Seillans, French-Riviera, France
Seillans is a picturesque village situated on a hill between the stunning Gorges du Verdon, the coastal town of Fréjus, and the glamorous city of Cannes. It has been chosen as one of the most beautiful villages in France by the "Association des Plus Beaux Villages de France", a prestigious designation that recognizes its exceptional heritage and charm. It is a genuine pleasure to explore, offering a captivating journey through its maze of narrow, cobbled streets, arched passages, winding stone stairs, shady corners, and squares with beautiful fountains.
This hilltop village is a perfect example of a fortified 'village perché' of Provence, with its tiered layout clinging to the side of the mountain. Its well-preserved architecture and serene atmosphere make it a favorite destination for those seeking an authentic glimpse into traditional Provençal life, far from the bustling coastal resorts.
Parking in Seillans
The town does not have any huge parkings, reflecting its compact, medieval layout. We simply parked the car in the parking lot at the La Magnanerie de Seillans building, on the D19 road (1; GPS: 43.636370, 6.645516), and then nearby the Atelier de Jiel we went approx. 200 meters on foot to the old town. Another small parking lot is located on the north side of the village (2; GPS: 43.6372892, 6.6426067).
From the main parking lot on the D19, the walk to the old town is a pleasant stroll that sets the scene for your visit. It’s an easy approach that allows you to fully appreciate the village's unique character as you ascend towards its historical heart, with every step revealing a new picturesque view.
The Old Town in Seillans
As we approach the D19 road to the old town from the east, we immediately notice a nice row of old buildings that seem to cascade down the hillside. We then enter the narrow and certainly very old street, Rue Grande. Why did we call it an old one? Because for hundreds of years many carts have driven it and carved quite deep ruts in the stones that make up the surface of this street, a fascinating testament to centuries of daily life.
The street goes quite steeply up and we go up to the Place du Thouron square with an interesting fountain and shady plane trees. This bustling square serves as the vibrant heart of Seillans, a perfect spot to relax and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere. Here too, in the heart of Seillans, is located the restaurant "La Gloire de mon Pere". The dishes are not too expensive, and you can enjoy a delightful lunch in a relaxed and authentic setting.
After satisfying the hunger, we turn right and walk the Rue de l'Église towards the interesting Romanesque Saint Léger church from the 11th century and the town hall, i.e. the seat of local authorities. The church is a beautiful example of Romanesque architecture, with a peaceful interior and a bell tower that overlooks the village. Next to the church there is an 11th century castle (now converted into a hotel, private property).
Then we move the Rue du Valat street to the Place du Valat square, where the interesting Porte Sarrazine gate is located. This medieval gate is one of the original entrances to the fortified village and offers a glimpse into its defensive past. We go back the Rue du Font d'Amont to the Place du Thouron, completing a delightful circuit of the village's main sights.
For art lovers, Seillans holds a special significance as the former home of surrealist artist Max Ernst. You can visit the Municipal Art Gallery, which houses a collection of his works and sculptures, celebrating his deep connection to the village. This artistic heritage adds another layer of cultural richness to your visit.
Gastronomy
The cuisine of Seillans is a reflection of its Provençal heritage, emphasizing fresh, local ingredients and simple, robust flavors. Restaurants in the village, including the one mentioned at Place du Thouron, offer classic dishes that are often based on olive oil, herbs de Provence, garlic, and fresh vegetables from the surrounding fields.
During your visit, be sure to sample some of the region's specialties, such as tapenade, ratatouille, or local cheeses and charcuterie. The nearby vineyards also produce excellent rosé and red wines that pair perfectly with the local cuisine. You can also explore the village's small shops to find local products like olive oil and honey, which make for wonderful souvenirs of your trip.
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