🌿 A nature getaway just minutes from Montauroux
Located on the border between Var and Alpes-Maritimes, the Pont des Tuves is a true hidden gem in the Siagne gorges. This 19th-century stone bridge, surrounded by lush and wild nature, is the perfect spot for lovers of hiking, swimming, and peace.
🥾 A pleasant hike accessible to all
The Pont des Tuves is accessible via a lovely hike of about 1 hour round trip, starting from Montauroux. The trail descends gently through a fragrant Mediterranean forest where holm oaks, pines, and chestnut trees line the path.
- Recommended starting point: Parking in the “Valat d’Esclapes” district in Montauroux
- Duration: 45 minutes down / 1 hour back
- Difficulty: Moderate (wear good shoes, especially in wet weather)
💧 River swimming and picnic area
Once at the bottom, you’ll discover the Pont des Tuves spanning the Siagne, a river with clear, fresh water perfect for cooling off in summer. Several small natural beaches invite you to swim or picnic in an unspoiled setting with no tourist infrastructure.
💡 Tip: the water is cool even in summer, but very refreshing after the hike!
📷 A very photogenic natural site
Between the stone bridge, the river reflections, and the surrounding greenery, this is a favorite spot for photographers. In the morning or late afternoon, the light is especially beautiful.
📍 How to get there
From Montauroux: Head towards the “Valat d’Esclapes” district then follow the signs for “Pont des Tuves”.
From Villa Jasmin: About 10 minutes by car + 45 minutes on foot.
🔎 Good to know before you go
- The site is protected: respect nature, leave no trash
- Dogs allowed, kept on a leash
- No refreshment stand or toilets on site
- No mobile network in the valley
ℹ️ For more practical information:
👉 Pont des Tuves – Tourist Office
🏡 Where to stay nearby?
If you are looking for peaceful and comfortable accommodation to discover the Pont des Tuves and the beauties of the Pays de Fayence, our guesthouse Villa Jasmin in Montauroux welcomes you all year round.
🔗 Also discover:
- The most beautiful hilltop villages of the Pays de Fayence
- Top 5 hikes around Lake Saint-Cassien
- Why choose a guesthouse for your holidays in Provence
The Most Beautiful Hilltop Villages of the Pays de Fayence
🏞 A journey into authentic Provence
Located between the sea and the mountains, the Pays de Fayence is a picturesque region of the Var, renowned for its charming hilltop villages. Perched on the hillsides, these villages offer stone alleys, panoramic views, shaded squares, and the typical Provençal art of living.
Here is a selection of the most beautiful hilltop villages of the Pays de Fayence, not to be missed during your stay in the region.
1. Fayence – The emblematic village
As the capital of the area, Fayence is a must-see. With its cobbled streets, 18th-century clock tower, and lively Provençal market, it perfectly blends history and lifestyle.
👉 Don’t miss: the panoramic view from the orientation table, art galleries, and the Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday market.
2. Seillans – Listed among the "Most Beautiful Villages of France"
With its medieval atmosphere, steep alleys, and flower-filled bastides, Seillans enchants at first sight. The painter Max Ernst lived here, and art is still very present today.
👉 Don’t miss: Place de la République, the Saint-Léger church, and contemporary art exhibitions.
3. Callian – Stunning view and village atmosphere
Dominated by its feudal castle, Callian offers a peaceful and authentic atmosphere. Its winding alleys climb up to the church and panoramic viewpoint over the plain.
👉 Don’t miss: the fountains, the view from the Notre-Dame de l’Assomption church, and the church square.
4. Montauroux – Between nature and heritage
This is where Villa Jasmin is located, in the heart of a lively and charming village. Montauroux is also known for being the summer refuge of Christian Dior, in his Château de la Colle Noire.
👉 Don’t miss: the Saint-Barthélemy chapel, the flower-filled alleys, and of course, a visit to the nearby Pont des Tuves.
5. Tourrettes – The artists’ village
Recognizable by its open-air artworks, Tourrettes is like an outdoor gallery. This hilltop village hosts many artists and craftsmen, in a setting full of poetry.
