Valbonne, Alpes-Maritimes
Provençal town designed in the traditional Roman grid system
Situated along the Brague river, the town consists of two separate areas - the old town/village and the technology park of Sophia Antipolis.
The town was built in 1519, based on a grid Roman street plan - a refreshing change from the dark winding streets of many other Provençal villages. As with many towns along the Côte d'Azur excavations carried out in the surrounding hills bear witness to the presence of man going back an extremely long way, even to prehistoric times. While it has quite a lot of boutiques and chic cafes to keep the tourists and resident Brits occupied, it has the feel of a living village rather than being a tourist attraction.
The village is a charming 16th century village of cobbled streets, pastel buildings, colourful shutters and antique markets, all set up around a simply gorgeous central square filled with café tables in the sun. In extreme contrast the neighbouring technology park of Sophia Antipolis, built in the 1970's, has evolved into a highly recognised international community, with more than 1,000 companies hiring more than 25,000 people and specialising in research and development.
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History & Culture in [locality]
Valbonne was built in 1519, based on a Roman street plan of a central square with streets running perpendicular to the square and each other. Before this it was a small area called Vallis Bona (good valley) which was formed around the monastery of the Abbey of St Mary (it went on to become the parish Church of Valbonne) which was built by Benedictine monks in the 13th century.
The abbey and surrounding villages were deserted in the middle ages, due to war, drought and the plague. The village known as Valbonne was then founded in 1519 by Augustin de Grimaldi, the bishop of Grasse and abbot of Leyrins. Construction of the Roman influenced grid system (10 streets crossing 10 streets) took over a century and was progressively added to but remained relatively unchanged until the middle of the 20th century.
Although the town and population size have increased dramatically since then, the centre has managed to remain much of its charm and is well preserved.
Sights & Attractions in [locality]
The 16th century Place des Arcades forms the centre of the village and is lined with lovely cafés and boutiques that you can easy spend a few hours wandering around. There's an ancient mill down by the river, and outside Valbonne there is the extraordinary Roman aqueduct traversing the landscape at Clausonne.
Other sights include the Chalaisan Abbey, built in the Cistercian style, and the church of Valbonne which dates from the 13th century.
The village market is on Fridays, with a second hand market on the first Sunday of every month. Local crafts are well represented, with artisan studios and art galleries displaying traditional pottery and glass works.
Sights in Cannes
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Les Calanques de l'Esterel, Saint-Raphael
Les Calanques de l'Esterel are rocky inlets and coves that expand from Saint-Raphael to Mandelieu-la-Napoule and drop steeply into the limpid waters of the Mediterranean.
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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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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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Mougins Museum of Classical Art
In the heart of the old village of Mougins, discover how the beauty of the ancient world has influenced neoclassical, modern and contemporary art.
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Parc Zoologique de Frejus (Frejus Zoo)
Established in 1971, the Zoological Park Frejus is located in a typical Mediterranean natural landscape and enjoys the mild climate of the Riviera.
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Espace Mer et Littoral (Graillon Tower), Cap d'Antibes
This museum is located in the Graillon Tower on the tip of the Cap d'Antibes. It boasts panoramic views from its large terrace.
Beaches in [locality]
Beaches in Cannes
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Plage du Casino Beach, Cannes La Croisette
Clean and well maintained but free to use. No umbrellas, chairs or sun loungers are provided but you can pick your spot to lay down your towel for the day.
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Plage Mace Beach, Cannes La Croisette
Enjoy the calm waters and amazing views without paying through the roof for a private beach area.
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Plage du Midi Beach
This long and thin stretch of white sand beach runs the length of the Boulevard du Midi from the parking at the Vieux Port towards Cannes la Bocca.
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Plage des Rochers Beach, Cannes - La Bocca
This series of soft sand beaches just west of Cannes have some beautiful red rocky outcrops providing some good snorkelling opportunities and a gorgeous view across the Bay of Cannes to the Esterel Mountains.
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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.
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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.
Dining in [locality]
There are plenty of restaurants and pavement cafés in this lovely town - including a Moroccan, Indian and Italian if you ever need a break from French cuisine (sounds crazy, but I assure you that it happens eventually.) Meanwhile, a slice of pizza, a pain bagnat or a fresh salad in the sun in one of the cafés in Place des Arcades is always a pleasure.
Restaurants in Cannes
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La Palme d'Or Restaurant
Awarded one Michelin star, La Palme d'Or invites you to discover chef Jean Imbert’s culinary artistry in an unforgettable setting.
