Chateau de la Gaude (Gaude Castle), Aix-en-Provence

Château de la Gaude is a historic estate dating back to the 17th century, built as a Provençal bastide and later developed in the 18th century. It has been listed as a monument historique since 1963. The building keeps features like fireplaces, parquet floors, and ceiling moldings, combined with a modern “white-on-white” interior. A chestnut tree-lined driveway leads to the three-story bastide.

Today, the château is used for art, wine, and hospitality. It hosts artists in residence and shows contemporary works across the estate. Visitors can see pieces by Philippe Pasqua, including a seven-meter silver shark, as well as works by Robert Combas. The estate also includes a chapel and remains under the ownership of Didier Blaise, who oversaw its transformation into a cultural and hospitality space.

The property spans about 25 hectares, including 17 hectares of vineyards used for organic AOC Coteaux d’Aix-en-Provence wine. Visitors can walk through the vineyards, join guided tours, and take part in tastings. The grounds also feature ponds, fountains, terraces, a formal French garden with a yew maze, and even an alley once used for butterfly hunting, along with restaurants, a spa, and outdoor areas to explore.