Cap de Nice and Mont Boron is a peaceful exclusive area to the east of Nice and is a mix of affluent residential properties and a national park.
Cap de Nice
Wonderful national park area with a hilltop fortress
Perched on one of the “collines” of Nice, Mont Boron sits at just over 190m and is home to a forest that covers 57 hectares and contains about 11km of footpaths that are perfect for exploring the area, including a 1.5km fitness trail with exercise stations.
Cap de Nice is not so far from the town itself but is a bit cut-off due to its elevated position and its location on the peninsula; many beautiful properties have been built here because of the glorious views from the city of Nice all the way to Cap Ferrat.
Events in Villefranche-sur-Mer
Events in Villefranche-sur-Mer
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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 Villefranche-sur-Mer
Historical markers are in evidence all over the area, from the Paleolithic era to the present day. At the foot of Mont Boron is the Grotte du Lazaret, a prehistoric cave that has revealed remains of prehistoric animals including woolly mammoths, panthers, lynx and bears - alongside human remains that suggest that it was occupied almost two hundred thousand years ago.
At the very peak of Mont Boron you’ll find Fort Mont Alban, built in 1557 on the orders of the Duke of Savoy in response to the siege of Nice. Only the outside of the fort is accessible, the inside is closed to visitors, but it's almost perfectly preserved and well worth the hike up for a look around. It’s a real fairytale castle with turrets, towers and a drawbridge.
More recently, the Batterie du Mont Boron is a 400m long military bunker built in 1886 to protect the Baie des Anges. Take a stroll around the Circuit de Bellevue, which follows the walls of the Batterie and looks out over the bay between Nice and Villefranche-Sur-Mer.
Sights & Attractions in Villefranche-sur-Mer
Visits to the caves are only possible by arrangement, but you can can see lots of exhibits from the site at the Musée Terra Amata in the port district.
Sights in Villefranche-sur-Mer
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Ephrussi de Rothschild Villa, Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat
Stunning villa of Béatrice Ephrussi de Rothschild, a wealthy French socialite
This impressive villa was built in 1906 by Béatrice Ephrussi de Rothschild. It overlooks the Mediterranean sea from Cap Ferrat and it is full of antique furniture, Old Master paintings, sculptures and a collection of rare porcelain, while the gardens are classified as Notable Gardens of France.
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Volti Museum
Impressive bronze, terracotta and copper sculptures
The sculptor, Antoniucci Volti, was born in Italy in 1915 but his family lived in Villefranche-sur-Mer. His collection is housed in the town's 16th-century citadel.
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Musee de Paleontologie Humaine de Terra Amata
Excavation site showing human inhabitation 400,000 years ago
The museum of palaeontology is located on the excavation site of the Terra Amata where there is evidence of human inhabitation going back 400,000 years.
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Citadelle de Villefranche
Ancient citadel built to defend a medieval town
The citadel of Villefranche-sur-Mer looms over the old town; it is open to the public and has a number of interesting features.
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Saint-Michel Church, Villefranche sur Mer
Classic Baroque church in the centre of Villefranche-sur-Mer
This Baroque Italianate church dates to the 1750s, although it was built on the site of a 14th-century church.
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Vinaigrier Park
Nature park with lovely views over Nice bay
On the eastern outskirts of Nice lies the national park of Mount Vinaigrier. The hillsides are covered in pine and oak trees and a rare flowering ash species that blossoms in May.
Beaches in Villefranche-sur-Mer
Beaches in Nice
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Plage de la Darse Beach
A family friendly pebble beach with good snorkelling
Plage de la Darse is a secret beach, hidden from view and discretely signposted. It never gets very busy because so few people know that it’s there - so keep it on the down-low if you plan to head here.
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Plage des Bains Militaires Beach
A quiet public beach not far from the port of Nice
The name might sound a bit intimidating but Bains Militaires is actually quite a nice quiet beach, away from the hustle and bustle of Nice centre.
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La Plage de Coco Beach
A rocky outcrop with a small restaurant
The glamorously named Coco Beach is more of a launchpad into the deep blue sea than a true beach.
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Plage des Mariniers Beach
Fine pebble beach near the old town and harbour
The main beach at Villefranche is one of the best located for easy access and convenient facilities. Situated right next to the charming old port area and just a few minutes walk from the old town, there are both bus and train stops nearby.
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Plage de Passable Beach
A fine pebble beach perfect for sun worshippers
Tucked away in a little niche on the north-west side of Saint Jean Cap Ferrat, Plage de Passable is a glorious secluded sun trap with shallow crystal clear water.
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Plage des Fourmis Beach, Beaulieu Sur Mer
A fine pebble beach close to the centre of Beaulieu
Plage des Fourmis is the long stretch of sand that runs along the main bus route; backed by a shady promenade lined with palm trees and tropical plants, the beach is very easy to find.
Dining in Villefranche-sur-Mer
The Cap de Nice and Mont Boron area is generally very quiet and residential, which is perfect if you want to escape the frenetic atmosphere of Nice and enjoy the tranquility.
