One Day in Grasse, France
For our next big outing during our month (and a half) in the south of France, we climbed aboard a train to spend one day in Grasse. Considered by many to be the perfume capital of the world, we were excited to delve into its history.
After disembarking the train, we rounded a bend and hiked up a steep hill. At the top, we found the winding narrow stone streets of old town Grasse. Beautiful moments were everywhere.
For instance, I could have stood in this museum gift shop forever, just gazing at these shutters.
Or breathing in this air.
One particular museum was a definite priority.
We walked through every floor of this large building, taking in the vast history of perfume making.
Originally made purely from plants, the museum noted that, today, chemicals are often used in perfume, instead. Which really makes one think.
But, in spring, visitors see blossoms processed, too. I’d definitely come back for this, as I’d love to tour the flower fields that are still used.
There were vintage images on display everywhere in the museum. My only regret is that I didn’t take more photos of them since they showed important diversity. I took this photo due to my initial startle at seeing a live model next to the word mannequin.
And, just before we left, these beautiful walls drew me deep into the basement.
It’s where old vessels were found, many absolutely ancient.
Back outside, I wish you could have seen the sweet woman who was caring for the Notre-Dame du puy Grasse Cathedral. But it was important to respect her privacy, so I didn’t take photos of her.
We also walked around the cathedral, which took us to a ledge.
It led us to a trail of stairs, which revealed farms in the distance that still grow perfume-making ingredients.
Winding our way back through old town, I had to snap this. It made me wish there was a plant-based artisan nougat or cheese shop in Grasse.
And swaying in the breeze above, pink umbrellas mesmerized many of us walking below.
These were our special moments.
In Grasse.