The hilltop villages or villages perchés are one of the most endearing attractions of the Cote d'Azur. Perched like hats on top of verdant hills, these villages combine the allure of medieval architecture with birds-eye views of the Riviera coast and mountains. Most villages emerged during the 12th and 13th centuries when peasants clustered together in an easily defensible position to protect themselves from pirates and marauding armies. Many villages are still buckled with medieval walls and their crooked, cobbled streets are pleasant to stroll. Some are topped with arches and arcades to provide shelter from the rain and all are punctuated with a church and bell-tower.
After a postwar period of neglect, the perched villages gained new life when coastal residents renovated the crumbling town houses to serve as second residences. Next, artists and artisans moved in and set up boutiques and galleries to show their wares. Now, most villages have a thriving commercial life catering to tourists, retirees, and part-time residents.
The core of each village is a web of streets that is pedestrian-only. Parking is available at the edges of the village. There is a limited amount of free parking and it fills up quickly especially in the summer. There is bus service to each village, usually from coastal cities such as Nice and Cannes. A good time to visit is during the summer when there are likely to be medieval festivals and free concerts.
This medieval village is known for its pottery and glasswork as well as the Fernand Leger Museum. The shopping is great if your looking for that special souvenir. Look for the annual Knights Templar festival.
This village overlooking the sea is one of Nice's most popular day trips. Wandering the medieval stone streets is a delight and the views are spectacular. Don't miss the Jardin Exotique. See Eze on a day trip from Nice.
Gourdon
At 760m altitude, this beautiful medieval village overlooking the Loup river has been lovingly restored. A visit to its fortified Chateau will transport you back to the time of dukes and princes.
Home to a large community of British expats, Mougins is known for its fine dining. There are several Michelin-starred restaurants in town but even the non-starred are excellet. The views from Mougins are particularly outstanding.
St Paul de Vence
Saint Paul de Vence is known for its artists. There are galleries galore and painter Marc Chagall is buried in a cemetery at the tip of the town. It's a delightful place to wander. Don't miss the Fondation Maeght, the most prestigious art collection in the region. See how to do a day trip from Nice to Saint Paul de Vence.
The village is named for the three towers (tours) that punctuate the maze of little stone streets. It's known for its violets, making it a good place to pick up violet souvenirs.
