Mougins, Alpes-Maritimes
Gorgeous gastronomic and artful village to the north of Cannes
Mougins covers a large swathe of hillside above Cannes, and this is where the smart money lives - luxurious villas and exquisite gardens dot the landscape, just close enough to enjoy Cannes, but far enough away to avoid the craziness.
The old town (veille ville) is where you should head on a day trip.
Park up and wander into the medieval village. The town is smothered in jasmine, its fragrance is heady on balmy summer nights.
Mougins is totally pedestrianised and is a joy to explore with fountains and sculptures adorning the streets and the plentiful art exhibitions are guaranteed to keep the casual browser enthralled. You can happily wander through the pretty little lanes, and admire the well kept houses and gardens before choosing one of the many restaurants for a long leisurely lunch. Remember to book ahead in the summer months to ensure a table on the terraces.
Jump to
- History & Culture in Mougins
- Sights & Attractions in Mougins
- Beaches in Mougins
- Dining in Mougins
- Events in Mougins
- Things to do in Mougins
- Cycling in Mougins
- Hiking in Mougins
- Yachts & Sailing in Mougins
- Watersports in Mougins
- Families in Mougins
- Where to stay in Mougins
- Villas in Mougins
- Holidays Rentals in Mougins
- Hotels in Mougins
- Campsites in Mougins
- How to get to Mougins
History & Culture in Mougins
The hilltop of Mougins had been occupied since the pre-Roman period and was eventually absorbed into the spread of the Roman Empire. Much of the centre of the 'old' village dates back to the time between the 11th and 15th centuries.
In the 11th century the Count of Antibes gave the Mougins hillside to the Monks of Saint Honorat (from the nearby Îles de Lerins just off the coast of Cannes) who continued to administer the village until the French Revolution. During this period, Mougins was a fortified village surrounded by ramparts and parts of the medieval city wall still exist as well as one of the three original ancient gate towers (Porte Sarrazine).
Today this charming little village is best known for its gastronomy and the artists that it has attracted over the last 100 years. Picasso lived the last 12 years of his life here (1961–1973), in a house next to the chapel of Notre Dame de Vie to the south east of Mougins. His studio was in the old village in a building that is now the tourist office.
Sights & Attractions in Mougins
There are several art galleries and museums in Mougins and all are worth a visit.
In particular the Mougins Museum of Classical Art has one of the largest private collections of antiques that span vast periods of time and is beautifully curated.
Also worth a visit is the Photography Museum, located in the centre of the Old Town, which houses a display of antique cameras and equipment, alongside a collection of photos of famous painters and artists, including of course, Picasso.
Sights in Mougins
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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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Espace de l'Art Concret, Mouans-Sartoux
To the south west of Valbonne you'll find a centre for contemporary art known as Espace de l'Art Concret.
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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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The Valmasque Park
Covering 561 hectares this park is a beautifully protected area that is flourishing with wildlife, plants and birdlife! Go for a hike around the lake, enjoy a picnic by the river or take a ride on your mountain bike through the forest, there are lots of things to do at this park.
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L'Etang de Fontmerle
This peaceful oasis in Mougins in one of the largest lotus ponds in Europe and is set in a beautiful park with woodlands stretching as far as Antibes.
Beaches in Mougins
Beaches in Antibes
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Plage du Pont du Lys Beach, Juan les Pins
This relatively narrow sand beach is a beach of two halves. The town end is mostly taken up with beach clubs offering a pricey, decadent day lolling about on a deckchair or a pontoon.
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Grande Plage Beach, Juan les Pins
This is the main beach of Juan-les-Pins, and it’s also one of the widest. This is a great beach with lots of sand, a great view and a buzzing energy in the summer months.
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Blue Flag beaches in Antibes
The FEE (Foundation for Environmental Education) is a non-profit organisation that awards the sought-after Blue Flag label. And if you're planning a visit to Antibes and its beaches you'll be pleased to know that it has some Blue Flag beaches.
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Ponton Courbet Beach, Juan les Pins
This is a relatively narrow sand beach, backed by the Promenade du Soleil. It’s got a nice view across the bay and is very central to town.
