The village of Le Paradou is located between Maussane-les-Alpilles and Les Baux-de-Provence, at the foot of the Alpilles Regional Nature Park. Discover all the activities to do in and around the village.
It is an ideal base for exploring the region. The town has around 1,500 inhabitants and is located in the Bouches-du-Rhône department. You can go hiking in the Alpilles, visit the santons museum, explore the towers of Castillon, and stroll around the Tuesday morning market. This Provençal village also offers good restaurants, walks through olive groves, and easy access to Les Baux-de-Provence.
In terms of heritage, the ruins of Saint-Martin-de-Castillon are worth a visit. There you will find three medieval towers and ramparts overlooking the valley. The view stretches as far as the Alpilles mountain range and beyond.
The La Petite Provence museum in Le Paradou exhibits more than 400 santons (figurines) over 400 m². It is one of the largest collections in the world. The most talented santon makers in Provence contributed to these creations.
Top 3 original activities to do in LeParadou
If you're looking for leisure activities in Le Paradou, this small Provençal village has a few surprises in store for you. In addition to its peaceful landscapes, it offers original activities that will allow you to discover the richness of the region, including nature, history, and local traditions. Here are three must-see attractions:
1/ Discover the Domaine du Mas Sainte Berthe
Just a few minutes from the village, this wine estate invites you to taste their wines. During the guided tour, you will discover the secrets of vine cultivation in the Alpilles, before enjoying a tasting of local wines. It's the ideal setting to soak up the Provençal atmosphere and flavors. Remember to book here.
2/ Visit the Carrières des Lumières in Les Baux-de-Provence
Ten minutes from the village of Le Paradou, the Carrières des Lumières immerse you in a unique immersive experience. Former limestone quarries host monumental projections of works of art over 7,000 m². The exhibitions change every year and highlight artists such as Monet, Van Gogh, and Picasso. Music accompanies the images projected onto the walls, columns, and floor. In our opinion, it's the best tourist attraction in the Alpilles! The show lasts about 40 minutes and will leave you with a memorable souvenir of your stay in Provence. Remember to book your slot in advance:
Then take the opportunity to visit the village of Les Baux and the Château des Baux.
3/ Stroll through the lavender fields and olive groves
Nothing is more typically Provençal than the lavender fields and olive groves surrounding Le Paradou. Perfect for a leisurely stroll with family or friends, these landscapes offer a colorful spectacle, especially in summer when the lavender is in full bloom and the air is filled with its characteristic scent.
Things to do in Le Paradou
Le Paradou, with its calm atmosphere and typical Provençal setting, offers many activities for discovering all aspects of the region. Whether you are a nature lover, a heritage enthusiast, or looking for sporting activities, this charming village in the Alpilles offers a variety of options to make the most of your stay. Here are some suggestions for activities not to be missed when exploring Le Paradou and its surroundings.
Where to walk to enjoy the atmosphere?
In the streets of the village
Visiting Le Paradou by strolling through the narrow streets of this Provençal village is a real pleasure. The stone houses, shaded squares, and tranquil atmosphere create the ideal setting for a moment of relaxation. The main square, with its church and typical cafés, invites you to stop and enjoy the gentle pace of life.
The trails around the village
Le Paradou is surrounded by numerous hiking trails. Whether you enjoy short walks or longer hikes, the landscapes of the Alpilles offer splendid views of the hills, the garrigue, and the local flora.
What sports activities are available?
Hiking and mountain biking
The Alpilles, with their varied trails, are an ideal playground for hiking and mountain biking enthusiasts. You will find trails accessible to all levels, allowing you to discover the region from a unique and athletic perspective.
Rock climbing in Les Baux-de-Provence
Near Le Paradou, the cliffs of Les Baux-de-Provence attract climbers of all levels. With breathtaking views of the valley and surrounding mountains, it's the perfect place to combine sport with exceptional panoramas.
What to visit to discover the heritage and culture?
Les Baux-de-Provence
A few minutes' drive from Le Paradou, Les Baux-de-Provence is a must-see site. This medieval village, ranked among the most beautiful in France, immerses you in history with its castle, cobbled streets, and breathtaking views of the Alpilles.
The Yves Brayer Museum
This museum displays the works of painter Yves Brayer, an artist deeply inspired by Provence. A visit here is a wonderful way to discover the region's art and appreciate the landscapes that so inspired the artist.
What local experience should you try?
The village market, every Sunday morning, is the place to be to sample local products: mature cheeses, olive oil, lavender honey, and other local delicacies. It's also a great opportunity to meet the producers and take a little bit of Provence home with you, whether in the form of fresh produce or local crafts.paradoou
How to get to Le Paradou?
By car: Le Paradou is easily accessible in 30 minutes from Avignon and 15 minutes from Arles via the D17.
By train: The Avignon TGV station is located about 30 minutes by car from the village.
By bus: The ZOU! network serves Le Paradou from Arles and Avignon, making it easy to reach the village without a car.
Villages and nature in the surrounding area
Les Baux-de-Provence: Just 10 minutes away, this medieval village, ranked among the most beautiful in France, offers spectacular views and an iconic castle to explore.
Fontvieille: A picturesque village, ideal for discovering Alphonse Daudet's mill and enjoying magnificent panoramic views of the Alpilles.
The Alpilles Natural Park: This park, a true haven of peace, is full of trails for hiking and admiring the wild beauty of the landscapes.