Gourdon, Alpes-Maritimes
Perched village with a spectacular location
One of the most dramatic villages in Provence, Gourdon is situated on top of a rock, overlooking the Vallée du Loup. The views of the valley, all the way to the Mediterranean, are outstanding - you can see Nice and Théuole on a good day.
The Riviera seems like a million miles away in this natural paradise. The Gorge du Loup provides a spectacular back drop to the winding road that takes you up to Gourdon. If you're driving to Gourdon, you need to park at the bottom of the hill and walk up to the pedestrianised village.
Gourdon is fairly typical of the pretty 'perched villages' of Provence, with its well preserved stone houses, gift shops, art galleries and local crafts on sale. Pottery, perfumes and glassware shops make for interesting gift and souvenir shopping. The little lanes and alleys are fun to wander through (it won't take you long) and the kids will love the plentiful sweet shops.
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History & Culture in [locality]
Perched right on the clifftop over the winding Loup River thousands of feet below, Gourdon is a feudal walled village of narrow cobbled lanes and jumbled stone buildings, all presided over by a 17th century fortress. If you look down from the ramparts you can see the ancient donkey trail that was once the only access route.
The narrow twisting streets are crammed with shops and artisan workshops selling all sorts of soaps, jewellery, nougat, artworks, perfume and decorative glass - you can see many of the artisans at work. Gourdon offers the most magnificent views of the countryside rolling down to the Mediterranean that you are ever likely to see.
Sights & Attractions in [locality]
It also has a feudal castle originating in the 9th century that was rebuilt in the 17th century. It boasts round towers, a Renaissance courtyard and wonderful gardens designed by Andre le Notre (of Versailles fame).
There is also a 12th century Romanesque church (Saint Vincent), but the other main sight to see is the view back down the valley. There is a panoramic view point of the Loup valley down by the church - this is also where you'll find the tourist office.
Sights in Cannes
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Chateau de la Napoule
Built in the 14th century, this chateau has been restored and turned into an art exhibition space, visitor centre and venue for weddings and other functions.
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Provence Art & History Museum, Grasse
With items from prehistoric times, and fine arts and decorative arts from as early as the 17th century, all the way up to the first half of the 20th century.
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Parfumerie Molinard, Grasse
Grasse is the world capital of perfumes. At this museum you can discover the ancient tradition of parfumerie and learn how to create your own, unique scent.
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Musee de la Photographie (Photography Museum)
Right in the centre of the old town of Mougins is an interesting photography museum. On display are various antique cameras plus old photography equipment, and a large collection of portraits of Pablo Picasso.
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Musee Bonnard, Le Cannet
Pierre Bonnard stayed in this beautiful Belle Epoque house in Le Cannet for over 20 years and painted many of his famous works here.
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Archaeology Museum, Fréjus
Situated right next to the cloisters of the Cathedral in Fréjus, the museum houses some great examples of Roman artefacts from the ongoing excavations in the city.
Dining in [locality]
If you want to enjoy some local cuisine on a sunny terrace with great views, then look no further than La Taverne Provençal where you can enjoy a good and reasonably priced meal - it's very popular, so consider booking your lunch spot as soon as you arrive.
There are plenty of pavement cafés where you can treat yourself to an ice cream or crêpe.
Restaurants in Cannes
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La Plage du Martinez
La Plage du Martinez blends relaxed elegance with gourmet flair, offering Mediterranean dishes by Chef Jean Imbert in a stunning seafront setting.
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Fouquet's Restaurant
Le Fouquet's at the Hôtel Le Majestic combines Parisian charm with culinary excellence, led by Michelin-starred chef Pierre Gagnaire. A timeless spot for culture and cuisine lovers in Cannes.
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La Plage 45 Beach Club
Just a short walk through the hotel garden and you can sink your feet into the soft white sand of the Grand Hotel's private beach, or enjoy a refreshing dip in the water.
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Le Roof Restaurant
Le Roof at Hotel Five Seas combines refined gastronomy, breathtaking views, and a welcoming atmosphere. From gourmet breakfasts to creative lunches, the restaurant offers a range of exceptional dining experiences. The Lounge Bar is a perfect spot for cocktail lovers, offering signature drinks and a chic, trendy setting.
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La Table du Chateau Restaurant
The Château de la Tour feels like a private residence, offering an intimate and refined experience. With Meilleur Ouvrier de France 2000, Chef Didier Anies, at the helm, the restaurant is a true destination for elegance, creativity and exceptional cuisine - unique in Cannes.
