Château des Baux-de-Provence, Provence Travel Guide

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Explore the dramatic ruins of a medieval fortress in Provence with breathtaking panoramic views from atop a rocky spur in the Alpilles.

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Château des Baux-de-Provence

Perched atop a rocky spur in the Alpilles mountains, the Château des Baux-de-Provence is a ruined medieval castle offering stunning panoramic views of Provence. Explore the remains of this once-powerful fortress and discover its rich history and strategic importance.

A brief summary to Château des Baux-de-Provence

Grand Rue Frédéric Mistral, Les Baux-de-Provence, 13520, FR
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Monday 9 am-7 pm
Tuesday 9 am-7 pm
Wednesday 9 am-7 pm
Thursday 9 am-7 pm
Friday 9 am-7 pm
Saturday 9 am-7 pm
Sunday 9 am-7 pm

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Château des Baux-de-Provence.

Wear comfortable shoes, as the terrain within the castle is uneven and involves some climbing.
Visit during the shoulder season (April-May or September-October) to avoid the crowds and enjoy pleasant weather.
Check the schedule for historical reenactments and demonstrations, which bring the castle's history to life.
Purchase the Baux-de-Provence Pass for access to both the Château des Baux and the Carrières des Lumières at a discounted rate.

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Explore Château des Baux-de-Provence on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Château des Baux-de-Provence, mapped for you.

Getting There

Walking

From the village center of Les Baux-de-Provence, the Château is easily accessible on foot. Follow the main street, Grand Rue Frédéric Mistral, towards the southern end of the village. The entrance to the Château is located near the Tourist Information Center. The walk is short but involves a slight incline.
Public Transport

The closest bus stops to Les Baux-de-Provence are served by the ZOU network. From the bus stop in Les Baux, follow the signs towards the village center and then proceed on foot to the Château as described above. A single bus fare is approximately €3.
Parking

Several parking areas are available near Les Baux-de-Provence, but they can fill up quickly during peak season. Parking fees range from €5 for 1 hour to €9 for 8 hours. Be aware of the risk of card theft at parking meters. From the parking areas, follow the signs to the village center and then proceed on foot to the Château as described above.

Discover more about Château des Baux-de-Provence

The Château des Baux-de-Provence is a fascinating journey into the past, offering visitors a glimpse into the lives of the Lords of Les Baux and the turbulent history of this strategic stronghold. Built in the 10th century, the castle was once the center of power for the House of Baux, who controlled 79 towns and strongholds throughout Provence. Over the centuries, the castle was involved in numerous conflicts and rebellions, and was eventually dismantled in 1632 by order of Louis XIII. Today, visitors can explore the extensive ruins, including the keep, the Sarrazine and Paravelle towers, and the castral chapel. The site also features troglodytic homes, a former hospital, and a working trebuchet, offering a vivid sense of medieval life. The Château des Baux-de-Provence offers an exceptional panorama of Provence, encompassing the Alpilles, olive groves, and surrounding villages. On a clear day, the view extends to the Mediterranean Sea. The site is open year-round, and visitors can enjoy historical reenactments and demonstrations during peak season.