Between Carpentras and Avignon the road throws you from side to side and rocks jut out creating a dramatic feel, especially on a stormy day. On a more common (sunny) day you are more lured to the sight of herbs jutting out of the rocks and the aromatic scents that the sun draws out of them.
On approach, Le Barroux castle towers above you -strong and dominant, planted in the limestone rock. This 12th century fortified castle was originally built and owned by the Lords of Baux to oppose the Saracen and Italian invasions but then partially destroyed during the French Revolution. The castle then passed into the hands of noble families only to be destroyed again by the Germans in 1944 in revenge for the villagers resistance; the walls and stones were stolen and the castle burnt. Foolishly, the Germans own troops were inside! The castle has since, in part, been restored. You can now visit the château; the 18th century murals are listed historical monuments and the little one’s will love searching for answers on the (free) historical trail.
The Medieval Festival
In August, Le Barroux puts on a fantastic Medieval Festival set around the castle. Volunteers and professionals are dressed appropriately selling artisanal products and performing. Jesters juggle, comedians joke, you can see how armour is made, wear it, and see it put into use in mock fights. Musicians pluck the harp and other traditional instruments as women dance the day away. Much merry making is made with a good old brew and rounded off perfectly with a banquet fit for a king!
On a calmer note, a little set away from the village, but in plain sight for all to see, is the Benedictine Abbey. Built in the ‘70’s but in Romanesque style, this fully functioning monastery is ready to welcome individuals and groups for meditation and spiritual retreats. If it’s a short trip you are looking for…the monks will be happy to sell you some homemade bread, cakes, oil, wine, books and CD’s of Gregorian chants.
Le Barroux Checklist
-The Castle
-Provençal Tuesday morning market in Caromb Or Vaison-la Romaine.
–Mont Ventoux for hiking cycling and zip ling
-The Medieval Festival in Le Barroux
–Les Dentelles de Montmirail (for hiking and rock climbing)
-Visit Domaine des Dentelles for intensive wine and cooking courses and stunning accommodation
-Visit Arôma’Plantes to find out how lavender is cultivated and distilled. Purchase some artisanally made soaps and cosmetics
-Kids love the Llama Farm
-Cool off at the Lac du Paty (Go on a Sunday and waltz the afternoon away at the lakeside to traditional and modern music)
-Carpentras Friday market 8am-12.30pm (stock up on black truffles!)
Nearest villages to Le Barroux
| Caromb | 9 min | Map |
| Beaumont-du-Ventoux | 15 min | Map |
| Carpentras | 17 min | Map |
| Bédoin | 19 min | Map |
| Gigondas | 24 min | Map |
Nearby Restaurants
Tip: Try out the gastronomic restaurant Gajulea in Le Barroux.
How to get there
Train: Avignon (42 mins)
Airports: Avignon (38 mins) Marseille ( 1h15)
Car: See map
There are some stunning properties to be rented in this gorgeous slice of Provence. Beautifully restored farmhouses with heated pools, wine domains for large groups or weddings and villas for families.
Be inspired by our collection of beautiful villas for rent around Le Barroux
L’Oliveraie, Le Barroux, Ventoux
Contact us for more details or have a look at some other stunning villas in Provence.