
Fondation Vasarely
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'.
© SeeProvence.com/
© SeeProvence.com/
© SeeProvence.com/
© SeeProvence.com/
© SeeProvence.com/
© SeeProvence.com/
Peaceful and pretty medieval perched village
Seillans is a very charming medieval village that has been recognised as one of the 'most beautiful villages in France'.
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.
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.
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'.
The Musee des Tapisseries houses a rich collection of 17th and 18th Century tapestries, including a collection called 'Grotesques' - theatrical taspestrie made in Beauvais cir. 1689, and also 'L'histoire de Don Quichotte' of 1735 unique in the world.
A small gallery with a good collection of contemporary and modern art.
Aurélien Raynaud displays his unique gift in capturing the wonderful wildlife kingdom in a range of artforms.
At the beginning of World War II, France interned all Austrian and German nationals who were living in France at the time, and Les Milles was the prison for the south eastern region.
The Muséum d'Aix was founded in 1838 by Henri Coquand, geologist ; it is one of the oldest in Provence.
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.
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.
Located inside the luxury Chateau de la Gaude, this Michelin-starred restaurant serves the elaborate cuisine of chef Matthieu Dupuis-Baumal.
Open daily, the Clos du Comptoir offers a sophisticated atmosphere for lunch and dinner in the same setting.
This one Michelin star restaurant sits within a beautiful garden just outside the walled city.
Located on the ground floor of the Hotel, this restaurant is packed full of Mediterranean charm and the selection of Provencial rose will not disappoint.
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.
In Provence, the department of the Var is the place to look for chestnuts. The Var village of Collobrières regards itself as chestnut capital of the world and in late October it's time for the chestnut festival, which attracts thousands of visitors from near and far.
Read our Provence markets page to find out which market to visit when in Provence. From the vibrant array of local produce to the delightful scent of freshly baked delicacies, visiting a Provencal market is an absolute must for anyone exploring the charms of Provence.
Head to the Avenue de la Rabasse in Richerenches for the famous Saturday truffle markets, which take place from November to March every year.
Uchaux is the venue for this series of summer concerts that celebrates the music of Liszt. Set in the fabulous grounds of Chateau Saint Esteve, the venue could not be more magical or romantic.
An annual agricultural fair, the Foire de la Saint Siffrein is named after the saint who resided in Carpentras during the 7th century. Plenty of local produce is available in the market and the wine fair is one of the largest in the area (and not restricted to wines from 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.
The area is split into two areas - one for the 1-5 years age group, and the other for 6-12 year olds.
The Club, established in 1932 has a long and interesting history. Situated on the banks of the river l'Arc over 30 acres, 5 minutes away from the city centre the Club Hippique Aix Marseille offers a full range of facilities.
Set in the beautiful wooded countryside, this 18-hole golf course was designed by American architect Ronald Fream. The club incorporates the David Leadbetter Academy that offers lessons to suit players of all levels.
Tour Designer in Provence provide tailor made tours of the best of Provence with day trips and walking tours on offer.
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.
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.
Following the Calavon river, this 28km long path was previously a railway track and is a great way to explore the hilltop villages around the area.
This half-day circuit takes you away from the bustle of the city and into the countryside, passing some historical landmarks along the way.
This delightful ride takes you through some of the most beautiful scenery in the area; vast Sault highlands, fields of lavender and golden crops. Along the way you can admire the magnificent views of Mont Ventoux and Montagne de Lure Mountain. You’ll pass through four charming old villages; each one crammed with ancient churches, crooked alleyways, splashing fountains and quaint little squares.
This ride is bursting with colour and vibrant views; starting off in the pretty little village of Roussillon it passes through the vivid landscape of the Ochre region, an area characterised by its deep red soil and golden wheat fields.
Second only to the Gorges du Verdon, the Gorge de la Nesque is one of the most visited and cycled parts of Provence. A stunning hydro geological site with fantastic cliffs, overhanging rock and a long winding river deep in the valley.
