Villecroze, Provence, France
The little town of Villecroze is a hidden gem located in the heart of Provence, approximately 20 kilometers south of the spectacular Verdon Canyon. Nestled between the picturesque villages of Tourtour, Salernes, and Entrecasteaux, it sits at the foothills of the Alps. The town is beautifully protected by a ring of hills covered with fragrant pines and oaks, which serve as a natural barrier against the powerful mistral wind, creating a mild and pleasant microclimate.
Parking in Villecroze
We leave our car in the parking lot near the town's center (1; GPS: 43.582371, 6.276624), next to the church of Notre-Dame-des-Sept-Douleurs from the late eighteenth century. You can also park in another parking lot (2; GPS: 43.583359, 6.275353) - a little more away from the center, but instead of this located closer to the troglodytes caves.
The choice of parking depends on what you plan to see first. Parking at lot 1 is ideal if you want to immediately immerse yourself in the medieval atmosphere of the old town. If your main goal is to visit the troglodyte caves, parking at lot 2 will save you a few minutes of walking, making it a great starting point for that specific attraction. Both options are free and provide easy access to the town’s main sights.
Strolling Villecroze
After leaving the parking lot we head towards the buildings of the old town, passing the Notre-Dame-des-Sept-Douleurs church from the 18th century (A; GPS: 43.582264, 6.275897). We enter the maze of winding streets and stroll them admiring old buildings, scenery, vegetation and cats ;). The fact is that the old town has very well preserved its medieval character and authenticity, thus the stroll is much more enjoyable.
The atmosphere of the old town is truly unique, with its charming alleyways and beautifully restored facades. Every corner offers a new discovery, from ancient doorways to small, hidden fountains. The tranquil ambiance and the sense of stepping into a living piece of history make Villecroze a perfect place for a relaxed exploration. It is a photographer's paradise, with countless opportunities to capture the essence of a traditional Provençal village.
If you are interested, you can then go in the northern direction to visit the troglodytes caves (B; GPS: 43.583946, 6.278215). Tickets can be purchased on site or at the tourist office (C; GPS: 43.5833731, 6.2748564). The ticket prices are following: adults - 3 €, children - 1 €, children under 7 years old - free entrance.
The troglodyte caves are not just simple rock formations; they were carved out by monks in the 16th century and used as a monastery and refuge. Walking through the cool, carved-out spaces and seeing the waterfall cascading over the entrance is a truly memorable experience. The site is a perfect blend of natural beauty and human history, providing an insightful look into the lives of the people who once inhabited these unique dwellings.
Gastronomy in Villecroze
As part of Provence, Villecroze offers a delightful culinary experience, embracing the flavors of the region. While the town is small, you can find charming local restaurants and cafés that serve authentic Provençal cuisine. The food here is characterized by fresh, local ingredients, including sun-ripened tomatoes, fragrant herbs, olive oil, and garlic.
A perfect way to experience the local gastronomy is to visit the weekly market in town, where you can find fresh produce, cheeses, local honey, and artisanal products. After a day of exploring, you can relax at a terrace with a glass of local rosé wine, which the region is famous for, and enjoy a delicious meal. Look for traditional dishes like ratatouille, pissaladière, or a simple but flavorful tapenade made from local olives.
The peaceful atmosphere of Villecroze's restaurants and cafes makes for a truly relaxing dining experience. Whether you're grabbing a quick coffee or sitting down for a leisurely lunch, you'll be able to enjoy the beautiful surroundings and the warmth of Provençal hospitality.
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