Gorbio, Alpes-Maritimes
A pretty medieval village away from the crowds
On arriving in Gorbio you’ll find yourself in the Place de la Republic - a traditional village square complete with historic fountain, 300 year old elm tree and two restaurants.
Unlike some of the area’s medieval villages, Gorbio still has a very lived-in feel to it; there aren’t so many ex-pats or holiday-makers here and there are plenty of locals who have lived here for generations. The village square is a real focal point with children playing football round the fountain, elderly folk chatting under the ancient tree and neighbours stopping for a chat and a pastis at the café.
It's certainly a bit less “polished” than some of the other villages but this adds to its charm - some of the streets are a bit ramshackle and some of the houses look like they’ve been deemed 'beyond repair' and left to the elements. However, the village is still extremely pretty and has plenty of character.
Gorbio is an excellent starting point for exploring the Alpes-Maritimes, just take a quick stroll around the village and see how many hiking signposts there are. From here you can start the GR51 that runs all the way up to Lake Geneva in the northern Alps.
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- History & Culture in [locality]
- Sights & Attractions in [locality]
- Beaches in [locality]
- Dining in [locality]
- Events in [locality]
- Things to do in [locality]
- Cycling in [locality]
- Hiking in [locality]
- Yachts & Sailing in [locality]
- Watersports in [locality]
- Nightlife in [locality]
- Where to stay in [locality]
- Villas in [locality]
- Holidays Rentals in [locality]
- Hotels in [locality]
- How to get to [locality]
- Property For Sale in [locality]
History & Culture in [locality]
Chateau Lascaris is documented as far back as 1040, so is pretty well-qualified to host the local museum.
Other historic monuments include the Fountain of Malaussene built in 1882, two chapels from the 12th and 15th centuries, and the church of Saint Barthelemy which dates back to 1683.
Sights & Attractions in [locality]
Sights in Monaco
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Jardin Animalier, Monaco Ville
These zoological gardens were established in 1954 and house a collection of over 250 species of animals, from hippos to black panthers and lemurs.
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Jardin Japonais (Japanese Gardens)
Fulfilling Princess Grace of Monaco's desire to have a Japanese garden in Monaco, this spectacular space is enjoyed by thousands of people each year.
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Museum of Prehistoric Anthropology
The area around the Cote d'Azur is rich in prehistoric artefacts, many of which can be found in this fascinating museum.
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Musee du Vieux Monaco
A surprisingly diverse museum exhibiting a range of artefacts from sculpture and paintings, to military uniforms and musical instruments.
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Palais Princier de Monaco
The grand palace of the Prince of Monaco was built in 1215 by the Genoese and has been transformed into one of the most luxurious residences in the world.
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Le Fort Antoine dans La Ville
This fort was built in the 18th century with a beautiful promontory position overlooking the bay.
Beaches in [locality]
Beaches in Monaco
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Plage du Golfe Bleu Beach, Roquebrune
This family-friendly beach is easy to get to but not so easy to find, which is perhaps why it always stays fairly quiet even in peak season.
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Plage du Buse Beach, Roquebrune
Plage Buse is a pretty and undulating stretch of pebbly coastline tucked away to the west of the Roquebrune Cap Martin peninsula.
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Plage du Larvotto Beach
Larvotto is the principality of Monaco's most popular sandy beach and the main one with free public access. Covered in smooth imported fine gravel this man-made beach is made up of both private and public areas of beach.
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Baie du Soleil Beach, Menton
Made up of a selection of private and public areas, with the most popular stretch being Plage de Fossan to the east.
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Baie de Garavan Beach, Menton
Set to the back drop of Menton's colourful and pretty old town, these beaches stretch eastwards from the Port towards the Italian border.
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Plage Marquet Beach, Cap d'Ail
Plage Marquet is the most easterly of the Cap dโAil beaches and is right on the border with Monaco.
Dining in [locality]
Restaurants in Monaco
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Yoshi Restaurant
Yoshi Restaurant is located in Hotel Mรฉtropole Monte-Carlo and holds one Michelin star.
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La Maree Restaurant
'Fish chic' restaurant in Port Hercule that is located on the sixth floor of the Port Palace Hotel, overlooking the marina.
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Brasserie du Cafe de Paris
With Belle Epoque style windows, recalling the old Parisian bistros, the building creates a bright and friendly atmosphere.
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Le Cap Restaurant, Saint Jean Cap Ferrat
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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Horizon Rooftop Restaurant & Champagne Bar
Views over the Principality's legendary Opera House, Prince's Palace, and Casino - against a backdrop the azure splendour of the Mediterranean.
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Le Vistamar Restaurant
Orchestrated by Chef Joรซl Garault, this chic restaurant offers delightful gourmet seafood.
Events in [locality]
Surprisingly, Gorbio is quite a happening little place!
As well as regular events such as the annual flamenco festival and various religious fetes, there are also regular entertainments going on throughout the year - African dancing, traditional folk music, art exhibitions, etc.
