Seillans is a very charming medieval village that has been recognised as one of the 'most beautiful villages in France'.
Seillans
Peaceful and pretty medieval perched village
Filled with cobblestoned lanes, squares and fountains and many ancient buildings, it's a lovely place to explore for a couple of hours.
If you arrive by car, you'll find a large car park to the south of the village off the main road. Seillans can only be explored by foot thanks to it's tiny winding alleys and narrow cobbled streets. There are many nooks and crannies to explore, and you'll come across little squares and fountains throughout the village.
The main square La Place du Thouron provides a shady area for hot summer days and has a couple of restaurants and a pretty fountain. You may come across roads named after professions, such as Rue de la Boucherie (butchery) and Rue de la Perfumerie which refers to Seillans relationship with the nearby town of Grasse, famed for its tannery business in the 15th century and its subsequent emergence as a centre for perfume production.
Events in Aix-en-Provence
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.
Events in Aix-en-Provence
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Beaujolais Nouveau
The new Beaujolais has arrived!
The third Thursday in November is when this year's Beaujolais hits the shelves and is cause for celebration across France.
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Fête de la Musique
Music festival celebrated across France on the summer solstice
The Fête de la Musique is a celebration that takes place every summer solstice on 21 June in cities, towns and villages across France.
History & Culture in Aix-en-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.
Sights & Attractions in Aix-en-Provence
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.
Sights in Aix-en-Provence
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Fondation Vasarely
Abstract art & architecture from the Hungarian artist
Hungarian artist Victor Vasarely established this foundation in 1966 with the aim of promoting 'art for all' where art blends beautifully with architecture in the 'city of tomorrow'.
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Atelier Cezanne
Cezanne's work studio, as the famous French painter left it
Cezannes studio was created in Aix-en-Provence in 1902 and this is where he worked until he died in 1906.
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Carriere de Bibemus
The quarry that inspired Cezanne in many of his paintings
An old quarry, the Carrieres de Bibemus lies on the western slopes of Montagne St Victoire and is a place that inspired Paul Cezanne through out his life.
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Calisson Museum
Take a visit to the place where they make Provence's most famous confectionery - Calissons
Located not far from Aix centre, this museum and shop explains a little about the history of how this unusual sweet is made.
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Museum d'Histoire Naturelle
Great collection of dinosaurs and plant fossils
The Muséum d'Aix was founded in 1838 by Henri Coquand, geologist ; it is one of the oldest in Provence.
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Shan-Art Gallery
Gallery of modern & contemporary art in Aix
A small gallery with a good collection of contemporary and modern art.
Dining in Aix-en-Provence
Restaurants in Aix-en-Provence
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Mickael Feval Restaurant
Fine dining restaurant with 1 Michelin star
This elegant restaurant is a must-visit for any lovers of modern cuisine and cooking methods. They embrace local produce and evolve their dishes according to the seasons.
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Le Comptoir du Clos
The sophisticated restaurant located at the Renaissance Hotel
Open daily, the Clos du Comptoir offers a sophisticated atmosphere for lunch and dinner in the same setting.
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Villa Gallici Restaurant, Aix en Provence
Provencal cuisine in a beautiful setting overlooking the hotel grounds
A quiet atmosphere, beautiful grounds and wonderful flavours can be found at Villa Gallici Restaurant. Part of the 5 star Villa Gallici hotel you can indulge in lunch or dinner at this top quality restaurant.
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Le Art Restaurant
Michelin-starred restaurant in a charming chateau
Located inside the luxury Chateau de la Gaude, this Michelin-starred restaurant serves the elaborate cuisine of chef Matthieu Dupuis-Baumal.
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L'Esprit de la Violette Restaurant
Peaceful restaurant, just steps from Aix city centre
This one Michelin star restaurant sits within a beautiful garden just outside the walled city.
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La Villa Gallici
Gourmet dining at its very best just outside of Aix
This beautiful restaurant is hidden away from the main town of Aix located just a short drive from the centre. Decorated in the classic Mediterranean style and complimented by parks and woodland, its a truly magnificent setting for lunch or dinner.
Nightlife in Aix-en-Provence
Bars & Clubs in Aix-en-Provence
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Le Scat Nightclub
Jazz club in the heart of Aix-en-Provence, live music & a great atmosphere
The Scat Club plays live music every night, and not just jazz the club plays pop, rock, funk and R'n'B.
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Mistral Nighclub
Trendy club in the heart of Aix-en-Provence, international DJ's & acts
The Mistral is Aix-en-Provence's answer to those looking for a trendy night out listening to the latest DJ's.
