Tourrettes-sur-Loup, French Riviera, France
Tourrettes-sur-Loup is one of the most beautiful medieval towns of the French Riviera perched on a rock, about 8 km north-west of Saint-Paul-de-Vence and 11 km east of Le Bar-sur-Loup, near Vence and Grasse. It is an amazing place, full of narrow streets, stairs, picturesque alleys, passages under buildings - just a paradise for lovers of such places. In our opinion, it is as beautiful as the much advertised town Saint-Paul-de-Vence, and it has such an advantage over it that it is not full of tourists - you can slowly explore it in a quiet atmosphere.
Tourrettes-sur-Loup is famously known as the 'Cité des Violettes' (City of Violets) due to its long-standing tradition of cultivating violets for perfume and culinary use. This unique floral heritage adds a special fragrant charm to the town, making it not just a visual delight but a sensory experience. Its fortified position and well-preserved medieval character offer an authentic glimpse into the history of this part of Provence.
Parking in Tourrettes-sur-Loup
Theoretically, you can park in the village center, on the Place de la Liberation (1; GPS: 43.716543, 7.058619), but due to the fact that it's often hard to find here a free place, we suggest to leave the car on a very large parking lot located just next to the old town, on the Place de la Madeleine (2; GPS: 43.718466, 7.063479).
The parking lot at Place de la Madeleine offers ample space and is a short, easy walk from the village's main entrance. This a much more stress-free option, allowing you to begin your visit without the hassle of navigating narrow village streets in your car. From here, you can enjoy a scenic approach to the historic center and start your exploration feeling relaxed.
Strolling the old town
After leaving the car on mentioned parking lot you can simply go under the bridge and follow the Rue de la Bourgade towards the center. Along the way, you will have the opportunity to admire panoramic views of the village.
As we previously mentioned, the town is perched on a rock, and thus ideally suited to explore and make interesting pictures away from the hustle and bustle of big cities. At the Place de la Liberation there is located the church of St Grégoire (A; GPS: 43.716680, 7.059056) from sixteenth century. Going under the clock tower (B; GPS: 43.716115, 7.058429), which is equiped with nice campanile, typical for Provence, you can emerge on the main street of the old town - the Grande Rue. It is a kingdom of narrow paths and flowery houses, where the galleries and artists' workshops are located. You can admire the sculptures, paintings, textiles, pottery and jewelry. Then you arrive to the palace de Villeneuve from fifteenth century, which now serves as the seat of local government. Going beyond the buildings (C; GPS: 43.7148581, 7.0592389) you can enjoy views of surrounding hills. In the distance you can see Mediterranean Sea and the peninsula of Cap d'Antibes. You can also see old railway viaduct (D; GPS: 43.713239, 7.063109) created especially for Train des Pignes.
The Church of St. Grégoire has a fascinating history, built on the foundations of an ancient Roman temple and later transformed into a fortified church. Its robust structure and elegant facade make it a must-see landmark in the town center. The interior, with its peaceful atmosphere and historic artifacts, provides a quiet escape from the sunny streets outside.
The bell tower, or campanile, is a distinctive feature of many Provençal villages, and Tourrettes-sur-Loup's is a classic example. Its intricate ironwork framework is a testament to traditional craftsmanship. The bell within the campanile has historically served as a vital part of village life, marking the hours and signaling important events.
The vibrant creative community in Tourrettes-sur-Loup is a core part of its identity. The village attracts artists from all over the world who are inspired by its charming streets and stunning light. Visiting their workshops provides a unique opportunity to see artists at work and purchase a piece of the village's creative spirit to take home with you.
The panoramic viewpoints around the village are truly spectacular, offering sweeping vistas of the Loup valley below. From these vantage points, you can fully appreciate the strategic defensive position of the village and the breathtaking beauty of the French Riviera's inland landscapes. It's a perfect spot for photography and for simply taking in the serene environment.
Gastronomy and Violet Products
As the 'City of Violets,' Tourrettes-sur-Loup offers a unique culinary experience centered on this fragrant flower. The town is famous for its candied violets, which are used to make a variety of local delicacies. You can find violet-infused syrups, liqueurs, jams, and sweets in the local shops.
Beyond the violets, the village provides a taste of authentic Provençal cuisine. The restaurants serve classic dishes featuring fresh local produce, olive oil, and herbs from the surrounding hills. Be sure to try the local honey and goat cheese, which are often produced in the nearby countryside. The charming cafes in the village are perfect for a coffee or a glass of local wine while soaking in the atmosphere.
Visiting a local restaurant is a great way to experience the local culture. You can enjoy a delicious meal while sitting on a terrace, surrounded by the beautiful stone architecture and fragrant air. The village's commitment to preserving its traditions, both culinary and artistic, makes for a truly immersive and memorable visit.
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