The Provençal village of Cotignac
A majestic village typical of Provence located at the base of an 80-metre high rock, Cotignac enjoys a unique natural setting in the heart of the Provence Verte region. Cotignac has a lot of charm and, which is why it has many residents from all over Europe, including artists, writers, photographers... Blessed by a generous nature expressed in the restenches of century-old olive trees, vineyards and wild flowers, all surrounded by the lovely sunshine of Provence. The decor offered by Cotignac makes it one of the most beautiful villages in Provence.
A picturesque setting
At the bottom of the cliff, the old 12th century district is an example of the "dolce vita" atmosphere of this small village, with its cafés and restaurants with fresh and pleasant terraces. The squares shaded by plane trees have many fountains (17 in total!) with fresh and clear water. The old stone houses of the 16th and 17th centuries, the charming alleys, the ornaments and ironwork, visitors discover a vibrant past preserved in the old stones. The new city extends further south with the Place du Cours with its excellent restaurants and colourful terraces. This shopping street also offers many original shops.
The rock of Cotignac
Overlooking the city, it is also interesting because it has numerous caves and troglodytic dwellings to be visited along its cliff. The place was used as a refuge throughout history with various uses (hiding place during looting, cattle or hay boxes, quarry, flour mill...). Among the caves, there is an impressive one: The Salle des Merveilles, a bright white room. The rock from which a waterfall falls is the symbol of Cotignac. In the village they even say in Provençal "Acqéu veira plus la roco, é sera malérous " (the one who will no longer see the rock will be unhappy).
A place of pilgrimage
If Cotignac has all the qualities to attract tourists in search of authenticity and charm, it is also a famous Catholic pilgrimage site, where Louis XIV and his mother Anne of Austria made the trip in 1660, and to commemorate this historic event, a black marble plaque is displayed in the church. The property includes a monastery, inhabited by the Benedictines, a stone church built in 1266 in a perfect style of Provençal Romanesque art. The Saint Martin chapel was built in the 9th century. It is reported that in 1660, a thirsty shepherd received a water source from St. Joseph. The presumed miraculous fountain with its chapel were both the object of pilgrimages, especially for couples trying to have a child.
Staying in Cotignac
You want to come on holiday in Provence? Don't worry, there are plenty of holiday rentals to choose from! And there is something for everyone: holiday home, hotel, apartment hotel or holiday home, you have the choice to plan your stay in the sun!
Activities
In a more classic register, because it is necessary to have a good meal, the village offers many specialities from its terroir such as AOC olive oil, wines and all the sun-drenched products. On Tuesday mornings, a Provençal market is organised in the city and in summer a farmers' market brings together local producers who sell their local products (wine, oil, honey, truffles...) as well as art crafts. History lovers are not forgotten because Cotignac has several classified monuments that are worth a visit, such as the Church of Notre Dame de Graces, the Saint-Martin Chapel or the bell tower and its bell from 1496. Finally, with its many hikes, Cotignac will reconnect you with nature.
Cotignac is a destination not to be missed if you visit Provence!
