At 800m above sea level, the utterly beautiful mountain village of Sainte-Agnes is the highest coastal village in Europe. Roosting on the hillside high above Menton by the Italian border, this village offers breathtaking views across the Italian and French Rivieras.
Sainte Agnes, Alpes-Maritimes
An historic village high on the hill side above Menton
Listed as one of the most beautiful villages in all of France, Sainte-Agnes is a place of cool stone alcoves and vaulted chambers, pretty terrace cafés and artisan workshops and boutiques tucked away on cobbled lanes.
Presided over by the ruins of a 10th century chateau-fort, the village's strategic value was again noted during WWII when Fort Maginot was built to defend France against attack from across the Italian border.
The village itself is charming, full of stone alcoves and vaulted chambers - little craft workshops and artisan boutiques are tucked away on cobbled back streets and delicious smells from the restaurants waft through the air.
Events in Monaco
Events in Monaco
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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.
History & Culture in Monaco
The ruins at the top of the village are what’s left of an older fort built in the 12th century, it was restored in the 15th century but then fell into neglect. It is currently being maintained and you scramble around what remains for a small donation. From the summit you can see for miles around in all directions and you really appreciate what made Sainte-Agnes such a fantastic defensive location.
Sights & Attractions in Monaco
According to legend, the chateau-fort that sits above the town was built by a Saracen prince when he fell in love with a local Provençal girl.
Today it is in ruins, but you can clamber around the remaining walls, visit the medieval garden, and take in the stunning coastal views of the mountains falling sheer into the Mediterranean Sea.
In 1932, the town built a new fort, a concrete bunker built into the cliff to protect France from invasion from the Italian border. The Manigot Fort marks the most southerly point of the famed Petite-Maginot Line and it's now open as a museum for those who have an interest in military history.
There's also the Church of Notre-Dame-des-Neiges, built in the 12th century and reconstructed in the 18th century.
Sights in Monaco
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Musee du Vieux Monaco
Museum of Monegasque history and traditions
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
Grand residence of the Prince of 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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Jardin Japonais (Japanese Gardens) 
Jardin Japonais (Japanese Gardens)
Designed by architect Yasuo Beppu, the Japanese gardens opened in 1994
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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Jardin Animalier, Monaco Ville
Zoological gardens close to the Palais Princier in Monaco
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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Oceanographic Museum
Ocean explorations of Prince Albert I and aquarium.
Sovereign Prince, scholar and explorer, Albert I of Monaco, devoted his life to the Principality forces as well as scientific investigation. This museum showcases his passion.
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Le Fort Antoine dans La Ville
18th century fort converted into a modern open air theatre
This fort was built in the 18th century with a beautiful promontory position overlooking the bay.
Beaches in Monaco
Beaches in Monaco
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Baie de Garavan Beach, Menton 
Baie de Garavan Beach, Menton
Sandy beaches situated to the east of the Port in 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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Baie du Soleil Beach, Menton 
Baie du Soleil Beach, Menton
A stretch of beaches situated to the west of the Port
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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Plage du Buse Beach, Roquebrune 
Plage du Buse Beach, Roquebrune
A quiet pebble beach near the Cap Martin peninsula
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 Golfe Bleu Beach, Roquebrune 
Plage du Golfe Bleu Beach, Roquebrune
Great family friendly beach, a short walk from 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 Larvotto Beach 
Plage du Larvotto Beach
Stretch of man-made beach at the east end of Monaco's coastline
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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Plage Marquet Beach, Cap d'Ail 
Plage Marquet Beach, Cap d'Ail
A popular beach close to the Monaco border
Plage Marquet is the most easterly of the Cap d’Ail beaches and is right on the border with Monaco.
Dining in Monaco
Despite being a tourist destination, Sainte-Agnes does not have too much of a “touristy” feel to it - and doesn’t seem to have taken advantage of “touristy” prices.
There are a number of good restaurants offering home cooked local dishes as reasonable prices, you can usually get a set menu of four courses for around 20€. Expect to see traditional meats such as rabbit or wild boar on the menu as well as local produce such as myrtilles and figs. We’ve tried a couple and they’ve all been good.
Restaurants in Monaco
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Brasserie du Cafe de Paris 
Brasserie du Cafe de Paris
Café de Paris is the most popular venue for a “rendez-vous”
With Belle Epoque style windows, recalling the old Parisian bistros, the building creates a bright and friendly atmosphere.
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Nobu Restaurant
Owned by celebrity chef Nobuyuki "Nobu" Matsuhisa
Recognized worldwide for his amazing cuisine, mixing traditional Japanese dishes and South American spices and aromas.
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La Maree Restaurant
Seafood restaurant overlooking the impressive Monaco port
'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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Metropole Monte-Carlo Restaurant
Michelin-starred Mediterranean cuisine in Monte-Carlo
Located in Hotel Metropole, this restaurant is lead by Executive Chef Christophe Cussac. It holds two Michelin stars.
