Gourdon is a small medieval village about 25 km north of Cannes. The village is on the list of the independent association "Les Plus Beaux Villages de France" and may therefore call itself one of the most beautiful villages in France. Meanwhile, seven other villages in the Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur region have also received this entry. They will all be brought to our attention on our blog once, because they are all worth a visit if you're in the area!
Gourdon is isolated, on top of a high rock of 760 meters. Because of this geographical, strategic location, the village is also known as 'the eagle's nest'. It goes without saying that you have a breathtaking view because of this high location. You look beautiful on the 'Vallée des Loups' and you have an exceptional panorama on the coastal strip between Nice and Théoule-sur-Mer.
The old restored houses and the castle give Gourdon a sort of rugged charm. The many shops, artists and craft workshops provide liveliness in the village. You will find a glass blower, silk painter, perfume maker, soap manufacturer, confectionery and a baker who makes local delicacies. It is difficult to resist the temptation not to buy a souvenir or gift in one of the narrow streets of Gourdon!
The medieval atmosphere of the village is very well preserved, so a walk through the village feels as if you are going back in time. Gourdon also has a number of attractions such as an 11th century Romanesque church and the 13th century feudal castle. The castle contains two museums, one tells the story of the history of the village and the other museum focuses on art from the twenties and thirties of the last century.
The castle includes a third attraction and that is the terrace garden. The garden has an Italian style and is full of artistic boxwood trees. The garden is only open in the summer. After exploring Gourdon, you can relax on one of the many terraces. Good food is offered at La Taverne Provencale, Au Vieux Four or Auberge de Gourdon.
Sports enthusiasts can take the 'Chemin du Paradis' walking route. In three quarters of an hour you walk to Pont-du-Loup and in five quarters of an hour to Bar-sur-Loup. It is a fairly challenging walk along deep precipices. But as the name suggests: the view during the walk is beautiful!
