Vence

Only 10 miles from Nice airport, the village of Vence is worlds away from the bustling coastal towns. Life in this medieval village goes by at a different pace, giving you time to appreciate the smaller details and take in the historic surroundings. Its charming buildings and impressive views have inspired generations of artists including Matisse, Dufy, Arman and Chagall, and even today you may well see people setting up their easels, and painting the local landscapes.

Vence apartments to rent

The sturdy walls of the Old Town are well-maintained, and the five gateways, some of which date back to the 13th century, offer access to the delightful maze of winding streets. As you wander through, stop and admire the attractive squares such as Place Vieille, the smallest square in France, and Place du Grand Jardin, where the local produce market takes place every morning.

Vence apartments to rent

The Chapelle du Rosaire, often referred to as the Matisse chapel, is located just outside the town centre. Here, Matisse used stained glass to bring colour to the otherwise completely white chapel, and he considered it his masterpiece.

There are several options for walking and hiking in the local countryside, some of which are detailed on the following page: www.ville-vence.fr.

Every summer, from mid-July to mid-August, the village is taken over by the Nuits du Sud, a series of open-air concerts featuring local and international artists. For tickets and this year’s line-up, click here: www.nuitsdusud.com.

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Vence