Into the Wild

After breakfast at the hotel, it's time to get on the road again. The first stop of the day is Le Barroux, a charming village with a castle and majestic views of the valley and surrounding mountain ranges. It's the perfect introduction to the region.
For convenience, park below the town hall at Place de la Barbiere and walk through the narrow streets from there.

Next, don't miss Mirabel-aux-Baronnies, an inviting, small town located high on a hill overlooking the river Gaude. This zone is the olive capital of France and if you are lucky enough to visit in winter, there is an olive market in the city center every Saturday.
There is no car park but you should be able to find street parking from which you can walk through the oldest parts of the village.
Visit the town's tourism website to plan seasonal activities

A highlight in Mirabel-aux-Baronnies that shouldn't be missed is Saint-Julien Church - a centuries old church that was part of the castle that dates back to the 17th century.

Just in time for lunch, Pain D'Epi, just a few kilometers north, is a welcome road trip break for a meal in the mountains. The pâtisserie offers fresh local goods, homemade bread, croissants, tarts and tasty ice cream for dessert.

The spotlight of the day is Parc Naturel Regional des Baronnies. A diverse park known for its flora, fauna and unique landscapes. Visitors will be in awe of the unusual geology formed by water and an ancient seabed.
The park features plenty of nature strolls and hikes, timeless villages and agricultural lands abundant with olive groves, lavender fields, lime trees, thyme and rosemary.
Enjoy the scenic Aigues River that flows along side the route.
In addition to daytime activities, those interested in astronomy will appreciate the fact that the park is protected from light pollution. It's one of the best spots in France to experience dark skies. As the sun goes down, don't forget to look up and enjoy the stars.
Road trippers can either drive through the park as part of this scenic itinerary or stop at one of the many villages or historic sites.
One of the historical communes, or towns, in Parc Naturel Regional des Baronnies is Sahune Village. This ancient village abandoned in the 19th century has been somewhat reconstructed for visitors. Wander through the old streets and imagine what life would be like in this tiny piece of France.

Next up is a brief stop at Saint May. After parking in the visitor's car park, climb the stairway to this beautiful 6th century village.
Once owned by the Count of Provence, the village is full of lovely old buildings, a small church and the remains of the old abbey. You may find a rambling vintage roses, old fountains and a few goats still around.

After a fun, fulfilling day, check into Auberge des Baronnies, the perfect hotel near the park for the night. Most rooms feature mountain views so your nature weekend doesn't end just because you are out of the car.
The best thing is - you don't have to go back out for dinner. The hotel offers a onsite restaurant and bar with outside dining on the terrace and even themed dinners.
In addition to breakfast, free parking, wi-fi, the hotel can arrange spa services, guided tours and other activities like cooking classes.