In the heart of Lavandou, the Restanques de Saint-Clair are a true natural treasure to discover all year round. The stone terraces called -restanques-, shaped by the hand of man over the centuries, bear witness to a rich past. But also traditional know-how that has lasted through the generations. Set off to discover this heritage steeped in history.
The terraces of Saint-Clair A little history…
Dry stone walls called terraces ou terraces in Provence, are an integral part of thehistory of Lavandou. At the end of the 19th century, Piedmontese diggers built the terraces of Saint-Clair for early and flower crops.
It was in March 2017 that the kick-off was given for the terraces project. Saint-Clair.
6 hectares constitute the terraces of Saint-Clair. The objective is to preserve this exceptional site. And to restore the plots to cultivation to revive the soul of the place. The rehabilitation of theancient noria was launched in June 2018. This hydraulic work of yesteryear has been completely restored to working order.
An exceptional heritage
The gardeners from the city's green spaces department Le Lavandou maintain terraces of Saint-Clair all year. Throughout the seasons, they cultivate different fruits and vegetables in a organic permaculture vegetable garden intended for the preparation of meals in the communal restaurant. You find all kinds of fruits and vegetables there; “Pineapple” tomatoes, “beef heart”, “Noire de crimeée” zucchini, eggplant and peppers, olive trees, almond trees.
The flowers are also used for local purposes. During the flowered corso, the worries of the terraces are pilfered on the tank of the city. And in summer, sunflowers are offered to elderly people, who benefit from having meals delivered to their homes.
Want to discover this exceptional place?
Every year, during the national event – Meet at the gardens – the tourist office of Lavandou organizes commented tours on terraces of Saint-Clair in order to share the local culture. The opportunity to discover explanations on how the waterwheel works. Also learn more about the site's irrigation system which includes numerous underground galleries. But also description of crops and know-how in the vegetable garden. You can also enjoy the superb panorama of the Bay of Saint-Clair. It is one of the ideal places for nature lovers to rediscover Le Lavandou From another angle.
