Saint-Jeannet, French Riviera, France
We visit Saint-Jeannet, a stunning village located at the foothills of the Maritime Alps and perched on a cliffside of the famous French Riviera. The village is ideally situated, just a short drive from the artistic town of Vence and the vibrant city of Nice. Its breathtaking setting and charming character have long made it a popular spot, even catching the eye of Hollywood.
Saint-Jeannet's picturesque landscape served as a key filming location for Alfred Hitchcock's classic 1955 film "To Catch a Thief," starring the iconic duo Grace Kelly and Cary Grant. The film's memorable car chase scenes and stunning panoramic shots were filmed against the backdrop of this very village and the towering cliffs above it, forever linking its name with cinematic history. This adds a layer of glamour to its ancient, stony streets.
Parking in Saint-Jeannet
Upon arriving in Saint-Jeannet, finding a convenient parking spot is crucial to starting your exploration on the right foot. We approached the village from the east, via the scenic Route de Saint-Jeannet street, which offers a choice of two main parking lots located conveniently close to the village center.
Your options are a parking lot just before the village entrance (1; GPS: 43.749923, 7.144716) and a smaller one located just inside the town (2; GPS: 43.749204, 7.143328). We chose the latter, which admittedly has the disadvantage that it is quite small, but nevertheless is already in the town and saves us some time. Fortunately, a free parking spot waited for us!
It is worth noting that during peak season or on weekends, these small lots can get crowded. If you don't find a spot right away, the first parking lot outside the village offers a reliable alternative, and the short walk up is a pleasant way to ease into the tranquil atmosphere of Saint-Jeannet.
Walking around
The village is beautifully situated at the foot of massive limestone hills, which are locally known as "baou". This geological feature is a defining characteristic of the landscape and offers a spectacular backdrop for the village. As a result of its elevated position, you can admire truly beautiful views stretching out over the surrounding countryside, all the way to the Mediterranean Sea on a clear day. The Baou de Saint-Jeannet is a famous climbing and hiking spot, attracting adventurers from all over who are eager to conquer its peak.
As you stroll through the town, you'll find yourself walking along narrow, winding streets that are filled with historic charm. Your walk can take you past the local government office (A; GPS: 43.747577, 7.142968) and then lead you to other charming points of interest. You can make a stop at the beautifully maintained public laundry (B; GPS: 43.747525, 7.142416) and the historic Church of Saint-Jean-Baptiste (C; GPS: 43.747577, 7.142968), a lovely 17th-century building that stands as the spiritual heart of the village. The charm of Saint-Jeannet is in its simplicity, and you can easily spend a lot of time here simply getting lost in the labyrinth of available alleys, each offering new discoveries, from hidden courtyards to colorful doors.
Gastronomy in Saint-Jeannet
The village of Saint-Jeannet, much like its neighbors on the French Riviera, offers a delightful taste of authentic Provençal cuisine. The local gastronomy is a celebration of the region's rich bounty, from sun-ripened vegetables and aromatic herbs to locally produced wine and olive oil.
What to Try?
- Local Wine: Saint-Jeannet has a long history of winemaking, particularly known for its crisp white wines. Don't miss the chance to visit a local vineyard like "Domaine de la Source" to taste the production right at the source.
- Socca: A famous Niçoise street food, this is a delicious, savory pancake made from chickpea flour. It is a simple, yet incredibly tasty snack perfect for a light lunch.
- Pissaladière: A savory tart topped with caramelized onions, anchovies, and black olives. It’s a classic Provençal dish that you can find in many local bakeries.
- Goat Cheese: The area is known for its delicious local goat cheese, which you can often find at small local markets.
Where to Eat?
Despite its small size, Saint-Jeannet has a few charming restaurants and cafes, mainly located near the village center. These places often serve traditional French and Provençal dishes with stunning views. Enjoy a meal on a terrace while looking out over the magnificent landscape for a truly memorable experience.
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