Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Around St-Rémy de Provence
Vineyards and olive groves line valleys below craggy peaks, covered in fragrant Mediter-
randean scrub. There are also rugged castles, ancient olive-oil mills, a troglodyte monas-
tery and unusual attractions that dot the countryside.
TARASCON
The mighty walls of the 15th-century beauty of a castle
Château de Tarascon
( 04 90 91 01 93;
www.tarascon.fr
; adult/student/child €7/3/free; 9.30am-5.30pm Oct-May, 9.30am-6.30pm Jun-Sep; last entry
45min before close)
rise straight out of the River Rhône. The imposing fortress was built by Louis II to defend
Provence's frontier. Today it's a great destination for a half-day trip. Cross the mossy inner courtyard and explore a
dainty chapel, ancient pharmacy and carved grotesques, as you make your way up to the crenelated rooftop for stun-
ning river views. The town is refreshingly non-touristy, making it a good-value base for budgeteers. We particularly
like
Hôtel de Provence
(
04 90 91 06 43;
www.hotel-provence-tarascon.com
;
7 bd Victor Hugo; s €59-65, d
€69-85;
)
.
JARDIN DE L'ALCHIMISTE
East of St-Rémy, in Eygalières, fascinating
Jardin de l'Alchimiste
(Alchemist's Garden;
04 90 90 67 67;
www.jardin-alchimiste.com
;
Mas de la Brune; adult/concession/child
€7/5/2; 10am-6pm daily May, 10am-6pm Sat & Sun Jun-Sep)
- inspired by the nearby
16th-century house of an alchemist - is planted in arcane medieval patterns, and filled
with blossoming trees and herbs reputed to hold mystical properties. It's a magical destin-
ation for a Sunday-afternoon drive.
LES BAUX DE PROVENCE
POP 381
Clinging precariously to an ancient limestone
baou
(Provençal for 'rocky spur'), this forti-
fied hilltop village is one of the most visited in France. It's easy to understand why - nar-
row cobbled streets wend car-free past ancient houses, up to a splendid castle. The
tourist
office
( 04 90 54 34 39;
www.lesbauxdeprovence.com
; 9.30am-5pm Mon-Fri,
10am-5.30pm Sat & Sun)
has information on the few accommodation options.
