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November 12, 2012

Eze–Exploring a French Medieval Village

The pretty medieval village of Eze in France is a bustling place. While in the past people chose to live in this isolated village, these days it’s full of tourists. They scurry down the narrow, cobblestone lanes, explore the myriad art galleries and linger in the restaurants and bars. I know because I was one of them!

Eze_FranceEze_France Eze_ArtistGalleries Eze_narrow streets 

The village seems to cling to the top of the hill and reminded me of an eagle’s eyrie. Impractical, I thought, but the truth is the high elevation gave the locals warning and protection from pirates who struck up and down the coast.

We traveled from Monaco via bus, along winding, narrow roads that barely seemed wide enough for two vehicles to pass each other. A warning to those who don’t like heights – make sure to take an aisle seat on the bus. For those who don’t mind, the views are incredible.

Besides shopping, there’s a church to explore plus the remains of a castle at the very top of the village. The bare ground around the ruins has been planted with cacti and succulents. It’s a pleasant place to wander and admire the view.

Eze_view from succulent gardens

Eze_Shelley

After exploring, we relaxed with a glass of wine and snacked on olives drizzled with a basil-flavored olive oil. Delicious! The perfect end to a lovely day.

9 Comments

  1. Mary Kirkland

    Love those cobblestone structures. Looks like you had a good time.

    • Shelley Munro

      Our visit to Eze was one of our highlights. It’s really pretty.

  2. Brinda

    Lovely! Thank you for sharing your photos. It makes me feel like a world traveler. :)

    • Shelley Munro

      I’m glad you enjoyed the quick trip. :)

  3. Maria Zannini

    I wonder how the villagers feel about all those tourists?

    I don’t blame them for living there. Gorgeous.

    • Shelley Munro

      Eze is one of the best preserved hill villages. I guess it’s a trade off. Without the tourists the village probably wouldn’t prosper. There are no cars within the village, and I image it must be very expensive for those who do live there.

  4. Angela Brown

    Love the pictures, as always, Shelley. I always feel like I’ve stepped beyond the norm when you post pics.

    And I love the post you struck! Go diva :-)

    • Shelley Munro

      LOL – I’m glad you enjoyed the quick trip to France.

  5. Heather

    Sounds like the sort of place I’d like visiting. Great photos, Shelley!