Saint Martin is set on a rise above the broad riverbed in the High Var Valley. The surrounding fields and meadows are bordered by wooded slopes which climb to 'alps', high ledges of summer grazing, above which the rocky peaks of the mountains stand majestic. Behind the quiet façade of the village, narrow alleys reveal charming houses and an unexpected hay-barn, while on the central street front doors open to a stable and a cow byre. The pretty 13th century church with its separate bell-tower contains a fine Renaissance altar-piece and can be visited by collecting an enormous key from the town hall. Although Saint Martin's population is slowly dwindling, summer evenings are punctuated by the gentle thud and click of the village game of boules, and benches around the fountain are crowded with locals chatting over their newspapers. The surrounding farms produce milk and cheese, and the village butcher cures his own hams as well as selling a few simple supplies.
