Nestled in the hills of the French Riviera, Tourrettes-sur-Loup is a hidden gem that’s perfect for a family getaway. With its charming medieval streets, stunning views, and peaceful atmosphere, Tourrettes-sur-Loup is an ideal place to explore with kids. Staying here with our kids was a memorable experience on our worldschooling journey through Europe. We wandered the cobblestone alleys, visited local artisan shops, and sampled French cuisine. Every moment of our 4 day stay felt special. Here’s what made our visit to Tourrettes-sur-Loup, France unforgettable! 🌿✨
Why Visit Tourrettes-sur-Loup?
Tourrettes-sur-Loup is a picturesque medieval village perched on a hilltop in the French Riviera, just a short drive from Nice. Known as the “City of Violets,” it’s defined by charming cobblestone streets, stone archways, and beautifully preserved medieval buildings. Furthermore, the village is surrounded by lush countryside and breathtaking views of the Loup Valley. You can even glimpse the Mediterranean in the distance. It’s a beautiful place to visit for families of all ages.
One of the things I loved most about Tourrettes-sur-Loup was its peaceful atmosphere and authentic charm. During our visit, we saw local artisans selling handmade pottery, candles, woven textiles, and violet-inspired treats. The village square was lively yet relaxed, with places to sit and drink coffee, or enjoy a handmade pastry. Our kids loved visiting the bakery and choosing berry tarts! Additionally, we went on many walks around the village. Because we visited in October, Tourrettes-sur-Loup wasn’t very busy. However, the weather was beautiful and balmy even in the fall.
VRBO in Tourrettes-sur-Loup
During our 4 day visit to Tourrettes-sur-Loup, our family stayed in a home through Vacation Rentals by Owner (VRBO). This house was on the edge of the village, overlooking the lush valley. We pulled our luggage along the cobblestone streets to the door of the quaint medieval village home. Our kids wasted no time exploring the spacious 3-level house, which is their favorite part of arriving at a new place. Watch our YouTube video to see more details about the Tourrettes-sur-Loup house we stayed in! After we settled in a bit, we set off to explore the village.
Exploring a Medieval Village
One of my favorite parts of exploring the medieval village of Tourrettes-sur-Loup was the constant sense of discovery. Everywhere we looked, we saw something new. The architecture was beautiful — old stone walls with weathered doors and climbing ivy lined the narrow walkways. Similarly, the narrow cobblestone streets which were too small for cars created an intimate atmosphere, making it feel like we had stepped back in time.
Winding cobblestone streets and stairways weave through different levels of Tourrettes-sur-Loup, leading to charming shops and homes.
Exploring Tourrettes-sur-Loup with kids is a grand family adventure!
Tourrettes-sur-Loup Travel Guide
A typical day of exploring a medieval village can be a mix of adventure, discovery, and relaxed local charm. Here are the highlights of a worldschooling day of exploring with kids and things to do in Tourrettes-sur-Loup!
Morning: Wandering & Pastries
We often started our day at a local boulangerie for fresh croissants and pain au chocolat. These chocolate filled croissants quickly became a family favorite. Alternately, one morning we enjoyed breakfast in the village square, where our kids could run around while we soaked up the peaceful atmosphere. After this, we walked along the winding cobblestone streets, discovering hidden alleys and artisan shops. Most everyone we met greeted us in French.
Midday: History & Views
In late morning, we went on a walk around the edge of the village. We discovered medieval ramparts, where our kids climbed stone steps and peeked through stone archways for breathtaking views of the Loup Valley. The pathway around the village took us by walls covered in morning glories.
Lunch: A Relaxing Meal
After our walk, we stopped by a quaint French restaurant for a leisurely lunch. This family-friendly cafe had a stone courtyard with outdoor seating beneath an awning. We ordered sparkling drinks, fresh bread, salad, and pasta. Many eateries such as this one in Tourrettes-sur-Loup serve fresh local dishes, from Provençal salads to savory crêpes. We learned mealtimes in France are very relaxed; we enjoyed the slow pace and beautiful views while the kids snacked and recharged.
Afternoon: Nature & Play
In the afternoons, we ventured beyond the charming village of Tourrettes-sur-Loup to explore the nearby city of Nice. We spent time at the beach, splashing in the sparkling Mediterranean Sea and eating ice cream. One memorable afternoon, we spotted a small octopus gliding through the crystal-clear water. The kids collected bits of sea glass and built sandcastles along the shore, all with the misty silhouette of the Château d’If prison fortress in the distance. These days provided the perfect mix of adventure and relaxation by the sea.
Evening: Sunset & Sweet Treats
Back at Tourrettes-sur-Loup, we enjoyed one last evening stroll through the village. Our kids picked out violet flavored sweets, postcards, and small souvenirs before the local shops closed. In the comfort of our cozy VRBO rental, we ended the day with a family movie, unwinding together after our adventures. Before bed, we gathered for family devotions, reading the Bible and reflecting on the day’s experiences. With grateful hearts, we thanked God for the beautiful moments spent learning about history, culture, and the world around us.
Overall, we absolutely loved exploring this hidden gem of a medieval village. Tourrettes-sur-Loup offers the perfect blend of history, nature, and slow-paced village life. It’s an unforgettable stop for families exploring the French Riviera!
A simple homeschool morning at our vacation rental in Tourrettes-sur-Loup, France.
Medieval passageways lead to local shops and relaxed village life. Tourrettes-sur-Loup captures the essence of old-world France.
Charming family homes are at the heart of this breathtaking village in the French Riviera.
Hi, I’m Katie! I’m a homeschool mom who’s traveling the world with my husband and 4 kids. We raised our family in North Idaho and currently live in Mérida, Mexico. I love Jesus, coffee, creative projects, photography, and traveling. I hope you enjoy our creative ideas and family adventures!
