Amongst the hundreds of medieval villages that scatter the French countryside, Touët-sur-Var stands out for its unique character and quirky architectural features.
Touet-sur-Var
A wonderful labyrinth of hidden treasures
As soon as you alight from the train, you feel like you stepped out of real life and into a Joanne Harris novel; fat black grapes, deep purple flowers and lush green leaves drip from stone walls and cling to faded wooden shutters. Climb up to the old town and you'll find yourself in a maze of ancient interlaced streets and vaulted passages, most no bigger than narrow alleyways. Inquisitive cats peer out from every nook and cranny and are so used to being photographed that they all know which side is their best.
The tightly-packed houses are often described as looking rather Tibetan! Crammed in on the side of a steep mountain, they are unusually tall and narrow with open roofs that would once have been used for drying figs in the sun.
Touët-sur-Var has a real artisan feel to it; everywhere you look you'll see painted doors, mini-murals, personalised letterboxes and so on – if you're lucky enough to get a peek behind some of the heavy wooden doors you'll find a hidden world of workshops and ateliers crammed full of curiosities. The affinity with Tibet can also been seen in artwork that has Buddhist vibes, prayer flags strung from the occasional balcony and the odd “Free Tibet” slogan painted on a wall or door.
Despite it being a popular destination, Touët-sur-Var doesn't feel at all “touristy” and you'll see more locals going about their daily routine than you will camera-wielding holidaymakers. There isn't a huge number of bars and restaurants, but the ones that exist all look like they have a regular clientèle and don't just cater to the seasonal trade. You won't find anywhere in the old town to eat, but there are a few relaxed looking places on the main road and the train station has a small restaurant with a terrace that oozes shabby Provençal charm. If you want to feel like a local, then this is the place to do it.
The village is separated into three sections: a quiet residential area on one side of the train station, a main road with shops, bars and restaurants on the other, and the old medieval village perched high up on the mountain side. It only takes half an hour or so to reach the top of the old town, but it's a steep climb up uneven staircases and through crooked passageways; above the houses is a lookout point with superb views of the Var valley stretching out for miles, the mountains on the opposite side and the red tiled roofs of the village below.
Events in [locality]
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Beaujolais Nouveau 
Beaujolais Nouveau
The new Beaujolais has arrived!
The third Thursday in November is when this year's Beaujolais hits the shelves and is cause for celebration across France.
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Fête de la Musique
Music festival celebrated across France on the summer solstice
The Fête de la Musique is a celebration that takes place every summer solstice on 21 June in cities, towns and villages across France.
Sights & Attractions in [locality]
If the weather is not on your side you can visit the 12th century Romanesque church, find out how oil was produced at the old mill, or say hello to the presidents of the French Republic in the portrait gallery at the town hall. The older parts of the village are well protected from the elements and the narrow higgledy-piggledy streets are well worth a wander round, whatever the weather.
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Massena Villa
Belle Epoque architecture jewel set on the famous Promenade des Anglais
Handily located on the Promenade des Anglais, Villa Masséna is a wonderful example of Belle Epoque architecture.
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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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Prieure du Vieux-Logis Museum
Traditional villa housing art from the Middle Ages
This priory owned by Father Lemerre was converted into a museum at the end of the Second World War and houses his collection of objets d'art from the late Middle Ages and early modern period including French furniture, glass, sculptures and religious paintings.
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Modern & contemporary art Museum
Also known as MAMAC, this museum showcases 1960s to present day works
The museum of modern and contemporary art was opened in 1990 and features artworks from the 1960s to the present day.
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Musee International d'Art Naif Anatole Jakovsky Museum
Collection showcasing the history of 'Naïve Art' from the 18th century to today
The museum is located in the Chateau Sainte Hélène, the former private residence of perfume master François Coty, surrounded by a garden with rare aromatic plants. It showcases a collection of 'Naïve Art' paintings.
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Fine Arts Museum (Musee des Beaux Arts)
Art from the 16th to the 20th century in a beautiful villa
Located in the Baumettes neighbourhood, this Fine Arts museum is housed in an impressive 19th-century villa and contains an important collection of paintings and sculptures.
Beaches in [locality]
Beaches in Nice
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Plage de Lenval Beach 
Plage de Lenval Beach
Pebbly beach at the west end of the Promenade des Anglais
This public beach sits at the western end of the Promenade des Anglais and is situated near the Lenval hospital.
