Our selection of the best activities in the Alpilles

Are you planning to spend your holidays in Provence? And more specifically in the Alpilles? You’ve probably fallen in love with our landscapes, and we won’t contradict your first impression. In fact, you’re probably already imagining the many activities you can enjoy in our mountain range. However, the Alpilles are not just about their terrain. A land steeped in history, it is full of sites to visit and villages that showcase its heritage. Its exceptional terroir is also worth discovering. So, to make sure you don’t miss anything in this charming part of the Bouches-du-Rhône, we have listed the best activities in the Alpilles in a single article. All you have to do is follow the guide.

The best places to visit in the Alpilles

There are many different ways to explore the Alpilles. You can choose the sporty option, the gastronomic option or simply enjoy a leisurely stroll. It is the latter that we will focus on here. Because the Alpilles offer an extraordinary heritage, let’s set off to discover the villages and cultural sites that are not to be missed.

The most beautiful villages in the heart of the Alpilles

It is difficult to choose which villages to recommend visiting first. Instead, we decided to put ourselves in your shoes and select places that might appeal to different tastes. From artists’ villages to more secluded sites, there is something for everyone in the Alpilles.

Inspiring destinations

Saint-Rémy-de-Provence: you’ve probably heard this name before. And with good reason, as the small capital of the Alpilles has inspired many artists, including the famous Vincent Van Gogh. Follow in the footsteps of the painter of Sunflowers and let yourself be seduced by this town, typical of the Provençal way of life.

For another village with an artistic atmosphere, we recommend visiting Fontvieille, whose mills inspired a certain Alphonse Daudet. However, these buildings alone do not make up the village’s charm. In its narrow streets, you will come across cave dwellings. Further on, you can admire the meticulous work of our Roman ancestors, via the aqueducts and the Barbegal mill. A destination not to be missed!

An immersion in Provençal traditions

For a taste of Provençal culture, you must visit Mouriès. In addition to its reputation for olive oil production, this village nestled in the heart of the Alpilles Regional Nature Park is committed to preserving the traditions of yesteryear. If you are lucky enough to be in the region in June, you can take part in the ‘Fête du Ruban’ (Ribbon Festival), a traditional bullfighting event. In August, the village comes alive with the Saint-Louis festival. Finally, in September, come and take part in the famous green olive festival.

The neighbouring commune of Maussane-les-Alpilles is not to be outdone in terms of Provençal traditions, both architectural and festive. Among the buildings to discover are the stone map of France, the Napoleon III wash house, the Four Seasons Fountain and Laugier de Monblan Square. As for festivals, with Camargue races, gardian games and the Fête du Temps Retrouvé in August, you’ll be spoilt for choice.

Cultural sites and museums in the Alpilles

As we have already mentioned, the Bouches-du-Rhône region has a rich heritage and cultural history. During your stay in the Alpilles, be sure to visit one of the three sites we present here.

The archaeological site of Glanum

The Cloister of Saint Paul de Mausole

Near the ruins of Glanum, come and discover the cloister of the famous monastery. It was here that Van Gogh was treated during the last years of his life. It is therefore only natural that Saint Paul de Mausole has become a cultural centre dedicated to the painter.

The Carrières de Lumières in Les Baux-de-Provence

Les Baux-de-Provence is undoubtedly one of the villages in the Alpilles that is worth visiting. There are two main reasons for this. Firstly, for the ruins of its castle and medieval fortress, which are of rare historical significance. But also for its Carrières de Lumières (Quarries of Light), which are among the best activities in the Alpilles. Imagine ancient limestone quarries, 14 metres high, onto which works of art are projected. Add music to the mix and you will enjoy an extraordinary immersive experience.

The Avignon Festival

Purists and seasoned geographers will probably say that Avignon is not in the Alpilles. Which is absolutely true. However, it is very close by. That’s why we couldn’t overlook this monument of Provençal culture. This performing arts festival, unique in the world for the number of artists it brings together, takes place every year during the month of July. So make the most of your holiday in the Alpilles to take part in the Avignon Festival.

📌 Looking for somewhere to stay during your holiday in the Alpilles? Our campsite, Camping Pegomas, located in Saint-Rémy-de-Provence, will be delighted to welcome you. Book your next stay now!

Discover or taste the flavours of Provence

It would be unthinkable to talk about the best things to do in the Alpilles without mentioning their local produce. In this respect too, we can say that our soil is fertile. Ready to have your mouth water?

Olive oil from Provence

The vineyards of the Alpilles

The Alpilles are not just a land of olive trees. There are also rows of vines here. Vines that produce wines from different grape varieties, red, rosé or white. Some even have the IGP Alpilles or AOP Vallée des Baux-de-Provence label. Don’t hesitate to discover the many wine estates in Saint-Rémy-de-Provence, Eygalières and Mouriès, among others.

Provençal markets

The best activities for families in the Alpilles

Because you need to keep your little ones busy, you can be sure to find fun activities for the whole family to do around the campsite. Of course, you can choose from the excursions and visits described in the first section. However, we also recommend the following:

• Donkey treks;
• Treasure hunts organised by the tourist office;
• The Alpilles rail bike;
• Spirou Provence park (which promises an unusual activity in Vaucluse, the neighbouring department);
• Events based around bullfighting traditions.
  

Sports activities available in the region

To the question: what can you do in the Alpilles that requires physical effort? We have the answer. Several, in fact! As we have already devoted an article to the best hikes in the Alpilles, we prefer to focus on other activities in this section. Once again, you will have plenty to do during your stay in Provence.

Climbing sports in the Alpilles

Steep terrain means climbing! If you are spending your holidays in Provence and looking for climbing spots, the Alpilles are full of exceptional sites. From Camping Pegomas in Saint-Rémy-de-Provence, you can easily reach renowned locations such as Eyguières, Mouriès and Paradou, offering various levels of difficulty. You can also go climbing in the commune of Orgon, a site popular with climbers. Finally, if you’re tempted by the Vaucluse and wondering what to do in Cavaillon at the weekend, we can only invite you to discover its Via Ferrata, an experience rich in thrills.

Cycling: the ideal sport in the Alpilles

Do you enjoy nature walks that won’t put your calves through too much strain? Opt for the flat, tarmac cycle path that links Saint-Rémy-de-Provence to Saint-Etienne-du-Grès (20 kilometres there and back).

Do you prefer more challenging routes and enjoy putting yourself in the shoes of a Tour de France cyclist? Why not try a hybrid or racing bike on the hills of Mouriès, Paradou or Saint-Etienne-du-Grès? For more detailed information, visit the Chemins des Parcs website. On this website, you will also find the best mountain bike trails in the Alpilles.

We have taken a wonderful tour of the best activities in the Alpilles. There is plenty to keep you busy during your holiday in Provence. If you are looking for accommodation for your stay, why not check out our campsite: Camping Pegomas in Saint-Rémy-de-Provence. You can book now!

Sources : https://www.alpillesenprovence.com