The 10 most beautiful castles and abbeys in Provence – Côte d'Azur

Provence – Côte d'Azur is a region where beauty and history go hand in hand. Castles and abbeys that can still be admired in all their glory shine under the sun of southern France. Here you will experience the tranquillity of ancient walls, the scent of lavender and the view over rolling hills and vineyards. During a holiday in the South of France, it is a special experience to visit these monuments. Whether you are staying in a holiday home in Provence or a holiday home near the Mediterranean Sea, these places are within easy reach. Very suitable for a day full of culture, history and experiences with the whole family.

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The 5 most beautiful castles in Provence – Côte d'Azur

A region full of noble splendor and Provençal refinement
Provence – Côte d'Azur is home to a wealth of castles that have stood the test of time. From stately mansions with extensive gardens to centuries-old forts where nobles once lived, here you will find the grandeur of the past, beautifully preserved for the future. Many of these castles are still in use today, as wineries, museums or even as hotels. You can stroll through French gardens, courtyards with sparkling fountains and halls where the smell of polished wood and history lingers. These castles are spread across the region: from the green heart of the Luberon to close to the coast of the Mediterranean Sea. Each has its own story, its own atmosphere. Whether you're travelling from Vallée de la Ste. Baume, a luxury holiday park in the South of France or a luxury villa in Provence – Côte d'Azur, a visit to these castles offers a glimpse into the past. Experience a day full of charm, elegance and romance.

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1. Château de La Barben

The impressive Château de La Barben, one of the best-preserved castles in the south of France, lies between Aix-en-Provence and Salon-de-Provence. The medieval castle, once owned by the influential Forbin family, exudes the atmosphere of opulence and history. Inside you will find richly decorated rooms with tapestries, antique furniture and paintings. Around the castle you will find the classic gardens of Le Nôtre, known from Versailles. Here you can wander for hours among fountains and rose gardens. The castle is open to visitors. During certain periods, there are medieval shows and themed events. It is highly recommended to visit this castle during your stay in a holiday home in Provence.

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2. Château de Lourmarin

In the heart of the Luberon lies the magnificent Château de Lourmarin, a characteristic Renaissance castle known as one of the first Renaissance buildings in Provence. You can easily visit this castle for a day from your luxury holiday home in the South of France. The castle was built in the 15th century on the ruins of a medieval fortress and later expanded into the ornate palace it is today. Inside you will find a collection of art, antiques and musical instruments. From the tower you have a beautiful view over the village of Lourmarin, which is one of the most beautiful villages in Provence.

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3. Château de Roquebrune-Cap-Martin

The impressive Château de Roquebrune-Cap-Martin, one of the oldest and best-preserved castles on the Mediterranean, lies on the Côte d'Azur, between Menton and Monaco. This imposing medieval fortress was built in the 10th century by the Grimaldi's of Monaco. From the ramparts, you can enjoy a magnificent view of the Mediterranean coast and the Bay of Menton. Inside, you can view medieval halls, towers and ancient weapons. From your holiday villa in Provence – Côte d'Azur you can easily visit Roquebrune-Cap-Martin. The atmosphere of this castle is unique: a combination of history and glamour.

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4. Château du Barroux

Château du Barroux, one of the most emblematic castles in Provence, lies at the foot of Mont Ventoux. You can easily visit this castle from your holiday home in the Jardin du Golf holiday park in Provence. The castle dates back to the 12th century and was later rebuilt in the Renaissance style. The imposing structure towers over the village and offers a beautiful view over the vineyards of the Côtes du Ventoux. Inside the castle, you will see restored halls, frescoes, and historic weapons. The castle is also home to a small artisanal liqueur distillery. A visit to Château du Barroux is worthwhile during your holiday in Provence, especially for lovers of history and heritage.

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5. Château de Gordes

Château de Gordes is located in the heart of the village of Gordes, on top of a rocky plateau. This imposing Renaissance castle was built in 1031 and completely rebuilt in the 16th century. Inside the castle, there is an art museum dedicated to the painter Pol Mara and changing exhibitions on local history. From the terraces you have a beautiful view over the Luberon and the surrounding lavender fields – one of the most beautiful views of Provence. The castle is located in the middle of Gordes, a village that is a sight in itself, and is easily accessible from your luxury villa in Provence – Côte d'Azur.

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The 5 most beautiful abbeys in Provence – Côte d'Azur

Peace, rhythm and religious simplicity
In addition to castles full of splendour and grandeur, Provence also boasts abbeys that impress with their simplicity and serenity. These ancient monasteries are hidden between lavender fields, forests and hills, often still inhabited by monks who live in silence and give substance to life in their characteristic way. The abbeys of Provence – Côte d'Azur are architectural masterpieces. Viewing these buildings is in itself a reason to plan a visit from your villa park Domaine de Castellane in Provence. A visit to an abbey or other cultural-historical monument makes your holiday to the South of France extra special. Together with your partner or family, you can stroll through cloisters, listen to Gregorian chants or simply enjoy the silence together. Many abbeys still produce their own products, such as honey, lavender oil and liqueur. A delightful way to take home something authentic from your luxury villa in Provence – Côte d’Azur.

