Travel Guide La Colle-Sur-Loup

The name comes from the hill overlooking the valley, Colle Loubière, which means "wolf hill" in Provençal. When François I modified the ramparts of Saint-Paul (now Saint-Paul-de-Vence) in 1538, a large part of the population was forced to leave. Hamlets sprang up in the surrounding area, including La Colle. With its abundant springs, La Colle was able to grow olives, citrus fruits, cereals and vines, and develop its craft industry. The boom continued and the commune became one of the main suppliers to the Grasse horticultural industry, specializing in the production of roses and perfumed flowers. Its renown earned it the title of "City of Roses". Stroll through the narrow streets and you'll discover a rich religious heritage, old wells and fountains. Once past the Canadel porch, you're in the heart of lively shopping streets and ancient alleyways, where you can admire beautiful carved doors. Near the Saint-Jacques church, a number of antique dealers, brocanteurs and artists have set up studios and galleries selling decorative objects and furniture.Located at the gateway to the Gorges du Loup, the village is also a starting point for numerous walks and hikes in an unspoilt natural setting: in the shade of the majestic plane trees lining the river, only the lapping of the water, the sound of bicycle bells and the clipping of climbers' quickdraws disturb the absolute calm of this verdant area, ideal for birdwatching, picnics, swimming and lazing about.