Medieval Eze on the French Riviera is a Top Vino con Vista Site

1. The Jardin Botanique d’Èze, also called the Jardin exotique d’Èze or simply the Jardin d’Èze has several hundred varieties of rare succulent plants. Jardin Exotique is locted on the top of Eze Village. This lovely botanical garden in Èze was created after World War II on ruins by former town mayor André Gianton and Jean Gastaud of the Jardin Exotique de Monaco. The botanical garden has panoramic views of the coast and of the sea. Follow the sign that says “Jardin Exotique Panorama”. It is famous for its impressive collection of cactus and succulents from the Mediterranean region, Africa, and the Americas.

2. There are many interesting sites in the charming medieval village of Eze that forms a circular pattern around the base of the old castle. Stroll through the village’s arched passages and stone alleyways with and ancient fountains. Eze has many shops, art galleries, hotels and restaurants that attract a large number of tourists. It offers gorgeous panoramic views of the Mediterranean Sea. The oldest building in the village is the Chapelle de la Sainte Croix that dates back to 1306. Members of the lay order of the White Penitents of Eze who were in charge of giving assistance to plague victims, held their meetings there. The shape of the bell-turret is an indication that the village once belonged to Provence.

3. Visit the charming church of Notre Dame de l’Assomption (Our Lady of the Assumption) built in 1764. Eglise Notre-Dame De L’ Assomption is situated at the heart of the famous eagle’s nest. The church stands out from the village’s medieval architecture because of its classic façade, characterized by the bell-tower. Consecrated in 1772, the church has beautiful Baroque altarpieces.

4. The Fragonard perfume factory headquartered in Grasse has a sales outlet and factory in Eze.

5. Hike on the foot-path named after the philosopher Frederic Nieztsche called the Nietzsche Way. You can take this path down to the train station and beach called Saint Laurent d’Eze. It will take about 45 minutes to go down. I did not want to hike up this arduous trail to Eze Village.

6. Stay and/or dine at the landmark Relais and Chateaux Property in Eze Village called Chateaux de la Chevre d’Or with 31 rooms and 6 suites on du Barrie www.chevreder.com. It has a great kidney-shaped pool with terraced gardens.

The outstanding restaurant is operated by a chef who has earned prestigious Michelin stars. The dining room has splendid “Vino con Vista” views overlooking the sea and the countryside. The hotel has superb terraced gardens along with lovely statues and a life-sized chess set.