Travel to Croatia

Day 1 Barcelona - Arles - Rocca Grimalda (887 km.)

(in 451 Km.) Arles: Arles, a city in the south of France, is well known for its historical significance and its connection to art, particularly to Vincent van Gogh. Our walking tour begins at the parking lot behind the Luma Tower, an impressive structure that immediately grabs your attention. This building, designed by the renowned architect Frank Gehry, is a modern addition to Arles’ landscape. Covered in reflective metallic panels, it stands in stark contrast to the city’s historical surroundings. Inside, the tower hosts art exhibitions and workshops, making it a cultural hub for contemporary creativity.

Before delving into the tour, it's essential to understand Arles’ importance during the Roman Empire. Known as Arelate, the city became a major hub after Julius Caesar granted it the status of a Roman colony in 46 BC. Its strategic location along the Rhône River made it a key center for trade, administration, and military operations. Arles flourished with the construction of grand monuments, including its amphitheatre, theatre, and baths, many of which still stand today. This Roman legacy earned the city a UNESCO World Heritage designation and forms the foundation of its historical allure.

From there, we make our way to the ancient walls of Arles, which once formed part of the city’s defenses during the Roman Empire. Although parts of these walls have been lost over the centuries, the surviving sections remind visitors of the city’s strategic importance in ancient times. Walking along these walls, we soon reach the Amphitheatre of Arles, also known as the Arènes. This impressive structure was built in the 1st century AD and could seat up to 20,000 spectators. Used for gladiatorial combat in Roman times, it later served as a medieval fortress. Today, it’s still in use, hosting bullfights and cultural events throughout the year.

Continuing our journey, we arrive at the Roman Theatre, another testament to Arles’ rich Roman heritage. Constructed in the 1st century BC, this site was originally a venue for plays and other public events. Although only fragments of the original structure remain, including sections of seating and two standing columns, it’s easy to imagine the grandeur of this space in its heyday. A short walk from here brings us to the Thermes de Constantin, or Constantine’s Baths. Built in the 4th century, these public baths once served as a luxurious retreat for the city’s elite. The well-preserved remains provide insight into how the Romans designed these spaces for relaxation and socializing.

Next, we can shift from ancient history to art by visiting the Fondation Vincent van Gogh. While Van Gogh didn’t achieve fame during his lifetime, his legacy has left a lasting mark on Arles, where he painted some of his most iconic works. The museum focuses on exhibitions inspired by Van Gogh’s time in the city, alongside displays of modern art. A short walk leads us to Le Café Van Gogh, a lively and colorful café that recreates the atmosphere of Van Gogh’s famous painting Café Terrace at Night. It’s a great place to pause and imagine the artist working under the Provençal night sky.

From there, we continue to the Place du Forum, the bustling square that was once the center of Roman life in Arles. Today, it’s a popular spot for both locals and visitors, surrounded by restaurants and shops. Finally, we reach the Place de la République, home to several key landmarks. These include the Church of St. Trophime, a Romanesque masterpiece with intricate carvings and an impressive cloister, as well as the Obelisk and the city’s Hôtel de Ville. This square represents the many layers of history that make Arles such a fascinating place to explore. From this square we make our way back to the parking lot near the Luma Tower.

(in 436 Km.) Rocca Grimalda: We’ll cross into Italy to spend the night at B&B Pervinca, a charming accommodation inspired by the world of the Hobbits. Nestled in a picturesque setting, this unique bed and breakfast features cozy, earth-toned rooms that feel straight out of Middle-earth. It’s the perfect spot to unwind and immerse ourselves in a whimsical atmosphere before continuing our journey.