Tourtour, “Village in the Sky”: A Complete Guide for Tourists

Places to Visit in Tourtour

• Laferris Castle
  Built in the 16th century, this historic castle ruin offers a glimpse into the village’s medieval history. Though it’s not open to the public, it’s an impressive sight when exploring Tourtour.
• Church of Saint-Denis
  Built in the 11th century, this Romanesque church sits on a small hill overlooking the Provence countryside. Inside, you’ll find religious artifacts, including 16th-century busts of Saint Stephen and Saint Nicolas.
• Place d’Ormeau
  The main square in the village center, surrounded by charming Provencal houses and shaded by old olive trees. It’s lined with bustling cafes and local stores, making it a perfect spot to relax and soak up the atmosphere.
• Clock Tower and Chapel of the Holy Trinity
  The 17th-century Clock Tower and nearby Chapel of the Holy Trinity are notable historical landmarks in Tourtour, providing a look into the village’s history.
• Fountain and Oil Mill
  Tourtour is famous for its fountain fed by the Holy Rosary source. The 17th-century oil mill, one of the last in Provence to use a water wheel, still operates, allowing visitors to witness traditional olive pressing during winter.

Exploring the Village: Walking Tour

Stroll through the cobblestone streets and arched passageways lined with Provencal houses in the old section of the village, dating back to the 11th century. At the southeastern end, enjoy panoramic views of the roofs and fields surrounding the village. Don’t miss Place Annabel et Bernard Buffet, where locals play pétanque and a lively market is regularly held.

Nearby Attractions and Day Trips

• Grimaldi Tower (12th century)
  Located just outside Tourtour, this historic tower offers additional medieval exploration for history enthusiasts.
• Verdon Natural Park
  A haven for outdoor activities with trails such as the Martel Trail and Imbut Trail. You can hike, book a guided tour, or enjoy an astronomy evening on Lake Saint Croix.
• Villecroze
  This nearby village boasts a historic center and a park with unique troglodyte dwellings, making it a popular option for a day trip.

Festivals and Events in Tourtour

• Egg Festival (Spring)
  A celebration of creativity and rebirth that’s a local favorite.
• Saint-Denis Festival (October)
  This cultural event honors the village’s patron saint with traditional festivities.
• Côte-Côte Short Film Festival (July)
  An international short film festival at the Verdure Theatre, perfect for families, featuring a children’s film section.
• Piano dans le Ciel (August)
  An open-air classical music festival under the stars, adding to the village’s enchanting summer atmosphere.

Dining and Lodging

Dining

Tourtour offers a variety of dining options, from traditional Provençal dishes to creative, sophisticated menus.

• La Farigoulette
  Located on the main square, this restaurant serves traditional regional cuisine with beautiful views.
• Les Pain Tranquilles (Domaine St. Pierre)
  Known for its grilled dishes, especially ribs prepared by Chef Georges Collignon.
• La Table
  A gourmet restaurant featuring creative cuisine by Chef Laurent Guyon.

Accommodations

Options range from luxury hotels to cozy bed and breakfasts.

• Bastide de Tourtour
  A 4-star hotel offering cooking classes, a spa, and expansive grounds with scenic views.
• La Petite Auberge
  A quiet summer retreat open from April to October on the village outskirts.
• Auberge St. Pierre and Mas des Collines
  Both offer comfortable rooms with access to local attractions.

Important Information

Tourist Office Guided Tours

Guided tours are available year-round in French, English, and Danish. These 1.5-hour tours include visits to the mill, fossil museum, and Church of Saint-Denis, offering insights into Tourtour’s history.

Addresses, Hours, and Ticket Prices

• Church of Saint-Denis: Free admission.
• Oil Mill: Olive pressing season runs from mid-December to February.
• Laferris Castle: Not open to the public.
• Tourist Office: Place Annabel et Bernard Buffet. Guided tour tickets: approximately 5 euros per person.