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La Plage Belles Rives Beach Club, Juan les Pins
Soft white sand, a private pontoon, a lounge bar and a restaurant at the water's edge make this beach club a very special place to be.
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L'Or Bleu Restaurant, Theoule-sur-Mer
L'Or Bleu, a Michelin-starred restaurant, offers an unforgettable dining experience where cuisine is elevated to the level of art. Set in an elegant, contemporary setting with breathtaking views over the bay of Théoule-sur-Mer, this Relais & Châteaux establishment is the perfect place for a memorable evening.
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La Bastide Saint Antoine Restaurant, Grasse
Michelin-starred La Bastide Saint-Antoine offers a refined retreat near Cannes, where chef Jacques Chibois creates inspired Provençal cuisine. Set in a stunning country house with lush gardens and panoramic sea views, it’s the perfect blend of gastronomy, elegance, and tranquillity.
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Plage du Festival Beach Club
La Plage du Festival offers a refreshing gourmet experience in a chic and relaxed atmosphere. With its beachside setting, stunning views, and vibrant cocktails, it’s a must-visit spot in Cannes.
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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.
Events in [locality]
With such a rich and vibrant history the town cannot fail to host a wide range of events that reflect its heritage, from weekly markets with local produce, to craft specific markets selling pottery and glass products.
The main summer festival is the 'Rue(z) & Vous', Festival of Street Art. Celebrating arts and culture in the town and bringing the whole place to life with shows, music and exhibitions. This is normally hosted at the start of July.
In September they host the 'Fest'in Val' event which brings together and celebrates the variety of local communities in the area, plus the technological park is open to all!
October sees the International Festival of Salsa, showing once again this is a multi-national community.
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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International Air Festival, Fréjus
120 hectares of aerial ballets, 30,000 visitors, 100 kite flyers, 18 countries, free workshops, and a hot air balloon area.
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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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Roc d'Azur mountain bike event, Fréjus
The number one mountain bike event in the world, there are a large number of courses on offer, from those especially tailored for children and families, to relay races or tough long trials, and even a triathlon.
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Marathon des Alpes Maritimes Nice-Cannes
This marathon takes place in the cooler autumn, starting in Nice and heading over a slightly varied route each year to the finish in the glamorous centre of Cannes.
Things to do in [locality]
The low hills around Valbonne are golf country, and the Opio-Valbonne Golf Club lies just near the village. This par 73, 18-hole course is not particularly challenging but is set in an area of incredible natural beauty, with lovely views and a few tricky shots. There are several excellent courses within an easy drive of Valbonne; see our golfing pages for more details.
There are also numerous walking trails that are marked around the village countryside, where you'll also find many smart villas - home to the employees of the extensive Science Park in neighbouring Sophia Antipolis.
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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Luxury Rehab Yacht Trip
Take a trip onboard this luxury yacht along the Riviera to any destination of your choosing.
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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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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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Luxury A4A Yacht Trip
Take a trip onboard this luxury yacht along the Riviera to any destination of your choosing.
Cycling in [locality]
Cycling Routes in Cannes
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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 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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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.
Hiking in [locality]
Walking Routes in Cannes
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Circuit Magagnosc
In 1513, Louis XII stopped the buildint of homes near the wall to retain its defensive character. However, many small hamlets were built along its walls to house the growing population.
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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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Tour de la Marbriere
Escape the town of Grasse an climb up to 895m to gain an amazing view point over the town and the Siagne basin.
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Circuit de Peygros
Hike up to the watch tower at 301m, used for the protection against forest fires in the summer months. The route runs mostly on trails in the Peygros Forest where the abundance of Pine allowed the 18th century villagers to fund the construction of the Parish Church of Auribeau.
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Circuit du Grand Duc
Walk amongst wild Mimosa which lights up the hillside and remains a symbol of the French Riviera. It is the only flower that brings its brilliant colours to the middle of winter. Not only visible in winter, its scent travels the valley on a hot summers day.
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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.
Yachts & Sailing in [locality]
Watersports in [locality]
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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Wakeboarding, Water skiing & Wakesurfing
A great way to have fun, these watersports cater for all levels of experience - making it the perfect activity for a warm summer day.
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Furious Nautisme Watersports
Waterskiing, wakeboarding and towables, Furious Nautisme have it all !
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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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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.
