil. These are great for kids of all ages but more suited to younger children.

But what I was most excited about was the Lavender Scented watercolour workshop! The museum has its own watercolours that have been infused with lavender perfume! These were created exclusively by the Conservatoire des Ocres de Roussillon. You can spend up to an hour painting, and an artist is on hand to guide you through the process. Painting and artistry have such a strong connection to Provence, and being able to paint scented with the very essence of Provence is a truly magical experience.

Hours and Admission

The Museum is Open every day | Museum Admission: Adults €8 | Students €7 | Seniors €7 | Children & Young Adults (11-16 years-old) | Children under 10 are FREE

Watercolour Workshops: Tuesdays and Sundays from April to May and July to September Price: Additional €3 | Lavender Sachets Workshop: Every day except Friday, July to August Price: Additional €4

Tips for Dining Out with Kids

I have an entire post dedicated to eating out with kids in Provence. If you’re interested, head over there to read about our experiences and essential tips for enjoying Provencal cuisine with the kids! But here are the key takeaways:

• Look for the word “menu enfant,” which translates to “kids menu,” usually found at the bottom of the regular menu
• If there is no kid’s menu, ask politely if it’s possible to get a simplified version of something from the regular menu (ex., roast chicken but without sauce or spices)
• Bring a colouring book or small activity to entertain them over long dinners
• Try to get a seat outside so the kids can go for a walk if they get antsy
• Download Google Translate to help translate French-only menus to help your kids order something they will enjoy

Additional Tips for Visiting Provence with Kids

Where to Find Public Bathrooms

While there are public bathrooms in Provence, frequently, they are not free to use. One of the most popular options in small Provencal towns is “sanisettes.” These silver pods are self-cleaning and, therefore, useful in small towns as they do not require a cleaning staff. But they are not free. They cost anywhere from €0.20 to €1. They all require you to pay in small coins, so always keep some with you, as our kids frequently have to use these bathrooms.

Be sure to always carry a small package of Kleenex with you because often, even the free public washrooms are out of toilet paper, especially in areas far out in the countryside.

You may have heard you can’t always flush loo paper in France. This is only true of homes that still use septic tanks, typical of homes in the countryside.

You can always use the washrooms inside a cafe, but order coffee before asking to use the bathroom. Usually, this will only set you back a few euros, and these cafes are plentiful around Provence.

Are Cities Stroller Friendly?

When we visited Provence, our kids were old enough to walk around without assistance. But, we noted that Provence, like many older European cities, is not stroller-friendly. Many small towns are covered in beautiful cobblestone roads and alleys, which are difficult to traverse with a stroller. Making the rider inside subject to a very bumpy ride. A great alternative that many parents we ran into recommended was a baby carrier or a sling instead of a stroller. Obviously, strollers are required sometimes. But if you can get away with the sling or carrier most of the time, you’ll find it a little easier to get around.

If you opt to bring a stroller, we saw that the lightweight umbrella strollers were slightly nimble on the cobbles and could easily fold up in compact and overcrowded places. Many historical sights prohibit strollers, so be prepared to leave them unattended outside the entrance if you bring them along.

Travelling the world with kids opens their eyes to so many different experiences. But it also creates a world of new adventures for yourself as well! My travels around Provence were absolutely enhanced by going with the kids. Teaching the kids about French culture and traditions brought me so much joy. And it made my heart soar to see them becoming curious adventurers who can step out of their comfort zone, try new foods, learn new languages (or at least a few words) and create last memories to look back on for years.

Let me know if you’re planning a trip to Provence with your kids and any questions you might have!

Happy Travels, Adventurers

The post The Ultimate Guide To Exploring the Charms of Provence with Kids first appeared on The Creative Adventurer.

Access and Admission

The Carrières de Lumières is located 800 m from the Château des Baux-de-Provence, 15 km north-east of Arles and 30 km south of Avignon. You can access it By road on the A7 motorway (exit Avignon), A9 (Nîmes) and A54 (Baux-de-Provence). The Carrières are less than 10 minutes walk from the village of Les Baux-de-Provence, so you can easily get there if you are parked near the village.

