Barbentane: Heritage, landscapes and activities
Accommodation in Barbentane
Barbentane offers a variety of options to consider when planning your trip: historic buildings, the landscape of the Montagnette massif, and different ways to explore on foot, by bike, or on the golf course. When choosing a destination, you can weigh these options according to whether you are more interested in architectural history, routes through the landscape, or local culture.
Cultural history in its buildings
The historic centre of Barbentane is designated as a Site Patrimonial Remarquable (Remarkable Heritage Site). A notable landmark is the Tour Anglica, built in 1365 by Cardinal Grimoard, brother of Pope Urban V. The tower is 28 metres high and can only be viewed from the outside, so plan to see it from the exterior.
The Romanesque church of Notre-Dame des Grâces dates from the 12th century. Its bell tower and portal have been classified as historic monuments since 1921. The building history of the Maison dite des chevaliers dates back to 1133. The Maison des Chevaliers is partially listed as a historic monument under a decree dated 16 August 1999. Its architectural features include a double gallery of superimposed arcades, considered unique in Provence.
The heritage protection of the Château de Barbentane also covers several elements: the château and its park were classified as historic monuments by decree on 9 September 1949. These include the planting, architectural and sculptural elements, and the buildings of the farmyard. The Moulin de Bretoule offers another, different connection to architectural history: it is the only surviving windmill in Barbentane.
The Montagnette and its routes
The Montagnette massif was listed as a protected landscape area by decree on 17 December 1970. More than 1,200 hectares of the massif lie within Barbentane. For walks, the municipality offers the “Circuit pédestre vert et eaux” walking trail, as well as walks suitable for families. The family walk “Balade familiale - Découverte du patrimoine au cœur du centre ancien” passes through the historic centre, combining a stroll with a chance to discover its heritage. Route details may change; check them before setting out.
There are several described options for cycling. The “Au coeur de la Montagnette” cycle-tourism loop is lined with Aleppo pines and offers views of Avignon and the Rhône Valley. Route details may change here too, so it is advisable to check them before setting out. My Way Bike offers guided electric mountain bike tours from Barbentane year-round by reservation. One route through the Montagnette massif passes olive groves, pine forests, and local farmland.
If you would like to include golf among your options, Golf de Barbentane has a six-hole course that is suitable for beginners. State-certified golf instructor Lionel Sellam offers individually tailored lessons there. This gives you a choice of different activities, including golf and one-to-one lessons as well as walking and cycling tours.
The FĂŞte votive and olive oil
Barbentane’s Fête votive takes place every year over five days and includes the last weekend in August. The exact dates vary, and the detailed programme may also change from year to year. The celebrations conclude with aioli and the so-called “vachettes piscine.” If you would like to plan your stay around the festival, check the dates and programme for the relevant year.
Another local speciality is the Moulin de Barbentane Ollier. Visitors can taste the extra virgin olive oils produced there, made from olives harvested in Provence and in the Provence AOC area. As visitor arrangements may change, it is advisable to check them before your visit.
Discover more destinations: La Barben, Saint-Savournin, La Destrousse, Saint-RĂ©my-De-Provence, La Ciotat, Aurons, Carry-Le-Rouet, Rousset
For the main travel overview: Bouches Du Rhone.
