Ile Sainte Marguerite
Beautiful island just off the south coast of Cannes with stunning views of the Riviera
The gorgeous island of Saint Marguerite is the largest of the islands off the coast of Cannes. Regular ferries run from Cannes and only take around 15 minutes, yet this small island made up of a quiet pine forest and pretty coves feels far separated from the glitzy boutiques and hotels of Cannes.
Covered with pine and eucalyptus forest and edged with beautiful coves, this is an island to enjoy nature. The waters are crystal clear, with stunning views back to the Riviera coastline. There are only about 20 houses on the island in a small village near the ferry dock; the rest of the island is covered in forest, with an old fort and museum where you can explore the island's Roman and Crusader history, as well as its final days as a notorious French prison and soldier's hospital. The are a couple of restaurants for refreshments, and daily ferries provide access.
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- History & Culture in Cannes
- Sights & Attractions in Cannes
- Beaches in Cannes
- Dining in Cannes
- Events in Cannes
- Things to do in Cannes
- Cycling in Cannes
- Hiking in Cannes
- Yachts & Sailing in Cannes
- Watersports in Cannes
- Families in Cannes
- Nightlife in Cannes
- Villas in Cannes
- Holidays Rentals in Cannes
- Hotels in Cannes
- Campsites in Cannes
- How to get to Cannes
- Property For Sale in Cannes
History & Culture in Cannes
This 17th century fort gained notoriety for housing the 'Man in the Iron Mask' - a prisoner during the time of Louis XIV and immortalised by the writers Voltaire and Alexander Dumas (and by Leonardo DiCaprio in the 1998 film of the same name).
The rest of the island is covered with pine forests and walking trails - exploration of which will no doubt lead you to your own little beach or cove.
Sights & Attractions in Cannes
The main attraction is the fort and old prison, the Royal Musée de la Mer. You can see the cells and old Roman cisterns; the museum also houses artefacts from Roman and Saracen shipwrecks. There's a small cemetery for French and North African soldiers nearby. Go there and check it out for yourself.
Sights in Cannes
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Castre Museum
The Castre Museum is located on the Suquet hill, dominating the city of Cannes. From the top of the medieval tower the views across the bay and the Lerins islands are fantastic and not to be missed.
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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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Musee de la Mer, Ile Sainte-Marguerite
Situated within the Royal Fort on Ile Sainte-Marguerite in the Bay of Cannes, this museum is a place not only of learning but also of rich history.
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Musee Picasso (Chateau Grimaldi)
The Picasso museum is housed in the Chateau Grimaldi in the centre of the town of Vallauris. The chateau was built over a Roman fort in the 16th century.
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Grand Jas Cemetery
North west from the centre of Cannes is the impressive Grand Jas Cemetery. The cemetery was built in 1866 as the town centre of Cannes kept growing thus creating a need for a bigger cemetery.
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Eglise Notre-Dame de l'Esperance, Cannes - Le Suquet
Replacing the old chapel Sainte-Anne, the Eglise Notre-Dame de l'Esperance was completed in 1627, after more than a century of work.
Beaches in Cannes
With sandy stretches and private rocky coves, the beaches on this small island are well worth the trip over alone.
Beaches in Cannes
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Ile Sainte Marguerite Beach
Ile Sainte Marguerite may not have ice cream shops and parasols all over the place but it has far more character and hidden charms than your average beach, with its bright blue water, fragrant forests, cool breezes, and smugglers coves.
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Port Palm Beach
Tucked away on the western side of Pointe Croisette, Palm Beach is a quiet and relaxed public beach with a great view and plenty of watersports activity.
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Gazagnaire Plage Beach, Gazagnaire
A public beach flanked by Le Moure Rouge beach and marina to the east and the Cap de la Croisette to the west. Being in a residential neighbourhood it attracts a very local crowd.
