Discover Aix-en-Provence and Les Baux-de-Provence
Nestled in the heart of Provence, Aix-en-Provence and Les Baux-de-Provence offer a captivating blend of history, culture, and world-class wines. These charming destinations showcase the best of Southern French living, from sun-drenched vineyards to picturesque medieval villages.
Towns and Villages
Aix-en-Provence
Known as the “City of a Thousand Fountains,” Aix-en-Provence boasts elegant boulevards and charming squares. Cours Mirabeau, the main thoroughfare, is lined with plane trees and cafes, perfect for people-watching.
Les Baux-de-Provence
Perched atop a rocky outcrop, this medieval village offers breathtaking views of the Alpilles mountains. The Château des Baux ruins provide a glimpse into the area’s rich history.
Wine Producers
Château La Coste
Located just outside Aix-en-Provence, this winery combines art, architecture, and wine. Visitors can enjoy guided tours of the vineyards and contemporary art installations.
Mas de la Dame
Situated in Les Baux-de-Provence, this family-run estate produces organic wines. Their tasting room offers panoramic views of the Alpilles.
Accommodations
Aix-en-Provence
- La Maison d’Aix: A luxurious boutique hotel in a restored 18th-century mansion.
- Hôtel Le Pigonnet: Elegant rooms set in a beautiful garden, just a short walk from the city center.
Les Baux-de-Provence
- Domaine de Manville: A 5-star hotel with a golf course and spa, surrounded by olive groves.
- Baumanière Les Baux-de-Provence: A Relais & Châteaux property featuring Michelin-starred dining.
Dining
Aix-en-Provence
- La Table de Pierre Reboul: Innovative Provençal cuisine with a focus on local ingredients.
- Le Comptoir du Parc: A cozy bistro serving traditional dishes and regional wines.
Les Baux-de-Provence
- L’Oustau de Baumanière: A 3-Michelin-starred restaurant showcasing the best of Provençal gastronomy.
- La Cabro d’Or: Elegant dining with a terrace overlooking the Alpilles.
Wine Shops & Bars
Aix-en-Provence and Les Baux-de-Provence offer excellent options for wine enthusiasts:
Aix-en-Provence
- La Carte des Vins: A well-stocked wine shop with knowledgeable staff and regular tastings.
- Le Petit Bistrot: Cozy wine bar featuring local wines and delicious tapas.
Les Baux-de-Provence
- Maison des Baux: Wine shop specializing in wines from the Les Baux-de-Provence AOP.
- Le Bar à Vin de Baumanière: Elegant wine bar with an extensive selection of regional wines.
Other Shops
Discover local products and artisanal goods in these charming shops:
Aix-en-Provence
- Le Comptoir de Mathilde: Gourmet food shop offering local specialties and Provençal products.
- Confiserie du Roy René: Famous for their traditional Calissons d’Aix, a local almond-flavored candy.
Les Baux-de-Provence
- La Boutique de Provence: Sells locally-made olive oils, soaps, and lavender products.
- La Cure Gourmande: Offers a variety of regional sweets and biscuits in colorful tins.
Attractions
Beyond wine, these destinations offer cultural and historical attractions:
Aix-en-Provence
- Musée Granet: Houses an impressive collection of art, including works by Cézanne.
- Atelier Cézanne: The former studio of Paul Cézanne, preserved as it was during his lifetime.
Les Baux-de-Provence
- Carrières de Lumières: Immersive art projections in a former quarry.
- Musée des Santons: Showcases traditional Provençal nativity figurines.
Events
Plan your visit around these popular annual events:
Aix-en-Provence
- Festival d’Aix-en-Provence (July): Renowned international opera festival.
- Aix-en-Provence Wine Festival (September): Celebrates local wines with tastings and workshops.
Les Baux-de-Provence
- Les Médiévales des Baux (August): Medieval festival with reenactments and period costumes.
- Fête de l’Huile Nouvelle (December): Celebrates the new olive oil harvest with tastings and events.
Appellations
The region boasts several notable wine appellations:
- Coteaux d’Aix-en-Provence AOC: Known for rosé wines, also produces reds and whites.
- Les Baux-de-Provence AOC: Specializes in red wines, with some rosé and white production.
- Côtes de Provence AOC: Renowned for its rosé wines, covers a large area in Provence.
These appellations reflect the unique terroir of the region, influenced by the Mediterranean climate and limestone soils.
Grape Varieties
The Provence region boasts a diverse range of grape varieties, both red and white. Grenache, Syrah, and Mourvèdre form the backbone of many red wines.
White grapes include Rolle (Vermentino), Ugni Blanc, and Clairette. These contribute to the region’s crisp, refreshing white wines.
Main Wine Styles
Provence is renowned for its rosé wines, accounting for over 80% of the region’s production. These pale, dry rosés are perfect for summer sipping.
Red wines from Aix-en-Provence and Les Baux-de-Provence tend to be full-bodied and robust. White wines are typically crisp and aromatic.
Food Specialties
The cuisine of Provence pairs beautifully with local wines. Bouillabaisse, the famous fish stew, is a must-try dish in Aix-en-Provence.
Other specialties include:
- Tapenade (olive spread)
- Ratatouille (vegetable stew)
- Daube provençale (beef stew)
- Aioli (garlic mayonnaise)
Drives & Walks
The Route des Vins de Provence offers a scenic drive through vineyards and charming villages. This route connects Aix-en-Provence to Les Baux-de-Provence.
In Les Baux-de-Provence, take a walk through the historic village and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.
Itineraries
3-Day Wine Tour
Day 1: Explore Aix-en-Provence’s old town and visit nearby wineries like Château La Coste.
Day 2: Drive to Les Baux-de-Provence, tour the village, and taste wines at Mas de la Dame.
Day 3: Visit the Carrières de Lumières in Les Baux, then return to Aix for a final wine tasting at La Cave d’Yves.
Getting There & Around
Fly into Marseille Provence Airport (MRS) for easy access to Aix-en-Provence and Les Baux-de-Provence. Rent a car at the airport for flexibility in exploring the region.
The TGV high-speed train connects Paris to Aix-en-Provence in about 3 hours. Local buses and taxis are available for shorter trips.
Best Time to Visit
Spring (April-May) and fall (September-October) offer pleasant weather and fewer crowds. These seasons are ideal for wine tasting and outdoor activities.
Summer (June-August) brings hot weather and peak tourist season. Winter (November-March) is quieter but some wineries may have limited hours.
Sustainability Efforts
Many Provence wineries are adopting organic and biodynamic practices. Look for certifications like AB (Agriculture Biologique) or Demeter on wine labels.
Some wineries, like Château La Coste, combine sustainable winemaking with eco-friendly art installations and architecture.
Language Tips
Basic French phrases are appreciated. Some useful wine-related terms:
- Dégustation – Wine tasting
- Cave – Wine cellar
- Domaine – Estate
- Millésime – Vintage
Further Resources
Visit the Vins de Provence official website for detailed information on Provence wines and appellations.
Download the “Provence Wine Tour” app for self-guided tours and winery information. Available on iOS and Android.
