Painting in Villefranche-sur-Mer is a Big Yes!

Busy Beachgoers

After many years of hearing and reading about this famous spot on the French Riviera I took a scouting expedition last year to see if it would be a suitable and inspirational spot for a painting day during my Vence 8 Day Workshop. Painting in Villefranche-sur-Mer is a Big Yes!

Our Painting Location Under the Pines

There are innumerable spots that scream great painting location, especially for a solo painter. But I was specifically looking for a location that provided great iconic Riviera views, adequate safe and comfortable space for a group, water and bathroom access, plus easy access for transporting ourselves and our art gear.

Busy Beach and the Blue Blue Sea by V. S. Fergus

We spent our morning painting at The Plage des Marinieres.  This beautiful location that met all the requirements for my group. We had a shaded spot under the parasol pines and an unobstructed view of the sea, beach, and village.

Incredible Day of Painting at Villefranche-sur-Mer

Our view included the Bay of Villefranche, with the backdrop of the tiered ancient village of Villefranche-sur-Mer and the Maritime Alps.

Curved Bay of Villefranche

We were so lucky as the weather was the best possible and the water was several impossible shades of blue!

Incredible Blue Water of the Bay of Villefranche

Lunch was a special treat enjoyed at the landmark restaurant La Mere Germaine which enjoys the best views of the Bay of Villefranche.

Lunch at Historic La Mere Germaine

After lunch we viewed the Chapelle Saint Pierre des Pecheurs decorated inside and out by Jean Cocteau. It is a marvel and dedicated to Saint Peter, the patron saint of fishermen.

Chapel Decorated by Jean Cocteau

In addition to incredible and curated Plein air painting opportunities, my painting workshops always include special experiences that are focused on premier and historic artistic and cultural sites at our painting locations.
La Mere Germaine is an iconic restaurant and Chapelle Saint-Pierre is a thank you from Jean Cocteau to Villefranche-sur-Mer and his cherished local fisherman friends.

Unanimous conclusion: Painting in Villefranche-sur-Mer is a Big Yes!

Kathryn set up for painting at Villefranche-sur-Mer

Virginia Fergus leads small group Plein Air Painting Workshops in Italy and France that are unique opportunities for creative immersion and personal transformation. Each workshop includes plein air painting experiences in curated locations, sensitive and personal instruction, experienced and empathetic guidance, artistic immersion, beautiful accommodations and delicious meals in authentic and particular locations, and new friends for the journey. Ginny's personal motto is “Authentic, Intimate, Beautiful” and is the creative and experiential goal of each workshop. To learn more, visit www.vsfergus.com Slow Travel Tours is an affiliation of small-group tour operators who offer personalized trips in Italy, France and other European countries.