Tourtour

What to see

The old oil mill- still working.
St. Denis church. Fossil museum.
12th c. and 15th c. Castles.
Saracen tower. Old wash house.

Leisure activities

Hiking. Mountain biking.
Exhibitions.
Summer entertainment.
Cyclo-tourism.

Hotels

La Bastide de Tourtour

Tourtour (Haut Var)

Elegant country house surrounded by several acres of park - panoramic views
Each comfortable room is air-conditioned and has an en suite bathroom
Restaurant - Swimming pool - Tennis court - Jacuzzi

130€ - 300€

View the site

Accomodations

Hotels.
Bed and breakfast.
holiday rentals. Gites.

Your questions about the municipality of Tourtour

Following the publication of this guide to Tourtour, we received several questions about the village. Here are our answers to your most frequently asked questions.

What are the attractions in Tourtour?

Tourtour, nicknamed the “village in the sky,” is full of treasures to discover. The Place des Ormeaux is the beating heart of the village with its welcoming cafés and central fountain. The old 12th-century castle stands proudly overlooking the village. Although it is now privately owned, its imposing silhouette bears witness to Tourtour's defensive past. The Church of Saint-Denis is well worth a visit for its typical Provençal architecture and its simple yet elegant interior. Don't miss the restored communal mill, which recalls the importance of olive oil in the traditional local economy. The bastide of Tourtour, with its terraced gardens, offers a glimpse into the lifestyle of the notables of yesteryear. The old wash house tells the story of the daily life of the inhabitants of yesteryear, when women would gather there to wash clothes and exchange news. Just a few kilometers away, the spectacular Verdon Gorge awaits you for a day trip. Are you a paleontology enthusiast? The fossil museum has a fascinating collection of specimens discovered in the region. This historic village has retained its authenticity with its stone houses and narrow streets that wind their way through time.

How to visit Tourtour?

To discover Tourtour in the best possible conditions, start by visiting the official website of the municipality, which is full of practical information and news. A detailed map is essential if you don't want to miss any of the sights scattered around the village and its surroundings. The map available at the tourist office clearly indicates the points of interest and helps you find your way around this medieval maze. Several marked hiking trails allow you to explore the exceptional landscapes surrounding Tourtour. A local guide can accompany you for a more in-depth visit and reveal the village's well-kept secrets. As part of the “Most Beautiful Villages in France” network, Tourtour has clear signage to help you find your way around. The commune of Tourtour covers a large area that is well worth exploring beyond the historic center. Tourism here remains on a human scale, allowing you to fully enjoy the authentic atmosphere. Allow at least a full day to visit the entire village and its attractions at your leisure.

Where to stay in Tourtour?

Accommodation in Tourtour suits all budgets and tastes for a memorable stay in Provence. The Bastide de Tourtour offers refined rooms in a historic setting, ideal for total immersion in the Provençal atmosphere. Several charming hotels welcome you in the heart of the village, with breathtaking views of the surrounding hills. The village restaurants serve delicious local cuisine, showcasing the best of the Var region. For wellness enthusiasts, a spa hotel will allow you to relax after a day of exploring. The small inn on the main square offers unbeatable value for money and a family atmosphere. The rural gîtes in the surrounding area are the perfect option for families looking for independence during their vacation. The guest rooms run by locals guarantee a warm welcome and personalized advice.

What are the activities in Tourtour?

Hiking is a must to admire the exceptional landscapes of the Haut-Var and the panoramic views offered by this hilltop village. The weekly market brings the main square to life, ideal for finding local specialties and meeting producers. During the summer, the village festival transforms Tourtour into a lively place with concerts and traditional dances. Cultural events punctuate the year, including art exhibitions, concerts in the church, and outdoor performances. Outdoor activities abound, with mountain biking, rock climbing, and horseback riding offered by local providers. Visits to artisans' workshops allow you to discover traditional skills that are still very much alive in the region. A renowned jazz festival attracts talented musicians every year for memorable concerts under the stars. The walk along the ramparts offers breathtaking views of the valley and the surrounding mountains. Themed trails invite you to discover the natural and historical heritage, suitable for all levels.

What is the history of Tourtour?

The history of Tourtour dates back to Roman times, but it was in the Middle Ages that the village really flourished. This medieval village developed around its fortified castle, built in the 12th century to guard the valley. The narrow, winding streets are typical of the defensive urban planning of Provence's hilltop villages. In the 17th century, Tourtour enjoyed a period of prosperity thanks to agriculture and local crafts. The architectural heritage has been remarkably well preserved, with its carefully restored stone houses. The old ramparts, of which a few remains still stand, once protected the population from invasion. The old castle, even though partially in ruins, remains emblematic of the power of the local lords. The vernacular architecture is characterized by the use of local stone and Roman tile roofs. The vaulted passageways and ancient doors literally transport you to another time.

What events are happening in Tourtour?

The patron saint's day of Saint Denis in October transforms the village into a place of festivities with a traditional procession and entertainment. Artistic events follow one another, including painting and sculpture exhibitions in local galleries. The Christmas market in winter attracts visitors and artisans in a magical atmosphere in the heart of the illuminated village. In summer, open-air concerts take advantage of the natural acoustics of the main square under the stars. Winter is not to be outdone, with more intimate events such as storytelling evenings and tastings of local products. Activities linked to Provençal traditions punctuate the calendar, such as the new oil festival after the olive harvest. The theater festival attracts companies from all over the region for performances in unusual venues in the village.

How to get to Tourtour?

To plan your trip to Tourtour, there are several options available depending on your starting point. Tourtour is located about 25 km from Draguignan and 50 km from the French Riviera. The proximity of major highways such as the A8 makes it easy to reach, although the last few kilometers are on winding roads. Access by public transportation is limited: a few buses serve the village from Draguignan, but a car is still the most convenient way to get there. The road to Tourtour passes through varied landscapes of pine forests and lavender fields, depending on the season. The Var department has a well-maintained road network that efficiently serves hilltop villages such as Tourtour. The town is also accessible from Aups and Villecroze, two charming neighboring towns that are also worth a visit. Coming from the north, you will pass through the Verdon Regional Natural Park, an opportunity to discover one of the most beautiful natural sites in France. Allow around 1.5 hours from Nice or Marseille and around 20 minutes from Draguignan. There is a car park at the entrance to the village where you can leave your vehicle and explore Tourtour on foot, which is the best way to appreciate its charm.

NEIGHBOURING TOWNS AND VILLAGES

Villecroze (6 km) and Ampus (8 km).