Summary
Located west of Nice, Cagnes-sur-Mer is a coastal destination that attracts visitors with its 3.5-kilometre stretch of beach and an elegant shopping establishment, the Polygone Riviera. However, it also boasts a rich historical aspect, surrounding a medieval château constructed for the Grimaldi family of Monaco.
This artistic neighborhood was frequented by numerous Impressionist painters, including Auguste Renoir, who later settled in the town for the final years of his life. Moreover, Cagnes-sur-Mer offers efficient access to other notable Riviera destinations, such as the picturesque hilltop village of Saint-Paul-de-Vence and the remarkable city of Nice.
Below are the top attractions in Cagnes-sur-Mer:
1. Musée Renoir
The Impressionist artist Auguste Renoir spent the last twelve years of his life in Cagnes-sur-Mer, a phase that is referred to as his “Cagnoise” period. This exquisite Neo-Provençal domicile was constructed in 1908 for the ailing artist and his family, presenting views that extend to the Cap d’Antibes. The residence includes two art studios and is still surrounded by the olive and citrus groves that originally drew him to this location. Inside, visitors can view 14 of the artist’s paintings, along with sculptures and poignant personal items, including Renoir’s wheelchair positioned in front of his easel.
2. Polygone Riviera
Representing an investment of €350 million, the Polygone Riviera shopping center was inaugurated in 2015, covering 70,000 square meters to the northwest of Cagnes. With its palm-lined avenues, arcades, and landscaped gardens, one might easily mistake the mall for a futuristic district of the town. The center features 150 stores, with a strong focus on fashion, which is fitting for the French Riviera. Furthermore, various entertainment options abound, such as a 10-screen cinema, nearly 30 cafes and restaurants, or the casino that operates until 4:00 AM daily.
3. Château Musée Grimaldi
Overlooking Haut-de-Cagnes is a 14th-century castle, which, as the name suggests, served as a residence for the Grimaldi family of Monaco. A succession of Grimaldis resided here from 1309 until the Revolution when they were displaced from the town. From the top of the crenellated tower, one can enjoy vistas of the Mediterranean, Nice, and the Alps. Meanwhile, the interior boasts a monumental double staircase and opulent baroque ceremonial rooms. Additionally, a modern art and ethnography museum resides within, showcasing a limited yet impactful collection of works by artists such as Foujita, Jean Cocteau, and Kees van Dongen. The ethnographic exhibits center around the olive tree, which has historically provided sustenance to many livelihoods in Cagne.
4. Haut-de-Cagnes
Surrounding the château is the medieval heart of the town, designated as a French historical site since 1948. The concealed squares, intricate maze of narrow alleys, and distance from the bustling town below imbue Haut-de-Cagnes with a refreshing village ambiance. Notably, a succession of artists, including Modigliani, Renoir, and Soutine, have been inspired by this district, and the many studios here signal a vibrant artistic community. Additionally, cabaret singer, actor, and “most painted woman in the world” Suzy Solidor established a venue in Haut-de-Cagnes in 1960, which has now evolved into l’Espace Solidor, showcasing exhibitions of contemporary jewelry.
5. Le Cros-de-Cagnes
During the early 19th century, Italian fishing families established themselves near the water’s edge at a previously marshy cove shielded from easterly winds. This quaint district is characterized by narrow streets and modest homes, situated close to the port yet often overlooked due to the surrounding modern developments. In 1866, the local fishermen constructed the Chapelle de Saint-Pierre, dedicated to the patron saint of fishermen. Known locally as “l’église jaune,” this chapel is designed to command attention and remains a significant landmark for this quarter.
6. Hippodrome de la Côte d’Azur
As the premier racing venue in the region, and the second largest in France, the Hippodrome operates both winter and summer seasons. However, the most esteemed and valuable races are conducted in the winter months. The facility benefits from a “fibre sand” surface, which maintains its integrity throughout the cooler season, facilitating top-tier flat racing. The highlight of the year is the Grand Critérium de Vitesse de la Côte d’Azur, a trotting race held in March to culminate the winter season, restricted to horses aged four to ten. This international Group I event awarded its 2016 winner a prize of €90,000.
7. Cagnes Beach
The coastal resort features a 3.5-kilometre stretch of beach, with much of it accessible to the public at no cost. The entirety of the beachfront is flanked by a newly renovated promenade, effectively distancing vehicles from the shoreline, allowing visitors to stroll beneath the shade of palm trees. On windless days, the sea exhibits an enchanting whitish glow, reminiscent of Nice’s Baie des Anges. For those seeking added luxury, Cagnes offers six private beaches that provide parasol and sunbed rentals, dining options, and even waiter service.