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Promenade des Anglais Beach 
Promenade des Anglais Beach
The most famous stretch of beach in Nice
This long stretch of pebble beach in Nice runs along the Baie des Anges and is backed by the Promenade des Anglais.
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Plage du Carras Beach 
Plage du Carras Beach
Pebbly beach not far from Nice centre with disabled access
Plage de Carras is a well-equipped “handiplage”, which has facilities and lifeguards to enable people with disabilities to enter the water safely.
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Plage du Cros de Cagnes Beach, Cagnes sur Mer 
Plage du Cros de Cagnes Beach, Cagnes sur Mer
Pebble beach at the centre of Cagnes sur Mer with lifeguards
Plage du Cros de Cagnes is the main stretch of beach in Cagnes-Sur-Mer, running the length of the lively row of restaurants and bars that line the seafront.
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Plages des Flots Bleus Beach, Saint Laurent du Var 
Plages des Flots Bleus Beach, Saint Laurent du Var
Sand and pebble beach close to Nice airport, has disabled access
Saint-Laurent-du-Var has one of the best-equipped waterfronts in terms of barely having to leave the beach all day - everything is right here.
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Plage des Bouches du Loup Beach, Villeneuve Loubet 
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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Dining in [locality]
Restaurants in Nice
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Le Saint-Paul Restaurant, Saint Paul de Vence
Gourmet Mediterranean cuisine cleverly devised by Laurent Paccini
Laurent Paccini is the chef at this Relais & Châteaux hotel and brings the food of different cultures to his excellent Mediterranean restaurant in Saint-Paul de Vence.
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Le Cap Restaurant, Saint Jean Cap Ferrat
Delicious gourmet cuisine created by Michelin-starred Didier Anies
Michelin-starred chef, Didier Anies, recognised as Meilleur Ouvrier de France in 2000, has created a gourmet cuisine at this restaurant; one which is unfussy, full of flavour and low key yet elegant.
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La Chevre d'Or Restaurant, Eze
Michelin-starred restaurant serving sophisticated, fresh tasting cuisine
This gourmet restaurant offers panoramic views across the Mediterranean and gained two Michelin stars in 2011.
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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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La Table de Patrick Raingeard Restaurant, Eze
Excellent food showcased directly from the kitchen garden
The Cap Estel gourmet restaurant or "La Table de Patrick Raingeard" as it is known has one Michelin star.
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La Colombe d'Or Restaurant, St Paul de Vence
Exceptional Provençal dining surrounded by masterpieces
Enjoy refined regional cuisine in an iconic setting featuring original works by Picasso, Matisse, Miró and more.
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Nightlife in [locality]
Bars & Clubs in Nice
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Le Bar du Negresco
Atmospheric bar of the Hotel Le Negresco on the Promenade des Anglais
It is this eclectic and cosmopolitan atmosphere which makes it a place very "French Riviera".
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Nomad Bar, Vieux Nice
Bar with a large terrace on Place François
Located in Vieux Nice, this bar serves breakfast, lunch, tapas and drinks. A great place to soak up the sun while enjoying a meal.
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La Havane Live Jazz
Live jazz and salsa music in a Cuban style bar
If you are looking for something a little different then this bar could be for you - you will be transported to a different country!
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Cave de la Tour
Traditional wine bar in the heart of the Old Town of Nice
This local and friendly wine bar is the perfect place to stop for a midday snack or to try some of the local wines from the region.
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High Club Nightclub
Every weekend the biggest DJ's & international artists perform here
This night club is one of the highest rated discos in Nice. Some of the most reputed DJs are constantly invited here to perform to the satisfaction of the public thrown in a raving dancing trance.
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Casino de Beaulieu
This beautiful building has been recently renovated to its former glory!
Reopened in December 2014 and restored to its original elegance with a touch of modern glamour this is 'must see' building as well as fantastic entertainment venue.
Things to do in [locality]
There are plenty of beautiful hiking trails from Touët-sur-Var to other villages along the Chemins de Fer de Provence train line, taking you into the rugged beauty of the Gorges du Cian and along parts of the GR510.
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Luxury Good Times 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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Road bike hire
Quality road bike rentals to explore the French Riviera
This company is based in Nice and offers a wide range of road bikes.
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The Alps self-guided motorbike tour
Seven-night tour of the Alps with motorbike holiday specialists in Nice
A bike trip for advanced riders, where you can enjoy some of the most scenic roads of the French Alps.
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Luxury Chantella Yacht Trip
Luxury private yacht trip along the French Riviera for up to ten people
Take a trip onboard this luxury yacht along the Riviera to any destination of your choosing.
