Tourtour, Provence

There has been a village on this site since the 12th century and there are still remenants of buildings dating back to this time. As you wander around, you'll see ancient ramparts, doorways and gates.

A 17th century castle, complete with turrets at each corner, is now home to the Town Hall and the post office. Another old castle from the 12th century can be found on the far side of Tourtour, with its imposing round tower - you'll find it next to the Lavoir washing area.

A dominant feature on the outskirts of the village is the 11th century Romanesque church of Saint Denis. On a clear day, you can enjoy fantastic views from here down to Fréjus on the coast and Mount St Victoire towards Aix en Provence. There is a viewing platform with a helpful orientation table.

The village has a number of art galleries and artisan workshops, and you can pick up paintings, sculpture, pottery and ceramics, and hand-crafted jewellery in the boutiques.

On the road to Aups, you'll find a sculpture park called Musée de Faykod.

There is an oil mill dating from the 17th century which is open to the public, and a fossil museum that is open during the summer months (closed on Tuesdays).

Next to the square is an area set aside for games of Boules, and this is also where you'll find the the twice-weekly market, held on Wednesday and Saturday mornings.

The annual village festival is held on the first weekend of August - expect music and dancing, street parties and petanque.

Tourtour is just a lovely place to wander around. Its views, quirky medieval houses and lanes and plethora of fountains add a great deal of charm to the village. The main square, Place des Ormeaux is home to several cafes and restuarants and provides welcome shade in the summer months.

A number of hikes in the area wander through rolling forested hills and over pretty bridges. You can hike to the nearby villages of Sillans, Salernes and Villecroze.