Aix-en-Provence and Les Baux Wine Travel Guide (Provence, France)

Discover Aix-en-Provence and Les Baux-de-Provence Nestled in the heart of Provence, Aix-en-Provence and Les Baux-de-Provence offer a captivating blend of history, culture, and world-class wines. These charming destinations showcase the best of Southern French living, from sun-drenched vineyards to picturesque medieval villages. Towns and Villages Aix-en-Provence Known as the "City of a Thousand Fountains," Aix-en-Provence boasts elegant boulevards and charming squares. Cours Mirabeau, the main thoroughfare, is lined with plane trees and cafes, perfect for people-watching. Les Baux-de-Provence Perched atop a rocky outcrop, this medieval village offers breathtaking views of the Alpilles mountains. The Château des Baux ruins provide a glimpse into the area's rich history. Wine Producers Château La Coste Located just outside Aix-en-Provence, this winery combines art, architecture, and wine. Visitors can enjoy guided tours of the vineyards and contemporary art installations. Mas de la Dame Situated in Les Baux-de-Provence, this family-run estate produces organic wines. Their tasting room offers panoramic views of the Alpilles. Accommodations Aix-en-Provence La Maison d'Aix: A luxurious boutique hotel in a restored 18th-century mansion. Hôtel Le Pigo

et: Elegant rooms set in a beautiful garden, just a short walk from the city center. Les Baux-de-Provence Domaine de Manville: A 5-star hotel with a golf course and spa, surrounded by olive groves. Baumanière Les Baux-de-Provence: A Relais & Châteaux property featuring Michelin-starred dining. Dining Aix-en-Provence La Table de Pierre Reboul: Innovative Provençal cuisine with a focus on local ingredients. Le Comptoir du Parc: A cozy bistro serving traditional dishes and regional wines. Les Baux-de-Provence L'Oustau de Baumanière: A 3-Michelin-starred restaurant showcasing the best of Provençal gastronomy. La Cabro d'Or: Elegant dining with a terrace overlooking the Alpilles. Wine Shops & Bars Aix-en-Provence and Les Baux-de-Provence offer excellent options for wine enthusiasts: Aix-en-Provence La Carte des Vins: A well-stocked wine shop with knowledgeable staff and regular tastings. Le Petit Bistrot: Cozy wine bar featuring local wines and delicious tapas. Les Baux-de-Provence Maison des Baux: Wine shop specializing in wines from the Les Baux-de-Provence AOP. Le Bar à Vin de Baumanière: Elegant wine bar with an extensive selection of regional wines. Other Shops Discover local products and artisanal goods in these charming shops: Aix-en-Provence Le Comptoir de Mathilde: Gourmet food shop offering local specialties and Provençal products. Confiserie du Roy René: Famous for their traditional Calissons d'Aix, a local almond-flavored candy. Les Baux-de-Provence La Boutique de Provence: Sells locally-made olive oils, soaps, and lavender products. La Cure Gourmande: Offers a variety of regional sweets and biscuits in colorful tins. Attractions Beyond wine, these destinations offer cultural and historical attractions: Aix-en-Provence Musée Granet: Houses an impressive collection of art, including works by Céza

e. Atelier Céza

e: The former studio of Paul Céza

e, preserved as it was during his lifetime. Les Baux-de-Provence Carrières de Lumières: Immersive art projections in a former quarry. Musée des Santons: Showcases traditional Provençal nativity figurines. Events Plan your visit around these popular a

ual events: Aix-en-Provence Festival d'Aix-en-Provence (July): Renowned international opera festival. Aix-en-Provence Wine Festival (September): Celebrates local wines with tastings and workshops. Les Baux-de-Provence Les Médiévales des Baux (August): Medieval festival with reenactments and period costumes. Fête de l'Huile Nouvelle (December): Celebrates the new olive oil harvest with tastings and events. Appellations The region boasts several notable wine appellations: Coteaux d'Aix-en-Provence AOC: Known for rosé wines, also produces reds and whites. Les Baux-de-Provence AOC: Specializes in red wines, with some rosé and white production. Côtes de Provence AOC: Renowned for its rosé wines, covers a large area in Provence. These appellations reflect the unique terroir of the region, influenced by the Mediterranean climate and limestone soils. Grape Varieties The Provence region boasts a diverse range of grape varieties, both red and white. Grenache, Syrah, and Mourvèdre form the backbone of many red wines. White grapes include Rolle (Vermentino), Ugni Blanc, and Clairette. These contribute to the region's crisp, refreshing white wines. Main Wine Styles Provence is renowned for its rosé wines, accounting for over 80% of the region's production. These pale, dry rosés are perfect for summer sipping. Red wines from Aix-en-Provence and Les Baux-de-Provence tend to be full-bodied and robust. White wines are typically crisp and aromatic. Food Specialties The cuisine of Provence pairs beautifully with local wines. Bouillabaisse, the famous fish stew, is a must-try dish in Aix-en-Provence. Tapenade (olive spread) Ratatouille (vegetable stew) Daube provençale (beef stew) Aioli (garlic mayo

aise) ]] Drives & Walks The Route des Vins de Provence offers a scenic drive through vineyards and charming villages. This route co

ects Aix-en-Provence to Les Baux-de-Provence. In Les Baux-de-Provence, take a walk through the historic village and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. Itineraries 3-Day Wine Tour Day 1: Explore Aix-en-Provence's old town and visit nearby wineries like Château La Coste. Day 2: Drive to Les Baux-de-Provence, tour the village, and taste wines at Mas de la Dame. Day 3: Visit the Carrières de Lumières in Les Baux, then return to Aix for a final wine tasting at La Cave d'Yves. Getting There & Around Fly into Marseille Provence Airport (MRS) for easy access to Aix-en-Provence and Les Baux-de-Provence. Rent a car at the airport for flexibility in exploring the region. The TGV high-speed train co

ects Paris to Aix-en-Provence in about 3 hours. Local buses and taxis are available for shorter trips. Best Time to Visit Spring (April-May) and fall (September-October) offer pleasant weather and fewer crowds. These seasons are ideal for wine tasting and outdoor activities. Summer (June-August) brings hot weather and peak tourist season. Winter (November-March) is quieter but some wineries may have limited hours. Sustainability Efforts Many Provence wineries are adopting organic and biodynamic practices. Look for certifications like AB (Agriculture Biologique) or Demeter on wine labels. Some wineries, like Château La Coste, combine sustainable winemaking with eco-friendly art installations and architecture. Language Tips Basic French phrases are appreciated. Some useful wine-related terms: Dégustation - Wine tasting Cave - Wine cellar Domaine - Estate Millésime - Vintage Further Resources Visit the Vins de Provence official website for detailed information on Provence wines and appellations. Download the "Provence Wine Tour" app for self-guided tours and winery information. Available on iOS and Android.