Salernes, Provence, France
Salernes is a charming and authentic town nestled in the heart of the "Green Provence," a region known for its lush landscapes and flowing rivers. Situated in the valley of the Bresque river, it is located between the beautiful destinations of Sillans-la-Cascade, Entrecasteaux and Villecroze, so when you are nearby, you can stop here for an hour or two. We happened to hit a local Provencal market, so we had additional experiences while visiting this town!
This town has a very special atmosphere, combining picturesque scenery with a lively local culture. We had the fortune of visiting on a market day, which offered additional experiences and a wonderful glimpse into the daily life of this community. This authentic market atmosphere makes Salernes an especially rewarding destination for travelers looking for a taste of genuine Provençal life away from the more crowded tourist hotspots.
Parking in Salernes
Finding a convenient and free parking spot in Salernes is quite simple, with several well-located options available for visitors. This makes it easy to explore the village's charms on foot without worrying about parking fees or long walks, allowing you to start your visit with ease.
We park the car on a fairly large parking lot located on the southern side of the old town (1; GPS: 43.561872, 6.233208). You can also use another nearby parking lot located on the Place Georges Clemenceau (2; GPS: 43.562918, 6.233348), both of which are just a short walk from the main commercial square.
It is possible to leave the car on the opposite side of the town (3; GPS: 43.565495, 6.233299), next to the stadium and castle ruins from the thirteenth century. This option is perfect if you want to visit the ruins first and then descend into the town. All parking lots are free!
The old town
First, we head to the main commercial square of the village (A; GPS: 43.563565, 6.233228), where we find primarily many stalls of local producers of vegetables, fruits and industrial products. As we mentioned above, at a time when we visited this town, the Provence market took place and we looked more closely at the goods - unfortunately there were also Chinese counterfeits of leather haberdashery ;).
Then we stroll narrow streets of the town admiring interesting buildings and old fountains, still working. We also meet old public laundry (B; GPS: 43.565253, 6.232763) and the church of Saint-Pierre from the thirteenth century located on Place de la République (C; GPS: 43.563964, 6.231859), with a nice campanile at the top of the tower. There are also ruins of the castle located on a small hill (D; GPS: 43.565900, 6.231824), available for tourists.
The town is particularly famous for its traditional pottery and ceramic tiles, known as "tomettes," which have been produced here for centuries. You can find several artisan workshops and boutiques selling these beautiful handcrafted products throughout the village. It is a true testament to the town's rich artisanal heritage and a wonderful opportunity to buy a unique souvenir.
Roman bridge on the river Bresque
After visiting the old town it's worth to drive (or walk) about a kilometer to the the small river Bresque to see the ancient bridge dating back to Roman times, which is located next to a public bath. The whole area looks really idyllic, with the tranquil river flowing beneath the ancient structure and lush greenery surrounding it.
You can park the car right next to the bridge (E; GPS: 43.565352, 6.225485), making it easily accessible for a short visit. This peaceful spot is a perfect place for a quiet picnic or a moment of reflection by the water, away from the hustle and bustle of the town center.
The Bresque river is a lifeline for the area, and this spot highlights the long-standing relationship between the community and its natural environment. The combination of the historic Roman architecture and the serene natural landscape makes this a truly memorable and photogenic location. It's a peaceful escape from the lively market and town center, offering a different side of Salernes' timeless beauty.
Gastronomy in Salernes
Like many towns in the Var department, Salernes offers a rich culinary experience rooted in the traditions of Provençal cuisine. Thanks to the region's fertile soil and climate, the local dishes are based on fresh, seasonal ingredients that burst with flavor.
The local market, which we were lucky to visit, is the best place to sample regional produce, including sun-ripened tomatoes, sweet peppers, olives, and fragrant herbs. Be sure to look for local olive oil, which is a staple of the cuisine, and delicious honey from the surrounding hills, both of which are excellent souvenirs to take home.
The town has a selection of cozy restaurants and bistros serving traditional dishes such as 'daube provençale' (a rich beef stew), fresh fish from the nearby coast, and a variety of delicious tarts and desserts. A visit to Salernes wouldn't be complete without enjoying a meal or a coffee at a cafe terrace in the town square, immersing yourself in the relaxed Provençal rhythm of life.
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