Did you know that the village of Seillans has been officially designated as one of the most beautiful in France? Anyone who has ever been there will most certainly agree. Over the centuries, the houses of the village were built in tiers with the stone beneath them, thus seemingly growing out of the rock to give a spectacular effect. From the distance Seillans is a mosaic drawn in shades of grey and honey-gold spotted with the pink of the roof tiles.
As you wander the narrow cobblestone streets, a sculpted facade here, an ancient door there, history and beauty are magically intertwined, thus it’s unsurprising to learn that this village has inspired so many artists - from Max Ernst who lived here for a number of years, to the photographer Robert Doisneau (he of the famous lovers' kiss photo). Now ensconced in the upper portion of Seillans, opposite the two famous rocks you will find a 17th century house graced by majestic planes trees (more of those later) itself, one of the high points of Seillans – welcome to the wonderful family residence of the Hotel des Deux Rocs.
The affable owners, Julie and Nicolas, have done a marvellous job in creating a simple, homely atmosphere that allows for all the quirks of an old village house (some floors, for example are slightly curved) and add lashings of comfort and style. Though all distinctive, each room bears the name of a flower used by Grasse’s celebrated perfume producers and cultivated in the countryside around the village: daisy, pimpernel, sea lavender… and decorated with family furniture, original prints, fabric walls and the Provençal quilts called boutis.
The whole atmosphere is warm and luminous. Now back to those plane trees. Meals (from breakfast through to dinner) can be served on the terrace under one of the plane trees. This is incredibly romantic, weather permitting. Alternately, you can try the old restaurant, but whatever the place do have a meal here, it is well worth it and is even been recommended by the Michelin Green Guide.
In short, the Deux Rocs is an intimate and authentic setting - a perfect base from which to discover the beauty of the upper Var region in Provence.