Tickets for the Carrières de Lumières can be purchased as a combined ticket with your entry to the castle. The combined ticket costs €17.5 for adults, €16 for seniors, €13.5 for children & students and €50 for families (2 adults and 2 children). Kids under 7 are free.

If you are looking just to see the Immersive Exhibition, tickets are €14 for adults, €13 for seniors, €11.5 for children and students, €39.5 for families (for 2 adults and 2 children) Kids under 7 are free.

The Immersive Experience

The show changes every year but always combines famous paintings from a particular artist with modern music and dynamic light projections which encapsulate the entire room into a mesmerizing exhibit. There are over 2,000 digital images projected onto over 7,000 m2 inside the quarry. 

The projections cover the entire space from floor to ceiling. Viewers can walk around the whole time as different parts of the quarry display different designs and experiences. But if you want to relax you can find one of the many benches or sitting areas and simply sit to enjoy the show. The program is around 20-30 minutes long but I would advise staying for at least 2 cycles to make sure you experience all different aspects of the exhibit from various parts of the quarry.

The Artists

When we visited the show on display featured artworks from Bosch, Brueghel and Arcimboldo. The show featured a fantastical musical score by Luca Longobardi using music from Led Zeppelin. The combination of the antiquated artworks with modern music was one of the most innovative parts of the show.

Bosch, Brueghel and Arcimboldo were all artists who focused on the shifting nature of good and evil. Carefully curated pieces all combine together to create a seamless story of the variant nature of humanity. 

In addition to modern music, the paintings themselves are animated and move as they are being projected. This brings these paintings to life in a way they’ve never been seen before. Even the slightest movement turns brings history to life.

Hieronymus Bosch’s paintings which are so detailed are blown up larger than life along the walls and ceilings. From this perspective, you can inspect the works close up. You’ll discover elements of the paintings you’ve never been able to see before. Check the website to see the theme they are presented this year. Or just show up and let yourself be surprised! No matter who the artist is, the love and passion the curators have for transforming the space and bringing art into people’s lives in a new perspective is always an absolute treat.

Les-Baux is a place you cannot skip on your travels through Provence! And a visit to see the Carrières de Lumières makes it all the more special. I hope you get the chance to experience everything this region has to offer for yourself.

Happy Travels, Adventurers

The post Why You NEED to Visit the AMAZING Carrières de Lumières in Les Baux first appeared on The Creative Adventurer.

Table Of Contents

1. History
2. Where to Stay
   • Hotel Le Madaleno $
   • Le Mas Des Carassins Hotel $$
   • Chateau De Roussan $$$
3. Access
4. Walking Tour
   • Santon Museum
   • Eyguieres Gate
   • Les Baux Jus
   • Manville Mansion City Hall
   • Yves Brayer Museum
   • Place St. Vincent
   • St. Vincent Church
   • The Church Of The Penitents
   • Une Table Au Soleil
5. The Castle of Les Baux
   • The Chapel Of Saint Blaise
   • Quiqueran Hospital
   • The Troglodyte Houses
   • The Sarrasine Tower
   • Dovecote Wall
   • The First Courtyard
   • The Keep
6. Carrières de Lumières

History

Les Baux-de-Provence has been home to the people of France as far back as 6000 BC. But it wasn’t until the Middle Ages that the town became a military stronghold for the surrounding villages. The original fortress was built in the 11th-13th century. It became known all over France as one of the most formidable citadels in the country. Today, the ruins of the castle and the tiny village below are popular tourist destinations. Visit this living museum to take a peek into Provence’s past.

Where to Stay

Les-Baux has dozens of quaint little hotels and chateaus where you can lay your head for a night. Or for the entirety of your stay in Provence if you like! Often you can find the most charming options outside the most popular cities. If you have a car and are heading around Provence, consider spending a night or two in Les-Baux.

