Lands of Provence, a sensory cruise through heritage and gourmet delights (port-to-port cruise)

Departure for a visit to the Petit Palais Museum, the Louvre of Avignon! Located in the heart of the city, just steps from the Palais des Papes, the Petit Palais is one of the finest examples of 14th-century Gothic architecture. Former residence of the Archbishops of Avignon, it captivates with the elegance of its façade, its soaring towers, and its atmosphere steeped in history. Today, the Petit Palais houses a prestigious museum, recognized as one of the most important in Europe for medieval painting. Its collections feature masterpieces of Italian and Provençal painting from the 13th to 15th centuries, including many works from the papal period. Inside, you will find bright rooms arranged around inner courtyards, offering a peaceful and refined setting for contemplating the artworks. The Petit Palais is an essential cultural stop, ideal for understanding the artistic and spiritual influence of Avignon in the Middle Ages, while enjoying a place of great serenity.

PLEASE NOTE

• During the tour, photography is allowed, without flash only.
  
• Depending on the season, family workshops, themed tours, or creative activities may be available.
  
• In November, closed in the morning and on Mondays.
  

Located at the gateway to the Rhône Delta, near Arles, the Camargue Museum invites visitors to explore the unique identity of this territory shaped by water, land, and humans. Housed in a former sheepfold of the Mas du Pont de Rousty, in the heart of a preserved natural environment, it offers an authentic immersion into Camargue culture. Through modern and accessible museography, the museum traces the history of the Camargue, its landscapes, traditions, and emblematic activities: cattle and horse breeding, rice cultivation, fishing, salt production, and the life of the gardians. The collections combine everyday objects, photographs, testimonies, and interactive displays, providing a deeper understanding of the delicate balance between nature and human presence. The museum is an essential cultural stop to grasp the soul of the Camargue, before or after exploring its vast wild spaces, exceptional wildlife, and living traditions.

PLEASE NOTE

• For the interpretive trail extending the visit, please wear comfortable shoes.

Located at the foot of the village of Les Baux-de-Provence, the Carrières des Lumières offer a unique immersive artistic experience in a spectacular setting. Housed in former stone quarries, they bear witness to the region’s mineral past, as the rock extracted here was used in the construction of many Provençal monuments.

Today, this exceptional site hosts monumental digital creations projected onto the immense walls, pillars and floor of the quarries. Thanks to cutting-edge technology combining images, light and music, visitors are immersed in the world of artists and the major themes of art history.

The monumental scale of the site, the natural coolness of the stone and the enveloping atmosphere give the visit both a sensory and cultural dimension. The Carrières des Lumières are a must-see stop in Provence, combining heritage, innovation and emotion in a timeless setting.

PLEASE NOTE

• As the quarries are located in an underground space, it is recommended to wear appropriate clothing (a jacket, comfortable shoes, etc.).

Overlooking the old town of Valréas, the Château de Simiane is a remarkable example of Renaissance seigneurial architecture in Provence. Built from the 16th century, it was the residence of the powerful Simiane family, linked to the history of the Comtat Venaissin and the papal court. The château stands out for the elegance of its façade, its towers, and decorative elements, reflecting the transformation of a medieval fortress into a prestigious residence. It is also famous for having hosted Madame de Sévigné, whose daughter, the Countess of Grignan, belonged to the Simiane family. Today, the château houses a museum retracing local history, arts, and traditions of the Enclave des Papes. The visit allows you to explore historic rooms, varied collections, and a privileged panorama over the rooftops of Valréas, offering a rich and elegant cultural immersion into Provençal heritage.