Le Bistrot du Pontias

Opened in 1922 and nestled in the heart of the ancient watchtower, it is one of the oldest cafes in Nyons.

It is named after the "Pontias", a northeastern morning wind that cools the hot summer mornings and purifies the air. It is one of the reasons why Nyons enjoys a dry and healthy microclimate.

According to legend, it was Bishop Césaire d'Arles who, at the request of the Nyonsais wishing to escape the summer heat, captured this wind on the Mediterranean coast so that it would spring from the ground and bring the inhabitants refreshing relief. These events are said to have taken place in the 6th century."