Fête des violettes
1 / 10

Bastide aux Violettes Tourrettes-sur-Loup

4.3
·255 reviews·Tourrettes-sur-Loup, France

Discover the fragrant history of violet cultivation at Bastide aux Violettes, a charming museum and garden in Tourrettes-sur-Loup.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Oct - Mar mornings

Violet harvest season

CrowdLow
Loading map...
Fête des violettes

Bastide aux Violettes Tourrettes-sur-Loup

Best Time

Oct - Mar mornings

Violet harvest season

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Discover the fragrant history of violet cultivation at Bastide aux Violettes, a charming museum and garden in Tourrettes-sur-Loup.

4.3
(255 reviews)

"A cute little place with good history of violet cultivation and a very reasonable €2 entry fee."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Affordable Entry Fee

A very reasonable €2 entry fee for adults makes this a budget-friendly gem. Kids under 18 often get in free!

🌸 Taste Violet Delights

Sample sweet dried violet petals during your visit and explore the shop for sublime violet perfumes and sweets.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Violet Greenhouse Tour

Violet Greenhouse Tour

Greenhouse area

Step into the vibrant greenhouse and witness the unique cultivation methods of the iconic violet flower.

Violet History Exhibition

Violet History Exhibition

Museum area

Discover the deep connection between Tourrettes-sur-Loup and the violet flower through engaging displays.

Artistic Sculptures

Artistic Sculptures

Park area

Admire contemporary sculptures by Monsieur Stora, adding an artistic flair to the gardens.

Violet Products Shop

Violet Products Shop

Gift shop

Indulge in a variety of handmade violet products, from perfumes to sweets.

Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Timing Your Visit for Violet Perfection

The Bastide aux Violettes is most vibrant during the violet harvest season, typically from October to March. Visiting outside these months still offers a delightful experience, especially during the summer evenings when events are held. Check local listings for special events like concerts or the annual Fête des Violettes.

Embrace the Local Charm

This charming spot celebrates the region's unique violet cultivation history. Expect a focus on the flower's heritage, innovative growing methods, and local artisanal products. It's a peaceful retreat, perfect for a relaxed exploration of local culture and natural beauty.

Best Times

When
Oct - Mar mornings
Why
Violet harvest season
Crowd
Low
When
Summer evenings
Why
Concerts & events
Crowd
Medium
When
Fête des Violettes
Why
Annual village celebration
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

🌸 Dans les hauteurs de Tourrettes-sur-Loup, Katia Chastel perpétue une tradition unique : la culture de la violette 💜. Dans la serre de la famille Coche, située au sein de la Bastide aux Violettes, elle partage avec passion l’histoire de cette fleur emblématique, ses méthodes innovantes et son lien fort avec le village. Un patrimoine vivant à découvrir sans modération 👇 🎥 #Portrait #Violette #T...
tavilletavie
145 likes • 4.7K views

🎯 Affordable Entry Fee

A very reasonable €2 entry fee for adults makes this a budget-friendly gem. Kids under 18 often get in free! Reddit

🌸 Taste Violet Delights

Sample sweet dried violet petals during your visit and explore the shop for sublime violet perfumes and sweets. Reddit

#Bastide aux Violettes: un espace touristique dédié aux jardins, spectacles, événements, détente et rencontres. C'est une histoire d'amour qui perdure, enrichie par une identité qui se réinvente aujourd'hui à travers des sculptures contemporaines de monsieur STORA. Il suffit d'un projet simple et peu coûteux, ancré dans le terroir méditerranéen, et soutenu par la volonté d'une équipe municipale et...
catherineyot
7 likes • 475 views
[VIDÉO]🌿🌸 Inauguration du Parc de la Bastide aux Violettes à Tourrettes-sur-Loup 🌸🌿 Découvrez en vidéo un nouvel écrin paysager dans le village de Tourrettes sur Loup. Porté avec ambition par la commune et la CASA, ce projet de 1,2 M€, allie nature, culture et lien social sur 6 325 m² dans un cadre exceptionnel. 🌳 Un parc pour tous, avec des salons ombragés, des espaces de pique-nique sous les o...
casa_sophia_antipolis
17 likes • 478 views

