Three day guide to the best things to do in the Alpilles

Day one: Exploring Saint Rémy de Provence

Morning: A perfect start

Picture yourself sipping a rich espresso at Grand Café Riche, right next to the church. The aroma of freshly baked croissants fills the air, mingling with the cheerful murmur of locals beginning their day. As you settle in, anticipate a day filled with exploring ancient streets, discovering historical treasures, and indulging in the finest local cuisine that Saint Rémy de Provence has to offer.

Pro tip: Cafés and restaurants fill up quickly during tourist season, especially on Wednesday (market day), so be sure to make a reservation or get there early.

We begin in the heart of Saint Rémy. As you wander through the ancient streets, you will be captivated by the beautifully restored houses, old fountains, and shady squares. The town exudes charm and elegance at every corner, making every step feel like a journey back in time.

Top picks

Market day: Held every Wednesday, this bustling market is a sensory delight. As you sample fresh cheeses, cured meats, and artisanal bread, you will be enveloped in the lively atmosphere of the market. It is buzzing with cheerful faces and the rich scents of Provence, with something new and exciting around every bend. 

Archaeological site of Glanum: Just outside Saint Rémy, explore the ruins of this ancient Greek and Roman city. Walking among the remnants of history, with the dramatic Alpilles mountains as a backdrop, is a profound and moving experience for history enthusiasts.

Musée Estrine - Présence Van Gogh: Delve into Van Gogh's contributions to modern art. This museum houses a remarkable collection and educational programs that allow you to connect deeply with the artist’s journey and his time in Provence.

Afternoon: Savoring local delicacies

Enjoy a leisurely lunch at Bistrot de Marie, this charming bistro is known for its warm, inviting atmosphere and its dedication to showcasing regional produce. One of their standout dishes is the daube de boeuf, a traditional Provençal beef stew slow-cooked in red wine, herbs, and vegetables.

Château Romanin: Visit one of France's notable architectural wineries, renowned for its biodynamic vineyard and unique design. Enjoy tasting their exquisite wines while exploring the impressive winery structure and learning about their innovative production methods.

Moulin du Calanquet: Visit this olive oil mill to taste rich, flavourful oils and learn about the production methods. Discover their renowned AOP Vallée des Baux de Provence olive oil, celebrated for its smooth texture and robust flavour. The on-site shop is perfect for bringing home a taste of Provence, each bottle a memory of the lush groves and traditional techniques. Do not miss their signature blend, a favourite among both locals and visitors for its exceptional quality and taste.

Dinner time

Only a short walk from the centre of town, Ô Caprices de Mathias feels like a hidden countryside retreat. As you dine on the terrace, the view of The Alpilles Mountains and the sight of horses grazing nearby create a serene, picturesque backdrop. Chef Mathias’s exquisitely crafted dishes, paired with fine wine, make for an unforgettable dining experience.

Day two: Discovering Les Baux de Provence and surroundings

Morning: Historical heights

Begin day two with a café au lait at Les Baux Jus, one of the best cafés in the region. Enjoy fresh organic juices and a chic ambiance while gazing at the impressive views over the valley. The warm morning air sets the tone for a day of exploration. As you sip your coffee, take in the panoramic scenes of rolling hills and ancient olive groves that stretch out below. The rich history of Les Baux de Provence is evident all around you, promising a day filled with discovery. From medieval architecture to unique nearby attractions, this day is sure to be both invigorating and deeply enriching.

Les Baux de Provence: This hilltop village offers stunning views and a maze of cobblestone streets filled with quaint shops and historical sites. As you wander around, you'll be struck by the gorgeous scenery and the charm of the village. Perched on the hill, the village provides panoramic views of the entire valley, making every step an opportunity to take in the incredible landscape. Exploring the ancient castle, you'll feel the palpable medieval history embedded in every stone, creating a truly unique experience.

Carrières de Lumières: Nearby, this former stone quarry hosts an immersive light show that is truly one-of-a-kind. Walking into the cool air of the quarry, you are greeted by captivating music and spectacular visual displays projected onto the vast stone walls. The sheer scale and beauty of the art surrounding you create a unique and mesmerizing experience, leaving you in awe of the artistic fusion of light and sound. The way the images transform the rough quarry surfaces into dynamic works of art is both extraordinary and unforgettable. 

