Bed and breakfasts near Sainte-Baume and Saint-Maximin
The Sainte-Baume massif
A limestone ridge between the Var and Bouches-du-Rhône
The Sainte-Baume massif rises between the Bouches-du-Rhône and Var departments. This long limestone barrier stretches for about 35 kilometres, with a marked ridge whose highest points, the Joug de l’Aigle and the Signal des Béguines, reach 1148 metres.
The area combines narrow valleys, wooded slopes, cliffs and villages. Springs descending from the massif feed the surrounding countryside and help explain the presence of a cooler forest than in many other Provençal landscapes.
The grotto of Mary Magdalene
The word baume means cave in Provençal. Sainte-Baume owes much of its reputation to the grotto where, according to tradition, Mary Magdalene lived as a recluse. The sanctuary still attracts pilgrims, walkers and visitors, who can climb through the forest from the Sainte-Baume hostellerie.
This old beech forest, rare in Provence, gives the site a distinctive atmosphere and contrasts with the drier landscapes of the surrounding slopes.
Saint-Maximin and the villages of the massif
Saint-Maximin-la-Sainte-Baume, north of the massif, is known for its Gothic basilica and its connection with the relics of Mary Magdalene. Around the massif, Plan-d’Aups, Nans-les-Pins, Saint-Zacharie, Auriol, Roquevaire, Gémenos, Cuges-les-Pins, Riboux and Signes provide several access points to the trails.
A bed and breakfast near Sainte-Baume makes it easy to combine hiking, religious heritage, villages of Green Provence and day trips toward Aix-en-Provence, Cassis or the Var coast. South of the massif, a visit to the medieval village of Le Castellet takes you through its lanes, past the château and to views over the vineyards of Bandol.
Find a guest house near Sainte-Baume and Saint-Maximin
Here is a selection of guest houses, gites and charming places to stay near Sainte-Baume and Saint-Maximin, with direct access to each owner’s website.
- Garden
- Table d’hôtes (guest meals)
- Swimming pool
Prestige bed and breakfast
Bastide de Fontvieille
In Saint-Cyr-sur-Mer, two rooms and two suites bring the feel of a family home to a former 18th-century wine farm. Aged furniture, soft colours and private terraces invite you to slow down, between the Bandol vineyards and nearby beaches. A characterful place to enjoy the sea while staying in the countryside.
This address is located in Saint Cyr sur mer and associated with a stay near Sainte BaumeBandolCassisCalanques
Saint Cyr sur mer 83270
Charming bed and breakfast and Gite
Campagne Chastel
Above Aix-en-Provence, an 18th-century farmhouse offers a two-bedroom family suite for two to five guests and a holiday rental for two to six. Old stonework, comfortable sitting rooms and terraces facing the grounds give this house a country atmosphere, close to the cultural life of Aix.
This address is located in Aix-en-Provence and associated with a stay near Sainte-BaumeSainte-VictoireLourmarin
Aix-en-Provence 13090
Charming Bed and breakfast and Gîte
Une Campagne en Provence
In Bras, three rooms, a suite and holiday rentals for two to six guests bring new life to a former Templar farm. Comfortable interiors and terraces facing the vines preserve the feel of a lived-in estate. Between woodland paths, Provençal meals and horse rides, days follow the pace of the Provence Verte countryside.
This address is located in Bras and associated with a stay near Saint MaximinCotignacBrignoles
Bras 83149
Charming bed and breakfast and Cottages
Domaine de la Font des Pères
In Le Beausset, terraced vineyards shape this Bandol estate, where twenty-five rooms and suites are spread across four Provençal villas. Comfortable accommodation is part of an experience centred on wine, the estate’s cooking and the spa, with the Sainte-Baume on the horizon and the Mediterranean close by.
This address is located in Le Beausset and associated with a stay near Sainte BaumeBandolCassisCalanques
Le Beausset 83330
Huts and yurts
Ecolodges en Provence
In Saint-Maximin-la-Sainte-Baume, three ecolodges invite couples to escape: a yurt and two cabins combining stone, wood and openings onto the sky. These unusual retreats pair comfort with a private spa and an intimate atmosphere, offering time together among Mediterranean plants.
This address is located in Saint-Maximin-la-Sainte-Baume and associated with a stay near Aix-en-ProvenceSainte VictoireCotignac
Saint-Maximin-la-Sainte-Baume 83470
Charming bed and breakfast and Gîte
Le Manoir de Gémenos
In the Saint-Pons valley, two air-conditioned rooms and a holiday rental for two occupy a 16th-century country house beside a stream. Individual décor and old stonework create an intimate atmosphere beneath tall trees. The village of Gémenos is close by, between the paths of the Sainte-Baume and the calanques of Cassis.
This address is located in Gemenos and associated with a stay near Sainte BaumeCassisCalanquesMarseille
Gemenos 13420
Charming bed and breakfast and Gîte
Le Mas du Cimaï
In Évenos, five characterful rooms and a holiday rental for five occupy a Provençal farmhouse that was once an inn. Individual décor, terraces and sociable living spaces continue its tradition of hospitality. Between the Cimaï cliffs, the Sainte-Baume trails and the coast around Bandol, alternate outdoor outings with restful days.
This address is located in Evenos and associated with a stay near Sainte BaumeBandolCassisToulon
Evenos 83300
Prestige Bed and breakfast
Les Pieds tanqués
In Saint-Cyr-sur-Mer, three air-conditioned rooms, including a suite with a spa, occupy a house shaped by craftspeople. Natural materials, objects made on site and private terraces give each space its character. Among vines and pines, walk from the property to the Port d’Alon cove and the coastal paths.
This address is located in Saint-Cyr-sur-Mer and associated with a stay near Sainte-BaumeBandolCalanquesCassis
Saint-Cyr-sur-Mer 83270Planning your stay near Sainte-Baume
When is the best time to stay near the Sainte-Baume?
Spring and autumn are the most comfortable seasons for walking in the massif, climbing to the Mary Magdalene grotto or visiting Saint-Maximin-la-Sainte-Baume.
In summer, early mornings are best for hiking. Access to the hills may be restricted depending on heat, wind and fire risk.
Where should you choose a bed and breakfast around the Sainte-Baume?
Saint-Maximin-la-Sainte-Baume is convenient for the Var side and Green Provence. Plan-d’Aups, Nans-les-Pins, Auriol, Gémenos and Roquevaire keep you closer to the massif, its trails and villages.
What can you do during a stay near Sainte-Baume and Saint-Maximin?
Main highlights include the Sainte-Baume forest, the Mary Magdalene grotto, the basilica of Saint-Maximin, the villages around the massif and the limestone landscapes between the Var and Bouches-du-Rhône.