Chateauneuf-du-Pape and Les Baux-de-Provence

Chateauneuf-du-Pape was the summer residence of the popes who fled the heat of Avignon for the castle on a steep hillside.  The castle and other buildings were destroyed during the wars of religion and again by fleeing Germans in 1944. The view over the Rhone to the mountains beyond is fantastic. The little town is surrounded by scores of the most famous vineyards in the world.

Les-Baux-en-Provence comprises a ruined castle and a small village sitting on top of a massive rock outcrop. Only a few people live there now, but it is a lively tourist destination. The narrow cobbled streets are crowded with souvenir shops, art galleries, cafes, and ice cream parlors. The view down the sheer cliffs into the valley below is unforgettable.

For a few pictures, click here.