
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.
© Wikimedia
A great area between the towns of Cannes and Antibes
The commune is known as Vallauris Golfe-Juan, combining the traditional charm of the pottery capital of the Riviera, Vallauris, which sits inland, with the seaside resort and sandy beaches of Golfe-Juan.
It most recently came to prominence when Picasso lived here from 1948 to 1955. He created many sculptures whilst here and encouraged local artisans to embrace ceramics, reintroducing local pottery traditions from the 17th century. Workshops, galleries and boutiques continue the pottery heritage today. The Municipal Museum of Ceramics is housed within the Chapel of the Castle and also contains Picasso's 'War and Peace' fresco.
Golfe-Juan is perfectly located in the Côte d’Azur, in a large bay just a short distance from Juan les Pins and Antibes, in between the beautiful cities of Nice and Cannes. Made up of narrow wonderful sandy beaches this bay is home to many large yachts with its popular marina, Port Camille Rayon, being the hub of this beautiful town.
Full of history, culture and arts, you can discover the beautiful ceramic pieces that Golfe-Juan and Vallauris are famous for. With a host of galleries and museums, beautiful architectural buildings and traditional workshops you can soak up the culture and history of this area.
Wander the streets and enjoy the charm of this French Riviera port. In the daytime the beaches are lined with umbrellas and people enjoying the sun, sand and beautiful blue sea. At night time the town turns into a hub of restaurants, bars and clubs; with the tourists and locals sitting down to enjoy a long leisurely Provençal dinner and the young chic fashionable crowds sipping on cocktails looking out at the port.
The town of Vallauris was created in 1501 to a very specific grid style as a defensive strategy to protect the town from invaders. A castle was then built in 1568 on the site of a previous monastery. The area was particularly active during the 1800's with the landing of Napoleon in 1815 at Golfe-Juan, the first train arrival in the area in 1862, pottery making reaching its height during the latter half of the century and the building of the port in 1896.
With Picasso's influence during the 1940's and 50's, and the gift of his famous sculpture 'War and Peace' to the French State, Vallauris was given a national museum and later opened a public art gallery.
Golfe-Juan is very much linked in history to Juan les Pins and Antipolis, or Antibes as it's now known. The early history of Golfe-Juan is rather lost in time, and not much is known about what happened in the first few centuries. However it is known that in 1480 the Antibes region was riddled with the plague and a huge number of the population were wiped out, leaving many towns and cities to start again.
In 1501 Vallauris and Golfe-Juan were occupied and started to rebuild once again, encouraged by Lord Raynier, families from neighbouring Italy settled in the area and it slowly started to repopulate and become a bustling village. In 1568 the castle of Vallauris was built in a Renaissance style and still stands today as a monument to the Renaissance time.
The beautiful Port Camille Rayon was originally built in 1896 opening up the whole area to shipping trade and creating a new dynamic for the Golfe-Juan and Vallauris.
Vallauris Golfe-Juan is now soaked in culture, with artists and elites residing here. Picasso created many exceptional art pieces during his time here, including his ‘Temple of Peace’ and the ‘War and Peace’ monument painted inside the temple. With a history of ceramic and pottery art this region is known for its artists and creativity, remaining a popular spot for artists of many trades today.
Head to the castle of Vallauris, which has been converted into a collection of museums and galleries.
Visit the National Picasso museum with the famous Picasso mural called ‘War and Peace’ in the castle's chapel. Picasso created over 4,000 ceramic works during his time in Vallauris; there are many of his works and famous plate series on display here.
The Magnelli Museum sits in the most modern part of the castle and is a combination of Alberto Magnellis abstract artwork.
Back in the village there is a bronze statue by Picasso called Man with a Sheep, which Picasso insisted children be allowed to climb upon (which they do).
Finally, visit the Ceramics Museum which houses a number of historical and fascinating ceramic collections.
Back on the coast in Golfe Juan, see the start of Napoleon's famous 'Route Napoleon' at the statue 'Napoleon's Column'; each year in March the town of Golfe Juan celebrates Napoloen's landing with a parade and re-enactment.