Hotel Le Madaleno $

Hotel Le Madaleno is extremely reasonably priced for the historic and luxurious setting! Its red-painted facade with green shudders and ivy-covered exterior makes it a joy to look at from its crystal-clear swimming pool. Since the historic part of Les-Baux closes before dinner, most hotels offer their own dinner service. Dining alfresco, under the fairy lights, is one of the best parts of this hotel stay. Double rooms range from €79 – €99. Book through their website and save yourself 5%!

Le Mas Des Carassins Hotel $$

Le Mas Des Carassins in an oasis in Saint Remy, just a few minutes from Les-Baux. The hotel is located inside an old stone farmhouse built in the 19th century. The private grounds, large swimming pool and lush gardens nestled in the tree-lined hillside all act as a stunning backdrop. Standard Rooms go for €112 – €152. If you’re looking for something more opulent and large, book yourself a suite, perfect for a week-long stay.

 

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Chateau De Roussan $$$

If you’re looking to splash out some extra cash and want to feel what it was like to live like a French courtier, then Chateau de Roussan is for you. This chateau is home to herds of sheep, beautiful parklands and, of course, the French countryside. I love that the chateau didn’t renovate everything to the extreme when turning the old manor into a guest hotel. They let the place feel lived in, making it feel homier than hotely. Double rooms cost between €205 – €255, and Suites run €335 – €415.

 

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Access

Driving

To arrive in Les-Baux from Arles, take the D17 highway through the scenic hillsides. From Avignon, take the D570N. Both ways take around 30-40mins but be prepared to stop along the way. There are so many little vignettes of French country life along the roadside, so take your time and soak in all those little roadside attractions.

Parking

When you arrive in Les-Baux, there is a free parking lot where you can leave your car for the day, which I’ve marked on the map at the bottom of the post. There are additional paid parking lots if this one is full, ranging from 4-5 euros for the entire day. So either way, leaving your car here while exploring is not too expensive.

Taxi

If you happen not to be travelling by car through Provence, various taxi companies can arrange to drive you out to Les-Baux and schedule a time to bring you home. Talk to the concierge at your hotel for more information. This should cost you about 30-50 euros each way. While it’s not a cheap option, it is super convenient if you don’t have another means of transportation.

Bus

If you prefer to take the bus, #59 from Saint Remy or Arles will take you to Les-Baux. The bus schedule is restricted and often not running outside the high tourist season. Tickets only cost 2,20€, so it’s worth looking into if the timing works. Check the schedule for more information. There are also tour bus companies that run day trips to Les-Baux. But I often find these are rushed and tend to make superfluous stops along the way when you’d much prefer to spend quality time in one place.

Walking Tour

After parking your car, head into the lower town. The villagers lived in the lower town when the castle was in full swing. The small streets and stone houses are home to various restaurants, tourist shops and museums. While some people complain that the tourist trade has invaded the humble town, plenty of history is still steeped in these walls. The key to exploring the lower town is to look past the tourist shops and poke your head into tiny, seemingly empty alleyways. Look up above the souvenir storefronts to see pieces of the past hidden in the stone walls.

Tourist Office

When you first enter the town, stop at the tourist office inside the city gates. Here you can get a free map of the city and a list of exhibitions and pick up an audio guide if you prefer to follow along with their guided audio system. Throughout the village and castle ruins, there are dozens of numbered plaques which you can punch into the audio guide to get more detailed insights into the history of Les-Baux.

Santon Museum

If you aren’t in a rush, your first stop should be at the Santon Museum. A ‘santon’ is a small hand-painted figure made out of terracotta. They were originally produced to portray scenes of nativity and depict historical scenes of Provençal life. Even if you’re not interested in going inside, walking around the front of the building is recommended since the museum is inside the old guardhouse. The building still houses two dungeons built in the 16th century that housed prisoners until the Revolution.

