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Nestled between Nice and Monaco on the French Riviera, the medieval village of Èze is a hidden gem that offers a blend of history, stunning views, and ancient cobblestone streets. This picturesque village perched on rocky hill 1,400 feet above the French Mediterranean is a must-visit for anyone exploring the south of France. On a recent European road trip, we took the half hour drive from our hotel in Nice and arrived early to beat the tour buses and avail ourselves of the limited parking. They are currently expanding the parking facilities so that shouldn’t be a problem in the future. There’s a tourist information booth where you can get a map but honestly, we didn’t take one as the village is small and it’s almost impossible to get lost. The walk from the parking area to the village is not a walk in the park and a certain level of fitness is required. It’s all uphill and you should be able to negotiate cobble stone streets, uneven paths and lots of steps. Needless to say, it’s not wheelchair friendly.

Cobblestone Streets and Stone Houses

Èze’s history dates back to 2000 BC when it was first populated near Mount Bastide. Over the centuries, it has seen the influence of Romans, Moors, and the House of Savoy. The village’s strategic location made it a fortified stronghold, and remnants of its past can still be seen today. As we wandered through the narrow, winding cobblestone streets, it was like stepping back in time. The stone houses, some covered in ivy and adorned with vibrant flowers, create a picturesque setting that is perfect for leisurely strolls. Each corner of the village reveals charming shops, boutiques, art galleries, and local crafts that reflect the artistic spirit of Èze. We enjoyed popping into the shops especially the cave like ones, and art galleries to check out the products.

Art galleries and other shops.

The village is a haven for artists and craftsmen. Local galleries showcase a variety of artworks, from paintings to sculptures, created by talented artists who draw inspiration from the stunning surroundings. Èze’s artistic community adds a vibrant cultural layer to the village’s allure. Despite being a tourist attraction, it’s worth remembering that the village is home to just over 2500 residents so a certain level of respect should be shown.

Jardin Exotique d’Èze

One of the highlights of Èze is the Jardin Exotique, an exotic garden perched at the top of the village and built on the remnants of an old medieval fortress. The Garden is divided into two distinct sides, each offering a unique experience.

Southern Side: This part of the garden is home to a vast collection of succulent plants and cacti from around the world. The southern-facing slope provides an ideal environment for these plants, and the garden features numerous terraces with stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea and the surrounding coastline.

Northern Side: The northern side of the garden is designed to mimic a Mediterranean environment. It includes a pond, waterfalls, and a variety of plants that thrive in humid conditions. This area also features caves and shaded spots, creating a cooler and more lush atmosphere compared to the southern side. Both sides of the garden are connected by pathways with steps that are steep in some places but the payoff when you reach the top is well worth it. The garden’s serene atmosphere and breathtaking vistas make it a must-visit spot for nature lovers and photographers. There are small alcoves to sit and relax, narrow pathways to explore and we even found those waterfalls and streams. I think the northern side would be very popular place on those hot, summer days.

The many sculptures that dot the garden add a classical touch and is a testament to the skilled artists that work there.

Centuries old stonework, still standing!

After a visit of about two hours, we made our way down with a quick stop to check out the Eglise Notre-Dame-de-l’Assomption, an 18th-century neoclassical church with a striking yellow colour. It was built in 1764 on the ruins of an earlier temple that dated back to the 12th century. During our visit there were some renovations being done, but we were still able to get a glimpse of its richly decorated interior.

This was indeed a worthwhile stop on our road trip, and we highly recommend touring this village if you’re ever in the area. A couple of hours is all you need to explore, but there are restaurants and cafes if you need to while the time away. For those seeking a more luxurious experience, Château de la Chèvre d’Or is a five-star hotel located in the heart of the village. This stunning hotel offers breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea and the surrounding hillsides, making it a perfect destination in this unique setting.

Getting there.

Èze is easily accessible from Nice and Monaco by car, bus or train. If you’re traveling from Nice, bus #82 is a convenient option that offers scenic views along the way. Alternatively, you can take a train to Èze-sur-Mer and hike up to the village via the Nietzsche Path, a rewarding experience for those who enjoy walking. The best time to visit Èze is during the spring and early autumn when the weather is pleasant, and the village is less crowded. Summer can be busy, but it’s also when the village is in full bloom, adding to its charm. We travelled there in fall, and it was getting busy as we were leaving, can’t imagine what summers are like. Our advice is to get there early, around 8:00 am or late afternoon when the tour buses are leaving. Admission is 8 Euro for adults and 4 Euro for teens and free for kids under 12 years old.

Garden Opening hours:

Everyday:
January, February, March, November, December: from 9am to 4.30pm
April, May, June, October: from 9am to 6.30pm
July, August, September: from 9am to 7.30pm