Grimaud

Grimaud is a classic village perché, a few kilometres inland and magnificently positioned for views out to sea. These days the view is a peaceful panorama of the Maures hills,  the Golfe de St Tropez and the deep blue expanse of the Mediterranean, but when Grimaud was built the important of the extensive view was to watch out for invasion by sea. The village is named after the Grimaldi family, still in power in Monaco, and was bequeathed to a Genoese nobleman, Gibelin de Grimaldi by William the Good of Provence, in reward for his support in driving the Saracens from Provence in the 10th century.

The chateau which dramatically dominates the heights of the town dates from the 11th century and originally had three enclosures and four enormous towers. Much of it was destroyed during the 17th century wars of religion and later after the Revolution. But impressive ruins of the original towers remain, along with remnants of the stone windows, and give a very good idea of the medieval defensive building. The chateau is owned by descendants of the Castellane family who owned it before the Revolution, and it is now protected as  a Monument Historique. There are live performances there during the summer.

The village which clusters round the castle is a delight, and rewards meandering round its steep, winding streets, decorated everywhere with flowers and fountains. Shady squares provide cool retreat from the sun in summer,  and in the quieter seasons of spring and autumn the heights of the village  breathe peace and fresh air. Many of the buildings house craftsmen and artisans, whose wares enliven the medieval streets.