baux-provence-plus-vieux-village-france

The oldest village in France is just an hour away from Marseille (and it’s a wonder)!

undefined undefined 24 février 2025 undefined 19h00

The Editor

Want to take a leap into the past without a time machine? Head to Les Baux-de-Provence, officially the oldest village in France, just 1 hour from Marseille! A gem perched atop the Alpilles, where history is written at every street corner and heritage is savored like a fine glass of local wine.

Perched on its rock as if daring time, Les Baux-de-Provence didn't wait for Instagram to become iconic. Founded around 700 BC, this fortified village has withstood the ages without losing a bit of its charm. Its cobbled streets, Renaissance houses, and the ruins of its medieval castle give it an irresistible allure. A quick glance at its 22 classified monuments is all it takes to understand why it ranks among the most beautiful villages in France.

But Les Baux-de-Provence is not just a postcard-perfect scene frozen in time. It’s a dive into History with a big H! If you're the curious type, start at the fortress, which overlooks the valley from its impressive height of 245 meters. Once impregnable, it still tells the tales of the lords of Baux, who fancied themselves as descendants of the Magi. Just that!

A village full of history and treasures to discover

If you have a liking for Provençal traditions, stop by the Santon Museum before wandering over to the medieval garden of Quiqueran, a little slice of paradise nestled among ancient stones. And for panorama lovers, a detour to the Val d’Enfer is a must: this natural site, which is said to have inspired Dante for his "Inferno" in The Divine Comedy, offers breathtaking views of the Alpilles and Mont Ventoux.

The cherry on top, you can't visit Les Baux-de-Provence without stopping by the Carrières des Lumières. This unique place projects XXL artworks onto the walls of the old limestone quarries. It's a breathtaking sensory experience that combines music with immersive projections.