Visit The French Riviera - Grasse

Grasse is the perfume capital, not just of France, but the world. A thirty minute drive from Nice, Cannes or Antibes, the town of Grasse is situated in the foothills of the Alps. At an altitude of approximately four hundred meters, the climate here tends to be a little cooler than the coastal towns, and the view from the hill is spectacular.

Grasse is on the edge of Provence and the lavender fields supply one of the many ingredients used in perfume making. The perfume industry began here in the sixteenth century and continues to this day. Many of the “Parfumeries” offer guided tours or their factories and the smell of flowers hangs in the air.

Another medieval town, Grasse boast many picturesque alley ways and ancient buildings and some of the original perfume makers still operate from the same building they started in.

The film “Parfum – Histoire d’un meurtier” or Perfume – History of a murderer, offers a slightly scary insight into the French obsession with all things perfumed. While the town is very pretty and the views are good, most visitors come for a look at the old town and the perfumeries.

The local tourist office can supply details of times and locations, and they can be emailed for details at:info@grasse-riviera.com

There are regular bus services to and from Grasse, but the schedules are apt to be re-arranged at short notice. The tourist office can also supply up-to-date information.

There are several museums in the town and for American visitors, the Musee de la Marine Navy Museum) is an interesting change from the perfumeries. I won’t spoil the surprise, but there is an interesting feature on a little-known French Admiral who may have been involved one of the American wars.

Grasse’s history and ancient buildings have largely been preserved intact despite a several invading armies’ occupations. It’s fair to say the French here are more concerned with the finer things in life, like perfume, than making war.

Grasse makes a great change from the coast, it’s almost like going to a different country and there are some excellent walking tours organized through the summer. Once again, the tourist office has full details, because the schedules vary so much. Just outside the town there are several caves and grottoes to visit.

Grasse has been a popular tourist destination for centuries, and many women's designer fragrances start life here. If you are looking for a Vacation - Queen Victoria even stayed here, which means there is a huge range of lodgings to choose from. Massive hotels to small bed and breakfast houses in the old town mean there is something to suit everyone’s budget. It’s proximity to the both coast and the flower fields of Provence combined with pleasant weather, a wealth of history and picturesque vistas make Grasse a must-see in the south of France.