An early Spring Day in the Haut Var, Provence: Cotignac — Part 2/3

An early Spring Day in the Haut Var, Provence

Here, in Provence not only has Spring officially started but it feels like someone turned on a switch and the temperatures have risen, the flowers have bloomed and the sunny terraces are busy again.

I spent a lovely day visiting a few of the many spots that the Haute Var has to offer.  If you’re down by the sea (like me) it’s only about an hour away so it’s a very easy way to spend a day.  Not only is it a beautiful drive but it’s a complete change of atmosphere.  Here you’ll enjoy a beautiful drive through the countryside and will be enchanted by the many villages that are tucked away amongst the grottos and hills.

As always, I loved it, and like every time I go anywhere for the first time, in France I feel just as excited as the first time I arrived over 30 years ago. Here’s what I discovered.

Cotignac

Cotignac

When I arrived in Cotignac I was immediately taken aback by the beautiful Platane trees that line the main street.   They are not yet in bloom but still beautiful as their light branches contrast against the crisp blue sky.

I walked past a little schoolyard where I could hear the children playing and I heard a Mom, talking to her child through the gate in English.  It made me think that this might be a town with lots of expats.

Along this tree-lined street are restaurants, shops, and cafes.  Not many but enough to create a lovely atmosphere.

Cotignac

From everywhere on this street the presence of the large grotto that feels like a protector as they look over the village cannot go unnoticed.

I wandered a bit further along and found myself in a small square.  Here, there was the Hotel de Ville and one restaurant.  It was quiet and quaint and again, must be just heaven in the warmer months.  I loved this little square and of course, there was a fountain.

After a long leisurely walk through the many little streets of Cotignac, we went back to the main street and enjoyed a wonderful lunch.  This is France at its best.  Simple, great food and wine and we were eating outdoors.  It’s only March but it felt like the beginning of summer.  Bliss.

I must admit, that I didn’t make it to the top of the grotto but I will be sure to spend a full day there next time and take it all in.

I really liked Cotignac and would almost consider this a nice place to live or spend a few months.

As you can see, a day out exploring the Haut Var is well worth the effort.

• Here you can visit La Chute de Grand Baou — Part 1/3 of this mini-series, and
• Here you can visit TourTour — Part 3/3, and
• If you’d like to spend more time in the area, I suggest a day trip to Les Gorges du Verdon.  This is a day in itself.

So much to do!!!

Have you been to Haut Var? If not, then enjoy visiting the Haut Var as soon as possible.

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All images are copyrighted by the author.

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