If you visit in June you might be lucky enough to see one of their more unusual events - the Procession des Limaces, or the Slug Procession. The village is decorated with flowers and ribbons and little candles are placed inside snail shells that illuminate the village as night falls.
They also have random art works displayed high up on the walls throughout the village - they don’t stick to any one style or theme, they’re just there to be enjoyed.
Events in Monaco
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Beaulieu Classic Festival
The Beaulieuย Classic Festival showcases both local and international talent set in the most mythical and enchanting surroundings on the French Riviera.
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Trail des Alpes Maritimes
Two races plus a kids event starting and ending in the medieval mountain village of Sospel.
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Monaco Yacht Show
An annual trade show held in Port Hercules, it is Europe's biggest in-water display of large yachts.
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e-Rallye Monte-Carlo
Open to various categories of non-polluting and CO2-free vehicles.
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Les Gourmand'Eze Gastronomic Festival, Eze
Three days with a packed programme of show cooking, workshops, tastings, conferences, amateur contests and a lot more.
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Sportel Awards at Grimaldi Forum, Monte Carlo
The Sportel Awards celebrate the best sports images of the year. The ceremony will take place at the Grimaldi Forum, under the Honorary Presidency of Prince Albert II of Monaco.
Things to do in [locality]
As well as hiking, Gorbio is also a great place for trail runners. There are two annual events that are embraced by the locals and get great support.
Les 12 Bornes de Gorbio is a short but challenging little 12km jaunt starting in Gorbio and looping round Roquebrune Cap Martin to return via La Coupiere.
The Trail de Gorbio is a full marathon (42km) that traverses some of the steepest terrain in the area and clocks up 2,895m of positive altitude gain.
Things To Do in Monaco
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Road bike hire
This company is based in Menton and offers a range of road bikes.
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Luxury SMILE Yacht Trip
Take a trip onboard this luxury yacht along the Riviera to any destination of your choosing.
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Motorbike hire
Based in Menton, motorbike and scooter rental so you can explore the South of France.
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One Week Yacht Charter Itineraries
Experience the French Riviera your way with 212 yachts, using one of their sample itineraries or with a specialised itinerary created just for you, based on what you like and don't like, as well as their own expertise.
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Luxury Chantella Yacht Trip
Take a trip onboard this luxury yacht along the Riviera to any destination of your choosing.
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Luxury Good Times Yacht Trip
Take a trip onboard this luxury yacht along the Riviera to any destination of your choosing.
Cycling in [locality]
Cycling Routes in Monaco
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Col de la Madone de Gorbio Cycle Route
When Lance Armstrong describes a training route as โmythicalโ you know itโs not going to be easyโฆ
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La Grande Corniche Cycle Route
La Grande Corniche is one of the classic cycle routes of the Riviera and this ride takes you from the heart of Nice all the way to Menton on the Italian border and back.
Hiking in [locality]
Walking Routes in Monaco
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Tour of Mont Gros
Mont Gros stands at 686m and towers above Menton and Monaco. It is a popular venue for paragliding.
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Pointe Siricocca
Situated just half an hour from Monaco the Pointe Siricocca offers amazing panoramic views of the coastline and far inland to the north.ย
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Chateau de Sainte-Agnes
Perched high up on the rocks above Menton this lovely village offers great views and classic mediterraneanย architecture.ย
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Circuit Bon Voyage
A scenic walk along the coast leading to a small chapel dating back to the late 1800's.
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Chateau de Roquebrune
The historical town of Roccabruna fell under control of the Grimaldi family of Monaco for five centuries during which time the castle was strengthened. It still stands today and is a must see on this short walk.
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Cime de Baudon
A moderate hike to the summit of Cime de Baudon 1264m where you are welcomed with magnificent views of the crashing blue waves of the Mediterranean to the south and the snow capped mountains to the north.
Yachts & Sailing in [locality]
Watersports in [locality]
Watersports in Monaco
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Yacht Club de Monaco
Many of the worldโs most prestigious private yachts fly the Yacht Club de Monacoโs burgee, testimony to its unique position on the international yachting scene.
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Private Aqua Fit Classes
Aqua Fit sessions delivered at your villa pool by qualified, insured and highly experienced instructors.
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Monte-Carlo Beach Club
Indulge in some energising or relaxing water activities for young and old alike to enjoy at the Monte-Carlo Beach Club, at the Monte-Carlo Beach Hotel.
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Centre de Sauvetage Aquatique de Monaco
This facility offers an excellent opportunity for all those wishing to train and/or specialise in aquatic and underwater areas.
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Club d'Exploration Sous Marine de Monaco Diving School
This historical club was created in 1951, a time when diving was made more popular thanks to Captain Cousteau and his famous red cap.
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Aviron Monaco - Rowing Club
A rowing club that supports athletes and amateurs in Monaco to reach their goals, whether they are leisure based or competitive.
Nightlife in [locality]
Bars & Clubs in Monaco
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Crystal Bar & Terrace
Sit back in this lounge and take in the magnificent views across the Mediterranean, Port Hercule and the Rock of Monaco, while luxuriating in the atmosphere of exclusivity.
