Perched villages of Provence
64 KM
Descriptions of the Perched villages
Discover the most beautiful perched villages (the so-called “villages perchés”) of the Maritime Alps. In one day, you will visit the villages of Èze, Gourdon and Saint Paul de Vence.
The hilltop villages are located high up on a rocky crag with a very breathtaking view across the surrounding countryside. They were used as defensive positions, e.g. on the edge of a steep valley or high an a hilltop. You will admire the traditional Provencal architecture, with the houses built of the local rock.
Stops of the circuit
Eze: A magnificent village with one of the most beautiful views in the world overlooking Cap Ferrat and Cap d’Antibes. You will be seduced by its small streets and its arches which will lead you to the Exotic Garden whose unobstructed view will sting you as much as the cactus of the garden!
Gourdon : One of the Most Beautiful Villages in France and a true medieval fortress, Gourdon overlooks the Loup Valley.
From the Place Victoria, listed in 1940, there is an exceptional panorama of 80 km of coastline revealing the Mediterranean, from Nice to Théoule!
Saint Paul de Vence : Situated on a rocky spur, between the Mediterranean Sea and the Alps, the village of Saint Paul de Vence is surrounded by magnificent walls built under François 1er. This jewel of a village cultivates a long artistic tradition with notably the Colombe d’Or Hotel which shelters Picasso, Matisse, Chagall whose tomb is located in the cemetery of Saint Paul.