Le Chateau Fort

Les Baux (baux referring to a rocky spur) was one of our favorite places in Provence. It is an old city built on a rocky spur that rises out of the valley. We got there early so as to get a parking spot close to the city. The weather was lovely: cool and breezy.

Before we went into the city, some of the family did a little birdwatching.

The old city of Les Baux is on the left, with houses and B&B's decorating the valley below.

The streets are very steep and narrow. No cars drive through the old city.

Before we climbed up the streets to the chateau on top, we stopped at this bakery to get some of these delicious cookies...and chocolate olives.

Of course, we had to stop at the church before we got any farther.

The stained glasses in this building were more modern.

We finally made it up the steep streets to the 11th-century chateau fort.

A recreated trebuchet

This is the old windmill.


The view from the top of the spur was stunning.

The valley below was dotted with vineyards and olive groves.

It was very windy up top.

Before we climbed to the top of the walls, Cameron tried his hand at shooting a *real* crossbow. Looks like an expert, doesn't he?

Margaret decided to try too.

A view of the tops of the fortifications

Windows of the old dining hall

Mom and Dad joined in the fun too. :-)

A view of the city from the top of the walls.

Before we left, we watched a demonstration of medeival weapons.

Cameron's future job.

(Posted by Shannon)