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Le Cardeur Bacchus Bar
A bar & restaurant in the centre of Aix
This small bar has a nice seating area outside next to one of Aix's many fountains and it catches the sun late into the evening.
Things to do in Aix-en-Provence
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.
Things To Do in Aix-en-Provence
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Le Train Touristique d'Aix-en-Provence
A delightful way to explore the charming city of Aix-en-Provence
Just an hour long ride through the city of Aix, learning about its history and a good introduction to this beautiful area.
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Aix Golf Course
6-hole course, driving range & putting green only five minutes from Aix
Open to all, this small golf club offers a clubhouse, restaurant, driving range, putting green and 6 holes. It is home to an academy that offers lessons at all levels.
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Gulli Parc Indoor Play Area
Indoor soft play area for kids up to 12 years old
The area is split into two areas - one for the 1-5 years age group, and the other for 6-12 year olds.
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Indian Forest
Tree top adventures near the heart of Aix-en-Provence
An exciting path through the forest...but not on the ground! This tree top adventure will have you swinging from the branches and enjoying the sights and sounds of nature.
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Cabre d'Or Golf Course, Cabries
A superb natural site of 180 acres overlooking Provence
The Golf de la Cabre d'Or is only 20 minutes away from Aix-en-Provence et Marseille. This is a fairly new golf course which opened only in 2008.
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Aix Marseille Golf Course
Very close to Aix-en-Provence it is a fairly flat course
The Golf Club Aix-Marseille is only 5 minutes away from Aix-en-Provence TGV railway station. As the course is faily level it is possible to play without the use of a buggy.
Watersports in Aix-en-Provence
Watersports in Aix-en-Provence
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Lac de Saint Cassien Watersports
Natural lake for boating, canoeing & sailboard rental
A lovely natural lake surrounded by the wooded landscape of the Var. The lake is perfect for a pedaloe trip rather than an adrenaline filled water sport, but it means it is perfect for families!
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Cable Wakeboarding, Le Muy
Wakeboarding cable park where you can learn the ropes in Le Muy
Cable park on Lake Rabinon (5 hectares) where you can water ski, knee board, and wake board.
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Bureau des Guides de Canyon, Castellane
Canyoning, climbing & via ferrata
Range of water sports and outdoor activities proposed by a professional guiding company.
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Aventure et Nature Watersport, La Palude sur Verdon
The best way to explore the Verdon Gorge!
The vastness and richness of this protected site offers an extraordinary dimension to sports such as rock-climbing and canyoning.
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Les Guides Action and Aventure, Aiguines
A passion for adventure with many outdoor activities
A team of state qualified guides sharing their enthusiasm for great outdoor activities with you.
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Verdon Canoe, Gorges du Verdon
Paddle down the gorge in canoe or a kayak
Explore the beautiful Gorges du Verdon by paddling down the river in canoes or kayaks. A fun activity for everyone to explore the beautiful Gorges du Verdon and paddle on the beautiful blue water.
Holiday Rentals in Aix-en-Provence
Holiday Rentals in Aix-en-Provence
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La Bastide De La Forêt Villa, Bonnieux
3 bedroom Villa in Bonnieux. Sleeps 6
Come and discover this house with large swimming pool, near Bonnieux, for a holiday in the heart of nature.
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La Bohème Villa, Bonnieux
6 bedroom Villa in Bonnieux. Sleeps 15
Magnificent villa near Bonnieux, in the heart of the Luberon, with swimming pool, for a unique holiday.
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Le Mas Entre Monts Et Merveilles Villa, Bonnieux
4 bedroom Villa in bonnieux. Sleeps 8
House for rent in Luberon - Le Mas entre Monts et Merveilles. The perfect holiday location in Provence!
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Le Mas Du Haut Trigaud Villa, Bonnieux
4 bedroom Villa in Bonnieux. Sleeps 8
Superb 5 star rated property located in Bonnieux with swimming pool
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La Villa Plein Soleil Villa, Cadenet
4 bedroom Villa in Cadenet. Sleeps 8
Architect-designed villa for holiday rental, with swimming pool, in the heart of the Luberon with an elevated position in the village of Cadenet.
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Infiniment Bonnieux Villa, Bonnieux
7 bedroom Villa in Bonnieux. Sleeps 13
This fully restored nineteenth-century farmhouse for holiday rental is located 3 km from Bonnieux, a lovely Provençal village perched in the foothills of the Luberon in Provence.
Hotels in Aix-en-Provence
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.
Hotels in Aix-en-Provence
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Moulin de Lourmarin Hotel, Lourmarin
Former oil mill converted into a charming Provencal style hotel
Located in one of the most beautiful villages in France, this former oil mill welcomes its guests in an enchanting setting surrounded by lime trees.
