Les Baux is a fortified medieval village perched on a rocky hilltop in the Alpilles Mountains, south of St-Rémy-de-Provence. Reputedly one of the most beautiful villages in France, this little community of just 430 inhabitants receives over 1.5 million visitors a year. Surrounded by vineyards and olive groves, this charming village of small squares, narrow streets and medieval architecture packs an impressive punch for lovers of history and culture. Tucked nearby are lovely B&Bs and chic hotels, perfect for elegant Provençal trips as a couple or with friends and family. Intimate and relaxing, many of the best places to stay in Les Baux-de-Provence also promise mesmerising views.

Meaning ‘cliff’ in Provençal, ‘Baux’ perches on a craggy outcrop, its historic centre crowned by a ruined castle. Clamber up to the Château des Baux — and the ancient troglodyte caves — for panoramic views towards the Mediterranean, or stroll along the little lanes of the village to admire craft boutiques, museums, cafés and eateries. Intriguing ancient remnants include the Trémaïé Bas-relief and the Calvinist ‘Post Tenebras Lux’ window. The 12th-century Saint-Vincent Church is impressive, as is the Carrières des Lumières cultural space.

Venture into the surrounding hills for great hiking and mountain biking, sample local wines at the Cave Vignoble Sainte Berthe or dip your toes in the pool at one of the best places to stay in Les Baux-de-Provence. Do be aware that rooms fill up fast during the summer season!

The Best Places to Stay in Les Baux-de-Provence

For Families

• Le Mas D'Aigret is a charming spot with an impressive dining room carved out of the rock. Book the two-room suite if travelling as a family, kick back by the pool and enjoy the sunny gardens. A lovely, affordable stay for families.
• Le Mas d'Oulivie is a glorious Provençal house framed by lavender, cypress and olive trees. Elegant bedrooms with private terraces have space for extra beds. There's an enormous swimming pool and a tennis court — ideal for families.
• Benvengudo offers a collection of rooms, suites and cottages, perfect for luxurious family holidays. Book an elegant private cottage and spend your days by the pool, playing tennis or pétanque and horse riding through the countryside. The restaurant uses produce from the vegetable gardens and olives from the estate. A family-run gem.

For Couples

• B Hotel Design + Spa is a chic 5* property with minimalist modern rooms and suites, as well as an inviting swimming pool, gourmet eatery and dedicated 250m² wellness space including an indoor pool and spa. Very restful and romantic.

For Food-Focused Luxury

• Domaine de Manville has 30 chic rooms and 9 villas surrounded by olive groves, with two swimming pools, a golf course, a private cinema, spa and kids club. Michelin-starred L’Aupiho, led by Chef Lieven van Aken offers dishes of local crab or veal accompanied by truffles, succulent olives and the Domaine's own honey. A feast of Provençal flavours.
• Baumanière's five-star offering — boasting four pools, a spa, a tennis court, mature gardens and beautiful rooms — is completed by its legendary Michelin-starred restaurant. Open since 1945, L’Oustau de Baumanière also has one of the best wine cellars in France. Savour tasting menus including classics such as St-Rémy-de-Provence snails or innovative split red mullet with seaweed bread and two sauces. Fantastic.

FOR A HOLIDAY VILLA

• If you'd prefer a self-catering option, we suggest that you visit our online partner Booking.com.

TRAVEL INFORMATION

• Fly to Avignon-Caumont Airport, or larger Montpellier Airport, 1.5 hours away. Alternatively, take the TGV from Paris to nearby hubs such as Avignon or Arles. Journey by bus or car from there.
• Provence is wonderful for a road trip! Contact our online partner Rentalcars if you would like to hire a car.
• With an average of 300 days of sunshine a year, Provence is blessed with a near-Mediterranean climate. Expect hot summers — with temperatures of 26-30°C — and mild winters. Summer visitors can marvel at the famous Provençal lavender, whilst springtime travellers will find mild, sunny weather suitable for active explorations. The Mistral wind blows through the Rhone Valley, keeping the air cool and rain showers short.

STILL NOT SURE?

• Explore our list of all the best places to stay in St-Rémy-de-Provence.
• Alternatively, expand your search to see our pick of the best places to stay in Provence.
• Or contact one of our friendly Gurus for advice.

Weather

Monthly Weather in Les Baux-de-Provence