…at CEA Cadarache which is after all right on our doorstep and with all the debates ongoing about sourcing energy, this is a very thought-provoking and topical visit to make. In 2005, Cadarache was selected to be the site of the International Thermonuclear Experimental Reactor (ITER), the world’s largest nuclear fusion reactor.
Their guided visits are very well organised, free and take place Mon-Fri. Obviously at the moment with the state of emergency, things can change at short notice; but it’s a fascinating experience to see this centre before it becomes operational: http://www-cadarache.cea.fr/fr/accueil/visites.php
My scientific knowledge is zilch but I found the visitors’ centre and explanations (mostly) made sense and the scale of the thing is jaw-dropping. Passports/ID needed.
aixcentric 
April 12. I just called the tourist office at Greoux and they told me for the moment, at least, ITER has suspended all visits as a result of the national state of emergency. A shame! Hopefully they will be reinstated. I’m sure a guided tour would be fascinating. Thanks for the good suggestion anyway.
Hi, I’ve just re-checked their website and they are still listing all the information on visits. It may be worth checking directly with them. That having been said, I wouldn’t be surprised if they have suspended visits for the time being as it must be a sensitive site. I do hope you can get in at some point as it is fascinating….