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Plage Epi Hollywood Beach, Juan les Pins
Stretching from the Café de la Plage on Boulevard Edouard Baudoin to the Square Franck Jay Gould, this public beach offers one of the widest sections of beach in Juan les Pins.
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Plage du Fort Carre and Plage de la Fontonne beaches, Biot
Antibes sits at the far end of the Bay of Angels (Baie des Anges), a vast sweep of azure blue sea that washes up on a smooth pebbled shore.
Dining in Mougins
Its strong culinary history is due to great chefs such as Roger Vergé and Alain Ducasse, who have both managed restaurants in the village. Both are synonymous with the restaurant L'Amandier, which is situated in the heart of the old village. This restaurant still exists today and is housed in an important ancient building, that during the Middle Ages this was the court house of the Monks of Saint Honorat, before becoming an almond mill in the 18th/19th centuries.
Mougins hosts the annual 'International Gastronomy Festival of Mougins', or 'Les Étoiles de Mougins', an international gastronomic event taking place every September in the village.
Restaurants in Mougins
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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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Le Petit Fouet de Mougins Restaurant
Restaurant located in the heart of the old Mougins where you will also find galleries, artists' studios and history.
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Le Clos Saint Basile Restaurant
Elien & Matthieu Lestrade welcome you to Mougins in their gourmet restaurant. The restaurant Le Clos Saint Basile is one of the best restaurants in Mougins in the Maritime Alps with a quiet, calm and romantic garden.
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Le Bistrot de Mougins Restaurant
Located in the old village of Mougins since 1973, and before being a restaurant the site was a former stable from the 18th century.
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Paloma Restaurant
The Paloma gastronomic restaurant, with 2 Michelin stars, welcomes you at the entrance to the old village of Mougins, between Cannes and Grasse, in the heart of the French Riviera.
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Le Manoir De L'Etang Restaurant
Set in the hills above Cannes in the village of Mougins, you will find Le Manoir de L’Etang Hotel. Once home to Picasso, this 19th-century manor house is set in four hectares of land and overlooks a small lake covered in Lotus flowers.
Events in Mougins
Events in Antibes
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Festival d'Art Sacré
Showcase for some of the finest heritage treasures of the town and host to a programme of exceptional concerts in the Cathedral of Antibes and the Saint-Bernardin chapel.
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European Heritage Days
Exceptional locations around France, including Antibes, 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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Grande Braderie, Juan les Pins
The streets of Juan-les-Pins become a sales market, with more than 100 shops from all around town bringing their bargains out.
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Jammin' Juan Jazz Festival, Juan les Pins
In conjunction with the International Jazz Festival Association, Jazz a Juan will bring you three nights of entertainment with some of the most promising French and international acts on the jazz scene today.
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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.
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Napoleon's Landed
Fans of Napoleonic history won't want to miss this re-enactment of the landing of Emperor Napoleon after his exile in Elba. On 1 March, 1815, Napoleon arrived with his army, and the scene is played out each year on the beach in Vallauris Golfe-Juan.
Things to do in Mougins
Wandering and exploring in the medieval town centre is a great way to spend your day in Mougins, enjoying the small winding streets, fantastic architecture and rich history of the area. Whilst stopping for a snack or coffee in one of the many cafés, viewing some modern or contempory art in one of the galleries and finally topping off your day with a delicious dinner in an elegant restaurant.
But while you are in Mougins, it's also worth taking the time to enjoy the calm oasis that is the Etang de Fontmerle, the Lotus Pond. This is a very special place where you can spend hours strolling and enjoying the peaceful surrounding in this nature park.
Or if you prefer to be a little more active during your stroll through nature, then why not visit the Royal Mougins Golf Club or the Golf Country Club de Cannes, both of which are situated in Mougins.
Things To Do in Mougins
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Royal Mougins Golf Course
Founded in 1993, the Royal Mougins Golf Club is a course of exceptional quality. Designed by world-famous American architect, the late Robert von Hagge, the par 71, 18-hole course extends for 6,004 m through a lush, wooded vale.
