Seillans Travel Guide

Your comprehensive guide to Seillans, a charming medieval town in Provence, France, featuring its top attractions, hiking and biking routes, best things to do, food and drink scene, where to stay, and more.


Seillans Travel Guide

Located in the scenic region of Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur in southeastern France, Seillans is a charming medieval town that boasts winding streets, terracotta buildings, and panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. Visitors can take advantage of its rich history, stunning natural scenery, and delicious cuisine, making it a perfect destination for those seeking a relaxing and authentic French experience.

Introduction to Seillans

Seillans is a charming hilltop village that dates back to the 10th century. Its medieval architecture and cobbled streets give visitors a unique sense of ambiance, making it a must-visit destination while in France. The town is located around 20km northwest of Draguignan, making it a relatively short drive from other popular towns such as Cannes and Saint-Tropez.

List of Places to Visit in Seillans

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Maison des Arts: Visitors can explore the local art exhibitions, workshops, and classes offered in this beautiful building in the center of town.
  • Rue des Templiers: Take a stroll down this historic street in Seillans to see the remains of the Knights Templar.
  • Chapelle Notre-Dame-de-l’Ormeau: A visit to this ancient chapel, located just minutes from the center of town, is a must-see for visitors to Seillans.

Natural Attractions of Seillans: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Mount Lachens: The highest peak in the region offers incredible views from the top, and the hiking trail leading up is not to be missed.
  • Lac de Saint-Cassien: This nearby lake offers scenic views and excellent opportunities for boating and swimming.
  • La Quiétude des Sens: This spa in the heart of Seillans offers visitors a chance to relax and recharge, with massages, facials, and more.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Seillans

  • The GR49 trail: This trail runs from Seillans to Draguignan and boasts some of the region’s best views. It’s perfect for hikers and bikers looking for an adventure in the great outdoors.
  • The Seillans—Fayence circuit: This circuit takes visitors from Seillans to Fayence, offering picturesque views of the surrounding countryside along the way.
  • The Seillans—Callian loop: This loop runs from Seillans to Callian, following the tree-lined hills and offering more opportunities for outdoor adventure.

Best Things to Do in Seillans: Activities and Tours

  • Wine tasting tours: Visitors can indulge in one of the region’s specialties by taking a wine tasting tour.
  • Cooking classes: Foodies won’t want to miss the chance to take a cooking class and learn some of the region’s classic dishes.
  • Art workshops: Seillans is known for its arts scene, and visitors can participate in art workshops and classes offered throughout the year.

Week-Long Itinerary for Seillans

Day Activity
Day 1 Explore Seillans on foot
Day 2 Take a wine tasting tour
Day 3 Hike or bike to Mount Lachens
Day 4 Take a day trip to nearby Cannes
Day 5 Take a cooking class and learn how to make Provençal cuisine
Day 6 Visit the Lac de Saint-Cassien
Day 7 Relax at La Quiétude des Sens spa

Food and Drink Scene of Seillans

Must-Try Dishes

  • Ratatouille: A traditional dish in Provence that combines vegetables such as eggplant, tomatoes, and zucchini.
  • Socca: A chickpea flour crepe that is a staple in the region.
  • Daube: A hearty beef stew with red wine and local herbs.

Local Beverages

  • Rosé wine: Provence is known for its dry rosé, the perfect accompaniment to a sunny afternoon in Seillans.
  • Pastis: This anise-flavored drink is a local favorite and perfect for an after-dinner aperitif.

Where to Stay in Seillans: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • La Magnanerie: This lovely bed and breakfast offers comfortable rooms with stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
  • Hotel des Deux Rocs: This centrally located hotel boasts a beautiful swimming pool and is the perfect spot to stay while exploring Seillans.
  • Bastide Saint-Julien: This countryside estate has been converted into a charming bed and breakfast, complete with a pool, gardens, and an orchard.

What to Buy in Seillans: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Seillans is known for its artisanal shops and quaint boutiques, and visitors can take home some unique souvenirs such as:

  • Pottery: The village of Seillans is known for its beautiful pottery, and visitors can take home some locally made and hand-painted pieces.
  • Olive oil: Provence is famous for its olive oil, and visitors can bring home some high-quality bottles as a delicious and memorable souvenir.
  • Lavender products: The region is also known for its lavender fields, and visitors can bring home fragrant lavender soaps, oils, and sachets.

Local Culture and Customs of Seillans

Seillans is a quiet village with a strong sense of local culture. Visitors should respect the local customs, including speaking in French whenever possible and dressing modestly when visiting religious sites.

Best Time to Visit Seillans

The best time to visit Seillans is from May to September when the weather is warm and sunny. The peak season is during the summer months, so visitors should book their accommodations and activities in advance.

Do’s and Don’ts of Seillans

Do:

  • Explore the local artisan shops and boutiques
  • Try the local cuisine and wine
  • Respect local customs and speak in French whenever possible

Don’t:

  • Wear revealing clothing when visiting religious sites
  • Litter or damage natural sites
  • Speak too loudly in public spaces

Safety and Health

Safety in Seillans

Seillans is a generally safe place to visit, but visitors should take the usual safety precautions such as keeping an eye on their belongings and avoiding unlit areas at night.

Health in Seillans

Visitors should make sure they have travel insurance whenever they travel, and bring any necessary medication with them. The tap water in Seillans is safe to drink, but visitors should be cautious when eating raw or undercooked foods.

Getting to Seillans: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Seillans

The closest airports to Seillans are Nice Côte d’Azur Airport and Marseille Provence Airport, both of which offer flights to major European cities as well as destinations further afield.

Bus Stations Near Seillans

There are several bus stations in the nearby city of Draguignan, which connects Seillans to other popular destinations in the region.

Other Options

Visitors can also rent a car and drive to Seillans from nearby cities, as the roads in Provence are well-maintained and easy to navigate.

How to Get Around in Seillans

Seillans is a small town, and visitors can easily explore it on foot. Alternatively, visitors can rent a car or bike and explore the surrounding countryside at their own pace.

Where to Go Next from Seillans: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Cannes: This famous resort town is only a short drive away and offers beautiful beaches and an exciting nightlife scene.
  • Nice: The capital of the Côte d’Azur, Nice boasts beautiful architecture, a lively market scene and an excellent food and drink scene.
  • Monaco: This tiny principality is famous for its glamour and luxury, and visitors can take a day trip to experience the upscale lifestyle.

Conclusion

Seillans is a charming medieval town that offers visitors an authentic Provençal experience. From its rich history and natural beauty to its delicious cuisine and local culture, there’s something for everyone in Seillans.