Saint-Paul de Vence
We wake to sunshine after spending a rainy night on the Aire at the hilltop village of Saint-Paul de Vence.
This wonderful destination in the South of France is a place we’ve been to before. Not only is Saint-Paul de Vence one of the most beautiful villages, but it’s also possibly one of the most arty we’ve come across.
Its location a short drive from Nice, is a world away from the hustle and bustle of the French Riviera. The earthy tones of its stone buildings and tiny streets bring a labyrinth of artistic flair from numerous art shops.
Motorhome Aire – Saint-Paul de Vence
Fortunately, despite its popularity and upmarket appeal, the municipality provide a motorhome Aire. Its position alongside the main road, isn’t too appealing initially, especially as it’s slightly sloping.
However, like many motorhome aires in France, this one is free and gives easy access on foot to the wonderful village.
On our arrival the day before, we were here alone at first, but the Aire was full by evening.
The rich and famous
This tightly knit village of rustic looking stone buildings glistens from the hilltop. A place admired from afar, especially on the approach road which brings the setting to life. Dating to medieval times, it’s a village of fortification, with walls built by the King of France in 1538.
Walking through a large stone arch brings us into the tiny streets. It’s November and we have the place to ourselves at first.
Immediately noticeable is the scale of art, pottery and paintings on sale here. Practically anything arty is available, a hub of talent in this small village.
Attracting some big name artists over the years. Saint Paul de Vence has seen no other than Picasso and Matisse create works here. Even Churchill came here to paint.
It’s also a village of celebrity, with including legends of the big screen, Sophia Loren, Greta Garbo, Brad Pitt, Roger Moore and Quentin Tarantino having visited. Home to one of the best restaurants on the Côte d’Azur, La Colmbe d’or, it’s no surprise this special location has the all star appeal.
Visitors and the Fountain
Winding our way through the narrow streets brings us to one of the most famous sights in Saint Paul de Vence, the fountain. This former market square is a beautiful setting with the fountain taking pride of place.
It’s an area where people gather and suddenly, we realise we’re no longer alone. Visitors have begun gathering, photographs are taken and the popularity of Saint Paul de Vence is ever visible.
There’s so many people, it’s difficult to take a photo – where did everyone just come from? No doubt in Summer, Saint Paul de Vence is extremely busy, somehow, we’re always here off season.
A place to ponder
Our morning has been a low key affair. We’ve spent our time admiring the buildings, taking in views of the surrounding countryside from viewpoint vista’s and window shopping in the many art shops.
From the outer walkways of the village we see the first falls of snow on the distant Alps, knowing Winter is upon us.
There’s a leisurely feel here, a place to ponder and enjoy the beauty of the setting and its inner core.
We can see why so many artists have come here to paint, letting their artistic spirits flow. After all, this hilltop village has a special sense of curiosity which makes a masterpiece in its own right.
Now it’s time for us to leave for the coast, where the grand promenade of Nice awaits on this sunny afternoon.