The so called 'villages perchés' are found in various parts of the Provence. They are located high up on a rocky crag, so they are often hard-to-reach. These pittoresque villages are mostly fortified which date back to the Middle Ages. As a result of their location the villages have very impressive views across the surrounding countryside.
Nine gems
The north of Fréjus and Saint Raphael is one of the most beautiful areas in the Provence where you can find nine gems: Fayence, Seillans, Tourrettes, Montauroux, Mons, Tanneron, Callian, Bagnols and St Paul en Forêt. These mountain villages seem to hang above the azure sea on the foothills of the Esterel Mountains and the Alps. If you make a glider flight starting in Fayence, you can enjoy this truly breath-taking scenery. A wonderful combination of green, blue and yellow landscape, especially when the mimosa blossoms bloom in spring. These mountain villages are known for their steep streets, authenticity, charm and preserved heritage. Furthermore you can find an abundance of chapels, churches, medieval ruins, majestic doors and old mansions.
Fayence and Tourettes
Fayence is located on a hill between the sea and the mountains but surrounded by the picturesque countryside. Fayence is very popular and offers many good restaurants, for example Le Temps des Cerises with a beautiful terrace. The more quite village Tourettes is closely located next to Fayence and has traffic-free roads which is a guarantee for nice and quiet walks along shady squares. Tourettes has become more popular lately due to the nice golf course 'Terre Blanche'.
Seillans and Bargemon
Seillans with its maze of streets, quiet places, shaded courtyards and ancient fountains has been awarded one of the most beautiful villages of France. The village is loved by artists, for example the well-known surrealistic painter Max Ernst. Two insider tips: for a lovely dinner, we recommend you to go to the square in front of Hotel des Deux Rocs, situated in a 17th century bastide. Also, visit Magnanerie de Seillans, a gallery that is located in a 19th century silk factory. Nestled among olive trees, you can find the pittoresque medieval village of Bargemon, with its beautiful squares and numerous fountains. At the Office de Tourism you can book several tours, for example to the castle walls and the 12th - 16th century gates. Our insider tip: Restaurant Maitre Blanc has a good kitchen.
Mons and Caillan
A little higher, just outside Bargemon, you will find the characteristic village of Mons. From here you’ll have an amazing view; on a nice day you can even see Corsica in the distance. Callian used to be an important village but nowadays it is a quit, sleepy but still beautiful village overlooking the plain scenery between the Esterel Mountains and the Alps.
During hot (summer) days the truly magnificent lake St. Cassien offers you the opportunity a cooling down. Canoeing is also possible of course. Within a 2-hours drive you will arrive in Gorges du Verdon and Lac St. Croix.
Bagnols- and Saint Paul en Forêt
Closer to the coast, in a wooded area, you will find the villages Bagnols- and Saint Paul en Forêt. These two villagese are perfect for biking or hiking. There are terraces and very good restaurants everywhere. Strolling through pittoresque markets, you will experience the true beauty of the Provence.
View our villas in Pays de Fayence