Situated along the Brague river, the town consists of two separate areas - the old town/village and the technology park of Sophia Antipolis.
Valbonne, Alpes-Maritimes
Provençal town designed in the traditional Roman grid system
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.
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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Beaujolais Nouveau 
Beaujolais Nouveau
The new Beaujolais has arrived!
The third Thursday in November is when this year's Beaujolais hits the shelves and is cause for celebration across France.
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Fête de la Musique
Music festival celebrated across France on the summer solstice
The Fête de la Musique is a celebration that takes place every summer solstice on 21 June in cities, towns and villages across France.
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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Eglise de Biot, Saint Marie Madeleine church, Biot
15th-century catholic church in Biot
Classified as a historic monument this 15th-century catholic church is located in the heart of the village of Biot.
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Mougins Museum of Classical Art
Diverse antiquities collection, including ancient arms, paintings and sculpture
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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Musee de la Photographie (Photography Museum) 
Musee de la Photographie (Photography Museum)
Free museum showing the history of photography in the area
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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Parc Zoologique de Frejus (Frejus Zoo) 
Parc Zoologique de Frejus (Frejus Zoo)
Zoo where you can see animals from all around the world as well as Mediterranean plants
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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Musee Picasso (Chateau Grimaldi)
National museum in honour of Picasso in a beautiful medieval castle
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 Mer, Ile Sainte-Marguerite
A museum of underwater archeology and land plus Iron Mask prison cell
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.
Beaches in [locality]
Beaches in Cannes
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Plage du Casino Beach, Cannes La Croisette 
Plage du Casino Beach, Cannes La Croisette
Popular free public beaches in the main hotel district of Cannes
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 
Plage Mace Beach, Cannes La Croisette
Public municipal beach within main hotel district of Cannes
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 
Plage du Midi Beach
Sandy beach, with good access close to centre of Cannes
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 
Plage des Rochers Beach, Cannes - La Bocca
Strip of sand beach in the quieter area of 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 
Plage Zamenhof Beach, Port Canto
One of only two municipal run beaches along the Cannes coast
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 
Le Moure Rouge Plage Beach, Gazagnaire
Free public beach with a local feel along the eastern coast
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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Carlton Beach Club
Taste of the Riviera with views over the sparkling bay and a touch of French Dolce Vita
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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La Plage Belles Rives Beach Club, Juan les Pins
Private beach of the Belles Rives hotel in 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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La Palme d'Or Restaurant
Fine dining and Mediterranean views at one of Cannes’ most acclaimed restaurants
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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Les Pecheurs Gourmet Restaurant, Juan Les Pins
One Michelin star gourmet restaurant within the Cap d'Antibes Beach Hotel
Enjoy a culinary experience at this fine dining restaurant, Les Pêcheurs. It offers a creative cuisine that deftly blends flavours and fragrances from throughout the French Riviera.
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Le Jardin Restaurant
Authentic bistronomic experience at Hôtel de Mougins
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.
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Plage du Festival Beach Club
Chic beachside retreat with gourmet dining and dreamy cocktails
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.
Nightlife in [locality]
Bars & Clubs in Cannes
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Carlton Bar
Creative cocktails served with flair in an elegant, artisanal setting
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
Stylish retreat for signature cocktails and sunset relaxation
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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Morrisons Pub
Sports bar, popular pub & live music all in one venue
Morrisons is a lively and fun Irish pub in central Cannes. It's a pub, a bar, a club and a place for live music.
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Cafe Agnelli Cocktail Bar & Restaurant 
Cafe Agnelli Cocktail Bar & Restaurant
Chic and hip bar, cafe and restaurant in central Cannes
A fun, hip and affordable option open for lunch and dinner. With chic decor and lots of outdoor tables, this place really buzzes in the summer.
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Brown Sugar 
Brown Sugar
Popular bar and restaurant in the heart of Cannes
A quirky atmosphere and an intriguing interior in this small bar and restaurant.
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Casino Barriere Le Croisette
Entertainment & leisure complex with bar, restaurant & casino
You will find all games in this casino, including private poker rooms, English roulette, blackjack and various gaming tables.
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
Wide selection of BMW, Ducati, Harley Davidson and Triumph motorcycles available for rent
Based in Cannes, motorbike and scooter rental so you can explore the South of France.
