Le Castellet: A Timeless Provençal Village

Discover Le Castellet, a captivating medieval village in Provence, offering stunning views, artisan crafts, and renowned Bandol wines, a perfect blend of history and charm.

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Le Castellet

Le Castellet, a captivating medieval village perched high in the Var department of Provence, offers visitors a mesmerizing journey through time. Encircled by ancient ramparts, this 'Village of Character' boasts panoramic views of rolling vineyards producing the renowned Bandol wines and the distant Sainte-Baume mountain range. Wander through its narrow, cobbled streets, discover artisan workshops, and soak in the authentic Provençal atmosphere. Le Castellet is more than just a picturesque village; it's a living testament to the region's rich history and enduring charm, making it an essential stop for any traveler seeking an authentic taste of Provence. Its strategic location, close to both the Mediterranean coast and the famous Circuit Paul Ricard, makes it a versatile destination appealing to history buffs, nature lovers, and motorsport enthusiasts alike. The village's commitment to preserving its heritage while embracing tourism ensures a memorable and enriching experience for all who visit.

A brief summary to Le Castellet

Le Castellet, FR

Local tips

Wear comfortable shoes as the village streets are cobbled and steep.
Visit during the shoulder season (spring or fall) to avoid the summer crowds.
Sample the local Bandol wines at one of the village's wine shops or nearby vineyards.
Check the Circuit Paul Ricard's event schedule for races or tours.
Explore the surrounding countryside with a hike in the Sainte-Baume massif.

Getting There

Driving

If arriving by car, follow the A50 motorway and take exit 11 for Le Castellet. Be aware that during peak season and race weekends, traffic can be heavy. There are two large parking lots located just outside the village walls: Parking La Ferrage (140 spaces) and Parking Le Cros du Loup (238 spaces, including 7 for disabled). Parking is free for the first 30 minutes, allowing for drop-off. From April 1st to September 30th, a daily parking fee of €4.30 applies. Payment can be made via télépéage, credit card, mobile phone, subscription, or cash.
Public Transport

From Toulon, take the ZOU! Proximité bus line 888 to Le Brulat. The journey takes approximately 35 minutes and costs €3. From Le Brulat, you can take a taxi or rideshare to Le Castellet village, which is a short distance away. Alternatively, bus number 8001 runs between Le Beausset, Le Castellet, La Cadière d'Azur, Bandol, Saint Cyr sur Mer and La Ciotat. Bus number 8808 runs between Toulon, La Cadière d'Azur, Le Castellet and Signes. These services are operated by an entity called Zou!
Taxi/Ride-Share

Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber are available in the area. From Toulon, a taxi ride to Le Castellet typically costs between €45 and €60 and takes approximately 21 minutes. Uber estimates the average price from Gare Toulon to Le Castellet to be around €62 and from Gare Marseille-St-Charles to be around €101.