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Bijou Plage (Port Canto) Beach
Situated just past Port Canto and before Palm Beach, this is one of two completely non-smoking beaches in the Cannes area (the other being Plage des Rochers at Cannes La Bocca).
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Le Moure Rouge Plage Beach, Gazagnaire
A long and narrow stretch of sand on Cannes' eastern most beach and coastal area. Quiet and relaxed, this beach is a favourite with locals as there are no large hotels nearby.
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Plage Zamenhof Beach, Port Canto
Shallow waters, sandy beach and amazing views without paying through the roof for a private beach club. There are two municipal run beaches along the Croisette, Plage Zamenhof to the east and Plage Mace to the west.
Dining in Cannes
There are two restaurants and two snack bars on the Ile Ste-Marguerite. However, since you are on a beautiful island for the day it's nice to take a picnic with you. On the island you'll find a large number of picnic areas where the views are fantastic and the shadow of the pine trees is much appreciated in the summer. Furthermore they are close to the sea if you want to pop in for a quick swim.
Restaurants 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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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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Carlton Beach Club
Soak up the sunshine and sea breeze over lunch at the Carlton Beach Club, where local flavours, fresh ingredients and a touch of French Dolce Vita come together by the water’s edge.
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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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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.
Events in Cannes
Events in Cannes
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European Heritage Days
Exceptional locations around France, including Cannes, will be open to visit on the Journées du Patrimoine - a European wide event inspired by by France’s Journées Portes Ouvertes which started in 1984.
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Les Régates Royales
Since 1929, the Régates Royales has been organising numerous sailing regattas throughout the month of September in Cannes. Thousands of crews take to the water each year in up to 150 yachts.
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Swimrun weekend
This team sport is based on two persons travelling through nature and time, completely dependent on each other. The team alternates between running and swimming along a premarked course in nature. It can be between islands or between lakes
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Festival International des Jeux (Games Festival)
Annually in February, in the Palais des Festivals, over 170,000 enthusiasts come together for the three day Games Festival.
Things to do in Cannes
You can easily walk around the island in a couple of hours, on forest paths that smell of pine and eucalyptus. There are sculptures to look out for in the trees, as well as a lagoon for birdwatching. You can clamber over the rocks along the beach looking for creatures in rockpools, or just settle on the beach for a day of relaxing, snorkelling and picnics.
Things To Do in Cannes
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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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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.
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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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One Week Yacht Charter Itineraries
Experience the French Riviera your way with 212 yachts, using one of their sample itineraries or with a specialised itinerary created just for you, based on what you like and don't like, as well as their own expertise.
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Taste of Cannes Vespa Tour
Follow your guide and discover the famous French Riviera city of Cannes, riding the iconic Vespa scooter.
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Countryside & Wine Tasting Tour, from Cannes
Sit back and relax on this guided tour of the French Riviera and its countryside.
Cycling in Cannes
Cycling Routes in Cannes
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Cannes to Nice via Antibes
Leaving Cannes and travelling east along the coast allows you to enjoy the Cap de la Croisette just outside of the centre of Cannes as well as the towns, villages and seaside resorts that are scattered along the Cote d'Azur. A good train service ensures that your journey does not need to be a return, but merely a one way trip.
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Antibes to Saint Raphael Cycling Route
There is no other way to discover the stunning coast of the Cote d’Azur than by bike. This bike ride is not the most challenging, as no serious hills are conquered, but it is a stunning way to explore the coastal towns of the Cote d’Azur.
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Cannes to Saint Raphael
This intermediate cycle offers a wonderful contrast of colours as you pass the reds and ochres of the Esterel rock on one side and rippling azur waters of the Mediterranean coastline on the other. A local favourite, you won't be the only one on the road if you ride during the summer or on weekends.
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Hiking in Cannes
Walking Routes in Cannes
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Ile Saint-Marguerite
A 15 minute boat ride from Cannes brings you to the small island of St. Marguerite. With dense woodland covering most of the island there is plenty of shade.