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One Week Yacht Charter Itineraries
Specialised yacht charter itineraries to truly experience the French Riviera, leaving from Cannes
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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Aqualand Waterpark, Frejus
19 super water slides on one site, with toboggans & the black hole
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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Road bike hire
Quality road bike rentals with delivery to the French Riviera
This company is based in Cannes and offers a wide range of road bikes, with delivery available to Antibes.
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Luxury Jack III Yacht Trip
Luxury private yacht trip along the French Riviera for up to ten people
Take a trip onboard this luxury yacht along the Riviera to any destination of your choosing.
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Luxury Chantella Yacht Trip
Luxury private yacht trip along the French Riviera for up to ten people
Take a trip onboard this luxury yacht along the Riviera to any destination of your choosing.
Yachts & Sailing in [locality]
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Cappuccino Superyacht - 32m Yacht Charter for up to 12 people
A striking 32-metre Castagnola, Cappuccino is an exceptional superyacht based in the Monaco area and available for luxury charters throughout the Mediterranean. Combining elegant Italian styling, expansive deck spaces and superb onboard amenities, she offers the perfect setting for both relaxed cruising and high-end entertaining.
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Tayarrah Motor Yacht - 23.15m Yacht Charter for up to 11 people
Tayyarah is a sleek and high-performance 23.15m AB Yachts AB78, delivering the perfect combination of speed, style and luxury for an unforgettable Mediterranean charter. Built in 2011 and refitted in 2019, this exceptionally well-maintained motor yacht offers striking design, impressive performance and a warm contemporary interior ideal for both family getaways and trips with friends.
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Yacht To Escape Superyacht - 21m Yacht Charter for up to 10 people
To Escape is a stylish Ferretti Altura 690 offering exceptional value and impressive outdoor space for a yacht of her size. Based in the South of France, she is an excellent choice for relaxed weekend cruising and memorable Mediterranean escapes with family or friends.
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Barracuda Red Sea Superyacht - 37m Yacht Charter for up to 12 people
Barracuda Red Sea is a stunning 37m superyacht, built in 2010 by British yacht specialists Sunseeker. This tri-deck beauty showcases the design expertise of Don Shead, with a striking exterior that’s sure to turn heads. Step on board and explore the inviting waters of the Mediterranean in style.
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Mangusta 108 JFF Motor Yacht - 33m Yacht Charter for up to 12 people
JFF is a sleek and striking 33.5m Mangusta 108 motor yacht, perfect for a luxury charter in the Mediterranean. With her standout exterior and ultra-modern interior, this yacht offers the ideal combination of style, comfort, and entertainment, making her perfect for exploring the French Riviera, relaxing with friends, or hosting unforgettable parties on the water.
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Little Zoe Motor Yacht - 28m French Riviera Yacht Charter for up to 12 Guests
Little Zoe is a sleek and powerful 28m Mangusta 92 motor yacht, perfectly suited for luxury charters along the French Riviera, including Cannes, Monaco, and Nice. Built by the world-renowned Mangusta shipyard and extensively refitted in 2020, she stands out for her exceptional condition, sporty styling, and impressive performance.
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Watersports in [locality]
Watersports in Cannes
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Furious Nautisme Watersports
A great team offering a variety of water sports courses
Waterskiing, wakeboarding and towables, Furious Nautisme have it all !
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Wakeboarding, Water skiing & Wakesurfing
10 & 15 min sessions for all abilities
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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Diamond Diving School
Established diving school based in the Old Port of Golfe-Juan
A small centre that focuses on a personal touch and offers not only beginner diving courses, but PADI certification and also instructor development courses.
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SWZ Team Ski & Wake Zone
Hire a variety of water sports equipment right in the heart of Cannes
With all their years of experience in water sports you can be assured that you are in safe hands whichever one you choose to try!
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Club Sous l'Eau Diving School, Saint Raphael
Friendly diving centre for enthusiasts & newcomers to the sport
Discover more than 30 dive sites with the help of this diving school, located on the Port Santa Lucia in St Raphael.
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Seafirst
Sea kayak excursions with a qualified instructor & guide
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.
Holiday 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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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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Moulin De Saint Donat Villa, Callian
The villa in Callian has 6 bedrooms and has capacity for 14 people.
