Forming part of the 12th-century fortified castle built by the Simiane-Agoult family, who were one of the region's most powerful medieval dynasties, this castle is notable for its magnificent central cupola, graced by a soaring dome, 12 supporting ribs and a forest of decorative columns and intricate stonework. It's a masterpiece of medieval engineering, and every August provides the unforgettable setting for classical-music festival Les Riches Heures Musicales de la Rotonde.
Château de Simiane-la-Rotonde
Alpes-de-Haute-Provence
Lonely Planet's must-see attractions
19.02 MILES
If you're searching for that classic postcard shot of the medieval abbey surrounded by a sea of purple lavender, look no further. This sublime Cistercian…
5.2 MILES
Named after its fiery red and orange landscape (which locals likened to Colorado), this former ochre quarry is one of the best places to appreciate the…
17.6 MILES
In the scrubby hills about 6km south of Bonnieux, a twisty back road slopes up to this wonderful cedar forest, whose spreading boughs provide welcome…
-
21.82 MILES
Beneath the limestone cliffs an easy 1km walk from the village, the magical spring after which the village is named gushes forth at an incredible rate –…
-
10.44 MILES
Situated 4km south of Forcalquier near Mane, this peaceful priory dates from the 13th century. It’s well worth a visit to wander around its medieval herb…
-
24.91 MILES
The vine-clad slopes, woods and and olive groves of this Provençal estate are graced by harmonious examples of art and architecture, including work by…
-
26.04 MILES
Carpentras’ remarkable synagogue dates from 1367 and is the oldest still in use in France. Although Jews were initially welcomed into papal territory, by…
-
12.31 MILES
This distillery on the edge of Buoux uses locally grown lavender, cypress and rosemary in its products. It also rents out three gorgeous self-contained…
Nearby Alpes-de-Haute-Provence attractions
3.77 MILES
This family-run cheese farm near Banon makes superb chèvre de Banon (Banon goat's cheese). It's about 3.5km south of the village along the D51; look out…
3.89 MILES
Surrounded by lavender fields and beneath some of Europe’s darkest night-time skies, this observatory reveals astronomical wonders using high-powered…
5.2 MILES
Named after its fiery red and orange landscape (which locals likened to Colorado), this former ochre quarry is one of the best places to appreciate the…
9.45 MILES
On the edge of the village, this working olive-oil mill allows you to follow the process from tree to bottle. Delicious honey is also made here. Tastings…
5. Observatoire de Haute-Provence
9.62 MILES
Tours of this small observatory include the chance to see its working 193cm central telescope, plus a film about the centre’s research. Buy tickets for…
10.44 MILES
Situated 4km south of Forcalquier near Mane, this peaceful priory dates from the 13th century. It’s well worth a visit to wander around its medieval herb…
10.94 MILES
Apt's various industries – ochre-mining, fruits confits and faiences (glazed ceramics) – are explored at this modest but well-curated museum in the middle…
8. Ancienne Cathédrale Ste-Anne
10.95 MILES
The 11th-century Ancienne Cathédrale Ste-Anne houses the relics of St Anne, and 11th- and 12th-century illuminated manuscripts.