What to do in Tourtour
Perched at an altitude of 635 metres in the Haut-Var, Tourtour well deserves its nickname of «village in the sky of Provence ». Ranked as one of the Most Beautiful Villages in France and awarded the Villes et Villages Fleuris label, this jewel of the Var has many surprises in store for those who take the time to explore it.
Here's the complete guide to everything you need to see and do in Tourtour.
Why visit Tourtour?
Tourtour is a village like no other. From its promontory overlooking the pine forests, it offers an exceptional panoramic view of the Maures massif, the Sainte-Victoire mountain, the Sainte-Baume and, on a clear day, as far as Mont Ventoux. A unique position in the Var, Just twenty minutes from the Gorges du Verdon and Lac de Sainte-Croix.
Wondering what to do in Tourtour and where to start?
This guide lists the must-sees: an unspoilt medieval heritage, a lively arts scene, unspoilt nature and an authentic atmosphere that even the tourist summer can't erase.
1. Get lost in the narrow streets and discover our heritage
The Place des Ormeaux and its fountains
The heart of Tourtour, is the Place des Ormeaux (today also known as Place Annabel et Bernard Buffet). Its eight fountains give it a continuous murmur, in the shade of two elm trees several hundred years old, which are thought to have been planted during the reign of Anne of Austria. This is where locals and visitors meet, and where the Provencal market is held on Wednesday and Saturday mornings.
The 11th-century Romanesque church
Tourtour was built around its 11th-century Romanesque church, with its slightly off-centre chapel offering one of the most beautiful views of the green hills of the Var. a breathtaking view not to be missed.
The medieval castle and the 17th-century castle
Stroll around and you'll discover the remains of the medieval castle walls and the 17th-century castle, two silent witnesses to the history of the village that tell the story of its different eras.
The Tour de Grimaud (Saracen Tower)
Nestling in the heights, the Tour de Grimaud (known as the Tour de Grimaldi), built in the 12th or 13th century, is a fine example of a Saracen tower. It offers an exceptional panoramic view of the surrounding area - a must-see! essential for lovers of history and wide open spaces.
The Clock Tower
As you turn down an alleyway, the 19th-century Tour de l'Horloge and its bell tower set the pace for the town. This architectural landmark is the perfect complement to a stroll through the stone streets.
Vaulted passageways and Renaissance houses
Take the time to lose yourself in the sun-drenched alleyways, between the vaulted passageways and the elaborate Renaissance-style facades. Some of the houses still bear traces of the refined architecture inherited from a period of prosperity.
2. Visit the local mill
This is one of the most original sights in Tourtour: the 17th-century communal mill, This is one of the few oil mills still operating in the old-fashioned way, using water power. It is in operation from November to February, during the olive harvest. A visit that immerses you in the living heritage of the Haut-Var and reminds you of the importance of the olive tree in local culture.
3. Immerse yourself in the artistic world of the village
Tourtour has always attracted artists. Bernard Buffet, the famous painter, spent his last years here, passing away in 1999. In front of the town hall, two of his sculptures representing giant insects perpetuate his memory - an unexpected and striking encounter in the heart of the village.
The municipal gallery has a permanent exhibition of drawings by Ronald Searle, the world-famous British satirical cartoonist who also made Tourtour his home.
In summer, more than fifteen art galleries open their doors in the village, making Tourtour a real meeting place for art lovers. Painting, sculpture, ceramics, photography: contemporary art meets ancient stone here.
4. Explore the Fossil Museum
The V. Zaneboni displays over 1,000 objects and specimens of rocks and fossils collected in the Haut-Var. It's a fascinating place for families to discover and understand the geological history of this region with its distinctive landscapes.
5. Hiking in the area
The countryside around Tourtour is an exceptional playground for walkers.
Paths from the village
A number of signposted footpaths leave directly from the village and allow you to explore the pine forests and surrounding hills, with breathtaking panoramic views over the whole of the Haut-Var.
The Cistercian abbey of Florièyes
4 km away, a walk through meadows and pine forests leads to the ruins of Sainte-Marie de Florièyes abbey, founded in 1136. This Cistercian abbey is considered to be the «mother» of the three sister abbeys in Provence: Thoronet, Silvacane and Sénanque. All that remains today are a few ruins and a chapel dating from 1136, integrated into a 19th century farmhouse - a place steeped in history and serenity.
The Moulières valley and Grand Défens
For more experienced walkers, the paths to the Moulières valley and Grand Défens offer total immersion in the garrigue, with the possibility of seeing the Tour de Grimaud along the way.
