Aureille

& the ruins of Castelas Castle

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Nestling in the heart of the majestic Alpilles is the picturesque village of Aureille. The village offers an ideal setting for those who want to discover the authenticity and charm of Provence.

A characteristic village displaying the remains of a medieval castle.

Between history and nature

Welcome to the heart of the Alpilles, in the exuberant nature of the village of Aureille, which lies at the foot of the Opies, the highest peak of the massif (492m).

The ruins of the castle dominating the village date back to the 12th century and provide a bird eye’s view over the Crau Plains.

Whoever comes to Aureille will appreciate the multitude of hiking and horse-riding trails in the heart of the Alpilles massif. You can also go climbing on the magnificent Civadières site, or discover the rich heritage of the village.

Where does the name "Aureille" come from ? To some, the name is linked with the nearby Aurelian way. To others, the word "auro", which means wind in Provençal, would have influenced the village’s name. And finally, the name might have been lent from Aurelius, the former Roman owner of the land.

Today the village of Aureille attracts many visitors thanks to numerous hiking trails, a climbing site (les Civadières) and its varied historic must-sees, among which Notre Dame Church, Castelas Castle (ruined fortified castle), the wash house, the fountain, oratories and old houses in the old town-centre.

Illustration de l'église dans le village d'Aureille — ©Mélanie_Quesada

Aureille, the ideal place for hiking and climbing lovers.

Aureille is much more than just a postcard setting, it's a place where the Provencal art of living takes on its full meaning. Here, time seems to stand still, giving way to the gentle way of life and legendary friendliness of the local people. Ancestral traditions live on through the seasons, punctuating village life with the festivities and cultural events that punctuate the year.

Must-sees in the village :

- The ruins of the castle "Le Castelas";
- The Oratories ;
- Notre-Dame parish church;
- The clock tower;
- The three-arch wash-house.

Whether you're looking for relaxation, authenticity or adventure, Aureille will win you over with its timeless charm and sunny lifestyle. Come and discover this hidden gem of the Alpilles, in the Bouches-du-Rhône department, and let yourself be intoxicated by the magic of Aureille, where every moment is an invitation to discover.

In Aureille, nature lovers will find an unspoilt green setting in which to escape and contemplate. Hiking trails wind through hills scented with thyme and lavender, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the green valleys and rocky peaks of the Alpilles.

Top walks from the village of Aureille :