Saint Paul de Vence village
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Saint Paul de Vence - by Muthuraja S on Google
Description
Saint-Paul-de-Vence is a village situated atop a hill, a few kms inland from Cagnes-sur-Mer (between Nice and Antibes). It was created around the X-XII centuries and was ruled by the Counts of Provence before joining the County of Savoy in 1388. The village is known as one of Provence's most beautiful and for having been the residence of famous artists such as Marc Chagall (buried there), Matisse, Modigliani, Jacques Prévert, Simone Signoret or Jean Giono. Highlights include the 16th century city walls, the the Sainte-Croix Chapel, the Collegial Church of the Conversion-de-Saint-Paul, the Maeght foundation (a contemporary art museum), and La Colombe d’or inn where many artists have stayed and which houses some of their artwork.
Access & Transport
The village is 6km from the coastline of Cagnes-sur-Mer, in the "arrière-pays" (hinterland) and 20km west from Nice city centre. It is also 16km north of Antibes.
Instructions & Recommendations
We suggest travellers to visit the Fondation Maeght museum and have lunch in the village. The Renoir Museum is also nearby in Cagnes sur Mer.
Environmental & Social
Environmentally neutral. Helps preserve the region's architectural and cultural heritage and brings some economic influx to the village; although that comes with a degree of over-commercialization
Conclusion
Saint Paul de Vence is the quintessential "perched village" of south-eastern France: it has a beautiful setting, narrow medieval streets, a mix of religious buildings, city walls and great food. The only time when you should think twice about visiting is from mid-July to end August as it can feel a bit like a tourist trap then.
Key positive
Mix of cultural activities and countryside charm
Short drive away from Nice, Antibes or even Cannes
Key negative
Can feel overly touristy
Suitability
Most of the village, but not all streets, are accessible for visitors with reduced mobility
About this Rating
TYPE
Desktop
RESEARCHED IN
June 2024
PROVIDER
Koreval
av. transport time:0h 35m
est. visit time:3h
Sunrise / early morningOk
MorningOk
Lunch timeOk
AfternoonOk
Sunset / eveningOk
Night – bef. midnightNo
Night – aft. midnightNo