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 Antibes
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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 Antibes
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Musee Nationale de Fernand Leger, near Biot
Museum dedicated to the life and work of Fernand Léger
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.
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Jardin Botanique de la Villa Thuret, Cap d'Antibes
Stunning botanical gardens and a 19th century villa
When Gustave Thuret arrived in Cap d'Antibes, he fell in love with the wild nature of the place and bought five hectares on which to build his stunning villa and cultivate a beautiful park and gardens.
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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.
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Chateau Museum Grimaldi, Cagnes sur Mer
A palatial art museum and historic monument in its own right
Chateau Grimaldi may take you somewhat by surprise if you are expecting the usual historical museum experience - it also holds regular exhibitions of contemporary art and isn’t afraid of displaying bizarre and sometimes challenging installations. The artworks are incongruous in such a traditional context and the collection changes regularly, so you never know quite what you’re going to get when you visit!
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Abbaye de Lerins Monastery (Lerins Abbey), Ile Saint-Honorat
Visit this charming 5th century abbey which is still a working monastery
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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Reserve des Mont d'Azur
Safari park where animals live in their natural habitat
Come and see bison, deer, horses, boars and hawks roaming on 700 hectares of land, just one hour from the French Riviera
Beaches in [locality]
Beaches in Antibes
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Plage de la Pierre au Tambour Beach, Villeneuve Loubet
Pebble beach great for watersports fans with equipment to rent
Plage de la Pierre au Tambour runs from the port all the way to Antibes and has a busy road and train line running behind it, neither of which you can hear much. If you stand facing the sea and look to your right you can see Antibes and its 16th century fort sticking out from the mainland.
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Plage de la Batterie Beach, Villeneuve Loubet
A pebble beach with watersports, ideal for families
Right beside the marina, Plage de la Batterie (also known as Plage Villeneuve-Loubet) is a pleasant pebble beach with plenty of activities on offer.
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Plage du Fort Carre and Plage de la Fontonne beaches, Biot
Lovely pebble beaches along the coast towards 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.
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Plage du Pont du Lys Beach, Juan les Pins
Last beach of Juan les Pins as the coast curves around towards Golfe Juan
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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Plage des Bouches du Loup Beach, Villeneuve Loubet
Sandy beach with disabled access and lifeguard in peak season
Palm trees, sparkling blue waves and soft white sand make Plage des Bouches du Loup feel like a tropical paradise.
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Grande Plage Beach, Juan les Pins
Large public beach located in the west of 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.
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 Antibes
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Le Nacional Restaurant
First-class cuts of beef and excellent wine list
Le Nacional is a THE Beef and Wine restaurant in the heart of historical Antibes. A restaurant that will excite the taste buds of gourmet meat aficionados. The choicest pieces of beef provided by the highest quality butchers.
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La Bastide Saint Antoine Restaurant, Grasse
Michelin-starred Provençal retreat with creative cuisine and panoramic sea views
Michelin-starred La Bastide Saint-Antoine offers a refined retreat near Cannes, where chef Jacques Chibois creates inspired Provençal cuisine. Set in a stunning country house with lush gardens and panoramic sea views, it’s the perfect blend of gastronomy, elegance, and tranquillity.
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Cafe Royal Restaurant
Excellent restaurant with friendly service & a terrace overlooking the sea
The Cafe Royal is located on the ground floor of the Hotel Royal Antibes.
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Le Saint-Martin Restaurant, Vence
Michelin starred restaurant north of Vence
Gourmet restaurant of the Saint-Martin Spa & Chateau hotel to the north of Vence.
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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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Eden-Roc Restaurant
Rooftop haven of sunset views, signature cocktails, and Riviera elegance
Savour signature cocktails and exclusive wines while enjoying panoramic Mediterranean views at Eden-Roc Lounge. Open to resident and restaurant guests, subject to availability.
Nightlife in [locality]
Bars & Clubs in Antibes
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Royal Lounge Bar
Wine and cocktail bar offering live music in the evenings
Enjoy sea views and delicious cocktails at this jazz lounge in central Antibes.
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Fitzgerald Piano Bar, Juan les Pins
Luxurious piano bar in the Hotel Belles Rives
Moleskine armchairs, panoramic view, masterpieces, cracked oak floors, all complemented by a breathtaking view from the terrace where the sunset is magical.
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Casino JOA La Siesta
Newly renovated casino right on the edge of the sea on the beautiful Cote d'Azur
In this large complex in the centre of Antibes is a big nightclub and a casino. The casino has 180 machines, roulette, blackjack and poker plus a restaurant.
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Bar a Vin le 61 Restaurant
Restaurant in a nice setting overlooking the harbor
Opposite the Old Port, this wine bar has a great selection of wines that you can enjoy whilst looking out over the water, yachts and marina.
