My heartfelt travel suggestion for march: ROGNES

THE VILLAGE

Rognes holds a special place among my favorite villages in Provence. While it may not boast widespread recognition or appear on the conventional list of the 'most beautiful villages in Provence,' it exudes a captivating charm amidst its breathtaking natural surroundings.

Nestled between Salon-de-Provence and Aix-en-Provence, this village has undergone a fascinating history of construction, destruction, and reconstruction. Following an earthquake in 1909, it faced near abandonment, yet resilient alleys and ancient houses endured.

Rognes is famed for its quarry, extracting the 'Pierre de Rognes' since Roman times. This distinctive stone imparts the characteristic yellowish tint to the noble structures in Aix-en-Provence. Moreover, Rognes sits proudly on the wine route of Provence, celebrated for its abundant wine production, particularly the AOC 'Coteaux d'Aix,' and the revered truffle harvest.

What truly distinguishes Rognes is the vibrant spirit within its small population of fewer than 5000 residents. Despite its size, the village is a hub for youthful energy and innovation, exemplified by noteworthy establishments such as an exceptional gastronomic restaurant and a lively wine bar that regularly hosts events.

A visit to Rognes not only promises a glimpse into the rich history and natural beauty of the region but also offers an opportunity to engage with a dynamic and forward-thinking village community.

ACCOMMODATION

I highly recommend Château Barbebelle as your accommodation choice. This vineyard is operated by Madeleine and her husband, offering the opportunity to rent charming houses and cozy apartments.

All accommodations provide an exceptional setting with captivating views of the surrounding vineyards. If you're in search of tranquility amidst breathtaking landscapes, this is undoubtedly the perfect destination. We personally spent some time there while our own house was still under construction and had an absolutely delightful experience.

Prices: During the peak season, you can book an apartment for two starting at 100 euros per night. For additional pricing details, as well as photos, please visit the Château's website...

To the castle

THE RESTAURANT

Le Préau in Rognes stands out as a relatively recent yet already beloved gastronomic gem. The proprietor and chef, Antonin Wishart, hailing from Rognes, brings a wealth of international experience to the table, enriching the culinary tapestry of this establishment.

The cuisine is a testament to refinement, creativity, and substantial portions, featuring the use of fresh, often locally-sourced ingredients, eggs harvested from their own chicken coop, and vegetables cultivated in their on-site garden. The pricing remains reasonable, the service exudes friendliness, and a well-curated selection of wines enhances the overall dining experience. It's a gastronomic journey that one simply should not miss.

Prices: The lunch menu, encompassing a starter and main course, is attractively priced at 29 euros, while the dinner menu, comprising a starter, main course, and dessert, is available for 39 euros. Operating from Wednesday to Sunday, you can find further details on their website...

To the restaurant

TO DISCOVER...

Allow me to introduce you to a captivating cultural experience: The Bonisson Art Center, an expansive 300 m2 haven of contemporary art, gracefully resides within the historic wine cellars of Château Bonisson in Rognes.

Owned by Christian Le Dorze, an ardent art collector for over four decades, this center goes beyond mere art display. It actively champions artists' careers through sponsorship, residencies, scholarships, and publications. The venue curates diverse representations of contemporary art, showcasing works in engaging, free exhibitions. These exhibitions are crafted in collaboration with esteemed partners, including public and private institutions, galleries, and curators.

Operating hours for the exhibition spaces are Thursday to Sunday, from 1:30 PM to 6:30 PM. Every Sunday at 4 PM, visitors have the exclusive opportunity to partake in a guided tour led by the owner. To ensure your spot, advance registration on the website is required...

To the center

AND FURTHER?

My recommendations are perfect for a brief stopover, ideally as a highlight during a road trip. However, if you're planning an extended stay, a wealth of discoveries awaits you: enticing hikes, charming cities, picturesque villages, top-notch wineries, creative art installations like Chateau Lacoste, and culinary delights in the finest restaurants are ready to be explored. Let your curiosity roam free – the diversity of this region will surely captivate you!