Fayence
32 km. from Draguignan and 25 km from Grasse.
Discover the hilltop village of Fayence, in the Var region of France
Perched on a hillside between the sea and the mountains, surrounded by picturesque Provencal landscapes, Fayence is one of the perched villages in the hinterland that's well worth a visit.
The name of the village “Fayence” has nothing to do with “faience”, it comes from the Latin “Fagus” meaning “beech”, a tree that must have been numerous when the village was founded.
Its southern climate, the charm of its ancient streets, its welcoming inns with Provencal flavors will seduce visitors to this village where the past has left a few vestiges. You'll quickly fall under the spell of Fayence, with its old stones, ancient houses, shady squares and flower-filled squares.
As you stroll through the village's calade and staircase streets, you'll come across ancient fountains and beautifully restored doorways. You'll pass under vaulted porches and arches, along the ramparts and the Porte Sarrazine at the bottom of the village, with its machicolations.
A view over the whole of the Pays de Fayence
For a panoramic view over the whole plain, climb up to the Tour de l'horloge for a breathtaking 360° view over the village rooftops and the magnificent landscapes of the Pays de Fayence. Cute little squares have sprung up here and there in the village, ready to welcome you for an aperitif.
What to do in and around Fayence today: farniente, restaurants, gliding...
After visiting Fayence and its historic monuments, you'll find a number of small, friendly restaurants where you can discover the art of Provençal living over a glass of rosé and good produce bursting with sunshine and olive oil. Fayence is also renowned for its gliding center (1st in Europe), where courses and competitions are organized (Open International de Planeur). Lake Saint-Cassien is not far away if you fancy beaches, swimming and water sports of all kinds.
Depending on the season, you can choose between downhill skiing or sandy beaches. Fayence is a 90-minute drive from the ski resorts and 45 minutes from the sea.
Photos of Fayence in the Var
At the bottom of this page, you'll find a slideshow of our own photographs of Fayence. This will give you an idea of the atmosphere of this beautiful village and, we hope, inspire you to visit and enjoy your vacation.
Our interactive map of Fayence, 83440
To find your way around Fayence, you can use our interactive map of Fayence, which even works on cell phones. We've included our accommodation recommendations so you can see where they are before you book your vacation.
What to see
The Saracen Gate.
Notre Dame des Cypres chapel.
The Mitan Oven.
The Clock Tower and the orientation table..
Saint Jean-Baptiste church.
The Agricultural Ecomuseum.
Leisure activities
Hiking (landmark indicator).
Water activities at the lake Saint Cassien.
Cyclo-tourism.
Hotels
Beautiful hotel! Nestled among palm and olive trees, the charming Hotel Les Oliviers offers pleasant rooms, an outdoor pool and a large terrace. It's located in the heart of Provence, in the medieval village of Fayence.
Holiday rentals
2 cottages of great comfort for 2 people, tastefully decorated with independent entrance, large private terrace not overlooked. Landscaped garden. Swimming pool. Massages. 27km from the beaches, 10 km from golf
Luxury villa with 5 bedrooms in the heart of the country of Fayence in the back country of Var. Large garden, private tennis and petanque court, terraces and heated outdoor pool.
Campings
At Camping Lou Cantaire, you can look forward to a well-deserved holiday in the Var. Situated 34 km from the sea, this campsite is sure to let you enjoy the splendours of the region for the duration of your visit. To make the most of relaxing moments with your loved ones, you can take a dip in the outdoor swimming pool without even having to leave the campsite.
Accomodations
Hotels.
Bed and breakfast.
Holiday Rentals.
Campsites.
Your questions about the hilltop village of Fayence
Many of you have sent us your questions about the pretty village of Fayence. Here are our answers to the most frequently asked questions.
What's the market day in Fayence?
There are 2 markets a week in Fayence! The first takes place every Thursday morning and the second every Saturday morning. You'll find more or less the same local producers. The market takes place on Place Thiers and it's a very pleasant market, especially in the summer months. We recommend it.
How do I get to Fayence by train without a car?
There is no train station in Fayence. So you'll have to take the train to Fréjus (Saint Raphaël Valescure station) then take a taxi (30 minutes) or the bus (50 minutes). It's very simple and very practical.
How high is Fayence?
Although Fayence is known as a "perched village", it is still a low-lying village at just 350 metres. It's its location on the edge of a cliff that gives it its pleasant "perched" appearance and gives it its reputation!
Where to eat in Fayence?
If you're looking for a good restaurant in Fayence, we can recommend “La Farigoulette” and its delightful home-cooked Provencal cuisine. You'll have a great time with family and friends. It's an institution in the village of Fayence.
NEIGHBOURING TOWNS AND VILLAGES
Tourettes (1 km), Seillans (7 km), Callian (8 km), Montauroux (10 km) and Mons (14 km).