After soaking in the glamour of Cannes 🌟, we decided to experience something a little quieter and more authentic. The charming village of Biot 🏡, located just 30 minutes away, was the perfect destination.
Our drive from Cannes was a scenic one 🚙 — coastal views giving way to gentle hills, cypress trees, and the timeless beauty of Provence. This little village, often overlooked by visitors to the French Riviera, truly stole our hearts. 💖
🏛️ A Journey Through Time: The History of Biot
Biot’s history dates back over 2000 years 📜. First settled by Celto-Ligurians, then Romans 🏛️, Biot has seen knights, pirates 🏴☠️, and plagues sweep through.
In the 12th century, the Knights Templar established themselves here ⚔️, and remnants of their legacy still pepper the town. Later, during the Renaissance, Biot became known for its pottery and ceramics 🎨, traditions that continue today.
Perhaps most famously, Fernand Léger, one of the key figures in Cubism 🎨, made Biot his home, and his influence is everywhere — from galleries to a dedicated Fernand Léger Museum just outside the village.
🚶♂️ Things To Do in Biot
🏰 Explore the Old Village
The heart of Biot is a labyrinth of medieval alleyways 🛤️, stone houses, colourful shutters, and artisan workshops. Walking here feels like stepping into a storybook.
Don’t miss:
- Arched stone gateways 🚪
- Secret gardens 🌳
- Flower-filled squares 🌸
⛪ Visit the Sainte-Marie-Madeleine Church
At the centre of Biot lies the Sainte-Marie-Madeleine Church ⛪. Built between the 12th and 15th centuries, it’s filled with intricate artwork, and the atmosphere inside is wonderfully peaceful.
(📹 Insert Biot Church YouTube Video Here)
🔥 Witness Glass-Blowing at La Verrerie de Biot
Biot is renowned for its bubble glass ✨. Visit La Verrerie de Biot to watch artisans work molten glass into masterpieces.
There’s even a beautiful gift shop where you can pick up souvenirs 🎁.
🎨 Discover Art Galleries
From sculptures to ceramics to paintings, Biot’s art scene is alive and thriving 🖼️. Many local artists offer workshops or custom commissions!
🍽️ Where to Eat in Biot
You’re spoilt for choice 🍷🍴 — from Michelin-starred fine dining to cosy pizzerias!
⭐ Fine Dining
- Les Terraillers: Michelin-starred and located in a former pottery studio. Expect imaginative menus and Provençal elegance 🌟.
🍕 Casual Dining
- Cucina Vera: Authentic Italian pizzeria 🍕 with a warm welcome and vegetarian options.
- Le Jardin du Mas: Relax under fig trees 🌳 and enjoy traditional Provençal dishes.
☕ Coffee Break
- Café Brun: A cosy café perfect for a coffee ☕ and a croissant 🥐.
🍷 Where to Enjoy Drinks
Biot’s evening scene is relaxed and friendly:
- La Cave Biotoise 🍷 — Local wine tastings.
- Le Bistrot du Village 🍻 — A great spot for a casual drink and some people-watching.
🛍️ Shopping and Souvenirs
Biot is a paradise for artisan shopping 🛍️:
- Bubble glass 🫙
- Pottery 🏺
- Handmade jewellery 💎
- Art pieces 🎨
Support local artists and take home a unique piece of Provence 🇫🇷.
🗺️ Practical Travel Tips
- Parking: Easy public car parks around the town 🚗.
- Walking: Biot is a walking village. Wear comfortable shoes 👟.
- Timing: Best visited in the morning 🌞 or late afternoon 🌅 to avoid midday heat.
- Nearby: Combine your visit with Antibes, Valbonne, or even a drive to Saint-Paul-de-Vence 🚙.
