There is a reason why we moved to this beautiful village. The secret hikes, hidden gems and beautiful panoramic views makes this place feel like pure magic.
Saint Paul de Vence is a major tourist attraction, with 2 million tourists coming through every year. Its therefore easy to get lost in tourist traps. Here are our favourite places and the things we find worthwhile in and around the village.
La Colombe d'Or
Our neighbour and all time favourite restaurant. Known to be one of the most eclectic, authentic and unique places in the South of France. Very hard to find a table during the summer months, however, the charming bar is open from 19.30 if you're in the village and want to feel their special ambiance.
Our favourite starters, "Les Hors d'Oeuvre" and "La Cassolette d'Escargots de Bourgogne"
"Loup de Mer" (ask for it grilled, instead of poached), "l'Aioli tout simple", "Fricassée de Volaille".
Meat lovers should go for the "Pièce de Boeuf avec Eschalots".
We always ask for a mix of the "Fraises et Framboise avec Chantilly", or the "Gâteau au Chocolat" for dessert.
La Balance
The most beautiful little shop with a small collection of antiques, and a big collection of beautiful vintage jewellery. Bertrand will show you each piece, and make sure you find one that has your name written all over it. Closed on Mondays and Tuesdays, and whenever Bertrand decides to go treasure hunting.
Café de la Place
Filled with loud Americans and quiet locals, all existing in perfect harmony in this very french café. Arrogant waiters and people playing boule like their lives depend on it... amazing for people watching. The pain au chocolat is actually one of the best we've ever had, and they make a really good shaken iced coffee.
Fondation Maeght
Iconic museum with a breathtaking garden. Listen to the sound of the cigales as you seek cover from the hot sun under the crowns of the pine trees. The museum features modern and contemporary art. In summer they arrange concerts, as well as screenings of documentaries in the Miró Labyrinth outside.
Remparts
Escape the hoards of people by walking along the Rempart of Saint Paul de Vence. Beautiful views and laid-back bars. All the way at the end of the village you will find a breathtaking plateau with views all the way from Nice to Antibes, along with the cemetery below the village, the most beautiful resting place we have ever seen.
La Terrasse
Extremely low-key restaurant with almost exclusively locals. The food exceeds our expectations every time. The daily specials are very good, and the pizza is worth a mention. The "Tarte Tatin" is the best we've ever had. Not exaggerating, when we say the portions and drinks are extremely generous. We've never left this place feeling hungry or unhappy.
Hotel Messugues
Hidden in the streets behind the Fondation Maeght you can find this charming hotel. Their pool is a dream, and so is their small pool-side restaurant.
Chapelle Saint-Claude-et-Saint-Charles
The most beautiful view of the village is from this hidden chapel. Really worth the short uphill walk.
Le Domaine VDH
Gorgeous villa facing the woods of Saint Paul de Vence. The whole house is available for rental, but also for daily or nighttime events. The domaine features, among other things, an infinity pool, multiple cosy nooks and not to forget, the most surreal view.