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Ile Saint-Honorat
The small island off the coast of Cannes was uninhabited until Saint Honoratus founded a monastery on it sometime around the year 410. The island has seen many invaders who over the years have driven out and even massacred the monks, but they have returned and today the island is home to 30 Cistercian monks.
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Circuit de Cordula
The Cordula was created by the Ligurians, then occupied by the Greeks and Romans before being burned by the Barbarian invasions of the 4th century. The wooded parkland now lies lust north of the coast at Vallauris and offers shade on sunny days.
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Circuit de l'Aiguille
A short walk with a small climb taking in the best the bay has to offer. Towering red rocks, deep vegetation and crashing blue waves make this walk a must for all the family.
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Crete des Grues
Nestled in the alpine foothills of Grasse, this walk takes you from the coast to the top of Grosses Grues 440m. Climbing through vegetation, along rivers, over volcanic formations and past large oak trees, this walk has a lot to offer someone wanting a taste of the outdoors.
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Circuit de l'Esquillon
Steep cliffs and secret beaches line the coast around Col de l'Esquillon. This walk takes you up into the hills where you can gaze at the surrounding landscape with uninterrupted views of the coast and the hills inland.
Yachts & Sailing in Cannes
Watersports in Cannes
Watersports in Cannes
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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.
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Club Nautique de la Croisette
Here you can learn about the regattas organised by the club and the art of sailing, as well as of course the practical side.
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Airxkite Kitesurf, Cannes la Bocca
Airxkite offers full courses on kite surfing, including theory and practical. All Airxkite classes in the water take place between April to November.
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Association Cannes Jeunesse Water Sports Centre
With two locations, one in Cannes and another one on Île Ste Marguerite, this association organises sailing, sea kayaking and wind surfing courses throughout the year.
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Cannes Stand Up Paddle
You can rent your stand up paddle board from half an hour up to a week at a time, perfect to liven up a cruise around the Mediterranean. Their nearby surf shop also sells all kinds of gear related to surf, windsurfing and paddle-boarding.
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Seafirst
Kayak hire and trips on offer to discover the beautiful coastline of the Cote d'Azur by sea kayak, leaving from Palm Beach on the Cap de la Croisette near Cannes.
Families in Cannes
Nightlife in Cannes
Bars & Clubs in Cannes
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Carlton Bar
Whether you’re after a timeless classic or a custom-made creation, the bar’s mixologist will craft your perfect drink with care and creativity.
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Fouquet's Bar
Bar Fouquet’s, located on the iconic Croisette, offers a glamorous setting where you can enjoy expertly crafted signature cocktails by Emanuele Balestra. Perfect for socialising and unwinding, this contemporary space combines stylish surroundings with refreshing drinks and delightful treats.
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Baoli Nightclub
A magical place offering food, music and dancing under the palm trees and stars…while perhaps looking at some film stars too.
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Brown Sugar
A quirky atmosphere and an intriguing interior in this small bar and restaurant.
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Le Bar a Vin
A great place to meet friends in central Cannes, especially popular after work, with a really relaxed vibe.
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Ma Nolans
Ma Nolan’s, Cannes is the latest addition to Ma's family! A stone's throw away from the Palais des Festivals and a two minute walk from the station it is in the perfect location.
Villas in Cannes
Villas in Cannes
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Hsud0022 Villa
2.2 km from the Croisette and 1.9 km from the Palais des Festivals, in a secure and closed residence, located in the gardens of the prestigious Villa Rothschild, a luxurious villa entirely renovated, at the foot of the Croix des Gardes.
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Lunetta Villa, Opio
Villa Lunetta features four bedrooms (2 master suites and 2 guest rooms) and four en-suite bathrooms and shower rooms spread over two spacious floors.
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Hsud0700 Villa
4km from Cannes, on the heights of the old village of Mougins, beautiful villa with panoramic views of the hills and the sea overview.
