Discover Fontvieille: A Timeless Provençal Escape

Step Into the World of Alphonse Daudet

Daudet found inspiration in Fontvieille’s landscapes, and today, you can visit the very windmill that sparked his imagination. The Moulin de Daudet stands proudly atop a hill, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside. Nearby, Le Château de Montauban houses a museum dedicated to the writer, where manuscripts, personal items, and artifacts bring his literary world to life.

Artisanal Craftsmanship at Les Ateliers BriZePierre

For a different kind of artistry, visit Les Ateliers BriZePierre, where wood is transformed into intricate jewelry and design pieces.

This small workshop in Fontvieille combines traditional woodworking with creative inlays of precious materials, crafting one-of-a-kind pieces that highlight the natural beauty of each slab.

If you appreciate unique, handcrafted treasures, this hidden gem is worth a stop—but be sure to book an appointment in advance for a personalized experience.

Ancient Engineering Marvels: The Barbegal Aqueducts

Just beyond the village, the aqueducts of Barbegal whisper tales of Roman ingenuity. Often called the “greatest known concentration of mechanical power in the ancient world,” these aqueducts once supplied water to a massive flour mill complex, capable of feeding an entire city. Though in ruins today, the site remains one of the most fascinating glimpses into Roman engineering.

Market Days in Fontvieille

For a taste of local life, visit Fontvieille on Monday and Friday when the market comes alive with vibrant colors, fragrant herbs, and fresh regional produce. This is the perfect opportunity to pick up artisanal cheeses, olives, and a bottle of local wine to enjoy under the Provençal sun.

A Short Drive to Montmajour Abbey

A visit to Fontvieille isn’t complete without exploring Montmajour Abbey (L’Abbaye Saint-Pierre de Montmajour), a UNESCO-listed site along the Route de Fontvieille.

This breathtaking abbey spans eight centuries of history, with origins dating back to 948. Its dramatic stone halls and crypts were once home to monks who lived in solitude, and in later years, even Vincent van Gogh found inspiration here, capturing its haunting beauty in his paintings. Climb the tower for an unforgettable panoramic view of the Alpilles landscape.

Maussane-les-Alpilles: The Village of a Thousand Fountains

Just a short drive from Fontvieille, Maussane-les-Alpilles is a village where the soothing sounds of water greet you at every turn. Known as the “village of a thousand fountains,” it’s the perfect stop for a leisurely afternoon.

One of the best places to indulge in the region’s flavors is La Fromagerie de Maussane at 94 Avenue de la Vallée des Baux. This charming cheese shop boasts an impressive selection of locally produced cheeses and wines. The goat cheese here is especially good, so be sure to grab a wheel along with a fresh baguette and a bottle of wine for a perfect Provençal picnic in the Alpilles mountains.

For those looking to explore beyond the village, renting an electric bike from StationsBees is a great way to glide through the olive groves and rolling countryside.

If you’re staying for dinner, Café de la Fontaine is a lively local favorite. I met a lovely couple from Perpignan here last time, and we ended up chatting over a bottle of wine long into the evening.

Market Day: Thursday

A Hidden Gem for Cheese Lovers in Paradou

Just a stone’s throw from Maussane, the tiny village of Paradou offers a special treat for cheese lovers. Atelier Fromager des Calans, run by Mme Nathalie Fejrer, is a delightful place where you can see goats up close and buy fresh cheese straight from the source. On my visit, she kindly gave me an impromptu tour of her herd before handing me one of the freshest, creamiest goat cheeses I’ve ever had.

I’ve also heard fantastic things about Le Bistrot du Paradou—it’s been recommended to me more than once, and I plan to make it there next time!

The Art of Provençal Textiles at Les Olivades

For something truly unique, visit Les Olivades in Saint-Étienne-du-Grès, where you can see the last remaining workshop in Provence dedicated to the centuries-old craft of textile printing.

This art form began in Marseille in 1648, when Indian cotton prints first arrived in France and became wildly popular. Today, Les Olivades continues this tradition, producing both classic and modern designs.

If you’re curious about the process, you can tour the factory by appointment or simply browse the showroom and boutique. Whether you prefer the timeless patterns that have graced French homes for generations or the fresh, contemporary designs created through partnerships with modern artists, you’re sure to find something special. And if your suitcase is already full, you can always order online!

A Provençal Story Waiting to Be Written

Whether you’re retracing the steps of Alphonse Daudet, marveling at Roman ingenuity, savoring fresh goat cheese, or discovering a centuries-old art form, every moment here feels like a scene from a novel. And just like Daudet’s famous windmill, Fontvieille will keep turning in your memory long after you’ve left.