...we have a day out in
St Paul de Vence (continued from part 1)
...There's a small cafe near the exit with wrought-iron chairs designed by Giacometti (he was a friend of the Maeghts) which are more stylish than comfortable. Handy place for a coffee and loo break. You could have lunch here but instead head back down the hill (you can stay on the main road this time, turn right at the bottom of the drive) and have lunch in the famous restaurant
'La Colombe d'Or'. I have eaten here twice - it really is magical and friendly. The food is excellent; try the hors d'ouvres followed by the lamb - delicious. The artwork and sculpture are all original by artists such as Matisse and Leger. The restaurant is outside the village, on the left, entrance through a discreet stone arch. Reserve well in advance: http://www.la-colombe-dor.com/
After a long 2-bottle lunch you are finally ready to explore St Paul , so wander and explore in sozzled contentment. There are dozens of art galleries, ateliers and gift shops. I don't know much about the village because I really come for the Fondation and lunch but most guide books have a section devoted to St Paul. There is bound to be a tourist office here too with guides and maps. Many tour operators offer walking tours here. The following website is quite useful: http://www.saintpaulweb.net/spw/
e_index.html. We just tend to walk to the end, gaze out over the cemetery take in the views and walk back, soaking up the atmosphere, soaked ;-) Just outside the village is a pleasant cafe bar called 'Cafe de la Place' where you can have (another) drink while you wait for the bus. There is often a game of petanque taking place outside. Or, go back to the Moulin bistro right by the bus stop; you can have an ice-cream or a drink here too.
Perfect day out but comes with a warning - it can get very hot and busy especially in July and August but if that is the only time you can come then I think it is still an essential outing from Nice. See you there!
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Address: St Paul de Vence
Directions: Bus 400 from Nice to St Paul, a 50 minute journey taking you uphill and inland several miles north of Cagnes.
Website: http://www.saintpaulweb.net/spw/e_index.html
Other Contact: http://www.la-colombe-dor.com/
on Apr 20, 2004