The climb of Mont Ventoux is perhaps most well known to those outside of the cycling community as a name associated with the Tour de France.
Regarded as one of the more difficult trails of the Verdon region, the l'Imbut trail is perfectly manageable for the competent hiker with the use of the fixed cables and ladders.
An interesting site not to be missed whilst in Provence. The wonderful views of the Villecroze caves and impressive scenery will take your breath away.
A 5-7 day walk leaving near the coast and making its way up the Verdon Gorge through the heart of the Verdon natural park.
This walking route is for strong walkers or hikers, and can be completed in anywhere from 8-10 days.
An great easy walk for the days after rain fall to avoid the mud. Passing by the Chapel Toutes Aures, nestled in an olive grove.
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!
Cable park on Lake Rabinon (5 hectares) where you can water ski, knee board, and wake board.
Range of water sports and outdoor activities proposed by a professional guiding company.
The vastness and richness of this protected site offers an extraordinary dimension to sports such as rock-climbing and canyoning.
A team of state qualified guides sharing their enthusiasm for great outdoor activities with you.
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.
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.
The Mistral is Aix-en-Provence's answer to those looking for a trendy night out listening to the latest DJ's.
The Scat Club plays live music every night, and not just jazz the club plays pop, rock, funk and R'n'B.
A few minutes walk from the charming village of Bonnieux, on the heights towards Lourmarin, this charming stone house, freshly renovated by architects, is for rent for your holidays.
Come and discover this house with large swimming pool, near Bonnieux, for a holiday in the heart of nature.
A magnificent "Mas" in Bonnieux to rent in the Luberon, with a large landscaped garden for a dream holiday between Bonnieux and Lacoste.
Magnificent villa near Bonnieux, in the heart of the Luberon, with swimming pool, for a unique holiday.
Farmhouse available to rent for holidays with a large pool in the Golden Triangle in Bonnieux.
A few kilometers from the charming village of Bonnieux, enjoying a superb view of the Luberon, this tastefully restored old farmhouse will amaze you as soon as you arrive.
Come and discover this house with large swimming pool, near Bonnieux, for a holiday in the heart of nature.
House for rent in Luberon - Le Mas entre Monts et Merveilles. The perfect holiday location in Provence!
Magnificent villa near Bonnieux, in the heart of the Luberon, with swimming pool, for a unique holiday.
18th century stone farmhouse on a landscaped park of approximately 1 hectare with panoramic views of the Luberon.
Farmhouse available to rent for holidays with a large pool in the Golden Triangle in Bonnieux.
Beautiful holiday villa with swimming pool for rent in the South of France, near the village of Bonnieux in 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.
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.
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.
Built in 2013 this modern, contemporary five star hotel in Provence combines art work in contemporary spaces, filled with uber stylish furniture and fittings.
Under the light Cézanne once knew, the Villa Gallici Hotel is an 18th century Provençal house and a member of Relais et Châteaux portfolio.
This hotel is a beautiful renovated house located on a quiet street, and walking distance to all the hustle and bustle of Aix.
A well located hotel in the heart of the city just a short walk away from some great attractions.
Events-Cars offer luxury taxi and transfer services across the South of France. They also cater for special events.
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.
With a long history and experience in the VIP transport industry this company is proud of its personal and high-quality services.
Avignon City Taxis at your disposal 24/7 for taxi services and transfers airports and railway stations in Avignon and in the entire region.
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.
Created in 1976 this company has grown and has now transported well over 100,000 passengers. They have a fleet of 12 craft to meet client demands.
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See allLatest News & ReviewsProvence has a busy calendar of events all year round featuring art exhibitions, charming markets, cultural festivals and concerts. Spring and autumn are the time to celebrate local produce while during the peak holiday times, in the summer months, you will find world-renowned music and cultural events like the Choregies d'Orange or the Avignon Festival.
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