Monte Carlo and Saint-Paul de Vance – Two Worlds

An hour’s drive from Monte Carlo in Monaco lies the medieval hilltop village of Saint-Paul de Vance in France.

With its Roman walls intact, Saint-Paul has endured remarkably well over its long history.

The narrow, winding, cobbled walkways snake their way through the village to the church of Saint-Paul and after the climb you are rewarded with stunning views over the Cote D’Azur and the Alps.

In its more recent history, Saint-Paul became a haven for artists with the village and its surrounding landscapes providing inspiration to the likes of Marc Chagall and his contemporaries – in fact Chagall is buried in the village churchyard.

Popular with visitors, the village is predominated by elegant art and antique shops as well as holiday rental homes but its ancient buildings are unspoiled by modern day trends.

Back in Monte Carlo we looked out over the Principality's unquestionably beautiful harbour and the concrete jungle of overpriced apartments crammed into every available inch of land. The green domes of the Casino – Monaco’s hallmark - appeared to have a defiant look. Who are you people it seemed to say.

In spite of the Bentleys, Ferraris and Aston Martins vying for position in Casino Square, the high priced real estate and the rarefied air taken in by the Monegasques, one unfortunate conclusion remained that day. No deep inhaling of that sea air recommended outside the Casino - the drains were making their presence felt. How awful for those poor people!