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6. Abbaye du Thoronet

The Abbaye du Thoronet is a masterpiece of Cistercian architecture from the 12th century. This abbey is an oasis of peace and symmetry located between Brignoles and Draguignan, a short distance from the luxury villapark in de Provence: Residence of Salernes. Inside, silence reigns; Only the soft reverberation of your footsteps fills the room. The perfect acoustics makes the church popular for concerts. For families, there is an exciting tour you can join that explains the monastic life in a way that also appeals to children. A visit to this abbey is a nice way to spend a day during your holiday in Provence.

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7. Abbaye de Sénanque

The Abbey of Sénanque is located between hills near Gordes. The lavender fields around the abbey bloom in the summer, which makes for a beautiful view. The abbey was founded in 1148 by Cistercian monks, who settled here to live in simplicity, prayer and labour. Their way of life has hardly changed over the centuries. Monks still live and work in Sénanque. Inside, there is peace; monks still live here according to the old monastic rules. You can visit the church and cloister or buy products such as lavender oil, honey, herbs and liqueur, made according to traditional recipes.

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8. Abbaye de Silvacane

The Abbaye de Silvacane, near La Roque-d'Anthéron, is located on the river Durance. This Cistercian abbey from the 12th century is one of the three famous "sisters' abbeys" of Provence, along with Sénanque and Thoronet. The simple architecture and light sandstone give the abbey a serene appearance. Inside, the rooms are impressive in their austerity: a high church with a vaulted ceiling, a tranquil cloister with sandstone columns, and a chapter house where monks gathered. During the summer, Silvacane is the scene of classical concerts and cultural events. From your holiday home in France, this is a pleasant cultural day trip.

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9. Abbaye Saint-Honorat

On Saint-Honorat, one of the islands in the Mediterranean Sea, you will find Abbaye Saint-Honorat. From Cannes you can sail to this island. The abbey was founded in the 5th century by Honoratus, who settled here with a few followers to live in seclusion. The abbey is still in use today. The monastery complex itself is impressive in its simplicity. The abbey is surrounded by vineyards, cypresses and pine trees. The monks produce their own wine and liqueur, which you can sample on site. Visitors can visit the abbey church, the cloisters and the old keep. A special excursion from your holiday park in the South of France.

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10. Abbaye Saint-Michel de Frigolet

The Abbaye Saint-Michel de Frigolet is located between Avignon and Tarascon, hidden in the hills of La Montagnette. The colourful basilica with gold and mosaic is impressive, and the abbey is still inhabited by Norbertine monks. Visitors are welcome for guided tours, prayer or a quiet moment in the monastery garden. In the shop you can buy the famous Frigolet liqueur. A quiet, authentic place – excellent to combine with a stay in a holiday home with private pool by the Mediterranean Sea.

Tips for visiting castles and abbeys in Provence – Côte d'Azur

1. Choose the right time of day
The morning or late afternoon is ideal for visiting castles and abbeys. The temperatures are pleasant and the crowds are quiet. Especially at Château de Gordes or Abbaye de Sénanque, an early visit is wise.

2. Combine culture with nature
Most castles and abbeys are located in a beautiful natural landscape of Provence: between lavender fields, vineyards or on the coast of the Mediterranean Sea, such as Château du Barroux and Abbaye du Thoronet. Combine your visit with a picnic or walk in the area.

3. Inquire about tours and events
Almost all locations offer tours. In summer, music evenings, medieval festivals and wine tastings take place regularly, such as at Château de La Barben, Abbaye de Silvacane, Château de Lourmarin.

4. Respect the tranquility of abbeys
At abbeys where monks still live, such as Abbaye de Sénanque and Abbaye Saint-Honorat, silence is important. Visitors are welcome, but respect for the rules of life of the monastery is part of it. Speak softly, dress appropriately and follow the walking routes marked out for visitors.

5. Buy local products as souvenirs
Many abbeys and castles produce their own specialties such as wine, honey, olive oil, lavender products or liqueur. By  buying regional products, you contribute to the preservation of the abbey. Taste the wines of Abbaye Saint-Honorat or the herbal liqueur of Abbaye Saint-Michel de Frigolet.

A journey through time, nature and culture

The castles and abbeys of Provence – Côte d'Azur bring the past to life and tell stories of kings, monks and artists. Enjoy the vineyards of Château de Saint-Martin or the tranquillity of Abbaye du Thoronet. From your luxury villa in Provence – Côte d'Azur or a beautiful holiday home in Provence,  these places are easy to reach.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can you visit the castles and abbeys in Provence?
Yes, all the locations mentioned are open to visitors. You can take part in guided tours, wine tastings and cultural events.

2. Which castles are fun for families with children?
Château de La Barben and Château du Barroux are suitable for families, with family tours and fun children's activities.

3. What is the best time to visit these monuments?
From May to September, the climate is ideal. In June and July, the lavender blooms, making abbeys like Sénanque extra atmospheric.

4. Which abbeys or castles are located on the coast of the Mediterranean Sea?
Abbaye Saint-Honorat near Cannes and Château de Roquebrune-Cap-Martin are located near the coast and are easily accessible for a day trip.

5. Do you have to pay an entrance fee for these castles and abbeys?
Yes, most venues have a small entrance fee. Family tickets or discounts for children are often available.

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