High on a hill that towers 500m over the Gorge de Loup, Gourdon is justly listed as one of France's "most beautiful villages". Naturally, the view over the gorge to the sea is spectacular but the interior of this medieval hilltop village is also a delightful network of stone streets winding around a 12th-century chateau. In such a setting, it's not surprising that dozens of artisans have set up boutiques to cater to the tourists ambling down the narrow lanes.

What to See

Built in the 12th century and restored in the 17th, the impressive chateau was constructed to repel the Saracens before becoming a residence for Raymond Berenger, the Count of Provence. It's surrounded by gardens harmoniously designed by Le Notre, the man behind the gardens of Versailles. The ground floor of the chateau is occupied by a Historical Museum (Musée Historique) displaying armaments and paintings from Gourdon's past. The first and second floors house the Museum of Decorative Arts and Modern Art (Musée des Arts décoratifs et de l'Art Moderne) which accents Art Deco and Art Nouveau furniture, sculpture and art objects. It's also worth taking a peek at Saint-Vincent church, built between the 10th and 12th centuries.

Accommodation in Gourdon

There are limited accommodation opportunities in Gourdon. Try the Hostellerie de la Bouriane just outside town.

Transportation to Gourdon

By Car
Take the A8 autoroute and then the exit to Villeneuve-Loubet and then follow direction Roquefort les Pins, Le Rouret, Châteauneuf. Then take the D3.

By Bus
Envibus handles services to Gourdon from Pont du Loup.