Sainte Agnes, Alpes-Maritimes
An historic village high on the hill side above Menton
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.
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.
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- Cycling in [locality]
- Hiking in [locality]
- Yachts & Sailing in [locality]
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History & Culture in [locality]
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 [locality]
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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Fort St Roch, Sospel
This remnant of the second world war is a huge engineering feat made from lots of concrete and once housed machine guns and barracks.
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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.
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Saint Nicholas Cathedral of Monaco
The cathedral of Monaco is dedicated to the Virgin, although popularly known as Saint Nicholas because of the church that previously stood on its site. The current building was built in the 19th century.
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Nouveau Musee National de Monaco
The new national museum of Monaco is housed in two villas, the Villa Sauber and the Villa Paloma. The Villa Sauber is one of the last Belle Epoque villas in Monaco and is dedicated to art and performance. The Villa Paloma was built in the early 20th century and is dedicated to art and territory.
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Monastere de Saorge Monastery
Beautiful baroque architecture, examples of 17th- and 18th-century frescoes and furniture and a large terraced garden.
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Ephrussi de Rothschild Villa, Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat
This impressive villa was built in 1906 by Bรฉatrice 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.
Beaches in [locality]
Beaches in Monaco
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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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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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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 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 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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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]
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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Monte-Carlo Beach Club
Cabanas, cocktails and restaurants for those who wish to relax and jet skis, wakeboarding, parachute rides, flyfish and donuts for the more adventurous.
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Chateau Eza Restaurant, Eze
Chรขteau Eza offers a Michelin recommended restaurant serving ร la carte French and Mediterranean cuisine against the stunning backdrop of the French Riviera.
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La Table de Patrick Raingeard Restaurant, Eze
The Cap Estel gourmet restaurant or "La Table de Patrick Raingeard" as it is known has one Michelin star.
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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.
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Restaurant des Rois, Beaulieu Sur Mer
The jewel in the crown of La Rรฉserve de Beaulieu hotel is this gastronomic restaurant which has one Michelin star.
Events in [locality]
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]
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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Luxury Lizard Yacht Trip
Take a trip onboard this luxury yacht along the Riviera to any destination of your choosing.
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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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Road bike hire
This company is based in Menton and offers a range of road bikes.
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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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Luxury Good Times Yacht Trip
Take a trip onboard this luxury yacht along the Riviera to any destination of your choosing.
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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.
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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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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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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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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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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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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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.
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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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Private Aqua Yoga Classes
Aqua Yoga sessions delivered at your villa pool by qualified, insured and highly experienced instructors.
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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.
Nightlife in [locality]
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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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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Monte-Carlo Bay Casino
In the heart of the spectacular Monte-Carlo Bay Hotel & Resort, thisย ultra-modern casino offers a choice of around 150 new generation slot machines which all work without tokens.
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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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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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Blue Gin Bar
With seaside terrace and billiard tables this place is sophisticated and fun, with lounges and icy-cool dรฉcor.ย
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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Monaco Condamine Apartment
Charming one bedroom apartment located in the Condamine area close to all Port restaurants and shops, with views over Place D'Armes.
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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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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.
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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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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.
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: โฌ8,420
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Le Chateau de la Chevre d'Or Hotel, Eze
Boasting remarkable sea views of St-Jean-Cap-Ferrat, this luxurious hotel is listed among the 500 World's Best Hotels.
Price: โฌ12,950
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Jerome Boutique Hostellerie Hotel, 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.
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Port Palace Hotel
With urban elegance, chic interiors and just steps away from the casino, boutique shopping and the legendary F1 Grand Prix circuit, this hotel is a gem in the heart of Monaco.
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Columbus Monte-Carlo Curio Collection by Hilton Hotel
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.
Price: โฌ4,025
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Hermitage Hotel
Overlooking the Mediterranean, the Hรดtel Hermitage cultivates elegance at its highest level.
How to get to [locality]
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
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 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.
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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 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.
Property For Sale in [locality]
Property for Sale in Monaco
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House for Sale
Ideally located for the Golf Bleu beach and Monaco, this beautiful, fully renovated charming house spans three levels.
Price: โฌ980,000
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Apartment for Sale
Brand new four bedrooms apartment with sea view in a secured residence.
Price: โฌ1,774,000
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