Those looking to combine culture and scenery in Barbentane will find several different options: buildings dating from the 12th to the 14th century, the Montagnette massif, walking and cycling routes, and a six-hole golf course. You can choose to focus your stay on architecture, outdoor activities or local products. When planning, it is worth keeping your travel dates in mind: guided cycling tours require a reservation, and the exact dates of the annual festival vary.
Medieval heritage and notable buildings
The Tour Anglica was built in 1365 by Cardinal Grimoard, the brother of Pope Urban V. At 28 metres tall, it is a distinctive part of Barbentane’s historic heritage. An important point to bear in mind: the tower can only be viewed from the outside. The Romanesque church of Notre-Dame des Grâces dates from the 12th century; its bell tower and portal have been listed as historic monuments since 1921.
The Maison des Chevaliers also offers a glimpse into the town’s architectural history. The Maison dite des chevaliers was built in 1133. Its most distinctive feature is the double gallery of stacked arcades, described as unique in Provence. The Maison des Chevaliers is partially listed as a historic monument under a 1999 decree.
At the Château de Barbentane, the listing as a historic monument covers the château and its park, including the planting, architectural and sculptural features, and the buildings of the farmyard; this was established by a 1949 decree. Barbentane’s historic centre is also designated a Site Patrimonial Remarquable. Those interested in historic technology can visit the Moulin de Bretoule: it is the only surviving windmill in Barbentane.
The Montagnette, walks and cycling
The Montagnette massif is listed as a protected landscape; this designation is based on a decree dated 17 December 1970. More than 1,200 hectares of the massif lie within Barbentane. It offers a distinct landscape to explore alongside the town’s buildings. The municipality provides the “Circuit pédestre vert et eaux” walking trail and offers walks suitable for families.
One named option for a walk through the town’s history is the “Balade familiale - Découverte du patrimoine au cœur du centre ancien”. It passes through the historic centre of Barbentane. Its name and route make it a good choice if you would like to explore the old town centre on foot.
There are also different ways to explore by bike. The “Au coeur de la Montagnette” cycling-tourism circuit is lined with Aleppo pines and offers views of Avignon and the Rhône Valley. As route details can change, it is advisable to check the latest information before setting out. My Way Bike offers guided electric mountain-bike tours from Barbentane throughout the year; these require a reservation. One of the provider’s routes passes through olive groves, pine forests and local farmland in the Montagnette massif. This gives you the choice between a named cycling-tourism circuit and a guided tour, without treating them as the same route.
Golf, olive oil and the annual festival
The Golf de Barbentane has a six-hole course and is open to beginners. State-certified golf instructor Lionel Sellam offers personalised lessons there. If you would like to include golf in your stay, you’ll find both a specific course size and an instruction option, rather than just a general sporting activity.
The local products on offer include those of the Moulin de Barbentane Ollier. Visitors can sample extra-virgin olive oils made from olives harvested in Provence and in the Provence AOC area. Visiting arrangements may change, so check them before a tasting.
Barbentane’s Fête votive takes place for five days each year, including the last weekend in August. The exact dates vary from year to year, as can the detailed programme. The celebrations conclude with aioli and the so-called “vachettes piscine”. If you would like to plan your trip around the festival, check the specific dates and programme for that year.
Discover more destinations: Saint-Étienne-du-Grès, Fontvieille, Vernègues, Port-De-Bouc, Gardanne, Plan-D'orgon, Raphèle-Les-Arles, Le Puy-Sainte-Réparade.
For the broader travel overview: Bouches Du Rhone.
