Yesterday marked the opening of the 44th Festival International de Piano de la Roque d’Anthéron. This season is opened by Maria João Pires, who performed Mozart No. 9 in D major, K271.

La Roque d’Anthéron is a hidden gem that offers a harmonious blend of cultural vibrancy and rustic charm. Every summer, this quaint village comes alive with the melodies of the piano and the orchestra; and continues to attract classical music lovers worldwide.

My first visit was in Summer 2023. My first concert was Nelson Goerner playing both Rachmaninov’s 3rd and 4th piano concerto in one night! It was my first outdoor classical music concert (it is not common in Malaysia’s tropical climate). This year, I will be returning for 3 more concerts, featuring Maria João Pires, Alexander Malofeev, and Víkingur Ólafsson.

Here’s everything you need to know about visiting La Roque d’Anthéron and experiencing its annual piano festival.

The International Piano Festival: A Musical Extravaganza

Every year, from late July to mid-August, La Roque d’Anthéron hosts the renowned Festival International de Piano de la Roque d’Anthéron. This prestigious event, founded in 1981, draws celebrated pianists and emerging talents from across the globe. The festival’s venues are as captivating as the performances themselves, with concerts held in the enchanting Parc du Château de Florans, under the starry Provençal sky.

Amidst the captivating melodies that fill the air, there’s another sound that gently weaves its way into the beautiful music that is being performed – the soothing chirp of cigale (cicada).

Exploring La Roque d’Anthéron: What to See

While the piano festival is a major highlight, La Roque d’Anthéron has a few other little gems to explore:

Château de Florans: Beyond hosting festival concerts, this historic château is a sight to behold. Stroll through its beautiful gardens and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere. The park is open for non-concert goers as well for picnics.

Abbaye de Silvacane: One of the three sister Cistercian abbeys in Provence, Silvacane is a masterpiece of Romanesque architecture. Its serene setting makes it a perfect place for reflection.

Église Notre Dame de l’Annonciation: A stunning example of Baroque architecture and a key historical landmark in La Roque d’Anthéron. Built in the 17th century, this beautiful church features an ornate altarpiece, intricate frescoes, and stunning stained glass windows. It stands as a testament to the village’s rich religious and cultural heritage. Whether you’re an admirer of history, architecture, or sacred art, a visit to this church offers a serene and inspiring experience.

Vincent Schoepfer’s art studio: Situated just outside of the Église Notre Dame de l’Annonciation, this little art studio offers some unique clay pieces. They also serve coffee and cakes. Do explore the studio, engage with the artist, and even purchase unique pieces as souvenirs.

Glacier le Quillé: This charming ice cream parlor offers a delectable array of homemade gelatos and sorbets, crafted from the finest local ingredients. Whether you’re craving classic vanilla or adventurous lavender honey, Glacier le Quillé promises a refreshing treat that perfectly complements a warm Provençal day.

Nature Trails: The surrounding countryside offers numerous hiking and biking trails. The Durance River, which flows nearby, is ideal for leisurely walks and picnics.

Getting to La Roque d’Anthéron

La Roque d’Anthéron is conveniently located and accessible by various modes of transport:

• By Train: The closest major train station is in Aix-en-Provence, which is well-connected to major French cities like Paris, Lyon, and Marseille. From Aix-en-Provence, local buses and taxis are available to reach the village. If you are coming for the International Piano Festival, they provide a paid shuttle service between Aix-en-Provence and the concert venue.
• By Car: If you’re driving, La Roque d’Anthéron is easily accessible via the A51 motorway. Ample parking is available in and around the village.

Tips for a Memorable Visit

Book Ahead: The International Piano Festival is a popular event, so it’s wise to book your tickets and accommodation well in advance.

Dress Appropriately: There is no dress code for the piano festival. We have seen people in T-shirts and shorts. However, while summer days in La Roque d’Anthéron are warm, evenings can get chilly as the sun sets, especially since concerts often end past 11 PM. Bring a light jacket or sweater to stay comfortable throughout the night.

Pack a Light Dinner: Unfortunately, we haven’t seen any restaurants around, besides some bakeries and maybe one cafe, KAKI, which serves some light tapas. My suggestion would to be pack a light dinner like a sandwich. The event organiser offers a bento meal option, but it is not very appetising.

Embrace the Pace: La Roque d’Anthéron is all about leisurely enjoyment. Make your way to the concert venue at least 30 minutes in advance. There may be a queue for security scans. Take in the relaxed atmosphere, explore the lush greens all around the park, and let the melodies of the piano festival be the soundtrack to your stay.

La Roque d’Anthéron is more than just a destination; it’s an experience that combines cultural enrichment with natural beauty. Whether you’re a music aficionado or simply looking for a serene getaway, this charming Provençal village promises a visit that will linger in your heart long after the final note has been played.