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Sunset Boat Trip
Sunset motor boat tour along the French Riviera
Enjoy a wonderful, peaceful and fume-free journey along the French Riviera on a solar powered motor boat with a professional skipper.
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Motorbike hire
Wide selection of BMW, Ducati, Harley Davidson and Triumph motorcycles available for rent
Based in Nice, motorbike and scooter rental so you can explore the South of France.
Yachts & Sailing in [locality]
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Arience Superyacht - 60m Yacht Charter for up to 12 people
Step on board Arience, a 60-metre superyacht built by Abeking & Rasmussen, and discover an exceptional collection of outdoor spaces designed by Reymond Langton Design.
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Mach One Superyacht - 32m Yacht Charter for up to 12 people
Mach One is a striking 32m Mangusta 105 Open superyacht, offering an exceptional charter experience on the French Riviera. Built in 1999 and refitted in 2013, she combines sporty performance with generous entertaining spaces, making her a highly sought-after choice for cruising and events in Cannes.
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Yacht To Escape Superyacht - 21m Yacht Charter for up to 10 people
To Escape is a stylish Ferretti Altura 690 offering exceptional value and impressive outdoor space for a yacht of her size. Based in the South of France, she is an excellent choice for relaxed weekend cruising and memorable Mediterranean escapes with family or friends.
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Africa Dream Motor Yacht - 23m Yacht Charter for up to 12 people
Africa Dream is a great Leopard yacht charter, built in 2003 and kept in pristine condition by her conscientious captain. Based in the charming Beaulieu-sur-Mer, she is perfectly situated for a Monaco Grand Prix yacht charter, or for venturing to the stunning Italian Riviera.
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Tansu Motor Yacht - 38m Yacht Charter for up to 8 people
SO’MAR is a truly striking 37.9m motor yacht built by Tansu, renowned for its award-winning craftsmanship, including recognition at the World Superyacht Awards. With her bold, military-inspired exterior and exceptional performance capabilities, she is perfectly suited for long-range cruising across both the East and West Mediterranean, and beyond.
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Sunseeker Predator 52 Superyacht - 17m Superyacht for up to 12 people
The Sunseeker Predator 52 is a sleek and sporty motor yacht, perfect for an unforgettable French Riviera charter. Combining performance, style and comfort, she offers an ideal platform for day cruising or overnight stays along the Mediterranean coast.
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Watersports in [locality]
Watersports in Nice
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White Water Rafting
Half day trips for 4 to 8 people suitable for all abilities from age 7
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Inflatable Rides, Villefranche Sur Mer
10min rides on inflatable tubes and sofa boats
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Stand Up Paddle Boarding
2hr session including 1 hour tuition suitable for all ages and abilities
Paddleboarding along the coast is a fun for the whole family!
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Parasailing, Villefranche Sur Mer
Single, double or triple flights from age 5 years up!
Fly at 50 metres above the sea by yourself or with friends security attached, enjoy a spectacular view of the gorgeous Baie des Anges, mountains and surroundings.
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Roya Evasion Activity Company, Breil-sur-Roya
Canyoning, rafting, via ferrata & mountain biking trips
This company offers a range of outdoor activities mostly based around canyoning and rafting white water, as well as via ferrata and mountain biking experiences and snowshoe walks in the winter.
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Go Kayak
Offering kayak hire & excursions along the Cote d'Azur
They adapt to the overall level of the group so that everyone can spend an unforgettable day together whether you are a family of beginners or a group of experienced kayakers.
Holiday Rentals in [locality]
Holiday Rentals in Nice
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Hsud0083 Villa, Vence
Located in the town of Vence, in a quiet residential area, charming villa set in grounds of 3600 m². Private salt water swimming pool (10m x 5m – Depth 110/170 cm – Alarm), outdoor shower (hot water), pool house (barbecue, oven, gas hob), terrace with garden furniture, deckchairs and dining table. Parking for 4 cars. 2 km shops. Beach 12km.
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Hsud0058 Villa, Saint Paul de Vence
In Vence, 5 km from Saint-Paul,, in a residential area, beautiful contemporary villa located on a plot of 1000m2.
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Hsud0034 Villa, La Gaude
In the heart of the French Riviera, 10 km from the beach and 13 km from the airport, this villa is set in lush greenery and nature.