Pierre Bonnard stayed in this beautiful Belle Epoque house in Le Cannet for over 20 years and painted many of his famous works here.
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.
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.
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.
This gallery has an impressive collection of post-impressionists such as Marc Chagall, Hans Hartung, Victor Vasarély, André Marfaing or Georges Mathieu, as well as a selection of contemporary artists
Replacing the old chapel Sainte-Anne, the Eglise Notre-Dame de l'Esperance was completed in 1627, after more than a century of work.
The beautiful sandy beach at Golfe Juan provides the perfect place to spend a day soaking up the sun, splashing in the sea and watching the sunset, perhaps with a cocktail in hand.
There are a number of excellent beach clubs with restaurants, or grab a picnic and head to a public stretch of beach. You can also try your hand at water skiing, banana boating, wakeboarding and other water sports and the bay of Golfe-Juan is a popular dive spot with numerous dive sites nearby.
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.
Enjoy the calm waters and amazing views without paying through the roof for a private beach area.
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.
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.
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.
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).
Golfe-Juan has a range of restaurants, from the relaxed and trendy beach restaurants to those restaurants serving fresh Mediterranean cuisine in a traditional and romantic setting.
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.
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.
La Plage du Martinez blends relaxed elegance with gourmet flair, offering Mediterranean dishes by Chef Jean Imbert in a stunning seafront setting.
Enjoy the fabulous one-Michelin-starred restaurant with its light and creative cuisine and elegant decor.
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.
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.
Perhaps one of the most popular events in the annual calendar of Vallauris Golfe-Juan is the celebration and re-enactment of the landing of Napoleon.
If markets are your thing then you are in the right part of France, the Côte d’Azur and Provence are known for their fantastic markets. The food market is held every day except Mondays in the mornings in the centre of Vallauris at Place Paul Isnard and you can browse the stalls for fresh fruit, plump olives and wonderful Provencal meat. For fresh fish caught that morning head down to the old port nice and early and depending on the fisherman and their catches you can pick up some delicious catches from that day. Antibes is a place known for its creativity and arts and in peak season in July and August you can stroll the promenade in the evenings and experience a market full of artistic pieces and craft goods bought from the artists themselves.
Annually in February, in the Palais des Festivals, over 170,000 enthusiasts come together for the three day Games Festival.
There is plenty to do when in Vallauris Golfe-Juan, being a busy port and a hot spot for holidaymakers there is something to keep everyone entertained. Not only can you browse the local markets, enjoy the shops and spend hours lying on a beach soaking up the sun you can also explore some of the museums and learn more about the history of this seaside area.
Situated right next to Juan les Pins, Antibes, Nice and Cannes you can explore the surrounding area simply by hopping in your car or catching a bus. The wonderful coastline stretches out for miles, hire a bike, explore on foot or just take a coastal drive to discover the beautiful scenery. We highly recommend going into the hills of Cap d’Anitbes and exploring some of the beautiful villas and houses tucked into the hills with fabulous views stretching out over the Mediterranean. Another great way to see the area is on a hire a scooter. The perfect way to enjoy the warm summer air, sea breeze and to explore the coastal areas and up into the Provençal countryside villages.
If you're after something more active, head to the coast and enjoy a number of watersports, try your hand at water skiing, banana boating, wakeboarding and other water adventures. The bay of Golfe-Juan is a popular dive spot, with numerous dive sites near by, so why not try out some of the local diving school and see the area from under the water...the beautiful sandy beaches and blue sparkling Mediterranean provide the perfect place to spend a day soaking up the sun, splashing in the sea and watching the sunset. There are a number of excellent beach clubs with restaurants or grab a picnic and head to a public beach.
Children and families will also enjoy Marineland waterpark which is a short drive from Vallauris Golfe-Juan where you can see creature of the sea, watch an animal show, enjoy some thrills on a water ride and play adventure golf.
If you want to discover more of the French Riviera or ocean then what better way to explore than by hiring a boat or yacht for the day. There are a number of luxury companies who will take you along the coast exploring the ocean and neighbouring famous towns such as St Tropez. Anchor out at sea and enjoy a Mediterranean lunch in the peace and calm of the ocean or hop of the boat and explore the towns and villages.
