The French Riviera's hinterland

Discover the hidden inland villages of the French Riviera on this private full-day countryside tour from Nice. Away from the coast and the crowds, this journey takes you through some of the most beautiful and authentic corners of the Côte d'Azur. Begin in the enchanting cobbled streets of Saint-Paul-de-Vence, once the refuge of Picasso and Matisse, now a retreat for film stars. Visit Vence and the extraordinary Matisse Chapel — one of the greatest religious sanctuaries of the 20th century. Pause in Tourrettes-sur-Loup, the medieval City of Violets renowned for its arts and craftsmanship, before descending to Pont du Loup amid the spectacular Gorges du Loup. Climb to the breathtaking hilltop village of Gourdon for panoramic views, then stop at Opio's olive oil mill to taste gourmet local produce. Continue to Grasse — the world capital of perfume — before ending the day in the pretty, arty streets of Mougins, rediscovered in the 1930s by Picasso, Man Ray and Jean Cocteau.

1. 1

   St-Paul-de-Vence

   2 hours

   The day begins in the enchanting cobbled streets of Saint-Paul-de-Vence, once the refuge of artists, now the retreat of film stars, with a chance to visit the galleries...

2. 2

   Vence

   1 hour

   Visit one the greatest religious sanctuaries of the 20th century, the 'Matisse chapel' or/and venture into the temple of time regained, Vence...

3. 3

   Tourrettes-sur-Loup

   30 min

   Let's make a halt at the City of Violets, Tourrettes-sur-Loup, a recognized site for the art and craftsmanship of the Côte d'Azur.

4. 4

   Stop 4

   30 min

   A delight for all sweet tooths will await in Pont-du-Loup, amidst the springing spectacle of the gorges du Loup...

5. 5

   Gourdon

   30 min

   Overlooking the valley of the Loup is Gourdon, offering the visitor an exceptional panorama.

6. 6

   Opio

   30 min

   Coming down the mountains and before reaching Grasse, let's stop at Opio's oil mill and learn more about how olive oil is manufactured and taste their gourmet selection of grocery items from local producers...

7. 7

   Grasse

   1 hour

   Welcome to the world capital of perfume. One can choose whether to develop his/her senses at one of the local perfumeries - and rest assured make good bargains - or instead look for the three hidden masterpieces in the old town with your guide...

8. 8

   Mougins

   30 min

   Wander the pretty & arty streets of Mougins, "rediscovered" in the 1930's thanks to such illustrious inhabitants as Pablo Picasso, Francis Picabia, Paul Eluard, Man Ray and Jean Cocteau.

• Wheelchair accessible
• Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
• Service animals allowed
• Specialized infant seats are available
• Suitable for all physical fitness levels

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.