La Gaude neighbours two of the most beautiful villages in the Nice hinterland. From Villa Angel, Saint-Paul-de-Vence is 15 minutes away and Vence 10 minutes by car: enough to visit early in the morning or late in the day, when the lanes are quieter.
Saint-Paul-de-Vence
A fortified village perched on a rocky spur, Saint-Paul-de-Vence drew painters and writers throughout the 20th century. Stroll along the ramparts, with views all the way to the sea, between art galleries and workshops.
- Fondation Maeght, just above the village: one of Europe’s great modern art museums, set in a sculpture garden.
- The ramparts and the cemetery, where Marc Chagall is buried, for the view over the valley.
- Tip: come before 10 am or after 5 pm, the village is very busy in summer.
Vence
Livelier day to day, Vence has kept its walled historic centre, shady squares and fountains.
- The Chapelle du Rosaire, designed entirely by Henri Matisse: stained glass, ceramics and furniture.
- The old town, Place du Peyra and the cathedral.
- The fresh produce market, perfect for filling your basket before dinner on the villa’s terrace.
Also nearby
- Saint-Jeannet, at the foot of its Baou, a few minutes away.
- Tourrettes-sur-Loup, the village of violets, about twenty minutes away.
- La Gaude’s market on Saturday mornings.
For walking, see beaches and hiking near La Gaude.