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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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Hsud0072 Villa
On the heights of Mandelieu, with magnificent sea views, beautiful villa set in 3000m² of enclosed grounds in the heart of a residential area.
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Voile De Soleil Villa, Valbonne
Close to historic Valbonne and the beaches of Cannes, this villa is perfectly situated for exploring all the delights of this wonderful corner of the French Riviera.
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
Facing the sea, overlooking the historic Yacht Harbour and the Palais des Festivals
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
Small boutique hotel few minutes walk from La Croisette
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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Cannes Majestic Barriere Hotel
Timeless sanctuary on the Croisette with breathtaking views and unmatched luxury
The Majestic, a five-star icon on Cannes' Croisette, offers a blend of French elegance, breathtaking Mediterranean views, and a peaceful retreat. With luxurious rooms, exquisite dining options, a private beach, and world-class wellness facilities, it promises an unforgettable stay.
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Carlton Cannes Hotel
Legendary luxury reimagined in the heart of the French Riviera
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.
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Tiara Yaktsa Hotel
Exclusive five-star retreat with breathtaking Mediterranean views and serene luxury
The Tiara Yaktsa, a five-star Relais & Châteaux hotel, offers an unforgettable stay with spectacular views of the Mediterranean. With just 22 rooms and suites, it provides an intimate and luxurious setting perfect for a romantic and gastronomic escape.
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La Bastide Saint Antoine Hotel, Grasse
Charming Provençal retreat with luxury suites, panoramic terrace, and Michelin-starred dining
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.
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
Nice Airport to Cannes from €110 per vehicle one-way (weekend rate)
With years of Alpine transfer experience through its sister brand, this private airport transfer service brings reliable, professional travel to the Côte d'Azur, with trained, English-speaking drivers who know the local area. Comfortable, air-conditioned vehicles, including Mercedes models and spacious people carriers, offer Wi-Fi and complimentary mineral water, while airport meet and greet, flight and traffic monitoring, free child seats and clear pricing help make your journey easier. With automated pick-up reminders, door-to-door service and twenty-four-hour summer telephone support, you can arrange your transfer with greater peace of mind.
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Helicopter Airport Transfers & Scenic Flights
Monaco - Nice Helicopter Shuttles, plus French Riviera 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 & Helicopter Transfers
Aircraft & helicopter charter company based at Nice Airport in the South of France
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 & Scenic Flights
Helicopter charter company based in Monaco with over 25 years experience
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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Helicopter Charter Flights
Luxury helicopter transfers to the French Riviera & the French Alps
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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Private Airport Transfers
Reliable private airport transfer & taxi service
Chabe Transfers are a renowned luxury transfer and taxi service operating in the French Riviera.
Property For Sale in [locality]
Property for Sale in Cannes
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Villa for Sale | can260223
Art Deco Masterpiece with Panoramic Sea Views: An Iconic Luxury Estate in Cannes Californie
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Apartment for Sale | VAL250114
Perched on the lush hills of Grasse, the Hélios residence is set in an exceptional environment within a meticulously restored historic building. It embodies elegance, comfort, and the timeless charm of the French Riviera’s hinterland, while offering breathtaking panoramic views over the town, the surrounding hills, and all the way to the sea.
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Apartment for Sale | CAN230040
Contemporary Cannes apartment on the famous Croisette, benefitting from sea views and excellent facilities.
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Villa for Sale | VAL260138
Superb bastide located in the prestigious Étang district of Mougins, one of the most sought‑after addresses in the region. Just a few steps from shops, restaurants, transport links, and the most renowned international schools, this property enjoys an exceptional location that combines convenience with tranquility. Nestled within a secure estate with double gated access, it offers a peaceful, preserved living environment with rare privacy.
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Villa for Sale | can250176
Contemporary Villa with Panoramic Sea View – Cannes Californie
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Villa for Sale | VAL250130
Discover this brand-new 118 sq m villa located in a lush setting in the heart of Plascassier. Built on a flat plot of 1,120 sq m, fully enclosed and sheltered from view, it offers a peaceful and privileged living environment just steps from the village and local shops, while enjoying unobstructed views of the surrounding hills, the mountains, and, in places, a glimpse of the sea.