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Eyguieres Gate

Continuing along Place Louis Jou, turn right at the fork in the road and head down the stairs towards the Eyguieres Gate. Until the 18th century, this gate was the only entry point into the city. After the newly formed city gates were created, the Eyguieres Gate led the villagers toward the Fountain Valley below. Since there is little else to see and do down this way, the tourist crowds are much less intense here, and you’ll be surprised to see that you have this iconic place all to yourself.

Look up at the top of the gate, where you can still make out the coat-of-arms of the House of Grimaldi. The Italian Grimaldi family helped Louis XIII defeat the Spanish in the 16th century and were gifted the town of Les-Baux and Saint-Rémy-de-Provence as a reward for their service. Today, you can still find their coat of arms throughout the city.

Les Baux Jus

There aren’t many quality restaurants if you’re here around breakfast or lunch. Despite it being such a wonderful place to visit, the restaurants here leave much to be desired. There are a few exceptions, and Les Baux Jus is one of those. It might not be for everyone, but this charming cafe serves local, organic food and fresh juice. They also provide a gluten-free menu if you have that dietary restriction. While it might seem a little trendy, there really isn’t a better way to experience the natural splendour of Provençal produce than in its raw form.

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Manville Mansion City Hall

The next stop is Manville Mansion City Hall. The building originated in the 15th century and was created for a rich Protestant family named Manville. The mansion was the first Renaissance design which graced the village and, for the time, was considered very “modern.” Along the outside of the Mansion, you can study the luxurious millioned windows, which provide a huge amount of light into the interior, which was seen as a luxury in the Renaissance era. Later, after the Manville’s moved out of Les-Baux. The mansion was transformed into the new City Hall. Today, you can come inside to see various art exhibits on display.

Yves Brayer Museum

Turning to the right, head towards the Yves Brayer Museum. Brayer was an expressionist like Van Gogh, who spent most of his life in Les-Baux, inspired by the incredible landscapes surrounding him. Entry is €8 per person, but if you’re interested in expressionist paintings, this is a joyful little museum. The museum is inside one of the most magnificently preserved houses in town, which is a nice bonus.

Place St. Vincent

Just past the Brayer Museum is Place St. Vincent. In the centre of the square stands an ancient cross surrounded by lush green trees. On either side of the square are two of the oldest buildings in Les-Baux; St. Vincent Church and the Church of Penitent.

St. Vincent Church

St. Vincent’s is one of the three original town churches. This Romanesque church was built in the 12th century. While Romanesque architecture might not be the most impressive and elaborate, there is something so humbling about the simplicity of its design. Inside is a pure layout of a nave and two small side aisles complete with Romanesque arches. The funeral chapel inside the church is built right into the side of the rock. The chapel holds the remains of the Manville family whose mansion we saw earlier. The modern stained glass, added in the 20th century, gives a bright juxtaposition to the ancient rock and simplistic design.

The Church Of The Penitents

The Church of the Penitents was built in the 17th century for the Brotherhood of the White Penitents. The Brotherhood of the White Penitents was the most important sect of the Roman order and cared for the sick, buried the dead and provided medical services for the poor who could not afford private doctors. They even would raise money to give to poor girls for their doweries to ensure they could marry and provide a better life for their children than they were given. Before walking into the church, look up at the facade, where you can see the relief showing two of the penitents kneeling below the carving of a dove.

The church’s interior is very modest, but it might surprise you despite its size. Inside, the entire room is covered in an enormous mural by Yves Brayer. The mural depicts the Shepherds’ Christmas, painted in golden yellows and cobalt blues, synonymous with Provence.

Une Table Au Soleil

Before you head into the castle ruins, check to see if Une Table Au Soleil has any reservations left for dinner. It’s a cozy little restaurant with quality food at good prices, which is often hard to find in highly touristy areas. It’s a hidden gem in Les-Baux, serving traditional French cuisine on a charming outdoor terrace. Since there are only 12 seats, making a reservation before heading into the castle is advisable. Once you know the time of your reservations, you can make sure you leave the castle in good time.

