Fontvieille was made famous by the writer Alphonse Daudet (1840-1897).  There is a museum dedicated to him at Le Château de Montauban.   Check out the Daudet Windmill and the nearby aqueducts of Barbegal.  Market Days:  Monday and Friday

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On the Route de Fontvieille you will find the beautiful Montmajour Abbey (L'Abbaye Saint-Pierre de Montmajour), which is a UNESCO Heritage Site spanning 8 centuries of history.

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Maussane-les-Alpilles is known as the "village of a thousand fountains", and definitely worth a stop.  Stop at the cheese market - la Fromagerie de Maussane at  94 Avenue de la Vallée des Baux for an amazing selection of cheese as well as wine.  (The goat cheese is especially good!)  Grab some wine, cheese and bread nearby and head out for a picnic in the Alpilles mountains. If you are feeling adventurous, rent some electric bikes at StationsBees.

 

The Café de la Fontaine in Maussane is a popular hotspot for dinner.   I met a lovely couple from Perpignan here last time.   Market Day:  Thursday

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On the subject of goats:  the Atelier Fromager des Calans in nearby Paradou is run by Mme Nathalie Fejrer.  She gave me an impromptu visit with her goats and we grabbed a fresh goat cheese here!  

 

Although I have not made it to Le Bistrot du Paradou, it has been recommended to me more than once, and I plan to make it there next time!  

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Les Olivades is the only company to continue the tradition of printing on cloth, began in Marseille in 1648.   You can tour the factory and see the process in motion (by appointment) or simply tour the showroom and boutique.  There are traditional patterns you have seen for decades (or longer) and thanks to partnerships with artists and designers, fresh new patterns to catch your eye.  Find them in Saint Etienne du Gres, on avenue du Dr Barberin.   And if you can't fit all of your finds in your suitcase, you can order on our online boutique. 

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The charming town of Eygalières is a hidden gem.  Take a stroll down each street to find unique shops and restaurants.   Go on Friday to catch the lively market.  You will feel like you have a whole village of new friends!

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