Where the jingle of masts meets the clicking of the cicadas... From the ochre and sienna streets of Old Nice to the umbrella pines of Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat, not forgetting the incredible charm of Villefranche-sur-Mer or the Belle Époque roots of Beaulieu-sur-Mer, the Mediterranean air blankets the French Riviera in an undeniably enchanting sense of contentment. The luxury boutiques of Monaco stand alongside artistic foundations, all set against a background of oleanders and beaches stretching as far as the eye can see, while sun-drenched fruits and vegetables are served alongside the catch of the day at some of the area’s finest restaurants and local markets come alive with local craftspeople showcasing their talents. Suddenly, moving to the south seems like an obvious choice.
The real estate market
Prices have increased by 25% over five years. Starting at around €8,000 per sq.m, they reach an average of €12,000 to €20 000 at the upper end of the market. The most prestigious properties can reach €30,000, €40,000 or even €50,000 per sq.m, while houses with swimming pools and sea views and apartments with outdoor space, a terrace or a garden are driving the market.
Our advice
Define your criteria and requirements clearly so that we can find the right property for you.
Two property hotspots: The Golden Triangle - Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat, Villefranche-sur-Mer and Beaulieu-sur-Mer - for its proximity to Monaco. In Nice, the ancient residential district of Cimiez, on Mont Boron hill, and the Parc Impérial district, a historical holiday destination popular with the European nobility.
What’s up and coming?
The west of Nice is worth keeping an eye on. -Oliver COLLAUD -Director BARNES Beaulieu-sur-Mer
Art of living
A firm favourite with artists, boasting cuisine inspired by produce matured to perfection and designer boutiques, the Golden Triangle is a vibrant hive of activity.
Culture
Villa santo sospir
@villasantosospir
The walls of this legendary inter-war villa overlooking the bay of Villefranche are adorned with frescoes painted by Cocteau, who famously said that “Idleness tires me, and dries me out”. Visit by appointment.
14 Av. Jean Cocteau, 06230 Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat
Espace à vendre
@espace_avendre
This mischievously named gallery (‘Space for Sale’, in English!) run by Bertrand Bauraudou since 2004 showcases the work of emerging artists from Nissa la Bella and major international names alike. The current joint exhibition instigated by Karine Rougier and Nina Léger explores the world of the wonderful.
10 rue Assalit, 06000 Nice
Maeght foundation
@fondationmaeght
From Chagall and Giacometti to Calder, Kandinsky and Chillida, the list of masters whose iconic works line the grounds and galleries of the truly magical Maeght Foundation is enough to make your head spin. Its finest gems include a 12th-century Spanish crucifix donated to the foundation by Cristobal Balenciaga.
623 Chem. des Gardettes, 06570 Saint-Paul-de-Vence
Shopping
Le palais d’osier
@palaisdosier
These traditional basket weavers of Old Nice have been weaving boxes, bags and baskets for many years and now sell everything from minaudières to large beach bags for carrying your favourite bits and pieces.
3 rue de la Préfecture, 06300 Nice
Monte-carlo casino
@montecarlosbm
It’s easy to succumb to the temptation behind the rococo-inspired façade of one of the world’s best-known casinos, where rumour has it that touching the hoof of the statue of Louis XIV on horseback brings good luck. Why not give it a try!
Place du Casino, 98000 Monaco
Tresors publics
@tresorspublics
Translating as ‘treasury’, this is a store that really does live up to its name, selling wonderful decorative ‘made in France’ pieces from finely glazed ceramics to bouti quilts to cosy up with.
11 rue du Pont-Vieux, 06300 Nice
The hottest reservation in town
The beach at the hotel amour
@hotelamournice
The Hotel Amour in Nice is the sort of place you can’t help but fall in love with as you sip natural wines and decadent cocktails beneath turquoise parasols on the pebble beach.
47 promenade des Anglais, 06000 Nice
BOCCA
@boccanissa
Jean Valfort has taken the helm of this old Nice institution, serving delicious tapas and simmered rice dishes that are best enjoyed on the rooftop.
3 rue Saint François de Paule, 06300 Nice
Le plongeoir
@leplongeoir
Le Plongeoir stands proudly above the water and serves Chilean and Italian-inspired dishes in an extraordinary setting. So, what are you waiting for? Dive right in!
60 boulevard Franck Pilatte, 06300 Nice
Voir cette page en Français