Fête de la Musique
The Fête de la Musique is a celebration that takes place every summer solstice on 21 June in cities, towns and villages across France.
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.
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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Bastille Day
Bastille Day is celebrated across the whole of France with a bang...well, several in fact, fireworks always feature heavily.
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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.
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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Cathedrale Notre Dame du Puy, Grasse
The medieval church of Notre-Dame du Puy was raised to cathedral status in 1244, when the bishop transferred from Antibes to Grasse.
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Parfumerie Fragonard, Grasse
This historic perfume factory is in the heart of the Old Town and is one of the oldest in Grasse, constructed in 1782.
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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.
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Abbaye de Lerins Monastery (Lerins Abbey), Ile Saint-Honorat
Located on the island of Saint Honorat, the abbey is still occupied by monks. It's possible to receive a guided tour and re-charge your spiritual batteries.
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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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Musee Nationale de Fernand Leger, near Biot
A few months before his death in 1955, artist Fernand Léger acquired a farmhouse at the foot of the village of Biot. It was here that his widow Nadia Leger, decided to create a museum to honour him and showcase his life's work.
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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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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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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Les Pecheurs Gourmet Restaurant, Juan Les Pins
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
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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Carlton Riviera Restaurant
Riviera brings the flavours of the Mediterranean to life with fresh market produce and the catch of the day, served in a stylish brasserie setting overlooking the sea.
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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.
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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Cotton Jazz Club
Nestled in the narrow streets of Cannes oldest district, Le Suquet, this jazz bar hosts some great musicians.
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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.
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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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L'Experience Bar
This small bar serves cocktails, wines and beers from unique wineries and breweries. They also have some savoury nibbles on offer.
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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Luxury A4A Yacht Trip
Take a trip onboard this luxury yacht along the Riviera to any destination of your choosing.
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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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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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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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Motorbike hire
Based in Cannes, motorbike and scooter rental so you can explore the South of France.
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Luxury Chantella Yacht Trip
Take a trip onboard this luxury yacht along the Riviera to any destination of your choosing.
Yachts & Sailing in [locality]
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Mangusta 108 Jff Superyacht
Discover the wonders of a Mediterranean luxury yacht to charter with this slick Mangusta 108. JFF proudly boasts a jaw-dropping exterior, with her slick paint-job ensuring that she stands out from the crowd. Thanks to her 2015 refit, the interior is pristine and ultra modern, with dashing fittings and awesome lighting highlighting her dedication to finesse and luxury. A dream yacht for entertaining guests or exploring the waters with loved ones makes JFF as desirable as she is unique.
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Lizard 21.08m Motor Yacht
Lizard is a stunning 21.7-metre (72-foot) Sanlorenzo 72, built in 1998 and beautifully refitted in 2022. Making her debut on the charter market, she offers the perfect blend of style and comfort. Her spacious layout includes a flybridge sun deck, an open-plan main salon, and four ensuite cabins - ideal for a family getaway. With two dedicated crew members on board, guests can enjoy impeccable service and a truly effortless yachting experience.
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Jaguar 80 24m Motor Yacht
A well designed and stylish Jaguar yacht, which is also spacious and comfortable. Available to hire for daily charters or longer, so a great option for a holiday on the Mediterranean.
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Sea Shell Superyacht
A Sea Shell yacht charter is what you need as it is a highly sought-after yacht and for obvious reasons. This spectacular 34.00m yacht built by Fittipaldi provides for the ultimate luxury cruise and yachting experience for all on board. Sea Shell has a home berth in Cannes in the South of France but can take you many different places around the Mediterranean. The Balearic Islands, Canary Islands, Catalonia, Corsica, Costa del Sol, Italy (including Sardinia and Sicily), the Provence Coast & Marseille and of course the beautiful French Riviera. What better way to explore these beautiful parts of the world?
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Thor Motor Boat
Thor, is a stunning and slick 22m Azimut motor yacht. She was built in 2013 but has undergone an extensive refit in 2019, ensuring she’s moving with the times and trends. Having being built by the expert Italian Azimut Shipyard, she is in great condition. Making her one of the most sought after yachts in her category. Spending her summer season in the beautiful old port of Cannes, she is the ideal 22 meter Azimut motor yacht for exploring the sunny South of France and West Mediterranean.
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Shane Superyacht
Experience the joys of Mangusta yacht charter with the impressive Shane. Refit in 2015, the interior of this Mangusta yacht is stunning, incorporating chic colours and bright spaces. Perfect for Cannes Lions yacht charter, Cannes Film Festival yacht charter or for a yacht vacation on the French Riviera.
Watersports in [locality]
Watersports in Cannes
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Furious Nautisme Watersports
Waterskiing, wakeboarding and towables, Furious Nautisme have it all !
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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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Yacht Club de Cannes
Founded in 1963, the Yacht Club is a racing school which gives lessons to adults and children to help them become winners!
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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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Paddle Boarding Tours & Hire
Based in Antibes, their activities extend along the French Riviera and include the Iles de Lerins.
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Bureau des Guides de Canyon, Castellane
Range of water sports and outdoor activities proposed by a professional guiding company.
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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Hsud0110 Apartment
6 km from Cannes, on a luxurious estate located on the heights of Mandelieu
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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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Hsud0052 Villa, Fayence
On St Paul in Forest, 5 km from Fayence, in a quiet residential area, beautiful villa on a plot of 6000m². Private pool with steps (8m x 4m, Depth 120/160 - Alarm). Terraces with garden furniture and sunbeds. Car park. All shops 2 km. Village center 2 km. Sea and beach 35 km
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Hsud0120 Villa, Le Cannet
Villa just 3 km from Cannes in the town of Le Cannet, with a beautiful sea view.
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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".
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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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.
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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.
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La Bastide de l'Oliveraie Hotel
Just moments from the famous Croisette and the lively energy of Cannes, La Bastide de l'Oliveraie is a charming four-star hotel set within a peaceful garden surrounded by silvery olive trees. Tucked away in a quiet residential area, it offers a serene retreat while keeping you close to the heart of the city.
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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.
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Le Cavendish Hotel
A charming four-star boutique hotel in the heart of Cannes, the Cavendish blends early 20th-century elegance with modern comforts - just steps from La Croisette, Le Palais des Festivals, and the city’s best beaches and boutiques.
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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Cannes Taxi
150 vehicles at your disposal for taxi services regionally and across the whole of France 24/7.
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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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Chabe Airport Transfers
Chabe Transfers are a renowned luxury transfer and taxi service operating in the French Riviera.
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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
This remarkable estate, built in the 1920s, enjoys a privileged location in a dominant position, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the Mediterranean Sea and the Estérel mountains.
Villa for Sale
€27,900,000 -
Villa for Sale
A beautifully renovated 16th century bastide with panoramic views.
Villa for Sale
€2,150,000 -
House for Sale
Ideally located close to shops, this superb five-room detached house has been tastefully renovated throughout and boasts breathtaking panoramic views over the surrounding countryside and the sea.
House for Sale
€895,000 -
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Apartment for Sale
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 Provençal hinterland, while offering breathtaking panoramic views over the town, the surrounding hills, and all the way to the sea.
Apartment for Sale
€1,595,000 -
Villa for Sale
Exceptional estate located just minutes from the Croisette and the heart of Cannes.
Villa for Sale
€2,789,000
