Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Sights
Château des Baux
( www.chateau-baux-provence.com ; adult/child €7.60/5.70; 9am-6pm Sep-Jun,
9am-8pm Jul & Aug) The dramatic ruins of Château des Baux crown the village and dom-
inate the landscape. Dating to the 10th century, the castle was largely destroyed in 1633,
during the reign of Louis XIII. With maze-like ruins covering 7 hectares, it's a thrilling
place to explore - particularly for kids in their toy-soldier phase.
Climb the crumbling towers for incredible views and descend into disused dungeons.
Giant medieval weapons dot the site, and pictograms of knights falling from ledges depict
cautionary tales about how high you are on the cliffs. The reconstructed trebuchets, ballis-
tas and battering rams are demonstrated several times daily during summer.
CASTLE, RUIN
LIGHT SHOW
Carrières de Lumière
( 04 90 54 55 56; www.carrieres-lumieres.com ; rte de Maillane; adult/student €8/6;
10am-7pm Apr-Sep, 10am-6pm Oct-Dec & Mar) A high-end sound-and-light spectacular,
Carrières de Lumière is an odd, strangely thrilling attraction. In the chilly halls of a former
limestone quarry, gigantic projections illuminate rough cave walls and floor, accompanied
by oration and swelling music in that overly dramatic way the French so love. The show -
on Gaugin and Van Gogh, at the time of research - shows famous images in new ways.
Dress warmly.
Sleeping & Eating
L'Oustau de Baumanière €€€
( 04 90 54 33 07; www.oustaudebaumaniere.com ; menus €95-150; ) A legendary
table beneath vaulted stone ceilings, l'Oustau serves rarefied cuisine, including a très
gourmet vegetarian menu with ingredients from the organic garden outside. Upstairs are
luxurious rooms ( 04 90 54 33 07; www.oustaudebaumaniere.com ; d from €290) . Head
chef and owner Jean-André Charial's kingdom includes the Michelin-starred restaurant
and fancy digs at La Cabro d'Or ( 04 90 54 33 21) , also in Les Baux. Reservations
imperative.
GASTRONOMIC
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