6. Discovering the wine-growing region
Tourtour lies in the north of the Côtes de Provence AOC appellation, close to famous wine-producing villages such as Lorgues and Villecroze. It's the perfect opportunity to put together a tasting itinerary of the surrounding estates and take a few bottles of rosé home with you.
7. Stroll around the Tourtour market
Wednesday and Saturday mornings, the Place des Ormeaux comes alive with the Provençal market in Tourtour. Around twenty loyal exhibitors sell seasonal fruit and vegetables, cheeses, craft products, aromatic plants and local specialities. The atmosphere is calm and friendly - the perfect opportunity to get a taste of local life and chat with local producers.
8. Taking part in festivals and celebrations
The Egg Festival (Easter weekend)
Tourtour is famous for its Egg Festival, held every year on the Easter weekend. It has become an institution in the region for its originality and authenticity, bringing locals and visitors together in a warm atmosphere.
La Fête du Village (1st weekend in August)
Every first weekend in August, the village transforms itself over four days for its festival There's dancing in traditional costume, a ball, a boules competition and, to round things off, the big Aïoli shared by all. A not-to-be-missed concentration of Provençal art de vivre.
9. Reach out to the must-see sites in the surrounding area
Tourtour's location makes it an ideal base for exploring the Haut-Var.
The Verdon gorges and Lac de Sainte-Croix: twenty minutes away, one of Europe's most spectacular natural sites.
Aups and its markets The neighbouring village, famous for its truffle market in winter.
Villecroze Its troglodyte village and waterfalls are well worth a visit.
Draguignan: about 25 km away, the Var prefecture with museums and shops.
The Côte d'Azur: 50 km away, ideal for a day at the seaside.
Practical information: what to do in Tourtour and how to get there
How do I get there?
Tourtour is around 25 km from Draguignan and 50 km from the Côte d'Azur. The car is the most practical means of transport: the road passes through magnificent scenery of pine forests and the hills of the Var. Allow a few kilometres on winding roads as you approach the summit.
When should you visit Tourtour?
Tourtour can be visited all year round. Spring and autumn offer ideal conditions for walking and strolling. Summer is lively thanks to the galleries, festivals and markets. In winter, the local mill is in full operation during the olive harvest.
Where to stay in Tourtour
To make the most of the city and its surroundings, there's nothing like staying overnight. The Bastide of Tourtour is a charming hotel in the heart of the village, ideally located for exploring the Verdon Gorge, hiking trails and local markets.
The Tourist Information Office The Tourtour Tourist Information Office, attached to the’Tourist Office Intercommunal Lacs et Gorges du Verdon, can help you prepare your visit and guide you towards the activities available depending on the season.
What to do in Tourtour
The real question is: where to start? Between heritage, art, nature and local flavours, this village in the Haut-Var combines richness and authenticity - and rarely leaves anyone indifferent.
FAQ - Frequently asked questions about Tourtour
Is Tourtour one of the Most Beautiful Villages in France?
Yes, Tourtour is officially classified as a Plus Beaux Villages de France and Villes et Villages Fleuris label. It is also known as «Provence's village in the sky» because of its altitude of 635 metres.
How far is Tourtour from the Gorges du Verdon?
Tourtour is around 20 minutes' drive from the Gorges du Verdon and Lac de Sainte-Croix, making it an ideal base for exploring the Haut-Var.
Is there a market in Tourtour?
Yes, the Tourtour market is held on Wednesday and Saturday mornings in the Place des Ormeaux. You'll find seasonal fruit and vegetables, cheeses, craft products and local specialities.
What to do in Tourtour: what is there to see?
Highlights include the Place des Ormeaux and its fountains, the 12th-century Tour de Grimaud and the 11th-century Romanesque church, the 17th-century communal mill, and the panoramic views from the heights of the village.
When should you visit Tourtour?
Tourtour can be visited all year round. Spring and autumn are ideal for hiking. Summer is lively with its galleries and markets. In winter, the local mill is in operation during the olive harvest (November to February).
Can you hike around Tourtour?
Yes, there are several signposted footpaths leading directly from the village. The walk to the Cistercian abbey of Florièyes (4 km) and the trails to the Moulières valley and Grand Défens are particularly recommended.
Is Tourtour suitable for families?
Yes, there's the Municipal Fossil Museum, nature walks, the market and traditional festivals such as the Egg Festival at Easter, village fete in August) make it a perfect destination for families with children.