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Brasserie du Cafe de Paris
With Belle Epoque style windows, recalling the old Parisian bistros, the building creates a bright and friendly atmosphere.
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Saphir 24 Bistro Lounge, Restaurant & Bar
The relaxed atmosphere and sublime vista make it the perfect spot to enjoy, 24 hours a day, according to your rhythm and fancy...
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Blue Gin Bar
With seaside terrace and billiard tables this place is sophisticated and fun, with lounges and icy-cool dรฉcor.ย
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Bar Americain
The Hรดtel de Paris' fantastic cocktail bar and lounge oozes old world class. It has a cosy, elegant low-key ambiance, with big leather armchairs, sea views and live music from Doctor Gabs' piano.
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Horizon Rooftop Restaurant & Champagne Bar
Views over the Principality's legendary Opera House, Prince's Palace, and Casino - against a backdrop the azure splendour of the Mediterranean.
Where to stay in [locality]
Gorbio doesn’t have a huge choice of hotels but there are plenty of decent campsites and a gite, Maison Raimondi, which all make a great base for exploring the area.
Villas in [locality]
Villas in Monaco
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Serra Villa, Calvi
Surrounded by cypress and myrrh trees, this typically Mediterranean holiday home, Villa Serra, overlooks the citadel of Calvi in Haute-Corse.ย
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La Vigie Villa
Set on a promontory on the same cape as Monte-Carlo Beach, the Villa has a magnificent panoramic view of the Mediterranean, the Principality of Monaco and Roquebrune-Cap-Martin Bay.
Holidays Rentals in [locality]
Holiday Rentals in Monaco
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Serra Villa, Calvi
Surrounded by cypress and myrrh trees, this typically Mediterranean holiday home, Villa Serra, overlooks the citadel of Calvi in Haute-Corse.ย
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Chateau Perigord Residence Apartment
Set on a high floor of an exclusive residence with 24h security situated walking distance to the beach, this fantastic 4 bedroom apartment provides renovated interiors and a panoramic sea view. Casino Square is 10 minutes away.
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Le Metropole Apartment
This apartment is close to the Casino Place, set in a prestigious building with pool, spa, fitness , 24h concierge and a room service.
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La Vigie Villa
Set on a promontory on the same cape as Monte-Carlo Beach, the Villa has a magnificent panoramic view of the Mediterranean, the Principality of Monaco and Roquebrune-Cap-Martin Bay.
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Les Abeilles Apartment
Modern apartment benefiting from magnificent sea view, superbly located, just minutes from the beach and Carrรฉ d'Or.
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Park Palace Apartment
At the heart of the ''Golden Square", set within one of the most prestigious building in the Principality with indoor pool, fitness, sauna and 24h security service, this 2 bedroom apartment enjoys pleasant views of the gardens and the city.
Hotels in [locality]
Hotels in Monaco
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Fairmont Monte Carlo Hotel
The Fairmont Monte Carlo hotel is a unique four-star luxury resort. The hotel is one of the largest in Europe with its 602 guest rooms, residences and suites, two restaurants, a bar and a new pool space on the roof which integrates a contemporary touch.
Price: โฌ8,553
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Cap-Ferrat Grand Hotel, Cap-Ferrat
Distinguished turn-of-the-century resort hotel with a sophisticated aura, surrounded by a beautifully landscaped 14-acre park.
Price: โฌ43,335
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Eza Chateau Hotel, Eze
Exquisite and intimate, the rooms and suites of Chรขteau Eze cling to the side of the ancient rock walls of Eze, a thousand-year-old Medieval village more than 400 metres above the Mediterranean Sea.
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Monte-Carlo Bay Resort & Hotel
Inย a relaxed yet sophisticated ambiance, this hotel offers you a whole new experience of aย legendary destination.
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La Reserve de Beaulieu Hotel
Classic French opulence with Mediterranean charm, all nestled between the mountains and the blue waters of the Riviera.
Price: โฌ19,199
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Hermitage Hotel
Overlooking the Mediterranean, the Hรดtel Hermitage cultivates elegance at its highest level.
How to get to [locality]
You can reach Gorbio on public transport but plan ahead as you’ll need to change at Menton and the bus up into the mountains does not run as often as the coastal service. Getting to Menton is easy using the train or the no.100 bus from Nice, you then take bus no.7 from Menton train station - you can see the timetable on our buses page.
Transfers for Monaco
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Private airport transfers
From Nice airport to Monaco, they handle the rest. The Cรดte dโAzur's most trusted private transfers.
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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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Helicopter Airport Transfers & 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 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.
Property For Sale in [locality]
Property for Sale in Monaco
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Apartment for Sale
Brand new three bedroom apartment with garden in a secured residence.
Price: โฌ1,531,000
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Villa for Sale
This exceptional Belle Epoque jewel built in 1910 enjoys a panoramic view of Monaco, Cap Martin and the Mediterranean Sea, offering a splendid setting in a living area of 400M2 on three levels.
Price: โฌ6,990,000
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Apartment for Sale
Brand new four bedrooms apartment with sea view in a secured residence.
Price: โฌ1,774,000