Guides · 18 August 2023 · 3 min read
Saint Paul de Vence
There is a reason why we moved to this beautiful village. The secret hikes, hidden gems and panoramic views make this place feel like pure magic. Two million tourists come through every year, so it is easy to get lost in tourist traps. Here are our favourite places.
La Colombe d’Or
Our neighbour and all time favourite restaurant, one of the most eclectic and authentic places in the South of France. Very hard to find a table in summer, but the charming bar opens at 19.30. Our favourite starters are “Les Hors d’Oeuvre” and “La Cassolette d’Escargots de Bourgogne”, then “Loup de Mer” (ask for it grilled rather than poached), “l’Aïoli tout simple” or “Fricassée de Volaille”. Meat lovers should go for the “Pièce de Boeuf avec Eschalots”. For dessert, the “Fraises et Framboises avec Chantilly” or the “Gâteau au Chocolat”.
La Balance
The most beautiful little shop, with a small collection of antiques and a big collection of vintage jewellery. Bertrand will show you each piece until you find the one with your name written all over it. Closed Mondays and Tuesdays, and whenever Bertrand decides to go treasure hunting.
Café de la Place
Loud Americans and quiet locals in perfect harmony, arrogant waiters, and people playing boule like their lives depend on it. Amazing for people watching. The pain au chocolat is one of the best we’ve ever had, and the shaken iced coffee is very good.
Fondation Maeght
An iconic museum with a breathtaking garden. Listen to the cigales as you take cover from the sun under the pines. Modern and contemporary art, with summer concerts and documentary screenings in the Miró labyrinth.
The remparts
Escape the crowds by walking the rampart. Beautiful views and laid-back bars, and at the end of the village a plateau with views from Nice to Antibes, above the most beautiful cemetery we have ever seen.
La Terrasse
Extremely low-key, almost exclusively locals, and the food exceeds our expectations every time. The daily specials are very good and the pizza is worth a mention. The tarte tatin is the best we’ve ever had. Portions and drinks are extremely generous.
Hotel Messugues
Hidden in the streets behind the Fondation Maeght. The pool is a dream, and so is the small pool-side restaurant.
Chapelle Saint-Claude-et-Saint-Charles
The most beautiful view of the village, worth the short uphill walk.
Le Domaine VDH
A gorgeous villa facing the woods, available for rental and for daily or nighttime events. An infinity pool, cosy nooks, and a surreal view.