Discover the region
Aix and Marseille region
An area brimming with wonders is waiting to be discovered!
Aix-en-Provence: a ‘Town of Art & History’
Aix-en-Provence stands out for its remarkable heritage, narrow streets dotted with fountains and lively squares. Known for its renowned museums and famous street the Cours Mirabeau, the city embodies the authentic charm of the south of France. Wander around its local markets, see iconic sights like Saint-Sauveur cathedral and soak in its friendly atmosphere.
Getting to Aix-en-Provence city centre
By bus
5-minute walk from the campsite to the bus stop and 25 minutes on the bus
By bike
10-minute bike ride from the campsite
On foot
40-minute walk from the campsite
Aix-en-Provence and Marseille, a perfect pairing of must-see Provence cities
Once you’ve explored all the delights of the city of Aix, head south to Marseille, where the buzzing Vieux-Port (Old Port), the narrow streets of the Panier district and the magnificent rocky inlets known as the Calanques de Cassis await.
Just 40 minutes to the south, Marseille, France’s second city, is the perfect addition to a trip to Aix-en-Provence. With its legendary Old Port area, golden beaches and spectacular calanques, Marseille boasts a vibrant energy and a unique blend of history and modernity. Enjoy a walk in the Old Port, go on a trip to the Calanques de Cassis or explore the historic Le Panier district, the beating heart of the city.
Getting to Marseille from Camping d’Aix-en-Provence
By bus
45-minute bus journey from a bus stop 20 minutes from the campsite on foot
By car
40-minute drive from the campsite to Marseille
By train
45-minute train journey from the Aix-en-Provence city centre train station, located 15 minutes from the campsite by car
Around Aix-en-Provence:
The Bastide du Jas de Bouffan (6 km)
Where Cézanne painted several of his works, boasts a stunning view of the mountain.
The Carrières de Bibémus (7 km)
Located east of Aix-en-Provence, the Carrières de Bibémus is the site of an old open-air stone extraction quarry. In use from Roman times until the 19th century, it provided the distinctive stone, known as ‘Bibémus molasse’, used to build many buildings and structures in the city of Aix-en-Provence, including the Caisse d’Épargne, the Hôtel de la Poste and the Fontaine de la Rotonde.
Lac de Bimont (12 km)
Llocated at the foot of the famous Sainte-Victoire mountain, is an artificial lake that was created when the Bimont dam was built. It offers a spectacular landscape and is home to a wide variety of plants and animals. Listed as a Natura 2000 protected area, the lake is the ideal place for a hike, a bike ride or a picnic. Swimming in the lake is not permitted, however. If you’re looking for a peaceful place to enjoy nature in Provence, Lac de Bimont is the perfect spot.
The villages of the Luberon (25 km)
Roam around this mountain massif with its hilltop villages and enjoy the panoramic views. Wander along the narrow streets, admire the typical Provence architecture and visit the local shops and cafés.
Marseille: a plunge into Mediterranean history and culture (30 km)
Soak up the lively atmosphere of the Vieux-Port (Old Port), admire the panoramic view from Notre-Dame de la Garde basilica, and immerse yourself in history and art at the MuCEM. Marseille promises an unforgettable day out!
Calanques de Cassis (50 km)
These picturesque coves and cliffs offer a magnificent setting for swimming, kayaking and hiking. You can also go on a boat trip to explore the calanques from the water.
The hilltop villages of the Pays d’Aix
If you’re looking for an authentic experience of Provence, make sure you visit some of the many charming villages around Aix-en-Provence. Explore the hilltop villages of the Pays d’Aix, like Roussillon, Gordes and Lourmarin, and admire their limestone houses, narrow streets and panoramic views.
Le Tholonet
Nestled at the foot of Sainte-Victoire mountain, this Provence village is known for its picturesque surroundings and stone houses. Admire Saint-Trophime church, which dates back to the 12th century, and wander the charming little streets of its historical centre.
Lourmarin
This hilltop village is often listed as one of the most beautiful in France. Its winding streets contain many art galleries, shops and restaurants, while its hilltop château offers a fantastic view of the surrounding countryside.
Gordes
Another spectacular hilltop village, Gordes is known for its limestone houses and red-tiled roofs. The village also houses a 12th-century Cistercian abbey that’s well worth a visit.
Roussillon
This brightly coloured village is known for its ochre cliffs, which were mined to produce pigments for centuries. The village also has a museum dedicated to the ochre and its history.
Our favorite walks
Summit of Sainte-Victoire mountain
Sainte-Victoire mountain is an iconic limestone mountain that has inspired many painters, including Cézanne. It is located around 9 miles away from the campsite and boasts stunning views of the surrounding countryside. You can hike up to the summit or take the shuttle bus.
Croix de Provence trail
This easy hike takes you to the Croix de Provence, a cross on the western end of Sainte-Victoire mountain, where you’ll get a stunning view of the city of Aix-en-Provence and the surrounding mountains.
Sentier des Lauzes (Slate Trail)
This moderate-difficulty walking route takes you through the Forêt des Lauzes, a forest of holm oak and pine trees. The trail offers excellent views of Sainte-Victoire mountain and the city of Aix-en-Provence.
Vallon de Roques Hautes trail
This challenging hike takes you to the summit of Roques Hautes, the highest point in the Sainte-Victoire massif.
Le Tholonet trail
This easy hike takes you to the village of Le Tholonet, a picturesque Provence village.
The trail passes through vines, olive groves and lavender fields. You can also visit the Château du Tholonet, whose origins date back to the 12th century.