Afternoon: Explore local villages

Stop for lunch at La Table d'Yvan in Saint Rémy de Provence, a charming restaurant with a gorgeous terrace and a quirky, lovely interior. Known for its traditional Provençal cuisine and fantastic ratings, it is the perfect spot for any weather, ensuring a memorable dining experience in serene, picturesque surroundings.

Maussane: Known for its olive oil production, a visit to the Moulin Jean-Marie Cornille offers a detailed tour and tasting experience. The tour takes about an hour and costs €10 per person. It is family-friendly, providing insights into traditional olive oil making methods and allowing visitors to sample various oils.

Eygalières:  This small, charming town is perfect for a leisurely visit. Eygalières is clean and lovely, with one main street lined with cafes and bars, ideal for a relaxing stroll. Explore the Saint-Sixte Chapel, a historic twelfth-century site with stunning views. Enjoy a gentle walk up to the remains, taking in the serene atmosphere and the village's quaint charm. 

Evening: Five-star dining experience

Le Château des Alpilles is is the place to go for a special meal. As you enter via a majestic avenue lined with plane trees, you cannot help but feel the elegance wash over you. The restaurant has a refined interior with classic decor, exuding an air of timeless sophistication. Dining outside, surrounded by park-like grounds, with the sounds of nature and the fragrance of blooming flowers in the air is just wonderful. The menu features gourmet dishes crafted from local ingredients, accompanied by an impressive wine selection. The attentive service and enchanting setting make for a truly memorable evening, perfect for celebrating any occasion.

Day three: A cultural end

Morning: Literary heritage

Start your day with a peaceful coffee at Le Café in Fontvieille, open from 6am every day. This small village has one little high street and a charming square. Fontvieille is known for its beautiful cobblestone streets and quaint village ambiance. The tranquillity of the morning and the charm of the village set a perfect start to your final day.

Daudet’s Windmill: Open daily from 9am to 7pm, this literary landmark is free to visit. As you explore the windmill, you'll discover the places that inspired Alphonse Daudet's "Lettres de mon moulin." The windmill itself, preserved with care, offers a glimpse into the past with informational plaques and exhibits detailing Daudet’s life and work. Surrounding trails invite you to walk in Daudet’s footsteps, providing scenic views and a deeper connection to the landscape that influenced his stories.

Afternoon: Scenic and cultural tours

Located just a short drive from Fontvieille, visit Restaurant Parc des Cordes for lunch. This hidden gem offers outdoor dining on a lovely terrace, providing a quiet and beautiful setting away from the noise. The quirky menu features a delightful range of dishes, making it the perfect lunch spot to relax and enjoy the serene atmosphere.

Fontvieille’s history: Dive into the village's ancient treasures and visit the Castle of Montauban museum. Open from 10am to 6pm, the museum houses a wealth of historical artefacts and exhibits that provide a fascinating glimpse into the village’s heritage. This is one for the history enthusiasts, with rich narratives and detailed displays that bring the past to life. If history does not tickle your fancy, why not just enjoy a drink in the sun at one of the local cafes? Relax in the quaint square, soaking up the tranquil village ambiance and watching the world go by.

Literary tour: End your Alpilles adventure with a literary tour of Fontvieille, a must for literature lovers. The tour, which lasts approximately two hours, takes you through the charming village and its surrounding countryside, visiting key sites that inspired Alphonse Daudet’s works. You will start at Daudet’s Windmill, where you’ll learn about the history and significance of this iconic landmark. Next, you'll walk along the scenic trails that Daudet himself frequented, stopping at various points of interest mentioned in his stories. The knowledgeable guide will share anecdotes and historical context, enriching your understanding of Daudet’s life and work. The tour concludes with a reading session in a picturesque spot, where excerpts from "Lettres de mon moulin" are brought to life. 

Evening: Master dining

If you would like a quiet spot just a twenty-minute drive from Fontvieille, head north to L’Oustalet Maianen in Maillane. The town is where the famous poet Frédéric Mistral lived. The restaurant is run by a chef who is a Master Restauranteur, having learned to cook from his father, who ran the restaurant before him. The dining experience here is intimate and welcoming, with a focus on high-quality ingredients and family recipes. The warm atmosphere and familial legacy add a special touch to your meal.