FONSCOLOMBE CASTLE Experiences in Provence

Set off at dawn with our enthusiastic guide for a 2.5-hour hike in Le Tholonet and admire the landscapes that inspired the illustrious Paul Cézanne. Marvel at the spectacular views of the region and take a piece of Provence home with you. An unforgettable experience.

In Aix-en-Provence, follow in the footsteps of Paul Cézanne, from his light-filled studio in the hills of Lauves to the ochre-colored Bibémus quarries, passing by the family bastide at Jas de Bouffan. These places, witnesses to his genius, invite you to see Provence through his eyes: a perfect balance between nature and creativity.

Head for the cobbled streets and enchanting panoramas of the Provençal hills! From the thousand-year-old castle of Ansouis to the bustling town of Lourmarin, via the artistic landscapes of Ménerbes and the harmony of Gordes, each village is like a living postcard. Here, Provence can be enjoyed with the whole family, through the eyes of a child or an artist, nourishing the heart, body, and mind.

15 km from Château de Fonscolombe At Rose et Marius, the perfume creation workshop invites you to enjoy a unique moment of creativity and reconnect with your senses. Young and old alike can give free rein to their imagination by creating their own custom-made eau de parfum, candle, or home fragrance. In the heart of Aix-en-Provence, in a refined setting, immerse yourself in the world of Haute Parfumerie and enjoy an unforgettable sensory experience.

Depending on the workshop, children between the ages of 10 and 12 are welcome to participate. Located 15 km from the Château de Fonscolombe Chez Rose et Marius, the perfume creation workshop invites you to enjoy a unique moment of creativity and reconnect with your senses. Young and old alike, give free rein to your imagination by creating your own custom-made eau de parfum, candle, or home fragrance. In the heart of Aix-en-Provence, in a refined setting, immerse yourself in the world of Haute Parfumerie and enjoy an unforgettable sensory experience. Depending on the workshop, children between the ages of 10 and 12 are welcome to participate.

Discover the Luberon and fall in love with its hilltop villages and breathtaking views. Pass through picturesque Lourmarin before venturing into La Combe, a gorge carved out by the Aigue Brun river. Climb up to Bonnieux for a stunning panoramic view, then cool off in the majestic Cedar Forest. Here and there, stroll through the lavender fields along the roads that crisscross Lacoste, Bonnieux, or the Claparèdes plateau. Stunningly beautiful.

In the Calanques, every cove has its own story, every trail leads to a treasure. Between the white cliffs and turquoise waters, the hardest part is choosing: climbing, swimming, or relaxing? You're sure to fall in love with En-Vau, a cove so beautiful it deserves its own star in the guidebook of wonders.

Less than 10 km from Château de Fonscolombe Witness the perfect union of art and nature at Château La Coste. Nestled in the heart of the Provençal vineyards, the Art & Architecture Walk takes visitors of all ages on a journey through 40 contemporary works spread over 4 km of winding paths. From sculptures to installations, each creation interacts with the surrounding landscape to create a unique artistic immersion. A meditative stroll, open from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., just a few minutes from Aix-en-Provence. Golf carts are available for hire for the tour.

Under the plane trees of Place Richelme or on the stalls of Cours Mirabeau, the markets of Aix are brimming with Provençal flavors. Fruit, cheese, crafts, and flowers—each stall tells a little story about the region. Visit on a Saturday for an explosion of colors and scents at the heart of local tradition. Your taste buds will be amazed.

Under the Luberon sun, push open the door of Moulin Bastide du Laval and let yourself be carried away by the heady scents of the olive groves. Here, between ancestral traditions and gourmet tastings, learn to discover the subtle aromas that make olive oil sing. A sensory escape where every drop celebrates Provence and its art of living.

At the foot of the Luberon, the garden of Château Val Joanis looks like something straight out of a masterpiece painting. With its aromatic vegetable gardens, vibrant rose bushes, and shaded paths, this oasis, classified as a "Remarkable Garden," is a tribute to nature. Let yourself be charmed by a bucolic stroll, punctuated by a tasting of the estate's wines. A rejuvenating break where time stands still.

At Château Paradis, just a few minutes from our hotel, discover the art of winemaking. After a tour of the cellars and a tasting of different grape varieties, blend your own wine according to your preferences and personalize it with your own label. Ready, set, sip!

At the Old Port, the whole of Marseille comes to life: fishermen unpack their treasures, terraces buzz with laughter, and boats dance to the rhythm of the waves. Here, you can taste bouillabaisse, soak up the salty sea air, and let yourself be carried away by the energy of Marseille. Further afield, explore the Church of Saint Victor, the Palais des Congrès, and even the famous Basilica of Notre-Dame de la Garde, which watches over the port from above.

In summer, take part in one of our lavender workshops in Cucuron, just 20 minutes from Château de Fonscolombe. Pick sprigs of lavender and create scented spindles. A sensory experience in the heart of the purple fields.

Up there, on its hill in the Phocaean city, the Bonne Mère watches over Marseille. Between its interior sparkling with mosaics and the 360° view of Marseille, you won't know where to look first. Overlooking Marseille, the basilica is a neo-Byzantine jewel and an unmissable symbol. Treat yourself to a moment of contemplation as you gaze out over the magnificent panorama of the Mediterranean.

Welcome to Europe's largest canyon, where nature expresses itself with grandeur. The Gorges du Verdon will take your breath away with their vertiginous 700-meter cliffs and dazzling green river. Here, young and old alike can enjoy kayaking, hiking, or swimming for an unforgettable day in the heart of wild Provence.

From clay to sculpture, learn how to make your own Provençal figurines or decorations during a creative workshop in Aubagne. Under Anthony's expert guidance, let your imagination run wild in a friendly and inspiring atmosphere! Authentic Provençal craftsmanship at its best.