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Aventure Sous Marine Diving School, Saint Raphael
Since 1994, the team at this diving school have been located in Saint Raphael in the Var department.
Families in [locality]
Nightlife in [locality]
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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Brown Sugar
A quirky atmosphere and an intriguing interior in this small bar and restaurant.
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Casino Barriere Le Croisette
You will find all games in this casino, including private poker rooms, English roulette, blackjack and various gaming tables.
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Caffe Roma
The Cafe Roma has been an institution of Cannes for the past 25 years. Its chic and relaxed atmosphere is perfect for a pre or after dinner drink or an afternoon coffee and snack.
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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.
Villas in [locality]
Villas in Cannes
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Thea Villa, Agay
Exceptional villa "feet in the water" to rent with view on the sea and on the red rocks of the Esterel, between Saint Raphael, Cannes and Saint Tropez.
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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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Hsud0085 Villa
In the heart of Cannes, 1400 m from the Croisette and the beaches, in a small secured residential estate of 12 villas, beautiful villa with sea view located on a plot of 500m ².
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Hsud0024 Villa
In the town of Mandelieu, 3km from the sea, magnificent residence of character located on a plot of 5000m².
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Hsud0018 Villa
Located in the commune of Mandelieu-la-Napoule, 500m from the beach and 9 km from Cannes, this sumptuous building is unique in its kind, classified as a "remarkable residence".
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Hsud0057 Villa
Holiday rentals Mougins: 9 km from the Palais de Festivals and the Croisette, in the municipality of Mougins, beautiful villa located on a plot of 1700m² in the heart of a residential area.
Holidays Rentals in [locality]
Holiday Rentals in Cannes
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Thea Villa, Agay
Exceptional villa "feet in the water" to rent with view on the sea and on the red rocks of the Esterel, between Saint Raphael, Cannes and Saint Tropez.
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Hsud0057 Villa
Holiday rentals Mougins: 9 km from the Palais de Festivals and the Croisette, in the municipality of Mougins, beautiful villa located on a plot of 1700m² in the heart of a residential area.
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Hsud0046 Villa
A 2.3 km from the Palais des Festivals and the Croisette, in the prestigious Park SPRINGLAND, beautiful villa on a closed ground of 1500m ².
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Hsud0110 Apartment
6 km from Cannes, on a luxurious estate located on the heights of Mandelieu
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Hsud0429 Apartment
3 rooms apartment of 70 m² air conditioned on the 3rd floor
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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.
Hotels in [locality]
There are several chain hotels that serve business travellers who are visiting the technology park at Sophia Antipolis. There are also a couple of charming hotels in the area for holiday makers searching for something a bit more Provençal.
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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Renoir Hotel
This hotel is a fully renovated ''glamour'' boutique hotel, a stone’s throw away from the Palais des Festivals, the Croisette beaches and the shops along Rue d’Antibes. It is anchored at the heart of life in Cannes.
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Royal Mougins Hotel
Located just a few minutes' drive from the charming medieval village of Mougins, this stunning four-star spa hotel enjoys a truly exceptional setting.
Price: €2,338
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Villa Garbo Luxury Aparthotel
Just minutes from the Croisette, La Villa Garbo is a luxury aparthotel offering refined serviced apartments in the heart of Cannes. Combining elegance with comfort, this discreet Belle Époque residence promises an exceptional stay with all the freedom and intimacy of a private apartment, plus the service of a boutique hotel.
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Okko Cannes Centre Hotel
A modern four-star hotel in the heart of Cannes, part of the renowned OKKO Hotels collection, which currently has six locations across France and more on the way. Combining contemporary design with thoughtful amenities, it offers a stylish and comfortable stay in a prime location.
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Juana Hotel, Juan les Pins
Hotel Juana is a stylish 1930s landmark offering timeless elegance, refined service, and an enviable location on the French Riviera.
Price: €4,490
Campsites in [locality]
How to get to [locality]
If taking the bus make sure yours is going to Valbonne village rather than Valbonne Sophia Antipolis, as some terminate early. Buses run from Antibes (10) from Nice (230), or from Cannes (630).
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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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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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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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.
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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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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.
Property For Sale in [locality]
Property for Sale in Cannes
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Villa for Sale
On a hillside, in a rare setting, this sumptuous new 750 sq m property is nearing completion on 4,400 sq m of landscaped grounds. Upon completion, it will offer exceptional amenities and a 180° panoramic view of the sea, a veritable living painting to be enjoyed every day.
Price: €8,900,000
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