Cotignac, Var

Nestled in trees beneath magnificent cliffs, and overlooked by two grand 12th and 13th-century medieval towers, sits the charming village of Cotignac. Located in the Var region of Provence, this is a village not to be missed, if just to explore the spectacular cliffs and caves once used as shelter. Along with the rolling green Provence hills, covered in vineyards, there’s plenty of hiking trails, and a walk to the waterfall at Sillans de Cascade is highly recommended. In the pretty main square, Cours Gambetta, you'll find cafes and restaurants galore, with outdoor seating, a lovely fountain and shade from the plane trees overhead. This is where you'll also find the weekly market, held on a Tuesday morning. Behind the Romanesque church there's a lovely open-air theatre, Le Theatre du Rocher, home to many summer concerts. And, look out for the cariatides, statues of young women, on the narrow Grand'Rue, which were created nearly 400 years ago.