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Villa Gallici Hotel
Small luxury hotel in the centre of Aix en Provence but surrounded by gardens
Under the light Cézanne once knew, the Villa Gallici Hotel is an 18th century Provençal house and a member of Relais et Châteaux portfolio.
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Renaissance Hotel
Contemporary style 5 star hotel with works of art & stylish furnishings
Built in 2013 this modern, contemporary five star hotel in Provence combines art work in contemporary spaces, filled with uber stylish furniture and fittings.
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La Maison d'Aix Hotel
Small hotel built from an old house in Aix en Provence
This hotel is a beautiful renovated house located on a quiet street, and walking distance to all the hustle and bustle of Aix.
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Le Pigonnet Hotel
Grand hotel with magical gardens just outside centre of Aix-en-Provence
The five star Pigonnet hotel in Aix is an 18th-century mansion surrounded with stunning floral gardens, situated just outside the centre of Aix-en-Provence.
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Abbaye de Sainte Croix Hotel
Peaceful & traditional with stunning surrounding scenery
A charming Provencial style hotel set in a 12th century monastery with pretty bedrooms being incorporated into the former living quarters of the benedictine monks.
How to get to Aix-en-Provence
Transfers for Provence
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Avignon Taxis
Taxis in Avignon and the entire region
Avignon City Taxis at your disposal 24/7 for taxi services and transfers airports and railway stations in Avignon and in the entire region.
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Private Airport Transfers
Reliable private airport transfer & taxi service
Chabe Transfers are a well known luxury transfer and taxi service operating in the South of France.
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Helicopter Transfers & Scenic Flights
Passenger transport, aerial photography, freight , etc...
Helitec caters for all your helicopter needs from passenger transport to aerial photography, filming, transport of heavy goods, leisure flights over Provence and the South of France. A great way to see the most beautiful spots from the air.
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Marseille Taxis
Taxis in Marseille
300 vehicles at your disposal. All taxi services and transfers airports and Railway stations.
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Helicopter Transfers & Scenic Flights
Helicopter charter company based in Monaco with over 25 years experience
With a long history and experience in the VIP transport industry this company is proud of its personal and high-quality services.
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Private Jet & Helicopter Transfers
Aircraft & helicopter charter company based at Nice Airport in the South of France
With an International fleet of jets and helicopters based across Europe it is quick and easy to get a private charter flight for business, pleasure or an airport transfer.
Property For Sale in Aix-en-Provence
Property for Sale in Aix-en-Provence
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Villa for Sale | VAL240008
4 bedroom, 4 bathroom, 240m² Villa in Var
Set in the prestigious Domaine de Terre Blanche, Villa Augusta is the epitome of contemporary luxury.
Villa for Sale | VAL240008
€3,200,000 -
Villa for Sale | VAL240033
4 bedroom, 5 bathroom, 330m² Villa in Var
Elegant villa in the sought-after Terre Blanche estate
Villa for Sale | VAL240033
€3,750,000 -
Villa for Sale | VAL250082
6 bedroom, 428m² villa in Var
Nestled in the heart of the prestigious Terre Blanche estate, this superb property of approximately 428 m² of living space is set on one hectare of landscaped grounds, one of the largest on the estate, offering spectacular views of the surrounding hilltop villages and a rare living environment that is both luxurious and peaceful.
Villa for Sale | VAL250082
€9,800,000 -
Villa for Sale | val260153
4 bedroom, 320.95m² Villa in Tourrettes
This contemporary property, inspired by neo-Provençal architecture, offers approximately 300 sqm of living space and is set within a beautifully landscaped 3,300 sqm garden, providing a private living environment.
Villa for Sale | val260153
€4,500,000 -
Land (Plot) for Sale | VAL250058
10 bedroom, 9 bathroom, 1350m² plot in Var
An exceptional estate in landscaped grounds
Land (Plot) for Sale | VAL250058
€39,850,000 -
Villa for Sale | VAL260137
6 bedroom, 4 bathroom, 186.24m² Villa in Alpes-Maritimes
This property enjoys exceptional, panoramic views over the sea and the surrounding hills, offering a constantly changing spectacle throughout the hours of the day and the seasons. Nestled in absolute tranquility, sheltered from any disturbance, it perfectly embodies the Provençal art of living, where nature, light, and serenity come together.
Villa for Sale | VAL260137
€1,100,000
































