Discover more about Le Castellet

Le Castellet, a jewel nestled in the Var department of Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur, beckons travelers with its timeless beauty and rich history. This medieval village, perched atop a hill at 250 meters altitude, offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding vineyards, the Sainte-Baume mountain range, and glimpses of the Mediterranean Sea. Its strategic location, just 23 kilometers from Toulon and a short distance from the coast, makes it an easily accessible and highly desirable destination. Stepping through one of the two fortified gates, the Portalet or the Grand Portail, is like stepping back in time. The village's narrow, cobbled streets wind their way past ancient stone houses adorned with vibrant flowers, leading to charming squares and artisan workshops. The heart of Le Castellet is the 15th-century castle, now home to the Town Hall, whose esplanade provides a stunning vantage point for admiring the landscape. The village's history stretches back centuries, with evidence of Celto-Ligurian settlements. For four centuries, the House of Les Baux and the House of Provence fought for control of the area. In 1434, the Castillon family became the owners of the castle, holding it for two hundred years. The Lombard family then acquired ownership through marriage, retaining it until the French Revolution. The Revolution brought an end to privilege, and the castle was sold and repurposed before the village embraced tourism in 1923. Le Castellet's charm has made it a popular filming location, most notably for Marcel Pagnol's classic film "La Femme du Boulanger" (The Baker's Wife). The village's authenticity and picturesque setting continue to attract visitors from around the world. Beyond its historical appeal, Le Castellet is renowned for its connection to motorsports. The Circuit Paul Ricard, located a few kilometers from the village, has hosted numerous prestigious Formula 1 and motorcycle races. The circuit, built in 1969 by pastis magnate Paul Ricard, is a state-of-the-art facility that attracts racing enthusiasts and provides a modern contrast to the village's medieval atmosphere. The commune of Le Castellet encompasses four villages: Le Castellet-Village, Le Plan du Castellet, Sainte Anne du Castellet, and Le Camp du Castellet. Each offers a unique perspective on Provençal life, from the hilltop views of Le Castellet-Village to the rural charm of Sainte Anne du Castellet, nestled among vineyards and olive groves. Visitors to Le Castellet can explore several historical and cultural landmarks, including: * **The Castle:** Dating back to the 15th century, the castle now houses the Town Hall and offers panoramic views. * **The Saint Sauveur Church:** This Romanesque-style church dates back to the 12th century. * **The Place de l'Ormeau:** A charming square in the heart of the village. * **The Trou de Madame:** An opening in the ramparts offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape. * **The Portalet and Grand Portail:** The two fortified gates that serve as entrances to the village. Le Castellet is also a haven for artisans and craftspeople. The village's streets are lined with shops selling local pottery, ceramics, candles, jewelry, and lavender products. Visitors can browse these shops, admire the craftsmanship, and purchase unique souvenirs. The surrounding area offers a wealth of opportunities for exploration. The Bandol vineyards produce some of the region's finest wines, and many estates offer tastings and tours. The Sainte-Baume massif provides hiking and outdoor activities, while the Mediterranean coast offers beaches and seaside resorts. Le Castellet is a destination that appeals to all senses. The scent of lavender fills the air, the taste of Provençal cuisine tantalizes the palate, the sight of the rolling vineyards captivates the eye, the sound of cicadas provides a soothing soundtrack, and the touch of the ancient stone walls connects visitors to the past. Whether you are interested in history, culture, motorsports, or simply relaxing in a beautiful setting, Le Castellet offers an unforgettable experience. Its blend of medieval charm, modern amenities, and stunning natural beauty makes it a must-see destination in Provence. Le Castellet joined the exclusive club of the Most Beautiful Villages of France in autumn 2022, an association that promotes tourism in picturesque rural areas. This distinction recognizes Le Castellet's cultural heritage, lively atmosphere, and commitment to preserving its authenticity. The village is well-equipped for tourism, with ample parking and a variety of shops, restaurants, and accommodations. Whether you are visiting for a day trip or a longer stay, Le Castellet offers a warm welcome and a memorable experience. Le Castellet is more than just a village; it's a living tapestry woven from history, culture, and natural beauty. It's a place where time slows down, and the simple pleasures of life are celebrated. It's a destination that will stay with you long after you leave. From the village, one can easily access other attractions in the region, such as the coastal town of Hyères with its beautiful beaches and islands, the naval port of Toulon, and the vibrant city of Marseille. This makes Le Castellet an ideal base for exploring the diverse offerings of Provence. Le Castellet is a destination that truly captures the essence of Provence. Its timeless charm, stunning scenery, and rich history make it an unforgettable experience for all who visit.

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Le Castellet: A Timeless Provençal Village

A brief summary to Le Castellet

Local tips

Getting There

Driving

Public Transport

Taxi/Ride-Share

Unlock the Best of Le Castellet

Buy tickets

Book tours with entry

Book tours without entry

Discover more about Le Castellet

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Cr Lafayette

Cap Canaille

Falaises de Cassis

Kayak Cassis Calanques Immersion

Domaine de Canaille

La Demeure Insoupçonnée - Chambres d'hôtes et Gîtes à Cassis / Calanques - Piscine, SPA, Massages

Plage du Corton

Les Drailles de la Mémoire

Calanques Bleu Mistral

GIE des Bateliers Cassidens

Visit Of Creeks

Plage de la Grande Mer

Le Petit Train Touristique de Cassis - By FRANCE Voguette

Cassis Calanques Plongée

Port de Cassis

Unmissable attractions to see

Le Castellet Village Mediéval

Maison des Vins de Bandol

Domaine de l'Olivette

Domaine La Suffrene

Lou Capelan field

Domaines & Vignoble comestible Castell (Vins, Maraîchage, Gastronomie, Chambres)

Domaine Gros'Noré

Domaine Lafran-Veyrolles

Domaine de Cabaudran

Circuit du Castellet

Bandol

Plage de la Madrague Saint-Cyr-sur-Mer

Calanque de Port d'Alon

Sanary-sur-Mer

Plage Lumière

Essential places to dine

La Villa Madie

Restaurant Le Chaudron

Le poisson rouge Cassis

Le Perroquet - Restaurant cassis

Chez Poulette a Cassis

Saveurs Latines

Restaurant Le Bonaparte

a table

Snack des calanques

O Rev Cassis

Le Grand Large

La Voûte - Restaurant Cassis

La Défonce

D’une rive à l’autre

La Storia di Vincenzo

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

Camping Santa Gusta

Moxy La Ciotat

frenchwildriviera

La Compagnie des Tuktuks

LA SAVONNERIE DE CASSIS

Camping Les Cigales

Calanc'O Kayak Paddle Cassis / Marseille

Boutique Jack et Dany

Hotel des Calanques

SOULEIADO

LULLI Cassis

Boutique Autrefois

KANAYE CASSIS

Office de Tourisme de Cassis

Le Golfe

Essential bars & hidden hideouts

le calanques le figuerolles

Bar Côté Jardin

Corton beach