Seillans, Provence

Legend would have it said that the name Seillans is derived from the Greek goddess of the moon, Selene, or alternatively that the name is from a Roman knight called Selenus. It is probably more likely that the name was derived from some of the first settlers here, the Celtic-Ligurian tribe, the Sayllens in around 500 BC.

Some of the earliest surviving buildings include the feudal castle from the 11th century. It's located at the top of the village and consists of a number of buildings from various times in history up to the 15th century. The road below, la rue du Valat follows the old castle's moat - this is also where you will find the 12th century town hall.

Further up towards the top of the village is the L'église Saint Léger, a Romanesque church from the 11th century that has been rebuilt throughout the subsequent years, and especially in the 15th century. Inside you'll find a 16th century finely carved wooden triptych as well as paintings and altar pieces from the 17th century.

Other ancient remains include the 12th century Saracen Gate and the Font d'Amour fountain.

Seillans was home to the surreal artist Max Ernst and his wife Dorothea Tanning from 1953 until he died in 1976. One of his sculptures 'The Genius of the Bastille' can be seen in Place de la République, and a selection of his lithographs can be seen in the Tourist Office on La Place du Thouron. Paintings by French-Polish artist Stan Appenzeller are also on display here. Entrance is free of charge.

Outside the village on the road to Fayance is the 12th century Chapelle Notre Dame de l'Ormeau. This Cistercian chapel contains a Baroque carved wood altarpiece from the 16th century amongst other treasures. Guided visits are available - ask at the tourist office.

Vineyards surround Seillans and the wines produced belong to the AOC Côtes de Provence appellation.You can visit for tastings and tours - let the vineyard know you are coming in advance.

The town hall has very strict planning policies, so that large commercial shops are not allowed to open in the village - instead they are banished to Fayence (this is where you'll find a decent supermarket). In Seillans, the only shopping you have is the Provençal market on Wednesday mornings and a number of good quality arts and crafts shops and art galleries. Note that some of the galleries are only open in the afternoon Thursday to Saturday or by appointment.

The village hosts a number of festivals and fairs during the year and the surrounding area is good for hiking and cycling, and horse riding. You can follow a cycling route from Seillans to several of the perched villages in the area - Tourettes, Mons, Caillan, Saint Paul en Foret, Claviers and Bargemon. The route is 85km and climbs 1,275m.

Seillans and the surrounding area is popular with international second home owners, many of whom have restored neglected houses back to their former glories. Driving through the meandering lanes feels like driving through private gardens, such is the variety and condition of the trees, shrubs and flowers.

There is a three-star hotel in the village, the Hotel des Deux Rocs which is within a 17th century mansion that overlooks the main square. Just as you enter the village is La Magnanerie de Seillans, which has some smart bedrooms and suites, and a couple of apartments. The Magnanerie also offers cookery courses and training for professionals and individuals. In nearby Fayance is the Mas de la Coste, a luxury B&B with a pool and small spa.