Saint-Paul-de-Vence

About 22 kilometres from Cannes, in the rolling hills of the hinterland, lies Saint-Paul-de-Vence — perhaps the best-known artists' village of the entire Côte d'Azur. This fully walled medieval village looks out from its hill over vineyards, olive groves and cypresses, and for almost a century has exerted an irresistible pull on painters, writers and film stars. From our apartment in old Le Suquet in Cannes it is one of the loveliest day trips inland, where art, history and the soft southern light come together. Discover more in our surroundings.

Within the ramparts

Behind the well-preserved sixteenth-century ramparts it is all atmosphere. Cobbled alleyways, stone vaults, graceful little fountains and ivy-clad facades form the backdrop for dozens of art galleries, studios and boutiques. The village is car-free, so you wander around in complete calm, with a new glimpse of the landscape below at every turn. Be sure to walk a loop along the outside of the ramparts, where you look out over the valley; despite the crowds in high season, the charm of this village remains overwhelming.

A village of artists

Saint-Paul-de-Vence became a meeting place of the art world in the twentieth century. Marc Chagall lived here for years and is buried in the small cemetery at the edge of the village. The legendary hotel-restaurant La Colombe d'Or, with its impressive collection of modern art, drew painters such as Picasso, Matisse and Miró, as well as an endless procession of celebrities and film stars. That artistic soul you still feel in every gallery and on every little square. The same creative spirit breathes through the nearby art villages of the hills, which you can explore further in our surroundings.

The Fondation Maeght

Just outside the village lies the Fondation Maeght, one of the most important private museums of modern art in France. In the remarkable building, organically integrated into the landscape, and the surrounding gardens you find work by Miró, Giacometti, Calder and Braque, among others. Sculptures stand among the pines, mosaics adorn the walls and the architecture flows seamlessly into nature. The combination of art, architecture and landscape makes it a highlight for every lover of twentieth-century art.

Walking and tasting in the hinterland

Saint-Paul-de-Vence lies in the midst of a landscape of vineyards and olive groves, and quiet paths with sweeping views run all around the village. It is a region to enjoy Provencal cuisine and local wines too, on one of the many terraces within the walls or on a shady square. Its location makes the village an ideal starting point for a day in the green hinterland, where other gems lie close by, as you can discover in our surroundings.

Practical

Allow half a day to a whole day for Saint-Paul-de-Vence and the Fondation Maeght. The village is easily combined with a drive through the hinterland. Come early in the day or outside high season for a parking spot and the finest, quietest atmosphere. Wear comfortable shoes, as the cobbled streets run steeply up and down.

An outing from Cannes

From our apartment in Le Suquet, a short drive takes you to this enchanting artists' village. Take a look at the apartment and the available dates, and let yourself be surprised during your stay in Cannes by the timeless charm of Saint-Paul-de-Vence.