The Castle of Les Baux

Admission

To enter the castle, you need to purchase an admission ticket. Adult tickets cost €8 during the off-season and € 10.50 during the high season when there are performances and entertainment as a part of your ticket. You can also buy a combined ticket with the Carrières de Lumières. I HIGHLY recommend this since going with the combined ticket will save you a few euros, and the Carrières de Lumières is a MUST-DO while in Les-Baux.

The castle’s admission gate is open from 9:00 am to sunset (check the website for the exact schedule). But once you are through the gate, you can stay as long as you want. Come the evening, there are so few tourists here you might think you have the entire place. Ghost hunters get a real kick out of exploring the area in the dark when the ruins are the perfect setting for spooky encounters. If you have the time, pack a picnic and enjoy the view as the sun sets behind the mountains.

History of the Castle

After winding your way through the narrow streets of the lower town, entering the castle is like taking a breath of fresh air. You walk out of the admissions office into the huge hilltop ruins. Before heading out to explore the vestiges of the castle, take a moment to imagine the power and influence this enormous castle would have had in its heyday. The Lord of Les-Baux in the middle ages controlled more than 80 villages around Provence. When Les-Baux became an official part of France, the King wanted to ensure they knew their place and destroyed the once-powerful fortress in 1426.

The King couldn’t bear the thought of anywhere in his country being more powerful than the throne where he sat. Although the Lords of Les-Baux attempted a few times to regain power, their castle was demolished for the last time in 1632. As the townspeople left, and the castle remained untouched, the French people referred to Les-Baux as the ‘ville morte’ or the dead town. The rubble remained untouched for ages until later in the 1900s when interest in these ancient sites became popular, and the tourist trade brought the city back to life. Say what you will about the cheesy souvenir shops and annoying tourists; tourism brought this forgotten town out of the darkness, and without money from tourism, preserving this ancient site wouldn’t be possible.

The Chapel Of Saint Blaise

The small chapel of Saint Blaise is the first building you see inside. This tiny chapel was built in the 12th century by the guild of weavers in honour of their patron Saint, Blaise. Walking inside, you might expect to see relics of the old church, but instead, the room has been remodelled as a small auditorium which plays the film ‘Provence from Above.’ While the film isn’t about the castle’s history, it is a loving homage to the landscapes of Provence and, if you’re here on a hot day, it is a nice escape from the sun.

Trebuchet

Walk out straight along the path towards the Costapera plateau. Along the way, you’ll pass a giant replica of a trebuchet. The trebuchet was a medieval siege machine used to attack fortified walls of opposing fortresses during times of war. Large objects were placed inside the trebuchet and catapulted long distances. This particular trebuchet inside the castle could launch boulders weighing 50-100kg over 200 meters!

Windmill

Continuing on the path, head towards the large windmill along the cliffside. The original mill dates back to 1652. Situated on the cliff’s edge, the windmill was exposed to the most powerful gusts of wind, and the town erected the mill here to utilize this natural force.

Costapera Plateau

Past the windmill, you can walk out to the view across the entire Costapera plateau. The plateau features a special calcareous rock, a particularly soft, easy-to-carve rock. It was used in Roman times to create sculptures, monuments and facades in many old Roman cities across Provence, particularly Arles. During the evening hours, when the tourists have all gone home, you can sit here and listen to the wind whipping across the landscape. It is immensely peaceful to sit here and simply listen to the music of the Provence.

The Charloun Rieu Monument

Walking back from the viewpoint, stop off at the Charloun Rieu monument. Charles Rieu, now known as Charloun dou Paradou, was a French poet in the 1900s who was influential in writing and reviving the Provencal language and culture. Looking out at the scenery here and touring Provence, you can see how different this part of the country is and how important their language would have been to distinguish themselves from the rest of France. It is no surprise why Charloun dou Paradou is so important.