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L'Etang de Fontmerle
This peaceful oasis in Mougins in one of the largest lotus ponds in Europe and is set in a beautiful park with woodlands stretching as far as Antibes.
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Cannes-Mougins Golf Country Course
The Cannes-Mougins Golf Club provides all features you are expecting from a modern golf within an historical environment. The Cannes Country Club was founded in 1923 by a group of illustrious gentlemen such as Aga Khan, Prince Pierre of Monaco and Baron Edouard de Rothschild.
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Salto Trampoline Arena
From foam pits to airbags, basketball to dodgeball and of course trampoline, there is plenty to keep the entire family entertained.
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The Valmasque Park
Covering 561 hectares this park is a beautifully protected area that is flourishing with wildlife, plants and birdlife! Go for a hike around the lake, enjoy a picnic by the river or take a ride on your mountain bike through the forest, there are lots of things to do at this park.
Cycling in Mougins
Cycling Routes in Antibes
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Cannes to Nice via Antibes
Leaving Cannes and travelling east along the coast allows you to enjoy the Cap de la Croisette just outside of the centre of Cannes as well as the towns, villages and seaside resorts that are scattered along the Cote d'Azur. A good train service ensures that your journey does not need to be a return, but merely a one way trip.
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Antibes to Saint Raphael Cycling Route
There is no other way to discover the stunning coast of the Cote d’Azur than by bike. This bike ride is not the most challenging, as no serious hills are conquered, but it is a stunning way to explore the coastal towns of the Cote d’Azur.
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Col de Vence Cycle Route
A challenging ride up a steep mountain pass to a summit of 963m, the Col de Vence is a classic cycling route of the Cote d’Azur. Starting from Nice along the Promenade des Anglais, follow the cycle path past the airport to Cagnes-Sur-Mer; you’ll know you’ve reached Cagnes-Sur-Mer when you come to a long stretch of seafront and a dangling rhinoceros (you’ll understand when you see it), turn right up Avenue General Leclerc - it’s the second road after the church.
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Hiking in Mougins
Walking Routes in Antibes
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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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Sentier de la Brague Walk
This enjoyable half-day hike follows a river linking two of the region’s most beautiful towns, Valbonne and Biot.
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Le Camp Romain
Perched at nearly 500m above sea level this historical site once housed Romans in tents as they overlooked the land below.
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Tour du Cap d'Antibes
When you think of the Cap d'Antibes you tend to think prestigious villas and residences for billionaires, nestled in the green oasis of the peninsula.
Yachts & Sailing in Mougins
Watersports in Mougins
Watersports in Antibes
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Diamond Diving School
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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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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Kayak Hire
Based in Antibes, their kayak & SUP activities extend along the French Riviera and include the Iles de Lerins.
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Easy Dive School, Juan les Pins
Easy Dive is a diving shop and diving centre in Antibes. There are a range of different courses for all levels from complete beginner to advanced and instructor courses.
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Stade Nautique Municipal Watersports
If you feel like a change from the beach, take a trip to the local public swimming baths. There is a 25-metre swimming pool inside, plus an outdoor 50-metre pool with a diving board.
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Antibes Jet Passion, Juan les Pins
You can hire a jet ski, or enjoy a guided day out with an instructor who will show you the sites of the wonderful coastline and the islands of the Cote d'Azur.
Families in Mougins
Where to stay in Mougins
There are some fantastic places to stay in Mougins. Most of them are luxury hotels, but they still offer better value than Cannes.
Villas in Mougins
Villas in Mougins
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Hsud0818 Villa, Roquefort-les-Pins
In the area of Roquefort les Pins in 6 km from Valbonne, in a residential and green area, nice villa on a land of 2600 m².
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Hsud0054 Villa, Vallauris
In the town of Vallauris, we present the villa "Luma" located in height, without direct vis-à-vis, with a very beautiful sea view, on a plot of 800 m².
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Hsud0042 Villa, Villeneuve-Loubet
7 km from Antibes, in the village of Villeuneuve-Loubet, in the residential area, beautiful modern villa situated on the plot of 800m².