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Hostellerie Jerome Restaurant, La Turbie
Michelin starred restaurant in the heart of La Turbie
Chef Bruno Cirino prepares Mediterranean dishes that carefully showcase the flavours of local produce. A light and creative cuisine that you can enjoy in their elegant dining room with vaulted ceilings and frescoes or their shaded terrace overlooking the sea.
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Le Vistamar Restaurant 
Le Vistamar Restaurant
Gourmet seafood restaurant in Monte-Carlo
Orchestrated by Chef Joël Garault, this chic restaurant offers delightful gourmet seafood.
Nightlife in Monaco
Buzzing nightlife in medieval mountain village? No. Sorry. Glass of wine on a café terrace enjoying one of the best views on the planet? Certainly, coming right up.
On warm summer evenings there'll probably be a bit of live music to get you in the mood as the twilight lingers over the Mediterranean and the Alps are bathed in pink light. Who can ask for more? OK, if you want more, the glittering lights of Monaco just down the coast are calling...
Bars & Clubs in Monaco
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Brasserie du Cafe de Paris
Brasserie du Cafe de Paris
Café de Paris is the most popular venue for a “rendez-vous”
With Belle Epoque style windows, recalling the old Parisian bistros, the building creates a bright and friendly atmosphere.
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Horizon Rooftop Restaurant & Champagne Bar
Restaurant & bar at the Fairmont Monte-Carlo with 360° views
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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Crystal Bar & Terrace 
Crystal Bar & Terrace
If you’re the type to like champagne & cigars, this one’s for you
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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Bar Americain 
Bar Americain
Views to the world famous casino at this classic venue in Monte-Carlo
The Hôtel 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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Saphir 24 Bistro Lounge, Restaurant & Bar
Bistro, lounge and bar at the Fairmont Monte-Carlo Hotel
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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Stars'N'Bars 
Stars'N'Bars
American style diner in the heart of Monaco
In the heart of the port among the giant yachts is Stars N Bars, an American-style bar and diner that sprawls over three levels and a big outdoor terrace.
Things to do in Monaco
Sainte-Agnes is right in the centre of wonderful hiking terrain, there is a wide network of trails criss-crossing the Alpes-Maritime and linking so many of these remote little villages - a lovely itinerary is the Circuit de Bausson that links Sainte-Agnes to Gorbio - see our hiking page to find routes in the area.
If you’re visiting with children then call into the tourist office to pick up a “jeu de piste” - a map that leads you round the village, looking for clues and solving puzzles to find your way and learn about the local history. The map is available in English, French or Italian.
Things To Do in Monaco
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One Week Yacht Charter Itineraries
Specialised yacht charter itineraries to truly experience the French Riviera, leaving from Monaco
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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Cannes & St Tropez Luxury Motor Boat Trip 
Cannes & St Tropez Luxury Motor Boat Trip
7-10 Person Boat trip along the Cote d'Azur
Departing from Monaco, on this trip you'll enjoy a full day of cruising along the French Riviera, visiting Monaco to Cannes to Saint Tropez and the beautiful bays and coves.
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Private Sightseeing Tours
French Riviera tailor made & group tours
A wide selection of guides and tours of the French Riviera covering famous destination such as Monaco, Antibes, Cannes, Nice and Saint-Tropez. You can also experience the Italian Markets in San Remo and Ventimiglia as well as enjoy wine tasting and culinary tours.
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Cannes & Islands Luxury Motor Boat Trip 
Cannes & Islands Luxury Motor Boat Trip
7-10 Person Boat trip exploring Cannes & the Islands
This is a coastal trip departing from Monaco to explore the gems of the Cote d'Azur with opportunities to swim and snorkel in the glistening Mediterranean.
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Monaco & Monte Carlo by Night, from Monaco
5hr guided tour of Monte Carlo by night
Witness the glitz and glamour of Monte Carlo after dark.
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Sunset Luxury Motor Boat Trip 
Sunset Luxury Motor Boat Trip
7-10 Person romantic cruise along the French Rivera with champagne
This two hour cruise departs from Monaco to take you on a stunning sunset cruise on the Cote d'Azur.
Yachts & Sailing in Monaco
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Winning Streak Superyacht - 28.14m Yacht Charter for up to 12 people
The 28.14m motor yacht Winning Streak is a sleek Sunseeker build that delivers a perfect blend of comfort, style and performance. Designed for both entertaining and relaxing, she is an excellent choice for spending quality time with family and friends or hosting guests at sea.
Read more about Winning Streak Superyacht - 28.14m Yacht Charter for up to 12 people
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Ava Motor Yacht - 40m Yacht Charter for up to 49 people
Motor yacht Ava is a timeless 40 metre yacht based in Monaco year-round. Making her an excellent choice for discovering the French Riviera in style. She is one of the rare yachts that can cruise with more than 12 guests on the Riviera, being able to take up to 49 guests cruising. So she is a popular choice for spoiling all your friends with a yacht charter or for impressing associates for a corporate event.
Read more about Ava Motor Yacht - 40m Yacht Charter for up to 49 people
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Andreas L Superyacht - 60m Yacht Charter for up to 12 people
Experience refined luxury on board Andreas L, a striking 60-metre motor yacht built by Benetti. Delivered in 2008 and extensively refitted in 2018, she combines elegant design with modern comforts, making her a standout choice for cruising the Mediterranean.
