Nostradamus, Maillane's famous son
There is plenty that children can enjoy along with the adults - depending on their age (see page opposite). The following list however is especially for the kids:
St Rémy may have Van Gogh and Nostradamus, but Maillane has its own famous son: writer and Nobel prize-winner, Frédéric Mistral, who was born and died in Maillane (he also wrote his famous Mireio here), is effectively the town's 'patron saint'. Unsurprisingly therefore Maillane's principal attraction is the Musée de Frédéric Mistral in the writer's own home which is just as he left it at his death in 1914 at age 84. You can also see his tomb in the Maillane cemetery nearby - a replica of the Pavillon de la Reine Jeanne in Les Baux, and the Maison du Lézard where he lived as a child.
You can pick up local information at the little tourist office beside the Musée Frédéric Mistral, including details of bike trails and walks in the surrounding area.
Le Musée Frédéric Mistral, ave Lamartine: 04 90 95 74 06 Tourist Office, ave Lamartine: 04 32 61 93 86
You will find most of what Maillane has to offer in the way of amenities in one quick stroll around the town: pharmacy, newsagent's, post office, grocer's, greengrocer's, two boulangeries, plus two cafés, a restaurant and a pizzeria. There is also a tiny playground for young children and three tennis courts at the edge of the village.
Pick up the bread and croissants in the morning from one of the boulangeries (we prefer the one by the church) - children love to do this round trip! On Thursday morning shop for fresh produce at the small market beside the lovely Church Ste Agathe. (For a greater choice though don't miss the weekly farmer's market in the Place du Marché, Graveson held in summer every Friday 4 -8pm.)
In St Rémy - which is just 7km away - you will find all other amenities, plus a wide choice of restaurants, cafés and shops.
Mostly Maillane is a nice quiet place to retreat to after a day out exploring. Enjoy an apéro in the Café Lou Souleu. This café is also nice for a casual lunch / supper if you don't feel like venturing far.
Enjoy an apéro in the Café Lou Souleu. This café is also nice for a casual lunch / supper if you don't feel like venturing far.
The best local food however is at the L'Oustalet Maianen (04 90 95 74 60) which offers excellent food, great value for money, friendly service and a pretty terrace and courtyard for summer dining.
Otherwise, there is the Casa Pizza 100 yards from Bambou's front door for fresh take-out pizza.