St-Jeannet
St-Jeannet is a charming little mountain village located 8 kilometres northeast of Vence in the Alpes Maritimes department. Due to its scenic location at the foot of the mighty cliff, Baou de St-Jeannet, St-Jeannet is an ideal holiday destination for excursions in the beautiful surrounding Provencal countryside or along the coast. From here it's only 35 and 20 kilometres to the fashionable riverside towns of Cannes and Nice respectively. Baou de St Jeannet looks incredibly steep and inaccessible, but it is still possible to climb it. From the top there are views of both the French and Italian Alps. This huge rock massif has attracted countless artists, including Renoir, Poussins, Fragonard and Chagall. St-Jeannet sits on a natural terrace from which there are magnificent views of the landscapes. It is recommended to park your car outside the town, where there is a free car park and a short walk to the town centre. St-Jeannet is a typical small village with intersecting alleys and stairways and beautiful old stone houses. You first enter Place St Barbe, from where there are fantastic views towards the Mediterranean Sea. Here you'll find a small terrace café and an Auberge/restaurant. In St-Jeannet you'll find numerous old buildings, a newly renovated church, Eglise Paroissiale St.Jean-Baptiste, from 1660 and a couple of fountains, one of which dates from 1875. St-Jeannet is known to be a centre of witchcraft and sorcery. It is said that some of the old women of the village use herbs and spells to cure various diseases and ailments. The village also has its own water supply, which comes from springs that originate high up on the Baou cliff. The Baou de St Jeannet rock is also home to numerous caves, where villagers have sought refuge for centuries in times of danger. At the top of Baou de la Gaude, to the right of the town, you'll find the remains of a Neolithic fort. Up here you'll also find le vieux chêne, a 600-year-old oak tree. 
Inspiration for your holiday:Attractions:Castle tower of Castellet château (in ruins). St Jean Baptiste, church from 1666. Baou de Saint-Jeannet: This impressive rock formation rising above the village is a popular spot for hiking and climbing. From the top you can enjoy stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea and the surrounding areas. The village's old town: Take a leisurely stroll through the narrow, winding streets and enjoy the authentic Provencal atmosphere with beautiful stone houses, colourful flower boxes and cosy squares. Vineyards and wineries: The area around Saint-Jeannet is known for its wine production. Visit a local vineyard for a wine tasting and learn more about the traditional methods used to produce the local wines. Place de l'Église Fountain: A picturesque fountain in the main square of the village that is a popular meeting point for locals and visitors alike. Art galleries and studios Local markets Caves and caverns: The area around Saint-Jeannet has several natural caves and caverns for adventurous visitors to explore. 
Activities in St-JeannetWalking and hiking Rock climbing Cave exploration Exhibitions and cultural events Golf - There is a wealth of golf courses in the Alpes Maritimes department. The French Golf Union has a website where most courses are presented. Unfortunately, the website is in French. Go to Guide de golfs and search here under the Provence Alpes Côte d'Azur region: http://www.ffgolf.org/ Ski resorts within a reasonable distance: http://www.skifrance.fr/default-a.htm |