You’ll love this Provencal village nestling between its spring and its river, surrounded by Mediterranean vegetation …
Come and discover its votive festivals, held during the first week of August, and sample some typically Provençal dishes.
Cross the red bridge in the Parc des Cédres and enjoy a shady walk along the Touloubre.
The park’s woodland heritage and educational trail will introduce you to a fauna rich in biodiversity.
La Barben – St Sauveur – Fotoli
Before setting off again, visit the 11th-century Templar church and attend the shepherds’ mass at the end of the year. Don’t forget to try the dishes served in the restaurants, in the shade of the terraces, accompanied by the song of the cicadas!
1- The zoo
mmerse yourself in the heart of Provence and experience a captivating journey through a park brimming with Mediterranean scents. Wander along 9 kilometers of winding paths shades by ancient holm oaks, where you’ll be transported into the enchanting world of animals!
Discover a plethora of fascinating creatures, from playful young saimiris and inquisitive meerkats to majestic lions, graceful giraffes, and the powerful presence of white rhinoceroses. Encounter a diverse array of species including antelopes, brown bears, bison, capuchins, capybaras, camels, deer, chimpanzees, coatis, fallow deer, dromedaries, Asian elephants, fennecs, wildebeests, hippopotamuses, hyenas, wolves, lynxes, maki catta, mouflons, nilgauts, oryxes, panthers, porcupines, pumas, springboks, tapirs, yaks, zebras, and an array of colorful birds such as macaws, ostriches, storks, emus, cranes, ibises, nandus, parrots, touracos, and vultures.
Additionally, marvel at the diverse reptiles housed in the vivarium, including boas, anacondas, crocodiles, tortoises, pythons, and more. Prepare to be enchanted by the wonders of the animal kingdom in this immersive sanctuary of nature.
Take part in the 20-minute animal encounters to find out more about certains species and the feeding sessions (red pandas, coati, porcupine, maned wolf, meerkat, ect…)
The zoo is the largest in the region, is open all year long for enjoyment of young and adults.
2- The historic place – the Castle of La Barben
Near the zoo, a majestic castle perches atop a rocky outcrop, commanding attention. Originally an 11th-century fortress, it underwent a transformation into a château de plaisance during the 17th century.
Today, this historic site is home to Le Rocher Mistral, a family-friendly leisure park offering fun for all ages.
Adjacent to the castle lies the chapel of Saint-Sauveur, once the castle’s private chapel and now serving as the parish church of La Barben. From its forecourt, visitors can enjoy a breathtaking panorama of the Touloubre plain.
For those seeking a more secluded and enchanting experience, venture to the Source d’Adane. This mystical spring, nestled along Route de la Source, has been known since Roman times. In the Middle Ages, it was believed to possess healing properties, attracting the sick seeking relief from sore Canyon of écrouelles. Besides its purported mystical virtues, the spring water was prized for its purity and utilized to power numerous flour, pomace, and oil mills, as well as for linen bleaching. The remnants of a bleachery can still be observed along Route de la Source, adding to the area’s historical allure.
3- Rocher Mistral, an immersion
Come to the Rocher Mistral and enjoy a thrilling day with 10 shows and lots of entertainment for all the members of your family. Waterfalls, comedy, dance, sword fights, sound and light shows to delight you! In the heart of the thousand-year-old castle of La Barben, during the day or in the evening, immerse yourself in the adventure which awaits you at the Rocher Mistral.
