Nestled at the foot of the Alps and overlooking the Mediterranean, Castellar is a charming small village situated just a short distance from Italy. This quaint jewel in southern France seems to hang between sky and land, where every corner exudes a blend of historical richness and natural beauty, paused in a moment untouched by modern times.
Away from the hustle and bustle of the French Riviera, Castellar, shaped by centuries and civilisations, has managed to preserve the soul of a village of yesteryear. There, the pastel-coloured house fronts stand in echo to the ochre of the hills, cobbled paths wind under vaulted passageways, and every turn reveals a new facet of the past. A place where the light dances on the stones and the silence is adorned with distant echoes from the sea.
Picture-perfect surrounding at the top of the hills
Reaching Castellar is an adventure in itself! Starting from Menton, a slender, twisting route ascends through the garrigue , slowly unveiling an breathtaking view. Down below, the sapphire waters of the Bay of Garavan reflect the emerald contours of the Southern Alps. The village perches on the mountainside, resembling a natural terrace with a vista over the Mediterranean.
Your initial strides down its winding cobblestone lanes can transport you into a world untouched by time. The houses, featuring golden-hued walls, cluster closely to create a maze of sheltered walkways and cool plazas. An age-old fountain murmurs at an intersection, while partially opened window shutters hint at interiors rendered even cozier by the gentle weather. Each turn unveils a fresh view of the adjacent Italian hillside, as though beckoning you for exploration.
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A legacy etched in stone
Not only does Castellar boast an enchanting setting, but it also possesses a captivating history filled with significance. The town’s walls and fortified entrance date back to the 16th century. th A century following the siege of Nice by Francis I, these structures stand as clear indicators that the village held significant strategic importance. Nearby, you can find the Palais Lascaris, dating back to the 17th century. th A 17th-century Baroque mansion continues to stand as a testament to the grandeur of that age, whereas the pastel pink facade of the Church of Saint-Pierre contrasts beautifully with the deep blue heavens, serving as an invaluable link to times long passed.
History buffs It would be worthwhile to examine the intricately carved coat of arms overhead more closely, study the engravings on the lintels, and maybe even nudge open the entrance to an overlooked chapel. Every single stone in this place narrates a tale, blending elements from Italian styles with Provençal traditions.
A sanctuary of nature at Italy's doorstep
Castellar is equally cherished for its wild terrain, where nature appears to have sculpted hidden trails exclusively for those who wander and daydream. The GR5 hiking path runs through the town before ascending towards stunning vistas. Alongside these routes stand cork oak forests, ancient olive groves, and arbutus trees, infusing the landscape with an alluring scent of the Mediterranean.
The more adventurous hikers will extend to reach the secluded chapels such as that of Saint-Sébastien, nestled amidst verdant surroundings. Some may opt for immersing themselves in the tranquility of the mountains, gradually succumbing to sleep induced by the gentle breeze rising from the Italian plains and rustling through the ancient village stones.
Castellar goes beyond being merely a hilltop village in southern France; it represents a serene lifestyle filled with heritage, far removed from the busy coastal areas. It serves as an excellent retreat for visitors who wish to explore Provence’s enigmatic aspects, where moments seem to standstill and each cobblestone street holds a piece of timeless beauty.
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