Aiguines

Aiguines, a charming Provençal village, rests at an elevation of approximately 800 meters, offering expansive views over the Lac de Sainte-Croix and the Valensole plateau. This delightful commune in the Var department serves as a gateway to the grand Gorges du Verdon, Europe's largest canyon. Its location within the Verdon Natural Regional Park makes it a prime spot for nature enthusiasts and those seeking an authentic Provençal experience.

Walking through Aiguines reveals a landscape of faded pastel houses, narrow streets, and a central square, Place de la Fontaine, complete with a bell-tower, sundial, and a historic fountain. The village, though small, provides a tranquil escape, distinct from the bustling French Riviera. It's a place where the pace slows, inviting visitors to appreciate the serene beauty of the Verdon region.

Aiguines possesses a history stretching back to prehistoric times, with evidence of early occupation and a Gaulish oppidum. A Roman road once traversed the area, and by 1021, a medieval castrum (fortified settlement) was documented. The village developed under various feudal lords, including the Baux, Blacas, Gauthier, and Sabran families. The Château d'Aiguines, a prominent landmark, originated as a 13th-century fortified bastide, possibly constructed by the Knights Templar at the request of the Bishop of Riez.

In the early 17th century, Balthazar de Gauthier transformed the medieval fortress into a pleasure castle, adding four corner towers and a decorative portal in 1606. Further modifications in the 18th century included outbuildings, an aqueduct to supply spring water, and a courtyard fountain. The castle's facades and roofs, particularly its distinctive colored tiles, are now recognized as historic monuments.

From the 16th century onward, Aiguines gained renown for its wood-turning craftsmanship, particularly using local boxwood. This industry peaked in the 19th and early 20th centuries, with artisans producing tools, utensils, and notably, 'boules cloutées'—wooden pétanque balls reinforced with hundreds of nails. The village's population in the 19th century reached around 900, with half residing in the village and the other half on the Canjuers plain, engaged in pastoralism and horse breeding. However, a significant portion of the territory was requisitioned by the military in 1968, leading to the abandonment of some hamlets and farms. Today, tourism drives the local economy, capitalizing on Aiguines' proximity to the Verdon Gorges and the Lac de Sainte-Croix, which was formed in 1973–1974.

Begin your exploration at the heart of Aiguines, the Place de la Fontaine, where pastel-painted houses, a traditional bell-tower, and a sundial create a quintessential Provençal scene. From here, wander through the narrow lanes that characterize the village. The 17th-century Château d'Aiguines, though privately owned and not open for tours, is a striking sight with its Renaissance architecture and distinctive polychrome glazed tiles adorning its round towers.

Visit the Church of Saint-Jean and Notre-Dame, the main church of Aiguines, which has roots in a medieval chapel and was expanded in the 17th century. For expansive vistas across the Lac de Sainte-Croix, seek out the Chapel of Saint-Pierre, an 11th-century Romanesque chapel that once served as the village's primary church. Another essential stop is the Musée des Tourneurs sur Bois (Woodturners' Museum), which delves into Aiguines' historical craft of woodturning and the creation of the unique 'boules cloutées.' For outdoor enthusiasts, the surrounding Verdon Natural Regional Park offers numerous hiking opportunities, including trails to the summit of Grand Margès, and water activities on the Lac de Sainte-Croix, such as kayaking, paddleboarding, and electric boating.

Aiguines is most enjoyable from May through October, when temperatures are comfortable, ranging from 18°C to 28°C. July is typically the hottest month, with average daytime highs around 28°C, and also the sunniest, averaging 11.6 hours of sunshine daily. While July and August are the driest months, some rainfall can still be expected. The shoulder seasons of May, June, September, and October offer pleasant weather for exploring, with a good balance of sunny and rainy days. Autumn, particularly September, brings Indian summer warmth and lively foliage, with the lake still warm enough for swimming.

Aiguines is located in the Var department of the Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur region. The village is approximately 9 km from the Lac de Sainte-Croix. The local Tourist Office of the Lakes and Verdon Gorges, located at 1 Place de la Mairie, can assist with planning your visit and finding accommodation. Their phone number is +33 (0)4 94 70 21 64. The village hosts a weekly market every Tuesday morning, where you can find local products such as lavender, honey, and truffles. For those interested in local gastronomy, Aiguines is known for its truffles, olive oil, wines, honeys, and cheeses. Several local shops, like 'Autour de la Table,' offer regional culinary specialties. While the Château d'Aiguines is private, its exterior and gardens are visible.