Quiqueran Hospital

Walking back towards the main entrance, let’s take a minute to walk through the large remains of the Quiqueran Hospital. ‘Quiqueran’ meant charity house and was where the poor and the sick of the city were transferred and cared for. The hospital was run with funds from wealthy donors. It was built in the 16th century during the French Wars of Religion when hundreds of thousands of French people fought on the front lines. Families lost their heads of household and were left destitute, and often, the charity houses were the only place they could come to get food and medicine. Although it’s hard to imagine now since there are only a few walls left intact, this building used to have three large arched porticos and a second level where the main part of the hospital was located.

Battering Ram

As we turn in towards the castle’s courtyard we pass by the wooden battering ram. The ram is another reconstruction of the kind of warfare instruments which tAs we turn in towards the castle’s courtyard, we pass by the wooden battering ram. The ram is another reconstruction of the kind of warfare instruments the fortress used during its historical battles.he fortress used during its historic battles. 

The Troglodyte Houses

The “Baume de Roucas,” or rock caves, were a popular form of residence during the 16th century. Now named Troglodyte Houses, since Troglodyte refers to a person living inside a cave, these rudimentary houses have one of the best views in the entire castle. Although they are very simple and perhaps lack the flash and flourishes of the castle, I wonder if the peasants who once lived here appreciated the natural beauty their home backed out upon.

The Sarrasine Tower

Standing in the outer courtyard entrance, look up at the top of the Sarrasine tower, which overlooks the entire area. You can access a staircase from the other end of the courtyard that leads right out to this lookout point. The tower is known as the “guardian of the Château” since it is the highest point in the castle, where guards would be able to see any incoming invaders.

The Second Courtyard

Inside the second courtyard is where you’ll find the old residences of the craftsmen and farmers who lived inside the castle walls. During the high tourist season, actors in period costumes recreate life in the castle in the middle ages.

Dovecote Wall

During the middle ages, pigeons were one of the most popular forms of communication; therefore, the birds were treated like royalty. Their homes were called dovecotes, little niches carved into the rockface. The birds would lay their nests here, and the castle guards collected their eggs and young babies using huge ladders. You can still see the holes where the pigeons stayed even today, carved into the remains of the wall.

The First Courtyard

The first courtyard is further into the castle grounds, where the Lords and Ladies of the castle would have been found. You can still enter various floorplans of old aristocratic residences along the first courtyard, rooms carved out of solid rock. Walking inside, they are nothing more than cold, empty rooms but try to imagine them covered in rich velvet tapestries, filled with elaborately decorated furniture and a furry of servants peddling the finest food the province had to offer.

The Keep

At the top of the castle are the remains of the military keep. To prevent attackers from climbing up the side of the mountain and simply entering the castle, the castle’s walls on the vulnerable side of the mountain were built up another 20 meters and at the top, various guard towers were erected to further add another level of protection.

Walking along the top of the guard tower provides the best view of the entire castle and the surrounding countryside. When we visited, there were only a handful of other people around, and none ventured up as far as we did, so we had the entire place to ourselves! Imagine the courtyard below filled with courtiers and servants, jousts and jesters. Guards walking back and forth, head to toe, in the finest armour. It must have been such a sight to see.

Crossbow Practice

At the foot of the castle was a dry moat which has now been replaced with a reconstruction of where the archers would do their target practice. You can try your hand at shooting crossbows and watch professional archers take aim at various targets.

Graveyard

Before leaving, head out to the cliffside graveyard, where the tombstones of the old villagers of Les Baux are still being buried today. It is heartwarming to see families buried together here, generation upon generation.

While some might think graveyards are a bit macabre, these gravestones are a beautiful look into the past and how those generations honoured their dead.

Carrières de Lumières

Before heading out of Les Baux, be SURE to check out the Carrières de Lumières, just down the hill from the lower town. The Carrières de Lumières is a multimedia light show projected onto an ancient quarry’s walls.

Les-Baux is a place you cannot skip on your travels through Provence, and I hope you get the chance to experience everything this region has to offer for yourself on your next creative adventure.

Happy Travels, Adventurers

The post The Ultimate Self-Guided Tour of Les Baux-de-Provence first appeared on The Creative Adventurer.