Tourtour, Provence, France
Tourtour is affectionately known as "the village in the sky of Provence" due to its stunning hilltop position, from which it offers breathtaking panoramic views. The vista stretches from the town of Fréjus on the Mediterranean coast in the east all the way to the majestic Montagne Sainte-Victoire in the west. If you are a fan of visiting charming villages (as we are) and have time for one more memorable stop, Tourtour is a must-see! This small town in Provence, located near Villecroze and Aups, is truly a "must-visit" destination. It is incredibly engaging and welcoming, with stunning architecture that radiates beauty and character. You are bound to be enchanted by this remarkable town. The expansive views and the central square with its charming cafes and colorful shops are absolutely stunning, solidifying its reputation as one of the most beautiful villages in France.
Parking in Tourtour
To park your car, you should drive up the hill to the town's center. It is difficult to navigate narrow streets, so the traffic lights are used to maintain order, allowing traffic in only one direction. The parking lot (1; GPS: 43.587845, 6.304984) is located just nearby the Saint Denis church (A; GPS: 43.588131, 6.304602), dating back to the 10th century, in some distance from urban buildings. From the nearby vantage point (B; GPS: 43.587883, 6.304495) you will have great views of large part of Provence, from Frejus to the mountain range of Sainte-Victoire in the west.
You can also park on the northern side of the village, at Rue du Lavoir (2; GPS: 43.589143, 6.303648).
The parking lot at Rue du Lavoir provides another excellent starting point for your walk, allowing you to enter the village from a different direction. The carefully managed traffic system ensures that while driving to the car park may require a little patience, it is a safe and efficient way to access the village.
Strolling Tourtour
We descend from the hill. In the town itself, we find very pleasant Place des Ormeaux (C; GPS: 43.589363.6.30237) where restaurants and cafes are located. There is also a small and nice fountain. Nearby there is renovated 16th century Raphélis castle (D; GPS: 43.588652, 6.303073), with massive towers on each of its corners. It houses now the headquarters of local authorities. We walk narrow streets and tunnels (typical of Provence), reaching medieval clock tower (E; GPS: 43.589592, 6.301357) and the second, older castle from 12th century. Some of the buildings in the town grow straight out of the rock.
The Place des Ormeaux is shaded by ancient plane trees, which create a cool and welcoming atmosphere, perfect for a break. This is the social heart of Tourtour, where both locals and tourists gather to enjoy a coffee or a meal. The gentle murmur of the fountain adds to the square’s tranquil and timeless appeal.
The village is a testament to its long history, with its architecture reflecting centuries of development and fortification. The older castle from the 12th century is a great example of the village's defensive past, while the renovated Raphélis castle showcases its transition into a civic center. The tight, winding alleys and covered passages were designed to protect inhabitants and are a joy to explore, leading to unexpected courtyards and scenic overlooks.
It is truly remarkable to see how some of the buildings in the town grow straight out of the rock on which the village is built. This architectural fusion of natural stone and man-made structures gives Tourtour a unique character and a sense of being an organic part of the landscape. It is a stunning sight that highlights the ingenuity of its medieval builders.
Gastronomy in Tourtour
In Tourtour, as in all of Provence, gastronomy is an essential part of the cultural experience. The town’s restaurants and cafes, especially those located on the beautiful Place des Ormeaux, offer a wonderful opportunity to savor traditional Provençal cuisine.
Local dishes are characterized by the use of fresh, sun-ripened vegetables, aromatic herbs from the surrounding hills, and, of course, high-quality olive oil. You can enjoy classic dishes like roasted lamb with herbs, delicious vegetable tarts, and fresh salads. The region is also famous for its olives and olive products, so be sure to try some local tapenade or buy a bottle of extra virgin olive oil as a souvenir.
For dessert, look for local honey and honey-based nougat, or enjoy a refreshing artisanal ice cream from one of the small shops. The combination of stunning views, serene atmosphere, and delicious food makes dining in Tourtour a truly unforgettable experience, perfectly complementing your exploration of this sky-high village.
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