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Le Zinc Wine Bar & Restaurant
Tiny but packed with personality, friendly service & good wine
The owners are on hand to assist you with your wine choice and to give you a warm welcome to this small bar.
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Le Village
Night club with a spacious dance floor
The club is known for hosting some of Europe’s most popular DJs, as well as its creative theme nights. Imagine a village square at night - cobbled streets, fountains and a lively atmosphere.
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 Antibes
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Luxury A4A Yacht Trip
Luxury private yacht trip along the French Riviera for up to ten people
Take a trip on board this luxury yacht along the Riviera, cruising to any destination of your choice.
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Cannes Islands Boat Trip
Motor boat trip to Cannes for up to twelve people
A trip on a luxury motor boat with the professional crew to guide you on a fabulous day out on the ocean from Antibes to Cannes.
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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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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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Luxury Lizard Yacht Trip
Luxury private yacht trip along the French Riviera for up to twelve people
Take a trip onboard this luxury yacht along the Riviera to any destination of your choosing.
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Luxury Tayarrah Yacht Trip
Luxury private yacht trip along the French Riviera for up to eleven 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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Tenaz Sailing Motor Yacht - 40m Yacht Charter for up to 10 people
Sailing yacht in Antibes for up to ten people (sleeps eight)
The 40m sailing yacht Tenaz is a standout sloop from the renowned Dubois design studio, offering a refined and spacious charter experience. Built by Pendennis and extensively refitted in 2016, she combines classic sailing performance with modern comfort and style.
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Chantella Motor Yacht - 28m Motor Yacht for up to 10 people
Yacht in Antibes for up to ten people (sleeps eight)
Chantella yacht was built in 1966 with a mahogany hull, this is a classically designed gentleman’s style yacht. Because of good ownership, she has been kept up to date with some excellent refit and maintenance work. She now has zero-speed stabilisers, brand-new and economical engine replacements and constant care is given to the hull and paintwork. The owner is constantly investing in the upkeep of the yacht, so she is never lacking in the latest developments.
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Silver Wave Superyacht - 46m Yacht Charter for up to 12 people
Superyacht in Antibes for up to twelve people (sleeps ten)
The 45.7m motor yacht Silver Wave is a spectacular creation from the renowned Palmer Johnson shipyard. Delivered in 2009 and refitted in both 2014 and 2017, she combines cutting-edge design with exceptional performance.
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Cappuccino Superyacht - 32m Yacht Charter for up to 12 people
Superyacht in Antibes for up to twelve people (sleeps twelve)
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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Fortuna Star Motor Yacht - 22m Yacht Charter for up to 10 people
Yacht in Antibes for up to ten people (sleeps six)
Fortuna Star is a stylish Sunseeker Manhattan motor yacht offering an excellent blend of comfort, space and performance for Mediterranean yacht charters. Maintained in superb condition and refreshed with updated teak and upholstery, she is a fantastic choice for guests seeking a sleek and sociable yacht with a proven design.
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Antisan Superyacht - 33m Yacht Charter for up to 40 people
Superyacht in Antibes for up to forty people (sleeps eleven)
Step aboard Antisan, a stylish 33-metre motor yacht built by Spertini Alalunga, and enjoy a versatile charter experience on the French Riviera. Originally delivered in nineteen eighty-five and fully refitted in two thousand twenty-three, she combines classic design with modern comfort.
Watersports in [locality]
Watersports in Antibes
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Glisse Paradise Watersports, Saint Laurent du Var
Join a team of professionals for a great experience
Jet-ski, waterskiing, wakeboard, wakesurf, parachute, canoe and paddleboard, Glisse Paradise have it all!
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Stade Nautique Municipal Watersports
Local public swimming pools
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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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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Antibes Jet Passion, Juan les Pins
Offering jet ski hire along with a variety of other watersports
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.
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Paddle Boarding Tours & Hire
1hr & 2hr SUP excursions, to discover the French Riviera
Based in Antibes, their activities extend along the French Riviera and include the Iles de Lerins.
Holiday Rentals in [locality]
Holiday Rentals in Antibes
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Charming and Cosy 2D Apartment
Studio bedroom Apartment in Juan les Pins. Sleeps 2
Located on a quiet street just one block away from the stunning French Riviera, the Charming and Cosy 2D Sweet Inn vacation studio offers a stylish, romantic abode in one of Juan les Pin’s best areas.
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Hsud0017 Villa
5 bedroom Villa in Vallauris. Sleeps 10
Located in Vallauris, 10 km from Cannes, in a leafy residential area with sea view, luxurious villa set in 2500 m² of wooded, fenced grounds.