However, this means that there are few restaurants in the area - your best bet is to take a short stroll down Avenue Jean Lorrain where you’ll find two excellent restaurants both on the seafront before you reach the port. If you simply want a quick bite, there is a pizzeria (that also does takeaway delivery) on the Boulevard Maurice Maeterlinck.
Restaurants in Villefranche-sur-Mer
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Les Pecheurs Restaurant
Exotically flavoured fish specials from the Med & the Indian Ocean
Yanis and Aurélie run this gastronomic delight which specialises in excellent fish dishes influenced by the flavours of the Mediterranean, Indochina and the Indian Ocean.
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Salon de The de la Villa Ephrussy de Rotschild, St-Jean-Cap-Ferrat
Tea room & restaurant in a stunning villa setting
Set in the room that Béatrice Ephrussi de Rothschild’s used as a dining room, the tea room/restaurant's terrace overlooks the Bay of Villefranche. All day, you can break for a delicious snack in this calm oasis with an unrestricted view of the bay.
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L'Atelier du Port Restaurant, Nice Centre
Situated at harbour side of Nice
In a black and white décor with a modern open space kitchen the chef cooks right in front of you with the freshest ingredients of the day from the local markets.
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Rosalina Bar & Restaurant, Nice Centre
A refreshing change for dining in the beautiful city of Nice
A converted garage in the Old Port area of Nice brings a friendly atmosphere and hip vibe to the bar and restaurant scene of Nice.
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La Table du Royal Restaurant, St-Jean-Cap-Ferrat
Restaurant of the 5 star Hotel Royal-Riviera
Chef Bruno Le Bolch takes you on a journey of the senses that is a delight to the eye and the taste buds.
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La Fille du Pecheur Restaurant, Villefranche Sur Mer
Fresh seafood specialities served in refined & unique setting
Situated on the Quay Courbet in Villefranche-sur-Mer, just in front of one of the most beautiful bays in the world, the restaurant La Fille du Pêcheur is managed by Krystel Roux, a true fisherman's daughter!
Nightlife in Villefranche-sur-Mer
Bars & Clubs in Villefranche-sur-Mer
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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.
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Le Cosmo Restaurant & Cocktail Bar
Located on a pretty pedestrian square overlooking the sea
In a relaxed family atmosphere, the restaurant Cosmo offers a variety of traditional, Mediterranean and French cuisine.
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La Cave Nature Restaurant
Restaurant, bar and wine cellar in Villefranche
In a simple and relaxed atmosphere, La Cave Nature is a place of tasting organic wines and specialities of the house such as sandwiches, Mediterranean products freshly prepared, and tastings of cheeses and Italian delicatessen.
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Ma Nolans, Nice Port
Find a bit of the Irish with some great views over Nice Port
Ma Nolan’s, Nice Port is designed to be a warm, welcoming and atmospheric venue, the perfect place to eat, drink and party.
Things to do in Villefranche-sur-Mer
If you nip round the back of the pizzeria you’ll see a sign saying “Escalier Pieton”, if you follow this you’ll come to a steep narrow staircase that leads directly to the sea and onto a wonderful coastal path leading all the way to Coco Beach in Nice.
Things To Do in Villefranche-sur-Mer
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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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Inflatable Rides, Villefranche Sur Mer
10min rides on inflatable tubes and sofa boats
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Provençal Tasting Tour, from Nice
4hr30 & 5hr driver guided tour of the culinary specialities of Provence
A taste of traditional Provencal Nissarde cuisine, wine, and olives.
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Nice Diving School
Exploration of the Mediterranean underwater wonders & diving lessons
Nice Diving unveils to its clients the underwater marvels of the Mediterranean ocean along the shores of the Cote d'Azur.
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Club Nautique de Nice
Rowing and sailing club in the heart of the old port of Nice
Rowing, power boating and sailing. Whether you are a beginner or an expert, whether you prefer a leisure or competitive approach, the club offers its resources, its equipment, its fleet (except for power boating).
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Bikram Yoga
Bikram yoga's 26 postures in Nice
Classes of bikram yoga's 26 postures take place in a heated classroom every day in the port area of Nice. English speaking Yoga instructors.
Watersports in Villefranche-sur-Mer
Watersports in Villefranche-sur-Mer
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Inflatable Rides, Villefranche Sur Mer
10min rides on inflatable tubes and sofa boats
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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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Club Nautique de Nice
Rowing and sailing club in the heart of the old port of Nice
Rowing, power boating and sailing. Whether you are a beginner or an expert, whether you prefer a leisure or competitive approach, the club offers its resources, its equipment, its fleet (except for power boating).
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Nice Diving School
Exploration of the Mediterranean underwater wonders & diving lessons
Nice Diving unveils to its clients the underwater marvels of the Mediterranean ocean along the shores of the Cote d'Azur.
Where to stay in Villefranche-sur-Mer
If you’re looking for somewhere to stay in Cap de Nice then there are plenty of lavish Belle Époque villas to choose from, when you consider that residents include the mega-rich and mega-famous like Elton John, you can imagine the price tag.
Totally at the other end of the scale is the local hostel tucked away in the forest - accommodation is self-catered and dormitory style. Somewhere in between there are lots of very elegant apartments to let with excellent sea views.
