Grignan

From far off, the village of Grignan looks superb, standing proudly on the plain, sheltered behind its great high walls.
It is very popular with tourists, to judge by the vast car park for 400 vehicles shaded by plane trees. It's easy to understand why as you get closer: Grignan resembles a Mont Saint Michel surrounded by grass, a defensive fortress with houses nestling at the bottom, forming a harmonious volume of grey stone.

Having admired the large round fountain sheltered by a neo-classical temple, and pausing for a moment in front of the delicately carved statue of the countess of Grignan, who was Madame de Sévigné's daughter, take your courage in both hands to climb up to the medieval castle.
This historical monument built in the 12th century and extended considerably during the Renaissance houses a magnificent collection of paintings, furniture and tapestries.

After this visit, take a stroll along the circular promenade running alongside the ramparts and overlooking the village, from where you will enjoy a wonderful view of the Roman tile roofs.
This path round the battlements will bring you to the Saint Sauveur collegiate church, another historical monument dating back to the 16th century, currently undergoing restoration, which contains the tomb of the Marquise de Sévigné.

The rest of the village is also well worth a visit, where many medieval houses remain to this day.
Note: miniature reconstitution of life in a Provencal village in the early 20th century.