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Benetti 56m Motor Yacht
Motor Yacht ULYSSES features a striking black hull and cream coloured superstructure. She boasts the latest technology and has a wide selection of toys including wave runners, water skis and paddle boards and she is a RYA Training School.
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Benetti 60m Motor Yacht
Launched in spring 2008, the 60m ANDREAS L is a yacht of unquestionable pedigree. She draws on the owner's experience and knowledge of large yachts in her unparalleled design and comfort.
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Southern Wind Shipyard 32m Sailing Yacht
Farfalla's impressive leisure and entertainment facilities make her the ideal charter yacht for socialising and entertaining with family and friends.
Watersports in Monaco
Watersports in Monaco
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Club d'Exploration Sous Marine de Monaco Diving School
C.E.S.M.M. is ready to help you discover the underwater wonders
This historical club was created in 1951, a time when diving was made more popular thanks to Captain Cousteau and his famous red cap.
Read more about Club d'Exploration Sous Marine de Monaco Diving School
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Private Aqua Yoga Classes
Private aqua yoga sessions at your villa in Monaco for all ages and abilities
Aqua Yoga sessions delivered at your villa pool by qualified, insured and highly experienced instructors.
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Yacht Club de Monaco
Founded in 1953 this yacht club is an integral part of Monaco
Many of the world’s most prestigious private yachts fly the Yacht Club de Monaco’s burgee, testimony to its unique position on the international yachting scene.
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Aviron Monaco - Rowing Club
Originating from the Regatta Society set up in 1888, now the Aviron Monaco
A rowing club that supports athletes and amateurs in Monaco to reach their goals, whether they are leisure based or competitive.
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Centre de Sauvetage Aquatique de Monaco
Aquatic Rescue Centre Monaco offers diving, snorkeling, water rescue & civic aid
This facility offers an excellent opportunity for all those wishing to train and/or specialise in aquatic and underwater areas.
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Private Swimming Lessons
Swimming instruction at your villa in Moncao for all ages and abilities
Lessons delivered at your villa pool by qualified, insured and highly experienced instructors.
Holiday Rentals in Monaco
Holiday Rentals in Monaco
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Patio Palace Apartment
Apartment in a residence with swimming pool, located in the Jardin Exotique area, benefiting from sea view.
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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.
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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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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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Palazzo Leonardo Apartment
This most luxurious building makes up the Southern tip of the Principality. It sits directly on the waterfront, with over 180 degrees of sea view.
Hotels in Monaco
Hotels in Monaco
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Eza Chateau Hotel, Eze
Charming Chateau hotel with stunning views & Michelin quality restaurant
Exquisite and intimate, the rooms and suites of Château 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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Metropole Monte-Carlo Hotel
Elegant and luxurious hotel in the heart of Monte-Carlo
In 2004, the Hôtel Metropole Monte-Carlo was refurbished to keep it in tune with its time, but has kept all its spiritual qualities to uphold its concept of luxury.
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Hermitage Hotel
Luxury exquisite hotel with spa facilities & Michelin starred restaurant
Overlooking the Mediterranean, the Hôtel Hermitage cultivates elegance at its highest level.
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Columbus Monte-Carlo Curio Collection by Hilton Hotel
Comfortable modern hotel with pool, gym, beauty and massage treatments
The Columbus hotel's style is Riviera chic, where beautifully glamorous and barefoot elegance sit easily side by side. The service is graceful, genuinely friendly and always attentive. The feeling is cool, exclusive and laid back. An excellent choice.
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Jerome Boutique Hostellerie Hotel, La Turbie
Small boutique hotel in the centre of La Turbie
Former 13th-century Cistercian monastery tastefully renovated offering 5 beautifully decorated en-suite rooms, a Michelin-starred restaurant and a terrace overlooking the Mediterranean.
Read more about Jerome Boutique Hostellerie Hotel, La Turbie
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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.
How to get to Monaco
Getting to Sainte-Agnes is possible by public transport but you have to plan ahead, as there are only a few buses per day from Menton. The best way is to take either the train or the no.100 bus from Nice to Menton and then bus no.10 from Menton train station - you can look up the timetable on our bus services page.
Transfers for Monaco
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Private Airport Transfers
Nice Airport to Monaco from €187 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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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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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.
Property For Sale in Monaco
Property for Sale in Monaco
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Apartment for Sale | bsm260481
New Four-Bedroom Apartment – Within Walking Distance of the Beaches and Monaco
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Apartment for Sale | bsm260480
Penthouse Apartment with Panoramic Sea Views
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Apartment for Sale | BSM260426
High ceilings and a terrace with panoramic views
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Apartment for Sale | bsm260495
Prestigious Apartment with Panoramic Sea Views
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Apartment for Sale | bsm260476
Exceptional New Apartment Within Walking Distance of the Beaches and Monaco
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Villa for Sale | bsm260461
Stunning contemporary villa with panoramic sea views