Based in Cannes, motorbike and scooter rental so you can explore the South of France.
This company is based in Cannes and offers a wide range of road bikes, with delivery available to Antibes.
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.
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.
Sit back and relax on this guided tour of the French Riviera and its countryside.
Follow your guide and discover the famous French Riviera city of Cannes, riding the iconic Vespa scooter.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Offering divers the chance to explore some of the beautiful underwater areas around Cannes. You will dive the pristine beauty of these relatively untouched, idyllic dive sites.
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.
Easy Dive is a diving centre and shop in Cannes. There are a range of different courses for all levels from complete beginner to advanced and instructor courses.
Airxkite offers full courses on kite surfing, including theory and practical. All Airxkite classes in the water take place between April to November.
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.
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.
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.
A great place to meet friends in central Cannes, especially popular after work, with a really relaxed vibe.
Nestled in the narrow streets of Cannes oldest district, Le Suquet, this jazz bar hosts some great musicians.
A quirky atmosphere and an intriguing interior in this small bar and restaurant.
A magical place offering food, music and dancing under the palm trees and stars…while perhaps looking at some film stars too.
On the heights of Théoule, pleasant villa with a magnificent sea view located on a plot of 1000m² in terraces.
Holiday villa Cannes: In Cannes, 2 km from the Palais des Festivals and the Croisette, in a quiet residential area, magnificent villa situated on a plot of 1500m².
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.
1.8 km from the Croisette and 1.3 km from the Palais des Festivals, luxurious villa tastefully renovated in 2021 located on a garden of 600 m².
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.
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".
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.
Holiday villa Cannes: In Cannes, 2 km from the Palais des Festivals and the Croisette, in a quiet residential area, magnificent villa situated on a plot of 1500m².
3 rooms apartment of 70 m² air conditioned on the 3rd floor
On the heights of Théoule, pleasant villa with a magnificent sea view located on a plot of 1000m² in terraces.
6km from Cannes, luxurious estate situated on the hills of Mandelieu.
8 km from Mandelieu, in a domain 15 minutes from the beaches, on St Jean de l'Estérel in the heart of the "Parc Résidentiel de l'Estérel", beautiful contemporary villa located on a plot of 3000 m2.
Ideally located on the coast of the beautiful Mediterranean and with the town of Vallauris sitting in the hills behind it, there are plenty of lovely places to stay that provide peace or calm or put you in the heart of the bustling port.
Golfe Juan and Vallauris are home to a number of cosy and beautiful B&B’s that provide exceptional comfort and reasonable prices.
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.
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.
Perched high above the Corniche d'Or in Théoule-sur-Mer, the five-star Tiara Miramar Beach Hotel & Spa boasts balconies and terraces that cascade down to a secluded private beach.
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.
Perfectly located in the heart of Rue d'Antibes, the Cannes Croisette Prestige residential hotel offers a prime spot in central Cannes. Just a short stroll from the Croisette and its beaches, it’s also only 10 minutes on foot from the Palais des Congrès.
A peaceful boutique hotel in the heart of Cannes, Hôtel Cézanne blends comfort and modern style with a warm, welcoming atmosphere. With a spa, fitness room, and private beach access, it's perfect for both relaxation and active getaways.
From Nice airport to Cannes, they handle the rest. The Côte d’Azur's most trusted private 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.
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.
Chabe Transfers are a renowned luxury transfer and taxi service operating in the French Riviera.
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.
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.
Find out all about what is happening in Cannes and how to make the most of your time here. The latest news, reviews of fun activities, fabulous beaches, current events and the trendiest restaurants, as well as interviews with leading locals, insider's guides and our top choices for things to do, see and experience in this glamorous city.
See allLatest News & ReviewsYou will not be short of entertainment in this beautiful French Riviera town, especially during the summer. Perhaps the best known of all the events is the highly glamorous Cannes Film Festival – certainly worth a day trip to the city just to see which celebrities you can spot. There are also markets, international fairs and plenty of cultural and musical festivals.
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