Underrated seaside town just like Venice completely ignored by tourists

is not the onlywhere travellers can enjoy scenic . In fact, there is one coastal town in that rivals the Italian tourist hub in food and colourful architecture while adding a distinctly French flair.

is arguably one of the most famous coastal towns in the world, despite only being in existence for approximately 50 years. Nicknamed “The Little Venice of Provence” it must be stated that this town is much more than a .

Playful frescoes and green energy have made Port Grimaud a beloved travel destination in just a few short years. Located in the Gulf of , the village is at once quiet and imbued with French luxury.

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The town was the vision of the Alsatian architect and urban planner, François Spoerry, who is today called the ‘Father of Port Grimaud. Spoerry bought the stretch of marshland in 1964 and had a desire to create a lake city inspired by his travels to Greece and around the Mediterranean.

For the roughly citizens of the village, Spoerry wanted a “soft style of architecture” defined by curving canals, open public spaces and homes resembling those in fishing towns. Today, Port Grimaud also encompasses 12 islands, which are connected up by 14 bridges.

Spoerry’s vision of a vibrant village is emphasised by the trompe l’œil (trick of the eye) frescoes decorating the building facades. The most well-known image to keep an eye out for is that of a Provençal lady looking down on the market square from a painted window.

Another architectural gem of the city are the cast-iron pillars supporting many balconies along the canal. These designs make clear Spoerry’s Venice inspiration for the village and are situated directly opposite the shopping arcades.

The village is also a huge proponent of alternative green energies. This is in part because - apart from selected residents - cars are not allowed in the coastal village. Water taxi boats are one of the main ways locals get around and they are powered by .

Travellers can also ferry along these specific residential routes for a fee. Alternatively, visitors can take part in boat tours or electric boat excursions that last between 20 to 30 minutes.

If you wish to commandeer your own electric boats, you can do so even if you don’t have a boat license. Riding in this fashion will cost approximately €20 per half-hour ride, plus a €30 deposit. Keep in mind there is usually a maximum capacity of five people.

As you tour the canals, another major landmark to keep an eye out for is La Tour Des Célibataires - also known as Single’s Towers. The fortress-like tower dates back to 1966 and was originally used to house seasonal workers.

Other key attractions to visit include François Spoerry’s house in an architectural style similar to the Tour Des Célibataires as well as the architect’s tomb in the Church of Saint-François d’Assise. Travellers can also see a scale-model of Spoerry’s initial design of the village in the Tourist Information Office.

That said, keep in mind that the Tourist Office is only open during high season, between April to September. Similarly, boat tours and excursions are also limited during the winter months.

The area surrounding Port Grimaud has also become a popular hub for, with campsites in the Var situated just a few kilometres from the village centre. Campers can pick their preferred stay from a choice of mobile home with all the modern amenities, an authentic camping pitch or a basic tent.