Holiday Rentals in Villefranche-sur-Mer
Holiday Rentals in Villefranche-sur-Mer
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Chemin du Mont des Mignons Villa
5 bedroom Villa in Nice. Sleeps 10
On the heights of Nice, beautiful stone house of around 500m² with swimming pool benefiting from a beautiful hills view.
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Nice Centre Apartment, Nice Centre
2 bedroom Apartment in Nice. Sleeps 4
In the centre of Nice, 2 bedrooms flat with a really nice terrace where you can enjoy a sunny lunch.
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Belle Aurore Villa
5 bedroom Villa in Nice. Sleeps 10
Set on the hillside of Nice, overhanging the Méditerranean sea and located into the most beautiful residential quarter of the town, this 400m2 villa is planted in a 3000 m2 enclosed garden and surrounded by a natural parc.
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Villefranche-sur-Mer Apartment
2 bedroom Apartment in Nice. Sleeps 4
Beautiful and bright 40m² apartment with a modern decor close to shops , beach and restaurants.
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Saint Pierre de Feric Villa
5 bedroom Villa in Nice. Sleeps 10
This beautiful 195m2 villa with city and sea view is located just a few minutes form the centre on Nice.
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Villefranche-sur-Mer duplex Apartment
2 bedroom Apartment in Nice. Sleeps 4
Villefranche-sur-mer, for rent, nice 2 bedroom duplex apartment of 85 m² floor space located on the heights of Villefranche with panoramic sea view.
Hotels in Villefranche-sur-Mer
Hotels in Villefranche-sur-Mer
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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 Reserve de Beaulieu Hotel
Stunning hotel with stylish rooms, gorgeous sea views & great restaurant
Classic French opulence with Mediterranean charm, all nestled between the mountains and the blue waters of the Riviera.
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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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Royal Riviera Hotel, Beaulieu sur Mer
Beachfront luxurious hotel part of the leading hotels of the world
This hotel has been entirely renovated, combining the historical ambience of its past, plus the modern conveniences of an international luxury hotel.
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Exedra Hotel, Nice Centre
Excellent location, close to all sights and shops within walking distance
The 5-star Luxury Boscolo Exedra Nice is located in the centre of Nice, a few minutes from the old town, the boutiques of Place Masséna, the famous Promenade Des Anglais and the Conference Center.
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Le Negresco Hotel
Traditional hotel with two star Michelin Restaurant on the sea front
Famous hotel and site named after Henri Negresco with an equally famous restaurant Le Chantecler, located on the Promenade des Anglais.
How to get to Villefranche-sur-Mer
Take buses no.81 or no.100 to get to Cap de Nice (bus stop Maeterlinck) or bus no.14 to go directly to Mont Boron.
Transfers for Nice
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Private Airport Transfers
Effortless and reliable transfers from Nice Airport to the city centre
From the airport to the city centre, they handle the rest. The Côte d’Azur's most trusted private transfers.
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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 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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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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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.
Property For Sale in Villefranche-sur-Mer
Property for Sale in Villefranche-sur-Mer
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Apartment for Sale | BSM250333
2 bedroom, 1 bathroom, 78m² Apartment in Alpes-Maritimes
At the entrance of Villefranche-sur-Mer, in a well-maintained residence with a swimming pool, close to shops, restaurants, and beaches, this ground-floor apartment features a spacious corner garden, offering both privacy and a peaceful atmosphere.
Apartment for Sale | BSM250333
€790,000 -
Apartment for Sale | BSM250356
2 bedroom, 1 bathroom, 68.09m² apartment in Alpes-Maritimes
Ideally located in a smart residence in the heart of the town with it's own swimming pool, this two bedroom apartment offers sea views over the Beaulieu bay and St Jean Cap Ferrat.
Apartment for Sale | BSM250356
€650,000 -
Apartment for Sale | BSM250392
1 bedroom, 1 bathroom, 47m² Apartment in Alpes-Maritimes
Beaulieu-Sur-Mer: Pleasant, bright 47 sq m apartment in a sought-after Beaulieu-Sur-Mer, close to shops and amenities.
Apartment for Sale | BSM250392
€580,000 -
Apartment for Sale | BSM250391
1 bedroom, 1 bathroom, 60.50m² Apartment in Alpes-Maritimes
Apartment with panoramic view Mont-Boron
Apartment for Sale | BSM250391
€599,000 -
Villa for Sale | BSM240201
8 bedroom, 350m² Villa in Alpes-Maritimes
Renovation project close to the Sea and the Old Town
Villa for Sale | BSM240201
€3,950,000 -
Apartment for Sale | BSM250349
3 bedroom, 2 bathroom, 138m² apartment in Alpes-Maritimes
Located in the heart of Mont Boron, one of Nice’s most prestigious and sought-after neighborhoods, this 138 sq m corner apartment embodies the elegance and serenity of the French Riviera.
Apartment for Sale | BSM250349
€2,200,000



















































