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Hsud0043 Villa, Roquefort-les-Pins
6km from Valbonne in the town of Roquefort-les-Pins, beautiful Provencal farmhouse renovated in 2021, located on a plot of approximately 3,000 m².
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Hsud0020 Villa
12 km from Cannes, modern villa situated in a residential estate calm on a garden of 1500 m².
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Lunetta Villa, Opio
Villa Lunetta features four bedrooms (2 master suites and 2 guest rooms) and four en-suite bathrooms and shower rooms spread over two spacious floors.
Holidays Rentals in Mougins
Holiday Rentals in Mougins
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Charming and Cosy 1D Apartment, Juan les Pins
Located on a quiet street just one block away from the stunning French Riviera, the Charming and Cosy 1D Sweet Inn vacation studio offers a stylish, romantic abode in one of Juan les Pin’s best areas.
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Hsud0043 Villa, Roquefort-les-Pins
6km from Valbonne in the town of Roquefort-les-Pins, beautiful Provencal farmhouse renovated in 2021, located on a plot of approximately 3,000 m².
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Deluxe Terrace 1C Apartment, Juan les Pins
Located on a quiet street just one block away from the stunning French Riviera, the 1-bedroom Deluxe Terrace 1C Sweet Inn vacation studio offers a stylish abode in one of Juan les Pin’s best areas.
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Lunetta Villa, Opio
Villa Lunetta features four bedrooms (2 master suites and 2 guest rooms) and four en-suite bathrooms and shower rooms spread over two spacious floors.
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Cosy Terrace 1A Apartment, Juan les Pins
Located on a quiet street just one block away from the stunning French Riviera, the studio Cosy Terrace 1A Sweet Inn vacation apartment offers a stylish, romantic abode in one of Juan les Pin’s best areas.
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Hsud0054 Villa, Vallauris
In the town of Vallauris, we present the villa "Luma" located in height, without direct vis-à-vis, with a very beautiful sea view, on a plot of 800 m².
Hotels in Mougins
Hotels in Mougins
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Le Mas de Mougins B&B
Set in a secluded, tranquil location surrounded by ancient oaks, olive trees, oleanders, and the sweet fragrance of jasmine, it’s easy to see why this peaceful haven was a favourite of Picasso.
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Villa Miraé
Villa Miraé offers a serene retreat in Cap d’Antibes, featuring luxurious rooms and Mediterranean-inspired dining by Chef Mauro Colagreco. Experience elegant interiors, breathtaking gardens, and unforgettable cuisine in a prime location on the French Riviera.
Price: €6,102
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La Bastide Saint Antoine Hotel, Grasse
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.
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Cap d'Antibes Beach Hotel, Juan les Pins
This beach hotel is located in the Juan-Les-Pins area of Antibes and boasts fantastic sea views. Unlike many hotels in the area this architecture is sleek and modern and as expected, the interior mimics the opulence of the exterior.
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Hotel de Mougins
Set in a historic 18th-century bastide, the four-star Hôtel de Mougins offers a tranquil retreat in the heart of Provence. Surrounded by Mediterranean gardens and filled with Provençal charm, it’s the perfect base for unwinding and exploring the Côte d’Azur.
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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.
Campsites in Mougins
How to get to Mougins
Transfers for Antibes
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Private airport transfers
From Nice airport to Antibes, they handle the rest. The Côte d’Azur's most trusted private transfers.
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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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Private Jet and Helicopter Transfers
With an International fleet of jets and helicopters based across Europe it is quick and easy to get a private charter flight for business, pleasure or an airport transfer.
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Helicopter 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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Chabe Airport Transfers
Chabe Transfers are a renowned luxury transfer and taxi service operating in the French Riviera.
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Car Riviera Airport Transfers
Car Riviera offers a range of cars available for hire with a driver to chauffeur you either to and from the airport, for sight seeing trips or just to and from dinner so you can sit back and relax. Large vehicles such as Espace and Multi vans are at your disposal.