Tourrettes-sur-Loup village: From medieval streets to violet flowers

Tourrettes-Sur-Loup is a charming hill-top village in Provence, known for its violet confectionery and artisan shops. It is easily accessible from cities on the Mediterranean such as Nice, Cannes, and Aix-en-Provence, and one of the most beautiful villages in the area.

The medieval city is home to renowned arts and crafts artisans: weaving, pottery, paintings, sculptures, jewellry, crystallized flowers, candied fruit, organic goat cheese, etc. 

History

The area is rich with prehistoric sites, with Neanderthal remains being found dating back over 70,000 years. More recently, having been first settled in 9 B.C., Tourrettes-Sur-Loup suffered centuries of attacks due to its enviable natural defenses.

Originally known as Tourrettes-lès-Vence, the village was given its current name in the late 19th century to distinguish it from another similarly named town, Tourrettes-Levens.

Things to do

Medieval Town

Walk through the medieval part of the town and it’s narrow, cobbled, flower-lined streets down to a cliffside viewpoint, from which you can see an expanse of wildflowers and prickly pears, a viaduct and in the distance, the sea.

Artisan shops

Explore the local artisan shops selling handmade soaps, olive wood utensils, and jewellery and consider supporting the savoir-faire of these local artists. There are a lot of small shops offering all sorts of goodies, so don’t hesitate to take some provençal souvenirs back home.

Weekly wednesday market

Visit the weekly market for fresh produce and local arts and crafts. The market in Tourrettes-sur-Loup takes place every Wednesday from 8.00 am to around 12.30 pm.

The atmosphere is lively and you will find many small knickknacks that will tempt your wallet!

Violet ice cream

Tourrettes-sur-Loup is known for growing violets and making various souvenirs and products from them, such as perfume, candied violets, and even ice cream. The ice cream tastes just like Parma violets and makes a refreshing treat on a hot day – a must-try!

There are plenty of other items like confit and confectionaries made from violet that you can try as well. You can read more about local foods and drinks to try in Provence here.

In addition if you are visiting in March, you can participate in the Fêtes des Violettes that takes place in the village every year.

How to get to Tourrettes-Sur-Loup, France?

Located in Provence along the Côte-D’Azur, Tourrettes is situated between Grasse and Vence. The nearest airport is Nice and you can reach the village in 45 minutes by car from Nice. Alternatively, you can take the bus or take a train to Cagnes-Sur-Mer followed by a taxi.

If you have a chance, try to visit in March. The village hosts an annual violet festival in March complete with processions and festivities.

Is it easy to get around?

Yes, the village is quite walkable. However, its cobblestone streets are not the most stroller or wheelchair-friendly.

In addition, it is not the easiest place to park. Signs will direct you to a car park just outside the village, and from there you can take a shuttle into the center. Your best alternative is to take a tour leaving from Nice.

How many days should you stay?

This charming medieval village doesn’t have a lot of hotels, but there are other lovely accommodation options right in the heart of town.

• €€€€ – Auberge De Tourrettes
• €€€€ – Histoires de Bastide

✎ Photos and Guide by: Imani Adeyemo | Imani Escapes