👉 Don’t miss: the municipal gallery, mural frescoes, and the panorama from the château square.
6. Tanneron – Between mimosas and hills
A little off the beaten track, Tanneron is famous for its mimosa forests, especially in winter. It is a discreet but charming village, in the heart of preserved nature.
👉 Don’t miss: the Mimosa Road (January to March), hiking trails, and the view over Lake Saint-Cassien.
📍 How to plan your visit?
All these villages are accessible by car, following a loop itinerary from Montauroux or Fayence. Allow 1 to 2 days for a complete discovery, depending on your pace. A perfect idea for a romantic or cultural stay.
ℹ️ For a detailed itinerary: see the Hilltop Villages Circuit of the Pays de Fayence proposed by the Tourist Office.
🏡 Where to stay to explore the Pays de Fayence?
Located in Montauroux, our guesthouse Villa Jasmin is the ideal starting point to discover the hilltop villages. We welcome you in a peaceful setting, just minutes from Fayence, Callian, or Seillans.
🔗 Also read:
- Visiting the Pont des Tuves in Montauroux: hiking, swimming, and wild nature
- Top 5 hikes around Lake Saint-Cassien
- Our tips for a nature stay in Provence
Top 5 Hikes around Lake Saint-Cassien
🌿 Discover the most beautiful hikes around Lake Saint-Cassien
Located in the heart of the Pays de Fayence, Lake Saint-Cassien is an ideal destination for nature and hiking lovers. Surrounded by forests, hills, and wild landscapes, it offers the perfect setting for walks accessible to all levels.
Here is our selection of the 5 best hikes around Lake Saint-Cassien, between forest trails, exceptional panoramas, and preserved natural sites.
1. Complete tour of Lake Saint-Cassien (about 14 km)
This easy, well-marked hike goes all the way around the lake. You’ll enjoy a 360° view of the water, surrounding hills, and unspoiled nature. Perfect for a family walk or a relaxing outing.
Duration: 3h30 to 4h
Difficulty: Easy
Highlights: Swimming beaches, picnic areas, bird watching.
2. Waterfalls and caves trail (about 8 km)
A more challenging hike that takes you through a dense forest to hidden waterfalls and natural caves. An immersive nature adventure with a touch of exploration.
Duration: 2h30
Difficulty: Moderate
Highlights: Waterfalls, local wildlife, shaded areas.
3. Mimosa trail (about 7 km) — winter special
From January to March, discover the blooming mimosa forests around the lake. This trail offers a unique spectacle of colors and scents.
Duration: 2h
Difficulty: Easy
Highlights: Mimosa blossoms, panoramic views, calm and serenity.
4. Hike to the summit of Malmont (about 10 km)
For the more athletic, this route leads to the summit of Malmont, the highest point with a breathtaking view of the lake, the mountains, and even the distant Mediterranean.
Duration: 4h
Difficulty: Hard
Highlights: 360° panorama, local biodiversity, thrills.
5. Historical circuit around Saint-Cassien (about 6 km)
An itinerary combining nature and heritage, with visits to ancient remains, mills, and small chapels around the lake.
Duration: 2h
Difficulty: Easy
Highlights: Local history, varied landscapes, shaded paths.
📍 Practical tips for your hikes around the lake
- Recommended equipment: good walking shoes, water, hat, sunscreen.
- Best seasons: spring, autumn, and winter for the mimosa trail.
- Access: car parks around the lake, easy starting points from Montauroux or Saint-Cassien.
- Respect nature: stay on marked trails and leave no trash.
🏡 Where to stay to enjoy the hikes?
Our guesthouse Villa Jasmin in Montauroux is the perfect place to relax after a day of adventure. Peace, comfort, and immediate proximity to the trails await you.
🔗 To go further:
- Visiting the Pont des Tuves in Montauroux: hiking, swimming, and wild nature
- Hilltop Villages Circuit of the Pays de Fayence