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Aurelia Villa, Vence
Just outside historic Vence and a short distance from magnificent Saint Paul de Vence, this beautiful and contemporary house on a generous private plot is very quietly located for exploring all the delights of this beautiful corner of the French Riviera. The villa is located in a beautiful natural setting with views of the mountains.
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Roquette Villa, La Roquette-sur-Var
The villa in La Roquette-sur-Var has 4 bedrooms and has capacity for 8 people.
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Hsud0081 Villa
In Nice, in the residential area of Saint Pancrace, beautiful villa situated on a plot of 1Ha in edge of forest of which 2000m ² done up.
Hotels in [locality]
Hotels in Nice
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Suisse Hotel
Exclusive establishment with a unique location on the French Riviera
The Hotel Suisse is ideally situated between right on the beach front and offers fantastic, uninterrupted sea views right in the heart of Nice.
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Cap Estel Hotel, Eze
A beautiful 5 star boutique hotel in its own gated estate
Situated on its own two-hectare peninsula jutting into the Mediterranean Sea, the hotel has wonderful panoramic views. With only 28 rooms spread over four separate locations, it is a very private and luxurious place to stay.
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La Bastide Saint Antoine Hotel, Grasse
Charming Provençal retreat with luxury suites, panoramic terrace, and Michelin-starred dining
La Bastide Saint-Antoine in Grasse sits within five hectares of lush Mediterranean gardens and olive groves. It overlooks the surrounding plains and the Bay of Cannes, offering stunning views and a feast for the senses.
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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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Windsor Hotel
Artists invest the space & rooms with contemporary art installations
Charming hotel with a secluded tropical garden set in the heart of Nice within a walking distance to the city's main attractions.
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Le Chateau de la Chevre d'Or Hotel, Eze
Chic hotel with stunning views, Michelin starred dining & spa facilities
Boasting remarkable sea views of St-Jean-Cap-Ferrat, this luxurious hotel is listed among the 500 World's Best Hotels.
How to get to [locality]
As well as the Train des Pignes, you can also reach Touët-sur-Var by bus.
Alternatively, if you wish to drive you’ll find Touët-sur-Var 50km north west of Nice, along the RN 202 to Digne-Les-Bains.
Transfers for Nice
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Private Airport Transfers
Nice Airport to Saint Tropez from €110 per vehicle one-way (weekend rate)
With years of Alpine transfer experience through its sister brand, this private airport transfer service brings reliable, professional travel to the Côte d'Azur, with trained, English-speaking drivers who know the local area. Comfortable, air-conditioned vehicles, including Mercedes models and spacious people carriers, offer Wi-Fi and complimentary mineral water, while airport meet and greet, flight and traffic monitoring, free child seats and clear pricing help make your journey easier. With automated pick-up reminders, door-to-door service and twenty-four-hour summer telephone support, you can arrange your transfer with greater peace of mind.
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Helicopter Transfers & Scenic Flights
Helicopter charter company based in Monaco with over 25 years experience
With a long history and experience in the VIP transport industry this company is proud of its personal and high-quality services.
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Helicopter Charter Flights
Luxury helicopter transfers to the French Riviera & the French Alps
Heli Securite offer transfers on a helicopter from the airport to your yacht or various destinations in and around the Cannes area, St Tropez and Monaco. In addition to this they also service all of the main French ski resorts from their base in Courchevel.
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Private Airport Transfers
Reliable private airport transfer & taxi service
Chabe Transfers are a renowned luxury transfer and taxi service operating in the French Riviera.
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Private Jet & Helicopter Transfers
Aircraft & helicopter charter company based at Nice Airport in the South of France
With an International fleet of jets and helicopters based across Europe it is quick and easy to get a private charter flight for business, pleasure or an airport transfer.
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Helicopter 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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Property For Sale in [locality]
Property for Sale in Nice
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Villa for Sale | BSM250343
Charming provencal villa with a panoramic sea view.
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Villa for Sale | bsm260471
Contemporary Style Villa Overlooking Cap Ferrat
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Villa for Sale | VAL250050
Joint-sole agency. Ideally located in the private and sought-after area of Hauts de Saint Paul, this exceptional Provençal villa enjoys a privileged location, offering a beautiful view of the sea as well as of the emblematic village of Saint Paul de Vence, a true jewel of the French Riviera.
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Apartment for Sale | BSM230134
Place du Pin, renovated five-room apartment
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House for Sale | NIC210097
Luxury six bedroom waterfront property offering direct beach access and breathtaking views.
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Apartment for Sale | bsm260489
Fully Renovated Apartment with terrace, Nice Cimiez
