Charleval

25km north-west of Aix en Provence via the N7 then the D561.

With the Luberon in the back-ground and bordering the Durance, Charleval is peacefully nestled at the foothills of the "chaîne des Côtes" on the border of the Bouches du Rhône and the Vaucluse.

This small village will surprise you with its perfectly designed streets which are so straight and regular they are worthy of any American town.
It was the founder of Charleval, Cesar de Cadenet, who in 1741 designed these roads which are in sharp contrast to the narrow, winding streets one normally finds in Provencal villages.

Charleval has a beautiful chateau in Renaissance style which over-looks the village, but unfortunately it is not open to the public. Simple, with a discreet charm,

Charleval is not a major tourist attraction - although it has a beautiful swimming pool surrounded by pine-trees with a picnic and play area for children.
A superb hiking trail is signposted across the hill-side (sentier interactif de découverte de la colline) which will help you to discover the lush and varied vegetation. Take time to admire the stunning view of the Luberon, the Alpilles and the Durance valley.