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Le Jardin Restaurant
Ideally located on the hill in Cannes, the Hotel de Mougins is only five minutes from Sophia Antipolis, ten minutes from Cannes and Grasse, and twenty five minutes from Nice International Airport.
Things to do in [locality]
Visit the glassblower's shop to watch molten glass being blown into beautiful shapes, and pick your way through perfumeries, workshops and art galleries before adjourning to a shaded restaurant for lunch.
As well as being a lovely place to while away a lazy day, Gourdon is also the starting point for plenty of hikes. There are about half a dozen or so circuits that loop back round to Gourdon, you can pick up trail maps for free from the tourist office in the village.
Things To Do in Cannes
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Luxury Lizard Yacht Trip
Take a trip onboard this luxury yacht along the Riviera to any destination of your choosing.
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Motorbike hire
Based in Cannes, motorbike and scooter rental so you can explore the South of France.
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Luxury Good Times Yacht Trip
Take a trip onboard this luxury yacht along the Riviera to any destination of your choosing.
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Road bike hire
This company is based in Cannes and offers a wide range of road bikes, with delivery available to Antibes.
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Aqualand Waterpark, Frejus
With numerous slides, including the King Cobra - unique is western Europe - this is the largest waterpark on the Cote d'Azur! Inludes a rest area, show area, clockroom, fast food, grill and pizzeria, ice creams, drinks, and shop.
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Club des Dauphins Swimming School
Based in the public beach of Bijou Plage in Cannes, this swimming school on the Côte d'Azur has been in operation since 1962 and is led by Thierry, a fully qualified skiing, swimming and fitness instructor.
Hotels in [locality]
There are no hotels in the village or the surrounding area. However, the chateau offers basic rental apartments in the village and there are a handful of gites just outside. Ask at the tourist office for details. The alternative is stay at nearby Le Bar sur Loup.
Hotels in Cannes
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Splendid Hotel
Exceptional view of the sea, the Bay of Cannes, Iles de Lérins, and the old quarter Le Suquet. Ideally situated, at the start of La Croisette, just steps from luxury shopping and beaches of golden sand.
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La Bastide Saint Antoine Hotel, Grasse
La Bastide Saint-Antoine in Grasse sits within five hectares of lush Mediterranean gardens and olive groves. It overlooks the surrounding plains and the Bay of Cannes, offering stunning views and a feast for the senses.
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JW Marriott Hotel
6 September 20257 NightsPerfectly positioned in the heart of Cannes, the JW Marriott combines five-star sophistication with contemporary design, just moments from the Palais des Festivals.
Price: €7,353
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Cezanne Hotel & Spa
A peaceful boutique hotel in the heart of Cannes, Hôtel Cézanne blends comfort and modern style with a warm, welcoming atmosphere. With a spa, fitness room, and private beach access, it's perfect for both relaxation and active getaways.
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Croisette Prestige Apartment Residence
6 September 20257 NightsPerfectly located in the heart of Rue d'Antibes, the Cannes Croisette Prestige residential hotel offers a prime spot in central Cannes. Just a short stroll from the Croisette and its beaches, it’s also only 10 minutes on foot from the Palais des Congrès.
Price: €1,934
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Belles Rives Hotel, Juan les Pins
Hôtel Belles Rives, a historic Art Deco gem, offers luxury and comfort in the heart of Cap d’Antibes, with a Michelin-starred restaurant and stunning seaside views.
How to get to [locality]
Transfers for Cannes
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Private airport transfers
From Nice airport to Cannes, they handle the rest. The Côte d’Azur's most trusted private transfers.
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Cannes Taxi
150 vehicles at your disposal for taxi services regionally and across the whole of France 24/7.
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Private Jet and Helicopter Transfers
With an International fleet of jets and helicopters based across Europe it is quick and easy to get a private charter flight for business, pleasure or an airport transfer.
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Helicopter Charter Flights
Heli Securite offer transfers on a helicopter from the airport to your yacht or various destinations in and around the Cannes area, St Tropez and Monaco. In addition to this they also service all of the main French ski resorts from their base in Courchevel.
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Chabe Airport Transfers
Chabe Transfers are a renowned luxury transfer and taxi service operating in the French Riviera.
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Loisirs Animations Transfers
For Cannes and the surrounding areas, Loisirs Animations offers excursions by minibus or coach to help you discover the stunning Provence surroundings. They also offer transfers from Nice airport in their comfortable minibuses that seat up to eight passengers.
Property For Sale in [locality]
Property for Sale in Cannes
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Villa for Sale
La Bergerie des Amandines is a charming property steeped in history, bathed in light and ideally south-facing.
Price: €3,200,000
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