Getting out of Aix-en-Provence and exploring its surroundings is a great way to enjoy the region’s beauty and discover diverse landscapes, picturesque villages, and outdoor activities. Here are some suggestions for escapes near Aix-en-Provence. Whether it’s for breathtaking natural landscapes, picturesque villages, or outdoor activities, the area around Aix-en-Provence offers many opportunities to escape and recharge your batteries. You can enjoy a day hiking in the Sainte-Victoire massif, swimming in the Cassis calanques, or wine tasting in the nearby vineyards. The important thing is to take the time to discover the natural and cultural treasures that surround this beautiful Provençal city.
Get out of Aix and enjoy the surrounding area!
There are many things to see:
1. The Luberon Regional Natural Park
- About 45 minutes from Aix-en-Provence
- Description: The Luberon Regional Natural Park is a true haven of peace, offering spectacular landscapes of hills, gorges, and lavender fields. You can hike, cycle, or simply lose yourself in the small hilltop villages such as Gordes, Roussillon, or Ménerbes. The park is also known for its local markets, honey and olive oil producers, and vineyards.
- Things to do: Hiking, exploring villages, tasting local products.
2. The Sainte-Victoire Massif
- About 20 minutes from Aix-en-Provence
- Description: The Sainte-Victoire massif, immortalized by Paul Cézanne, offers a multitude of hiking trails with breathtaking panoramic views of the Arc Valley and the surrounding mountains. This site is ideal for nature lovers, whether for a leisurely stroll or a more adventurous adventure.
- What to do: Hiking, climbing, photography.
3. The Calanques of Cassis
- About 30 minutes from Aix-en-Provence
- Description: Just a few kilometers south of Aix, the Calanques National Park offers breathtaking seascapes. You can explore the hidden coves by boat or hike to access breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea. The village of Cassis is also a perfect stopover, with its picturesque streets and seafood restaurants.
- Things to do: Hike in the national park, swim, or take a boat trip.
4. The village of Lourmarin
- About 30 minutes from Aix-en-Provence
- Description: Lourmarin is one of the most beautiful villages in the Luberon, with its stone houses, charming little streets, and Renaissance castle. This village is perfect for a quiet getaway, where you can stroll, visit the local market, or relax in a café admiring the view.
- Things to do: Visit Lourmarin Castle, stroll through the narrow streets, and enjoy the café terraces.
5. The Verdon Gorges
- About 1.5 hours from Aix-en-Provence
- Description: Known as the “Grand Canyon of Europe,” the Verdon Gorges are a spectacular place to discover. With its turquoise waters, impressive cliffs, and wild landscapes, the region is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts. You can kayak, hike, or simply enjoy the breathtaking views from the various lookouts.
- Things to do: Hiking, kayaking, swimming, photography.
6. The Village of Ménerbes
- About 40 minutes from Aix-en-Provence
- Description: This hilltop village in the Luberon is a true gem of tranquility, with its cobbled streets, stone houses, and breathtaking views of the lavender fields. Ménerbes is an ideal place for a relaxing stroll and is also the starting point for exploring the many hiking trails around the Luberon.
- Things to do: Visit the village, stroll through the vineyards, and discover the local markets.
7. Calas Castle
- About 20 minutes from Aix-en-Provence
- Description: If you’d like to explore a little closer, the Château de Calas near Aix is a lovely historic site where you can stroll through the gardens, visit the castle ruins, and enjoy views of the surrounding area.
- Things to do: Historical tour, stroll through the grounds.
8. The Provence Wine Route
- Less than an hour from Aix-en-Provence
- Description: The area around Aix-en-Provence is famous for its vineyards. You can take the wine route, passing through villages such as Saint-Rémy-de-Provence, Lambesc, and Venelles, where you can discover wineries, taste local wines, and enjoy magnificent scenery.
- Things to do: Wine tasting, cellar tours, and discovery of the vineyard landscape.
9. The Pont du Gard
- About a 1-hour drive from Aix-en-Provence
- Description: The Pont du Gard is a Roman aqueduct over 2,000 years old and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It sits in a beautiful valley and offers a spectacular setting for walks, picnics, and swimming in the river. It’s an ideal destination for a day trip.
- Things to do: Visit the bridge, swim, and hike along the river.
