One of the most well-known and historical towns on the French Riviera, Grasse has been enchanting visitors for years. Set in the heart of the Provençal hinterland, Grasse is the capital of the perfume industry for the entire world. These days Grasse is, of course, synonymous with fragrance and sweet-smelling flowers, but originally the town was far more famous for its leather goods and tanning industry. Back in the Middles Ages, the town’s tanners produced high-quality leather goods for members of the nobility all over France. Then in the 17th Century, an enterprising young tanner named Galimard came up with the idea of creating gloves scented with a floral perfume to disguise the smell of the leather, and just like that a whole new industry was born in Grasse. Surrounded by lush fields of jasmine, roses, orange flowers and mimosa, Grasse became home to dozens of fragrance manufacturers, and perfume is still the town’s main industry today.
During the 19th Century, the pretty Medieval town was discovered by the British and Russian Royal families and quickly became a chic winter destination for the international jetset. Beautiful Belle Epoque villas sprung up in the hills around the town centre, and Grasse’s Mediterranean microclimate made it a favourite with those in search of winter sunshine. Grasse and the surrounding area have also inspired many artists and writers over the years. Marcel Pagnol wrote several of his iconic novels about Provence while living in the hills around the town and well-known names such as Jean-Paul Sartre, Albert Camus, Edith Piaf and H.G. Wells all spent time in Grasse. Charming and sun-drenched, today Grasse is still one of the most popular destinations on the French Riviera, and this beautiful town is an idyllic setting for a relaxing holiday in the South of France.
The historical Old Town is home to a 13th Century Cathedral and Bishop’s Palace, both of which are well worth a visit thanks to their impressive art collections. Narrow streets open out directly into sunny squares, and there are tiny bistros and cafés on every corner, perfect for a morning coffee or an afternoon aperitif. Several museums pay homage to some of Grasse’s favourite sons including Jean-Honoré Fragonard who not only put the town on the map with his paintings but also inspired the Fragonard Perfumery which was named in his honour. Known as a City of Art and History, Grasse also pays homage its rich heritage with two museums dedicated to the history of Provence, and an impressive authentic collection of Provençal clothes and jewellery dating back to the 18th and 19th centuries.
Culture aside, Grasse is also home to some fabulous restaurants with many places serving regional specialities which are a must-try. Sit by the Louis XV fountain in the Place aux Aires and nibble some of the tiny black olives grown in the hills around the town with your glass of wine. Then order a plate of Lou Fassum, a delicious stuffed cabbage dish which originated in Grasse and which has its very own prayer, the Grasse Bénédicité which is said to ensure that the stuffing holds together when the cabbage is cut open! The town also has more than its fair share of lively bars and bistros, perfect for an evening aperitif while you people watch in the town square. And at just 25 minutes away from the glittering resorts of Cannes and Antibes, you’ll be spoilt for choice if you’re looking for a night out in one of the chic beachside nightclubs and bars down on the coast.
Surrounded by lush greenery and rolling hills, the countryside around the town is perfect territory for exploring. A national park sits in the backcountry around the town and offers breathtaking views of the coastline and the Esterel mountains. And just minutes away from Grasse you’ll find a series of stunning underground grottos and caves dating back hundreds of years. Beat the summer heat and take in a fabulous music and light show underground in the caves where the temperature is a refreshing 15°c all year round. With mountain activities like canyoning, fishing and treetop adventure parks, plus a thrilling range of watersports down on the coast, you’ll love spending time outdoors in this beautiful area of the French Riviera.
Visit a traditional olive oil mill or stroll around the traditional Provençal market before picking up some freshly-baked bread for lunch. Explore the Medieval streets of the old town and check out historical monuments and museums galore in Grasse. Go pony trekking through the hills behind the town, play a round or two of golf at one of the nearby country clubs, visit the perfume museum or tour fields full of fragrant flowers. From shopping to concerts, fine dining to flowers the options are endless in Grasse. With gorgeous scenery, fantastic weather and so many incredible activities on offer, we guarantee that you’ll fall in love with the French Riviera’s most famous hillside town during your holiday.