St. Remy de Provence
 

We have travelled to St. Remy many times but never earlier than June. This year we will be there in mid-May.

I realize the outdoor market is a must. Does anyone have suggestions for what else to do in St. Remy and environs at this time of year? (Note that we have first time adult visitors accompanying us this year.)

Thanks.

Anthony

We were there in October and enjoyed going to Les Baux very much. We went on an overcast day and there were very few people so we were able to enjoy the views and the history without the hords. We had no idea that such a place exsisted and were pleasantly surprised. We also went to Joel Durand (chocolates) and Le Petit Duc (cookies and other treats) in St. Remy. Both delightful! We stayed just outside the village at Les Alpilles which was wonderful, both for food and accomodations. Have a fabulous time!

We really enjoyed the assylum de St. Paul and the self guided tour inside. Loved to see the places where Van Gogh painted and lived for a year. They do not have a restroom available to the public, however.

jckcpv: That's the kind of travel detail that is VERY good to know. ;-)

powellretired, will you have a car? St. Remy is very centrally located for daytrips to much of Provence---like Avignon, Nimes, Pont du Gard, Arles, the Luberon, L'isle sur la Sorgue, etc.

We found Cavaillon to be pretty authentic and unspoilt. Unlike Les Baux which was overly touristy with all the little souvenir shops.

Anthony, should you go to Cavaillon, there is the baker Gerald Auzet that Peter Mayle wrote about in "Confessions of a French Baker." We bought bread a pastry there and cheese at a wonderful nearby frommagerie that was run by a very knowlegeable man. We bought our wine and headd up the road on the hill behind the parking lot that takes you up to the chapel that overlooks all of Cavaillon. What a sight! Picnic was enhanced!

A must, IMHO, in Arles is the Musée Arlaten founded by Mistral and housed in a 6th century palace. It's theme is the Arles life-style over the centuries.
On the D27 road to the North of Les Baux in the Val d'Enfer is a big quarry where the Cathédrale d'Images was established. There's a slide show that is projected onto the white limestone walls, floor and ceiling accompanied by music.

With all due respect you say you have been to St.Remy many times. I can't imagine what a vist in May (when weather is not a factor) would be different than the other many times you have been there.

Bigal,

The difference is that activities available in June/August, like the running of the bulls in St. Remy, etc are not available.

We enjoy the scenery but have first time adult visitors with us and did not want to miss any activities that may be available. (Note the perennial Wed. outdoor market is a big drawing point for us.)

Cigalechanta,

Thanks as always.

Anthony

I think the Transhumance in St Remy is on the 28th 0f May.

I'm glad you posted that, Cigalechanta--I'll be in Arles at the time. I think I'll take the bus over and check out all the sheep!!

Within walking distance of the Van Gogh asylum is the ruins of Glanum where we spent most of a morning. The achaelogical digs are unique as the excavation has stopped and you can walk down among the partially uncovered Roman city. There is a museum, cafe and washroom there.
Consider a drive to Arles to eat at one of the most fantastic restaurants in France - L'atelier de Jean Luc Rabanel (reservations certainly required).