Tourrettes: Art, History and Walking Trails
Accommodation in Tourrettes
When planning a stay in Tourrettes, there are several specific themes to explore: art in the lanes, architectural history, and paths leading to historic waterworks and into the forest. Tourrettes is accessible via the A8 motorway, exit 39, “Les Adrets, Fayence.” Check road conditions before travelling. Once there, you can choose what to see and which walks to take based on whether you are more interested in art, historic architecture or the landscape.
Art in the Lanes and in the Museum
The Musée à Ciel ouvert extends along the lanes of Tourrettes. It features paintings, sculptures and mosaics; the route brings together different art forms with a walk through the village. Visits are free all year round. Check visiting conditions before your trip.
Another destination for art lovers is the Musée d'Art et d'Essais de Tourrettes. It displays original works by Paul-Maurice Perrier-Morillon as well as works by artists from the village. Admission to this museum is also free of charge all year round. As access conditions may change, it is a good idea to check before your trip. The two museums offer different perspectives: you encounter the Musée à Ciel ouvert in the lanes, while the Musée d'Art et d'Essais presents works in a museum collection.
Architectural History and Notable Places
The Eglise Saint André has two important construction phases. It was built in the 11th century and completely rebuilt in the 15th century, on a single-nave plan and in the Provençal Renaissance style. You can ask for the key at the town hall to visit; check this option locally. The key arrangement may change.
The Tour de l’Horloge rises above the medieval village centre. The square tower is 20 metres high. From there, you can enjoy panoramic views of the Château du Puy, the Maures and the Esterel mountains. Together with the church, it gives a clear sense of how differently architectural forms and history are expressed in Tourrettes: in a religious building with several construction phases and in a tower rising above the historic village centre.
The area’s history can also be discovered beyond these buildings. The restored Dolmen de la Verrerie Vieille was designated a historic monument in 1987. A Roman canal carried water from the Siagnole to Fréjus and runs partly underground through the north-east of the commune of Tourrettes.
Trails, a Washhouse and the Forest
The restored Lavoir du Boudoura is distinguished by its construction: a roof of Roman tiles rests on pillars made of limestone rubble. A walking trail to the Forêt domaniale de Tourrettes starts here. The “Promenade: Vers la forêt domaniale – Tourrettes” walk also passes the washhouse and the ruins of the now-disused Moulin brûlé. Those interested in historic buildings can therefore also view this route through the lens of its landmarks.
The ForĂŞt domaniale de Tourrettes is criss-crossed by numerous canals and aqueducts, including underground sections. Another option is the Circuit patrimoine de Tourrettes, which starts in the village and forms a 1.9-kilometre circular route. This offers a choice between a circular route with a stated distance and a walk featuring named structures. Check local trail conditions before setting off.
Discover more destinations: Saint-Cyr-Sur-Mer, Les Salles-Sur-Verdon, La Martre, Correns, Le Muy, Cavalaire-Sur-Mer, Saint-Raphael, Cap BĂ©nat.
For the broader travel overview: Var.