50 km from Fonscolombes Want to play at being a Wild West adventurer without leaving Provence? Head to Colorado Provençal, located one hour from Château de Fonscolombe, where former ochre quarries have given way to breathtaking landscapes! Between multicolored cliffs, canyons, and caves, you'll find yourself in a movie set, surrounded by shades of yellow, red, orange, and mauve. Whether you choose the short Sahara circuit or the Belvédères circuit, every step will immerse you in a living tableau worthy of a Western epic... but in Provence!

X km from Fonscolombes In the heart of the Baronnies Provençales Regional Nature Park, the Méouge Gorges stretch for around ten kilometers and are classified as a "Natura 2000" biological reserve. The turquoise river cascades between steep cliffs adorned with varied vegetation, ranging from alpine plants to Mediterranean, Iberian, and North African species. This haven of biodiversity offers crystal-clear waters perfect for swimming and picturesque walking trails, revealing a natural gem that is not to be missed.

X km from Fonscolombes Located near Salon-de-Provence, La Barben Zoo is the largest in the region, home to 700 animals representing 130 different species. Explore its 9 km of trails in the heart of lush natural surroundings and enjoy an unforgettable afternoon with your family.

X km from Fonscolombes Lake Sainte-Croix, with its captivating emerald waters thanks to its clay bottom, covers 22 km², making it the third largest lake in France and the largest in the Verdon.

Immerse yourself in this haven of peace where relaxation, refreshing swimming, and water sports come together for a change of scenery.

X km from Fonscolombes
Dream as you walk along the trail through the Cedar Forest. At an altitude of 700 meters, this forest of century-old trees, planted in 1861, offers 10 km of winding, magical trails. Marvel at the play of light from the Provençal sun as it filters through the branches. A magnificent, rejuvenating haven of freshness.

Tucked away in its peaceful valley, Sénanque Abbey has stood for nearly 900 years, its Romanesque architecture exuding serenity. Founded in the 12th century, it offers a unique glimpse into Romanesque art and monastic life, revealing the timeless beauty of Provence.

In Manosque, La Thomassine celebrates biodiversity and the history of Provence's fruits. Stroll among apple, olive, and fig trees, discover the secrets of ancient varieties, and taste the flavors of the region. An immersive experience that combines nature, expertise, and sustainability to delight the whole family!

Nestled in the village of Le Val, the Grand Baou Waterfall is a gem for nature lovers and hikers. After a gentle walk, enjoy a splendid view of the Var countryside, let your feet play in the crystal-clear water, and let your thoughts drift away to the rhythm of the waterfall's murmur. An ideal spot for simple, magical moments, whether with family or on your own.

Suspended between heaven and earth, you find yourself on the Cavaillon via ferrata, clinging to the Saint-Jacques hill. Between climbing and hiking, let yourself be carried away by the panoramic views of the Luberon and the Monts de Vaucluse. An accessible and memorable adventure for all levels.

Less than 30 km from Château de Fonscolombe In the heart of the thousand-year-old Château de La Barben, Rocher Mistral invites you to a day of family festivities. Between waterfalls, comedy, dance, and sword fights, relive the history of Provence through more than a dozen live shows and immersive activities. Young and old alike will be amazed by this epic adventure. Day or night, immerse yourself in an enchanting world where history becomes spectacle!

Food lovers of all ages, get ready for a sweet journey to the heart of the Luberon. At the Musée du Fruit Confit (Candied Fruit Museum) in Apt, discover the secrets of this Provençal delicacy through a fun and colorful journey. Between tastings and historical anecdotes, let yourself be seduced by local calissons, nougats, and candied fruits, before enjoying a fruity break in the tea room. An essential stop to awaken your taste buds with the whole family!

60 km from Fonscolombe. At the Carrières des Lumières, the white stone walls of Les Baux-de-Provence are transformed into a giant canvas for projecting the masterpieces of the greatest artists. Van Gogh, Klimt, Picasso, and Monet illuminate these immense organic walls covering more than 7,000 m², while you wander amid colors and sounds. A stunning immersive experience where, for the first time, you become part of the painting. Breathtaking!

Calling all curious minds and dreamers! The Extraordinary Museum of Ansouis opens its medieval vaults for a journey through time. Between multicolored fish, Luberon fossils, and poetic works, each step reveals a new treasure. And the blue cave? A magical dive into the heart of a coral reef... without a mask or snorkel, but with stars in your eyes. Wonder guaranteed for explorers young and old!

In the hills and vineyards of the Château La Coste estate in Puy-Sainte-Réparade, art plays hide-and-seek with nature. More than 40 contemporary works punctuate this 2- to 3-hour walk, perfect for combining culture and the great outdoors. Bring good shoes, a bottle of water... and a sunset to enhance the experience.

Perched on the slopes of the Monts de Vaucluse, the Village des Bories immerses you in the history of Provence in the 18th and 19th centuries. With its typical "cabanes" (huts), sheepfolds, bread ovens, and cobbled streets, it bears witness to ancestral dry stone masonry skills, passed down for nearly 3,000 years. Listed as a historic monument, this fascinating place is a veritable open-air museum, offering an authentic glimpse into the region's heritage. A must-see.

Discover black truffles at the Las Pastras estate in the Luberon. Learn the art of truffle farming, discover how to hunt for truffles with dogs, and finish with a tasting of truffle dishes, champagne, and olive oil. It's divine.

A mat, a sea of purple, a fragrant breeze: welcome to Cucuron, where Maryam guides you through a unique yoga session in the heart of the lavender fields. Let yourself be carried away by this moment suspended in time, where body, mind, and nature come together in harmony. Breathe, vibrate, shine.