What makes this village special?
Fontvieille enchants visitors with its picturesque old houses built from the distinctive white limestone known as "the stone of Provence." This stone, quarried locally since Roman times, gained prominence in the 15th century with the construction of the Château de Tarascon and was also used for iconic structures such as the arenas of Arles and Nîmes, the Longchamp Palace, and the Stock Exchange in Marseille.
The village holds a special place in French literature as the setting for Alphonse Daudet's "Lettres de mon moulin." In the summer of 1860, Daudet, then a young Parisian journalist with roots in Nîmes, fell in love with Fontvieille and frequented the area for thirty years. The Saint-Pierre mill, also known as Alphonse Daudet's mill, inspired his famous work. This historical monument, dating from 1814, has been recently renovated and houses a small museum open to visitors. The Château de Montauban, Daudet's holiday retreat, is open for tours, too.
Fontvieille is also known for its numerous mills. The "Path of the Mills," a delightful hour-long walk through the centre of the village, showcasing the village's four main mills and the Château de Montauban while offering breathtaking panoramas of The Alpilles.
The village's bustling markets, held on Monday and Friday mornings, are a must-visit. They burst with colors, aromas, and the cheerful atmosphere typical of Provencal life.
Choosing the right property for you in Fontvieille
We offer an extensive selection of holiday rentals in Fontvieille, featuring the most beautiful villas, quaint gîtes, cottages, charming farmhouses, and village houses. Our properties include pet-friendly options with luxurious heated blue pools, perfect for a relaxing swim no matter the season. Enjoy the comfort of air conditioning and unwind in beautiful gardens with stunning views. Many rentals also boast amazing outdoor spaces, ideal for al fresco dining and soaking up the Provencal sun. These amenities ensure unforgettable holidays filled with relaxation and elegance in the heart of Provence.
Where to stay in Fontvieille
In Fontvieille, you have a variety of accommodation options to suit your preferences. For those who enjoy the charm of village life, staying in town offers easy access to local cafes, markets, and historical sites, all within walking distance. If you prefer a more tranquil setting, consider one of the countryside options, such as one of our quaint gîtes or charming farmhouses.
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After booking, you will be assigned a dedicated concierge who will help you customise your stay to ensure an unforgettable holiday.
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The best places to visit in Fontvieille
Getting to Fontvieille
Fontvieille is accessible via various modes of transportation. The nearest major airport is Marseille Provence Airport, approximately 70 kilometers away. The Avignon TGV station, around 35 kilometers from Fontvieille, provides high-speed rail connections to Paris and other major cities. If driving, you can take the D99 which will lead you through the charming countryside. Consider taking the historic Route de la Lavande, which winds through iconic lavender fields.
Useful information about Fontvieille
Fontvieille is a picturesque village located in the heart of Provence, in the Bouches-du-Rhône department of southern France. Here are some key points of interest and useful information about Fontvieille:
Points of interest:
1. Moulin de Daudet (Daudet's Windmill):
- This historic windmill is famous for its association with the writer Alphonse Daudet, who wrote "Lettres de mon moulin" (Letters from My Windmill). The windmill is a popular tourist attraction and offers panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.
2. Château de Montauban:
- A charming 18th-century castle that also has connections to Alphonse Daudet. The château now serves as a cultural center and museum dedicated to the author's life and works.
3. Les Carrières de Lumières:
- Although located in nearby Les Baux-de-Provence, this extraordinary art venue is worth a visit. It is an old quarry transformed into a space for immersive art exhibitions, projecting famous artworks onto the quarry walls accompanied by music.
4. Roman Aqueduct and Mill:
- Remains of an ancient Roman aqueduct and mill can be found in the area, showcasing the historical significance and architectural prowess of Roman engineering in Provence.
Activities:
- Hiking and Nature Walks:
- The surrounding Alpilles hills offer excellent opportunities for hiking and exploring the natural beauty of Provence. The trails provide stunning views of the landscape, dotted with olive groves and vineyards.
- Wine Tasting:
- Provence is renowned for its wine production, particularly rosé wines. Visiting local vineyards and wineries for wine tasting is a popular activity in the region.
- Local Markets:
- Experience the local culture by visiting the weekly markets in Fontvieille and neighboring towns. These markets offer a variety of local produce, artisanal goods, and traditional Provencal products.
Practical information:
- Getting There:
- Fontvieille is accessible by car, being about 30 minutes from Arles and an hour from Marseille. The nearest major train station is in Arles, which is well connected to other major cities in France.
- Best Time to Visit:
- The best time to visit Fontvieille is in the spring (April to June) or fall (September to October) when the weather is pleasant, and the tourist crowds are smaller. The summer months can be quite hot and crowded.
- Local Cuisine:
- Enjoy the local Provencal cuisine, which features fresh, seasonal ingredients. Specialties include ratatouille, bouillabaisse, tapenade, and various dishes made with olives and local herbs.
Fontvieille, with its rich history, stunning landscapes, and cultural heritage, offers a quintessential Provencal experience for visitors.
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Discover Provence with us
Our magazine encourages you to truly live and breathe the essence of the region. From secret villages to culinary treasures, experience Provence authentically with us.