🌿 Explore the New Park

Discover the recently inaugurated Parc de la Bastide aux Violettes, a green space with play areas and art installations. Instagram+1

🎶 Check for Evening Events

The Bastide hosts summer evening events, including concerts, offering a magical experience. Instagram

Retrouvez Pays de Grasse Tourisme, à la Fête des Violettes à Tourrettes-sur-Loup aujourd’hui et demain. Au programme : Marché Provençal, Visite de la Bastide aux Violettes, et demain à 14h30, Corso fleuri & bataille des fleurs ! . . . . . #paysdegrasse #vibrerpaysdegrasse #tourrettes #tourrettessurloup #violette #violettes #fleurs #fleur #flower #flower #flowerstagram #visite #visit #visiting #co...
paysdegrassetourisme
85 likes • 2.6K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Affordable Entry Fee

A very reasonable €2 entry fee for adults makes this a budget-friendly gem. Kids under 18 often get in free! Reddit

🌸 Taste Violet Delights

Sample sweet dried violet petals during your visit and explore the shop for sublime violet perfumes and sweets. Reddit

🌿 Explore the New Park

Discover the recently inaugurated Parc de la Bastide aux Violettes, a green space with play areas and art installations. Instagram+1

🎶 Check for Evening Events

The Bastide hosts summer evening events, including concerts, offering a magical experience. Instagram

📸 Perfect for Photos

The vibrant colors of the violets and the artistic sculptures make this a picturesque spot for photography. Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.3
(255 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors find the Bastide aux Violettes a charming and affordable spot to learn about the region's violet cultivation history. The greenhouse tour and the opportunity to sample violet products are highlights, though some find the exhibition itself a bit brief. The recent addition of a park with sculptures enhances the overall experience, making it a pleasant stop for a relaxed exploration.

"Cute little place. Good history of violet cultivation, opportunity to visit the greenhouse. €2 for adults is very reasonable. They have a toilet and a small shop for souvenirs. Highly recommended!"

Dan Vanderhorst

"2 euros per person. Worth it. Lady working here is super nice and helpful."

John Adlesich

"Lovely history of violets from the region."

Colette Katuala

What People Like

Affordable entry fee
Violet greenhouse tour
Charming gift shop

What People Dislike

Brief exhibition

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Bastide aux Violettes is located in the charming village of Tourrettes-sur-Loup. If driving, follow signs for the village center. Parking is available nearby. Public transport options might involve buses from larger towns like Nice or Vence; check local schedules for the most up-to-date routes. Instagram

While direct public transport to the Bastide itself might be limited, Tourrettes-sur-Loup is served by regional buses. It's advisable to check the latest bus routes and schedules from nearby cities like Nice or Vence to plan your journey effectively.

The most common way to reach Tourrettes-sur-Loup is by car, offering scenic drives through the French Riviera. Alternatively, you can take a bus from Nice or Vence, which are well-connected by public transport.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Admission is very affordable, typically costing around €2 for adults. Children under 18 often receive free entry, making it a great value for families. Reddit

Opening hours can vary seasonally. It's recommended to check their official website or social media pages for the most current operating times before your visit. Some sources suggest it's open during daylight hours, but specific times should be confirmed.

For general visits, advance booking is usually not required due to the low entry fee and the nature of the attraction. However, for special events or group visits, it's always a good idea to inquire about booking procedures.

While there isn't a formal, extensive guided tour in the traditional sense, the staff, like Katia Chastel, are passionate and can share insights about violet cultivation. The exhibition itself provides information through displayed articles and photos. TikTokReddit

📸 📸 Photography

Yes, photography is generally permitted and encouraged, especially in the greenhouse and the park areas. The vibrant colors of the violets and the contemporary sculptures offer beautiful photo opportunities. Instagram

The greenhouse filled with blooming violets is a prime spot. The park area with its modern sculptures and the charming village backdrop also provide excellent photographic subjects. Instagram

While generally allowed, it's always polite to be mindful of other visitors and avoid intrusive photography, especially if there are any special events or performances taking place.

