Grasse (which dates back to the 11th century) is a town of world importance in the perfumery business. Its industrial activities go back to the Renaissance as the first distilleries were established under Catherine de Medicis reign. Since that time, Grasse supplies to the perfumers of the world the most beautiful floral essences because of its rich soil, its exceptional climate, the know-how of the "Grassois", acquired from generations to generations, and the immense knowledge of odors that its perfumers and technicians have.

In 1997, one can still account for 60 different perfume companies, of all sizes.

Beside the perfumeries, Grasse is also ideally situated between sea and mountain: Cannes (and the beaches) is 10 miles away and in winter, a short ride of 45 minutes will take you to very good ski slopes.

Different museums will delight your afternoons, celebrating perfumery, the art and history of Provence and even a Naval museum. (In fact, it is one of France's greatest sailors, François-Joseph Paul Comte de Grasse (1722-1788), who won the Chesapeake naval battle (September 5th 1781) and therefore, put an end to the US War of Independence).

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