Medieval villages and perfume: a private day in the countryside

A full-day private tour to Mougins, Grasse, Gourdon and Tourrettes-sur-Loup. Leave the crowded coast for old hilltop villages, wide Mediterranean views and the home of French perfume.

1. Mougins, the village of art and food

High above the coast, Mougins winds around its hill en escargot, like a snail shell. Pablo Picasso spent his last years here, and the village has drawn creative people from Christian Dior to Jean Cocteau.

• The streets: carefully restored, flower-filled alleys with contemporary art galleries, hidden courtyards and old stone fountains, and no mass tourism.
• The « Village of Gastronomy »: a reputation built by chefs like Roger Vergé. Here, every meal is an occasion.

2. Grasse, world capital of perfume

Inland, Grasse is the historic home of the perfume industry. Thanks to its microclimate, the hills around it grow the jasmine and May roses behind famous scents like Chanel No. 5.

• Fragonard Perfumery: a free behind-the-scenes guided tour. Learn the old secrets of perfume-making and how the « Noses » create their blends.
• The historic Old Town.

3. Gourdon, the balcony of the Riviera

The road climbs to Gourdon, 760 meters above sea level, on a rocky spur above the Gorges du Loup. The views are among the most spectacular in France.

• The view: from the edge of the village square, the French Riviera spreads out below you, from the Esterel mountains to Nice.
• The village: a 9th-century castle with terraced gardens, and artisan shops carved into the rock selling glasswork and lavender honey.
• Optional lunch: regional cooking and valley views at La Taverne Provençale, a local favorite.

4. Tourrettes-sur-Loup, the city of violets

Built on a rocky outcrop, Tourrettes-sur-Loup looks like a fortress: its tall outer houses form a natural rampart. It has stayed a quiet, authentic home for French craftspeople.

• Artisans: shady, winding streets and open studios of weavers, potters, sculptors and painters.
• The Victoria violet: grown here for more than a century, it is the village’s symbol, found in local perfumes and in crystallized violet candies.

Practical information

• Duration: full-day private tour (8 hours).
• Included: private luxury transport, local guide and driver, Fragonard factory tour.
• Ideal for: travelers looking for an authentic Provence day trip away from the crowds, photographers, and food and wine lovers.
• Flexible: add a wine tasting in Bellet or spend longer in one village. Just ask.

Ready to explore the hilltop villages of the French Riviera? Contact us to plan your day.

Guy Alfonsi. Born in Nice, 20+ years of guiding. TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence since 2014.