Arts & Crafts Day Trip

The French Riviera has attracted and inspired the world’s most famous artists, but it also boasts a wealth of craftsmen who keep century old traditions alive through their mastery of local arts and crafts. From glassblowing to pottery, leatherwork to sculpture, you can meet the craftsmen and explore their workshops in the villages of the French Riviera's hinterland. Here at Friend in France, we love helping visitors engage with locals in order to gain a better understanding of Riviera life, past and present. This tour offers a great opportunity to do just that.

THE ITINENARY

1st STOP – Vallauris

Your first stop will be Vallauris in the hills just a stone’s throw from Cannes.

Vallauris is a quiet town best known for its handcrafted ceramics. Even Picasso was inspired to set his potter’s wheel spinning during the time he spent here from 1948 to 1955.

As you wander through the streets, your Friend in France guide will show you one of Picasso’s few fresco masterpieces, painted on a vaulted chapel ceiling.  

2nd STOP – A local potter's workshop

A short stroll from the chapel museum, you will push the door open to Fabienne’s workshop and boutique ‘Bleu d’argile’ (clay blue).

Fabienne is a talented potter who is passionate about her profession and loves sharing her know-how with visitors. As you visit her workshop, she will explain the creation process from conception to the finished ceramic object.

3rd STOP – Antibes

From Vallauris follow the scenic coastal road to Antibes where we will stop for a relaxing lunch in a local restaurant, or a quick snack on the beach. Whichever you choose, your guide will help you find a nice view and some tasty food.

Before leaving Antibes, you will have time to see the impressive ramparts (fortifications) and the picturesque streets of the old town.

4th STOP - Biot village

Your journey will continue eastwards along the coastal road to the village of Biot. Known as the Riviera’s Arts & Crafts paradise, this village is bursting at the seams with talented artisans creating unique pottery, leather goods, glassware, candles, etc…

5th STOP - A traditional glass blowing workshop

Biot is most famous for its glass-blowing, a craft practiced in the village since ancient times. Your guide will take you just a few minutes from the heart of Biot village to visit a fascinating workshop where local glass-blowers can be seen hard at work creating the famous bubble-glass of Biot