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Hsud0065 Villa, Grasse
Situated in the commune of Grasse, 20 km from Cannes and its beaches, in a quiet area, charming villa set in 3,500 m² of wooded grounds.
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Hsud0031 Villa
Situated in the famous Californie district, 1km from the beaches and 4.5km from the Palais des Festivals, this charming villa is set in 2600m² of fenced garden with a beautiful sea view. A private saltwater swimming pool (12m x 5m - max depth 1.85m - alarm) is at your disposal.
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Hsud0021 Villa, Le Cannet
In the commune of Le Cannet, 3km from the centre of Cannes, splendid Californian-style villa set in 1,500 m² grounds. Private heated infinity pool (10m x 5m - salt - max depth 1.8m), sun loungers, garden furniture, outdoor dining table and barbecue.
Holidays Rentals in Cannes
Holiday Rentals in Cannes
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Hsud0095 Villa, Mouans-Sartoux
Holiday villa in Cannes: 12 kms from Cannes in Mouans-Sartoux, with a beautiful park of olive trees, comfortable country house located in a park of 1 hectare.
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Hsud0021 Villa, Le Cannet
In the commune of Le Cannet, 3km from the centre of Cannes, splendid Californian-style villa set in 1,500 m² grounds. Private heated infinity pool (10m x 5m - salt - max depth 1.8m), sun loungers, garden furniture, outdoor dining table and barbecue.
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Hsud0035 Villa
Belle epoque 280 sqm property in a quiet area and only a ten- minute walk from the beach and the convention centre.
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Hsud0100 Apartment
Located in a luxury residence just 2 km from the centre of Cannes and the famous Croisette, this magnificent flat has been fully renovated to a very high standard.
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Hsud0032 Villa
On the heights of Mandelieu la Napoule, beautiful new villa with a panoramic sea view located on a plot of 1700m ² in terraces.
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Hsud0050 Villa
8 km from Mandelieu, 15 minutes from the beaches, on St Jean de l'Estérel in the heart of the "Parc Résidentiel de l'Estérel", beautiful contemporary villa with a magnificent sea view and "Red rocks" located on a Mediterranean garden of 1500 m².
Hotels in Cannes
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 Villa Hotel, Juan les Pins
La Villa Cap d'Antibes, a four-star hotel, offers an intimate boutique experience, blending discreet elegance with a serene atmosphere.
Price: €2,606
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Carlton Cannes Hotel
With a rich history and elegant contemporary flair, Carlton Cannes blends timeless glamour with personalised experiences. From sea-view suites and serene patios to fine dining and bespoke wellness, every detail is designed to elevate your stay.
Price: €19,565
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Mondrian Hotel
Mondrian Cannes offers a modern retreat in the heart of the city, combining sleek design with a commitment to sustainability and thoughtful service.
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Hotel Martinez
A true icon of the Côte d’Azur, Hôtel Martinez has been welcoming guests since 1929. This legendary five-star hotel blends Art Deco elegance with Mediterranean warmth in an unbeatable location on the Croisette.
Price: €16,429
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Le Canberra Hotel
Ideally located in the heart of Cannes on Rue d’Antibes, Hôtel Le Canberra is a stylish four-star retreat just steps from the famous Croisette.
Campsites in Cannes
How to get to Cannes
Regular ferries run from Cannes and only take around 15 minutes. Ferries and boat trips also run from St Tropez, Antibes and Nice.
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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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.
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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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Helicopter Airport Transfers & Scenic Flights
Created in 1976 this company has grown and has now transported well over 100,000 passengers. They have a fleet of 12 craft to meet client demands.
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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 Transfers and Scenic Flights
With a long history and experience in the VIP transport industry this company is proud of its personal and high-quality services.
Property For Sale in Cannes
Property for Sale in Cannes
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Apartment for Sale
Outstanding location for this high-end apartment set within a secure. prestigious residence featuring a swimming pool and concierge service.
Price: €1,995,000
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