Créé par Emilie, le 20 juin 2026
Votre guide Ryo
3 beautiful villages not to miss during your stay in Les Alpilles
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Nestled in the heart of Provence, Les Alpilles are home to some of the most beautiful villages in France. Between white limestone, centuries-old olive trees and breathtaking landscapes, this region offers incomparable Provençal authenticity. Here are 3 must-see villages that perfectly embody the art of living in Les Alpilles and are absolutely worth a detour during your stay.
1. Saint-Rémy-de-Provence, Van Gogh's village and ancient heritage
Saint-Rémy-de-Provence stands out as one of the most emblematic villages of Les Alpilles. This charming Provençal commune has preserved its authenticity while developing an international reputation, notably thanks to Vincent van Gogh who stayed here and created some of his most famous works.
The village charms with its shaded alleys bordered by plane trees, its typical cafés and its colorful markets. Traditional Provençal architecture reveals itself at every street corner, with its ochre facades and round tile roofs. Art and history lovers will find their delight by visiting the Saint-Paul-de-Mausole Monastery, where Van Gogh was treated and where he painted some of his masterpieces.
The archaeological site of Glanum constitutes another jewel of Saint-Rémy heritage. This ancient Gallo-Roman city reveals the vestiges of a fascinating civilization, with its thermal baths, its forum and its perfectly preserved dwellings. The famous Antiques, composed of the Mausoleum and the Triumphal Arch, testify to the past grandeur of this exceptional site.
For gourmets, Saint-Rémy-de-Provence is full of excellent restaurants. Toute une Époque (21 Place de la République, 13210 Saint-Rémy-de-Provence, rated 4.5/5 on Google for 1317 reviews) offers refined French cuisine, while L'Aile ou la Cuisse (34 Boulevard Mirabeau, 13210 Saint-Rémy-de-Provence, rated 4.5/5 on Google for 1998 reviews) will seduce lovers of chic bistro.
2. Les Baux-de-Provence, the perched medieval citadel
Classified among the Most Beautiful Villages of France since 1998, Les Baux-de-Provence offers a striking spectacle. Perched on a rocky spur at 245 meters altitude, this medieval village majestically dominates the Les Alpilles plain and offers exceptional panoramas over Provence.
The château of Les Baux-de-Provence, erected in the 11th century, constitutes the main attraction of the village. This medieval fortress, which extends over 5 hectares, is entirely classified as a Historic Monument. Visitors can explore the impressive ruins of the keep, the Saracen and Paravelle towers, as well as the former lordly apartments. The site also offers demonstrations of medieval siege weapons that transport visitors to the heart of history.
The paved streets of the village reveal remarkable architectural heritage with 22 elements classified as Historic Monuments. The Renaissance houses, the private mansions and the ancient lordly residences testify to the past wealth of this medieval city. The church of Saint-Vincent, dating from the 12th century, also deserves a visit for its contemporary stained glass windows by Max Ingrand.
The Carrières de Lumières constitute an unmissable attraction. This former limestone extraction site transformed into an immersive exhibition space projects monumental artworks on the rock faces. The experience, both artistic and sensory, offers a unique discovery of the great masters of painting in an exceptional setting.
3. Eygalières, the discreet charm of Les Alpilles
Eygalières perfectly embodies Provençal authenticity. This small quiet village, located only 5 minutes from Saint-Rémy-de-Provence, offers an idyllic setting at the foot of the northern slope of Les Alpilles. Surrounded by olive fields, vineyards and cypresses, Eygalières charms with its discretion and natural charm.
The village is organized around its lively main street, lined with traditional Provençal houses with colorful facades. Local architecture is characterized by the use of limestone from Les Alpilles, creating perfect harmony with the surrounding landscape. The narrow streets and shaded squares invite strolling and discovery.
Eygalières' heritage conceals numerous architectural treasures. The village church, ancient chapels, cemetery crosses and old oil mills testify to the historical richness of this commune. The rocky peak that overlooks the village offers an exceptional panorama over Les Alpilles and constitutes a natural viewpoint prized by photographers.
Nature lovers will appreciate the hiking trails that wind through the surrounding hills. The typically Mediterranean landscapes, composed of garrigue, pine forests and olive groves, offer an ideal playground to discover the fauna and flora of Les Alpilles. Cyclists also find their happiness on the numerous tracks that crisscross the region.
Local gastronomy is not left out with several restaurants offering authentic Provençal cuisine. Local markets allow you to discover local products: olive oil, goat cheeses, lavender honey and wines from Les Alpilles. This culinary authenticity makes Eygalières an unmissable gourmet stopover during your circuit in Les Alpilles.
Practical advice for your stay in Les Alpilles
To fully enjoy your discovery of these 3 beautiful villages of Les Alpilles, some recommendations are essential. The best period to visit the region extends from April to October, with a preference for spring and autumn which offer pleasant temperatures and magnificent landscapes.
The car remains the most practical means of transport to explore these villages, allowing you to enjoy the landscapes and stop according to your desires. However, remember to reserve your parking, particularly in Les Baux-de-Provence where attendance is high. The villages being relatively close to each other, it is possible to visit them in one day, but for a more thorough discovery, plan at least two days.
In conclusion, Saint-Rémy-de-Provence, Les Baux-de-Provence and Eygalières represent the very essence of Les Alpilles. These three villages, each with its personality and treasures, offer total immersion in the Provençal art of living. Between historical heritage, preserved landscapes and authenticity, your stay in these pearls of Les Alpilles will remain engraved in your memory.
What is the best time to visit the villages of Les Alpilles?
The ideal period extends from April to October, with a preference for spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) which offer pleasant temperatures and less tourist traffic.
How much time is needed to visit these 3 villages?
Count at least one day for a quick discovery of the three villages, but ideally plan 2 to 3 days to fully enjoy the heritage, landscapes and Provençal art of living.
How to get around between the villages of Les Alpilles?
The car remains the most practical means. Saint-Rémy-de-Provence is 10 minutes from Eygalières and 15 minutes from Les Baux-de-Provence. The electric bicycle also constitutes an excellent alternative for cycling tourism enthusiasts.
What are the must-see sites to visit?
Don't miss the archaeological site of Glanum and the Antiques in Saint-Rémy-de-Provence, the château of Les Baux-de-Provence and the Carrières de Lumières in Les Baux-de-Provence, as well as the panorama from the rocky peak of Eygalières.