Villages
with French charm
Montauroux
Montauroux is a pleasant village in the French department of VAR, region Provence-Alpes-Côtes d'Azur. In the vicinity you will find many charming Provençal villages such as Fayence, Seillans, Tourrettes and Callian, each with its own markets, brocantes, etc. The Lac de Saint Cassien lake is a 5-minute drive away, where you can swim, canoeing, walking, fishing, among other things. The distance to the coast is approximately 14 km to St-Raphael, 30 km to Cannes and 25 km to La Bocca. You are only a 10-minute drive from the beautiful golf course 'Terre Blanche' (2 x 18 holes).
Cagnes-sur-mer
Cagnes-sur-Mer is a picturesque town in the department Alpes-Maritimes, in the vicinity of Nice. The town is known for its historic center and the Château Grimaldi, where the museum of modern arts is located.
Fayence
This village, located between Seillans and Tourettes, is the largest and busiest village in the 'Pays de Fayence'. Here you will find numerous narrow streets, beautiful houses and idyllic squares where you can relax under the shade of the plane trees. Restaurants and terraces in abundance and several typical markets every week in high season. In short: authenticity and conviviality!
There is also an impressive antique and flea market fair here regularly (5 times a year) and 'La fête du pain' has traditionally been a biennial folkloric tradition that attracts many visitors.
The weekly markets (3x a week) are highly recommended!
Restaurant tip: 'Au Temps des Cerises' run by friendly Dutch people and restaurant 'Le France' with its cozy interior and ditto terrace. For the more refined cuisine, visit 'Moulin de la Camandoule' or 'Le Castellaras'
In the low-lying plain you will find a beautiful airfield for gliders with a lovely restaurant 'Le Vol à Voile'
Tourrettes
Tourrettes is one of those other cozy mountain villages in the Pays de Fayence. Tourrettes is also sometimes called the artists' village because of its numerous exhibitions and galleries. When visiting Tourrettes, we recommend visiting the 'Grande Bastide' wine estate - delicious local rosé and cremant - but the red and white wine are also keepers.
Seillans
This Provencal mountain village with medieval character and associated castle is more than worth a visit. Winding streets and pleasant squares are also yours to enjoy here. The artist Max Ernst spent an important part of his life here and left his mark on the village.
There are three particularly nice restaurants here: 'La Gloire de Mon Père'... Definitely worth a visit with the family on a pleasant warm summer evening under the plane trees and the cozy lanterns... but also 'Les deux Rocs ' where your Rosé is chilled in the fountain. For better cuisine on a terrace with a view, go to 'Chez Hugo'... a winner!
Saint-Paul-de-Vence
A fun day out…. Then don't miss St.Paul de Vence!
This very pleasant town is known for its artists and shops! The originally fortified town was founded in the 16th century by Francis I and has a rich history.
Upon arrival you will find a 'monument' in this region at the bottom of the fortress, namely the 'Auberge La Colombe d'Or' (a top restaurant by the way). This residence was visited in the 1920s by artists such as Picasso, Soutine, Modigliani and Signac. In exchange for accommodation and food, they left behind works of art. These can still be admired today. Even today it is still a meeting place for artists and performers and tourists can enjoy a nice meal and a drink on a terrace!
On the way to the entrance gate of the village, you pass the pleasant and seasonally busy 'jeu de boules' square with annex cozy brasserie. The South of France at its best!
Once through the entrance gate, you will immediately be charmed by the small alleys with their authentic buildings, cozy shops, nice terraces and numerous art galleries. From the old city walls you also have a beautiful view of the valley and the surrounding area!
Expect a particularly pleasant crowd during the high season. It is not without reason that Saint-Paul-de-Vence is one of the most visited villages in France! More than 2.5 million people stroll through the streets here every year.
Art lovers will enjoy the museum Foundation Maeght, built in 1964 by Aimé and Marguerite Maeght... A true ode to Modern Art!
Callian
This village, located between Fayence and Montauroux, is recommended in the high months for an evening meal on the central square near the church. You will often be treated to music and dancing and you will certainly enjoy the atmosphere under the old plane trees!
None other than Christian Dior found his final resting place here.
Restaurant tip : 'Belle-Vue' located on the central square, .... Highly recommended because of the good location and the oh-so-cozy atmosphere! Enjoy the pleasant musical summer evenings thoroughly. At Restaurant 'Au rendez-vous' you have a beautiful view over the valley. The kitchen in both cases is simple but correct. For all kinds of pancakes, go to 'Daily Crêpes'
Èze
Èze is a pleasant village located in the department Alpes-Maritimes, nearbyNice. This village is known for its beautiful views over the Mediterranean Sea. Because of its location at an altitude of approximately 425 meters, the town is also known as 'the Eagle's Nest'.
Tanneron
The massif of Tanneron is known for its natural beauty and above all its mimosa! For a sensation of scents and colors, it is best to come during the flowering period, which runs from December to March. The mountain massif is then covered in yellow and, just like the sun, it is dazzling! Along the numerous hiking trails you can fully enjoy the mimosa and unique views of the Esterel Mountains.