George and Amal Clooney to Open Italian Restaurant in French Village

George and Amal Clooney are expanding their involvement in France with the upcoming opening of their first restaurant together. The Italian eatery will be located in the village of Cotignac, a favored destination for the couple in the South of France.

The new venture is slated to open next spring. The Clooneys are partnering with Canadian hotelier Graham Porter, who owns the nearby Lou Calen hotel. This move comes just months after the actor and his wife, a human rights lawyer, became French citizens and established the country as their primary family residence, while also maintaining their estate in Italy's Lake Como region.

Cotignac, situated in Provence's Var region, is known for its charm, featuring cobblestone streets, pastel-colored houses, and terracotta roofs. The village is no stranger to celebrity visitors, with reports indicating that Brad Pitt and Cindy Crawford have also frequented the area.

The village center offers various dining options, including cafes and bistros. Among the existing establishments are Picotte Provence, known for regional specialties, Jardin Secret, which holds a Michelin Green Star, and La Trattoria. A weekly market is held on Tuesday mornings.

Cotignac has been recognized as one of France's most beautiful villages, listed among Les Plus Beaux Villages de France. Its notable natural attraction is the Rocher de Cotignac, an 80-meter-high limestone cliff with troglodyte cave dwellings and medieval watchtowers. The site's history is tied to the River Cassole, which once flowed over the rock face, creating petrified waterfalls and caves that served as shelters.

Additionally, the Sanctuary of Notre-Dame de Grâces, a 16th-century pilgrimage site, is a notable landmark. For those exploring the region, nearby attractions include the Sillans-la-Cascade waterfall and the Gorges du Verdon. Neighboring villages such as Tourtour, Carcès, and Salernes also offer potential day trip destinations.