THE ‘BARONNIES PROVENÇALES’

Dominated by the famous Mont Ventoux, the regional natural park is incredibly rich and rewarding for nature lovers and sports enthusiasts alike. With its varied mid-mountain topography and the variety of its landscapes, the park is an ideal playground for practicing outdoor sports activities: hiking, climbing but also free flight (paragliding, hang gliding...). Amongst the hilltop villages you will discover a diversified agriculture, Provençal markets with the charm of yesteryear and renowned wine estates. On foot, horseback or by bike… set out on a journey of discovery where you will learn first-hand about plants and natural well-being.

Discover the 'Maison des Plantes'

Whilst lavender, thyme, lime blossom and rosemary intoxicate the walker with their scents, they also contribute to the local economy. One of the highlights of Buis-les-Baronnies is the 'Maison des Plantes Aromatiques', which has exhibitions on the botanical world with an emphasis on medicinal and aromatic plants. You should also visit 'Le Jardin des Senteurs' a communal garden made up of several small gardens representing the various ecosystems of the region.. In season, numerous guided thematic routes allow visitors to discover plants in their natural environment, such as fields of lavender that stretch as far as the eye can see.

Lunch is served! Fougasse, biscuits and olives..

Did your excursion make you hungry? Perfect! In that case you will be delighted to taste quality regional products such as the 'Baronnies des 4 saisons', a short bread with small spelt flour, almonds and fruit, or the 'Fougasse des Baronnies' a Provencal flat-bread made with Picodon (a cheese made exclusively from whole goat's milk), Nyon olives and walnuts. You can accompany your meal with 'Castillou', a natural drink made from linden, blackcurrant syrup, sugar and lemon that has a well-deserved reputation for placating and soothing children! 'Castillou' is also the traditional drink of the 'Brotherhood of the Linden Knights'...

Ut semper in baronnis tilia vivat

Founded in 1986, the Brotherhood ensures, under the aegis of its grand master, the safeguarding of these fragrant trees as well as the valorisation of this plant with a multitude of benefits. The induction ceremony to the rank of Knight takes place during a Chapter, where the new member drinks Castillou and is required to take an oath: Ut semper in baronnis tilia vivat (May the lime tree always live in the Baronnies).

Dedicated to Venus, the goddess of love, the lime tree is characterized by its heart-shaped leaves. The plant is known for its calming, slimming and antispasmodic properties. Harvesting takes place from mid-June to mid-July. In July, the lime tree is celebrated with a colorful festival brimming with the scents and fragrances of yesteryear.

Castillou recipe

Infuse 25 grams of dried organic 'Barronies' Linden flowers in a liter of boiling water. Let them steep, then filter,  cool and add 40 grams of blackcurrant syrup, 40 grams of powdered sugar and the juice of two lemons. Stir well. Chill to around °4C, then stand, raise your glass....and drink. Cheers!

Solene Penhoat