🍽️ 🛍️ Shopping & Dining

The gift shop offers a delightful range of handmade violet products, including exquisite perfumes, sweet violet and rose candies, and other souvenirs related to the flower. Reddit

While there isn't a full restaurant on-site, you can sample violet-flavored sweets. For a more substantial meal, the village of Tourrettes-sur-Loup offers several charming local restaurants and cafes.

Information about purchasing live violet plants is not explicitly mentioned, but the shop focuses on finished violet products. It's best to inquire directly if you are interested in buying plants.

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Bastide aux Violettes offers a gentle introduction to local culture and nature for families. The affordable entry fee, with free admission for children under 18, makes it an accessible outing. Reddit The new park area is a significant draw, featuring play zones where kids can burn off energy. Instagram While the museum exhibits might be more engaging for adults, the greenhouse visit and the opportunity to taste violet sweets provide sensory experiences that children can enjoy. The overall atmosphere is relaxed, allowing families to explore at their own pace without feeling rushed. Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

For budget-conscious travelers, the Bastide aux Violettes is an excellent choice. The nominal entry fee of €2 for adults is a bargain, especially considering the unique historical and horticultural insights offered. Reddit You can easily spend an hour or two here, enjoying the greenhouse, the exhibition, and the charming shop without breaking the bank. Packing a picnic to enjoy in the nearby village or the park area can further enhance a budget-friendly visit. Instagram

🌸 Flower Enthusiasts & Gardeners

This is a must-visit for anyone passionate about flowers, particularly violets. The guided tour of the greenhouse provides a fascinating look into the specific cultivation techniques used for this delicate flower. TikTokInstagram Learning about the history and regional significance of violet farming in Tourrettes-sur-Loup adds a rich layer to the experience. The opportunity to purchase violet-based products, like perfumes, offers a tangible connection to the flower's enduring appeal. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Enduring Legacy of the Violet

Bastide aux Violettes is more than just a museum; it's a living testament to Tourrettes-sur-Loup's historical connection with the violet flower. For over 150 years, this fragrant bloom has been central to the village's identity and economy. The Bastide, through its greenhouse tours and exhibitions, meticulously details the unique cultivation methods that have been passed down through generations. Visitors can learn about the delicate harvesting process, which typically occurs from October to March, and understand why this flower became so emblematic of the region. TikTokInstagramReddit

The passion for violets extends beyond cultivation. The annual Fête des Violettes is a major event, drawing thousands to celebrate with parades, flower floats, and vibrant festivities. This deep-rooted tradition is what the Bastide aux Violettes aims to preserve and share. It's a place where you can truly appreciate the history, the aroma, and the cultural significance of this small but mighty flower. Instagram+1

Recent developments have further enhanced the visitor experience. The inauguration of the Parc de la Bastide aux Violettes has transformed the area into a multi-faceted destination. This new park, designed as a space for relaxation, culture, and social connection, features green spaces, play areas, and contemporary art installations, making it an ideal spot for families and art enthusiasts alike. Instagram+1

Experiencing the Bastide: Beyond the Blooms

While the violets are undoubtedly the star, the Bastide aux Violettes offers a multifaceted experience. The museum section, though described by some as brief, provides a historical overview through articles, photos, and postcards, giving context to the violet's importance in the region. Reddit Visitors can also sample dried violet petals, a unique sensory experience that connects them directly to the flower's essence. The adjacent gift shop is a treasure trove of artisanal products, including highly praised violet perfumes and delicious violet-flavored sweets, perfect for souvenirs. Reddit

The Bastide has also become a venue for cultural events, particularly during the summer. The 'Soirées Estivales' have featured concerts, adding a lively dimension to the tranquil setting. Imagine enjoying live music amidst the beauty of the French Riviera, with the scent of flowers in the air – a truly memorable experience. Instagram The recent addition of the park further diversifies the attractions, offering areas for children to play and spaces to admire contemporary sculptures by artist Monsieur Stora, blending nature, art, and community. Instagram+1

You may also like