Perched along a hilltop in the South of France, between the more widely known city of Nice and the celebrated country of Monaco, is the tiny village of Èze. With its superior geographical location this medieval town offers stunning views of the French Riviera from every vantage point. 

Pathways to The Past

Strolling the narrow, cobbled streets and pathways of Èze gives you some idea of what the village was like in the Middle Ages. These medieval pathways wind their way past interesting shops and lovely little cafés, but they are steep to climb up- and downhill so be sure to wear good walking shoes. 

Shopper’s Delight

Speaking of the shops, there are so many unique and beautiful items-clothing, housewares, linens and jewelry, to name a few. Èze is recognized as a bit of an artist’s enclave so you will notice there are more than a few ateliers where you can observe the artists at work and perhaps purchase a one-of-a-kind piece to take home. 

Natural Beauty Abounds

The one thing that differentiates Èze from other medieval towns in the South of France is it’s hilltop location. Èze’s perch high above the sparkling Mediterranean Sea affords you views like nowhere else in the world. That’s why Èze is nicknamed “the eagle’s nest”. 

Jardin Botanique d’Èze is known for it’s fine collection of native plants-cacti and succulents that thrive in this sunny, arid environment, as well as plants from around the world. The views at the botanical gardens will take your breath away. Photographs are beautiful but are a mere whisper of what you’ll see in person.

Magnificent Architecture 

The oldest building in medieval Èze is the Chapelle de la Sainte Croix. The structure dates back to 1306 and was once the meeting place for the religious lay order of the White Penitents of Èze, a group of caregivers who provided assistance to victims of the plague. 

The architecture of Èze is quite remarkable. The detailed stone work is well-preserved making it hard to believe these works of art are centuries old. Wrought iron street lamp light your way as they have for generations and there is no shortage of historical plaques and dedications to local figures of notoriety. 

Chateau Eza is a 400 year-old hotel with enchanting views and a highly recognized gourmet restaurant. It is recommended that you enjoy a light lunch or beverage of your choice on the terrace as the view of the Mediterranean is simply dazzling.

Enchanting Èze

You’ll be so enchanted by this charming village and all its beauty you’ll want to stay forever. Every building looks to be out of a fairytale. The local residents smile in warm welcome. Flowers burst forth in lush color everywhere you turn. Bougainvillea climb the sides of buildings, wisteria spill from above, and window boxes explode in living color. It’s no wonder one of Èze’s favorite visitors was Walt Disney. As you blissfully gaze about there isn’t a doubt Mr. Disney was inspired by this lovely medieval hamlet. 

A visit to Eze could be a great add-on to a trip to Provence.