The best gravel rides around Saint-Martin-De-La-Brasque

Built in the 15th century on the remains of a castle, the château received a Renaissance-style extension in the 16th century. Ownership changed frequently; almost 100 years ago, a private individual saved the château from decay. After his death, it was bequeathed to a foundation, which has used it for cultural events ever since. Albert Camus, for example, has performed here. The path to the château is worthwhile, even if you don't want to visit it, as it offers a fantastic view of Lourmarin.

From Auribeau to the summit, a challenging path with large stones and slippery gravel. From the summit, heading east, the trail is very variable in terms of surface. The descent is slow. The beautiful smooth roads, as shown in the photo, were only a very short stretch. Most of the route is very uneven, making it tough on the arms and shoulders. The views are phenomenal: in clear weather, you can see from the Mediterranean Sea to the Alps. From D31 to Cereste, a fantastic descent.

Long climb but worth it 😀

The Église Saint-Martin in Ansouis is a 13th-century Romanesque church and a listed historic monument. It is located directly along the city walls and is part of a fortified complex with the neighboring château. Its striking feature is the bell gable with four round-arched openings above the triumphal arch. The interior consists of a vaulted hall with a transept and a rectangular apse. Particularly noteworthy are a gilded high altar, a five-part reredos in honor of Saint Elzéar and Blessed Delphine, and a baptismal font from 1672. The church was reinforced in the 16th century with stones from the old castle. For a time, it also served as the château's court. Its walls still show the remains of the original loopholes. Saint-Martin has been a filming location for films such as "Jean de Florette" and "Manon des Sources." It is open daily and is a testament to Provençal history and architecture.

The Église Saint-Martin in Ansouis is a 13th-century Romanesque church and a listed historic monument. It is located directly along the city walls and is part of a fortified complex with the neighboring château. Its striking feature is the bell gable with four round-arched openings above the triumphal arch. The interior consists of a vaulted hall with a transept and a rectangular apse. Particularly noteworthy are a gilded high altar, a five-part reredos in honor of Saint Elzéar and Blessed Delphine, and a baptismal font from 1672. The church was reinforced in the 16th century with stones from the old castle. For a time, it also served as the château's court. Its walls still show the remains of the original loopholes. Saint-Martin has been a filming location for films such as "Jean de Florette" and "Manon des Sources." It is open daily and is a testament to Provençal history and architecture.

In winter, bring warm clothes and a raincoat because the weather can change quickly.

Starting in Ansouis is nicer 😀

An emblematic place in Cucuron, a lively village all year round, the Place de l'Étang and its two-hundred-year-old plane trees offer an ideal setting to stop for a refreshing drink in the shade or have lunch on a terrace. On market days, the atmosphere is typical of the region.