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Spacious Lovely Riviera 6E Apartment
2 bedroom Apartment in Juan les Pins. Sleeps 6
On a quiet street just one block away from the stunning French Riviera, this 2 bedroom Sweet Inn vacation apartment offers a stylish abode in on of Juan-les-Pin’s best areas.
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Hsud0054 Villa
4 bedroom Villa in Vallauris. Sleeps 8
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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Charming Riviera 1E Apartment
1 bedroom Apartment in Juan les Pins. Sleeps 4
Located on a quiet street just one block away from the stunning French Riviera, the 1-bedroom Charming Riviera 1E Sweet Inn vacation apartment offers a stylish abode in one of Juan les Pin’s best areas.
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Hsud0080 Villa
4 bedroom Villa in Roquefort-les-Pins. Sleeps Capacity: 10 (max. 8 adults)
At 6km from Valbonne, in the commune of roquefort-les-pins, in a quiet area, charming villa situated on a plot of land of about 2100 m².
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 Antibes
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Sainte Valerie Villa Hotel, Juan les Pins
A hidden gem in Juan-les-Pins where charm and elegance meet
A charming and historic four-star villa in the heart of Juan-les-Pins, offering an intimate retreat where Mediterranean elegance and relaxed luxury come together.
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Le Mas de Mougins B&B
Charming guesthouse accommodation in a traditional Provencal Mas
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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Le Mas de Pierre Hotel, Saint-Paul de Vence
Luxurious Provençal retreat with a spa, lagoon and gourmet dining
This five-star Relais & Châteaux resort offers elegant rooms, exceptional facilities and a peaceful setting near Saint-Paul-de-Vence.
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Royal Antibes Hotel
Contemporary seaside style in the heart of Antibes
The only seafront hotel in Antibes town centre, Royal Antibes offers chic, modern rooms and apartments, a private beach, a restaurant, a luxury spa, and top-tier service from a passionate team.
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La Colombe D'Or Hotel, St Paul de Vence
Charming boutique hotel with a world-class art collection and rich artistic history
This celebrated Provençal inn combines elegant accommodation with a private collection of modern art by renowned 20th-century artists.
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Cap d'Antibes Beach Hotel, Juan les Pins
Contemporary hotel with Michelin starred restaurant & private beach
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.
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 Antibes
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Private Airport Transfers
Effortless and reliable transfers from Nice Airport to Antibes
From Nice airport to Antibes, they handle the rest. The Côte d’Azur's most trusted private transfers.
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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 Airport Transfers
Reliable private airport transfer & taxi service
Chabe Transfers are a renowned luxury transfer and taxi service operating in the French Riviera.
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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 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.
Property For Sale in [locality]
Property for Sale in Antibes
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Villa for Sale | val260157
4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 210.04m², Villa in Roquefort-les-Pins
Set in a privileged countryside environment, south‑facing and in absolute peace and quiet, this superb property of approximately 210 sqm of living space has been fully renovated between 2024 and 2026 and is located just a few minutes from the centre of Roquefort‑les‑Pins.
Villa for Sale | val260157
€1,850,000 -
Apartment for Sale | CAN260193
1 bedroom, 1 bathroom, 49.49m² Apartment in Alpes-Maritimes
Golfe-Juan – Seafront apartment in a prestigious residence
Apartment for Sale | CAN260193
€565,000 -
Villa for Sale | VAL250093
5 bedroom, 575m² Villa in Alpes-Maritimes
Nestled at the summit of a prestigious residential estate, this new 575 sq m contemporary villa embodies the very essence of luxury.
Villa for Sale | VAL250093
€7,700,000 -
Villa for Sale | CDA240043
4 bedroom, 3 bathroom, 225m² Villa in Alpes-Maritimes
A stunning villa within a quiet location
Villa for Sale | CDA240043
€1,890,000 -
Villa for Sale | can260202
5 bedroom, 400m² Villa in Biot
Just a few steps from the historic village of Biot, accessible via a private pathway, this magnificent 18th‑century stone bastide embodies the very essence of Provence. Once an old pottery workshop, it has been meticulously restored to combine authentic charm with contemporary refinement.
Villa for Sale | can260202
€3,200,000 -
Villa for Sale | VAL260137
6 bedroom, 4 bathroom, 186.24m² Villa in Alpes-Maritimes
This property enjoys exceptional, panoramic views over the sea and the surrounding hills, offering a constantly changing spectacle throughout the hours of the day and the seasons. Nestled in absolute tranquility, sheltered from any disturbance, it perfectly embodies the Provençal art of living, where nature, light, and serenity come together.
Villa for Sale | VAL260137
€1,100,000





































