8. Parc Phœnix
Travel towards L’Arénas from Cagnes-sur-Mer on the Route des Vespins, and within a few minutes, you will notice signs directing you to this extraordinary park. The entrance fee for visitors from outside the Nice area is a modest €5, while admission is complimentary for children under 12. This park is an exceptional family destination featuring a tremendous 25-meter-high greenhouse, one of the largest in existence. Inside, visitors can explore six zones predominantly filled with tropical vegetation, inhabited by flamingos, Mandarin ducks, and iguanas. Outside, there are Mediterranean and cactus gardens, a bamboo grove, and animal enclosures home to otters, wallabies, and prairie dogs.
9. OGC Nice
Located a short distance away around the Baie des Anges, the home ground of Nice’s football team is a mere ten-minute journey from Cagnes-sur-Mer. Presently, it is an opportune time to catch “Les Aiglons” in action, as they have experienced a revival since their golden era in the 1950s. The luxurious Allianz Riviera stadium, constructed for Euro 2016, accommodates 35,000 spectators. The team has transitioned from the second tier of French football to compete for a Champions League position in Ligue 1. As of 2017, they were positioned at the top of the league, guided by coach Lucien Favrre and notable player, Italian international striker Mario Balotelli. Seize the opportunity to witness their performances while they are in form.
10. Watersports
The waterfront at Cros-de-Cagnes features nautical centers that offer equipment rental and instruction for various water-related activities. From March to December, the sailing center provides individual and group lessons and allows qualified individuals to rent their vessels, in addition to providing paddleboards, windsurfing gear, and dinghies. Furthermore, no license is required for jet-ski excursions to Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat or the Lerins Islands. There is also a wakeboarding school that welcomes children as young as three to participate.
11. Saint-Paul-de-Vence
In a matter of minutes, one can ascend to the breathtaking hilltop village of Saint-Paul-de-Vence. Although it is feasible to traverse the central street and its branching passages swiftly, the unique charm of this stone village invites a more leisurely exploration. The views from the terraces are phenomenal, particularly at sunset from the western side behind the Chapelle des Pénitents Blancs, which features decor created by Belgian artist Jean-Michel Folon, including eight illuminated murals and three stained glass windows. Additionally, it is notable that numerous illustrious figures have resided in this village, including artists Marc Chagall and Jacques Raverat, writer James Baldwin, and actor Donald Pleasence, among others.
12. Fondation Maeght
Nestled within the pine forests on the Colline des Gardettes hill above Saint-Paul-de-Vence, the Fondation Maeght is a modern art museum of remarkable caliber. It was envisioned by Marguerite and Aimé Maeght, prominent 20th-century art collectors and patrons, as a tribute to their son who passed away at the tender age of 11. The uniqueness of this foundation lies in the assistance it received from prominent modern artists in its design and decoration: Marc Chagall contributed mosaics, Giacometti sculpted a courtyard, and Joan Miró designed a labyrinth featuring 250 sculptures.
13. Nice
The capital of the Côte d’Azur is approximately 15 minutes away by car, contingent upon traffic conditions. Alternatively, the TER train travels to Nice in a comparable duration. The manner in which you engage with the city largely depends on personal preference, as Nice possesses various facets of allure. The renowned seafront Promenade des Anglais is a well-established symbol of Nice, bordered by opulent hotels, including the grand Negresco. In stark contrast, the Vielle Ville captivates visitors with its intricate alleys, secluded squares, and vibrant flower market on Cours Saleya. To capture an outstanding photograph of the city and bay, one must scale the Colline du Château, and subsequently, the magnificent Chagall Museum awaits, but afterward, the day remains open for exploration as desired.
14. Marineland
This theme park is one of merely four attractions across Europe featuring performances with killer whales. Despite ongoing debates regarding the ethics of orcas in captivity, it remains the most frequented single attraction in the Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur region. The park also showcases live presentations with sea lions and dolphins, in addition to a variety of zoological displays. Among these is a remarkable 30-meter-long shark tunnel, allowing visitors to stroll amidst nurse sharks and manta rays. Additionally, there are five species of penguins residing within the park’s Antarctica Zone, which is designed with rocks and pools for their enjoyment.
15. Food and Drink
As you progress eastward along the French Riviera, you will begin to observe the influence of Italian cuisine from Liguria. One notable dish is socca, the local variant of farinata, which is a delightful chickpea pancake typically sold on the streets of Nice and pairs wonderfully with simply crushed pepper. Another delicacy, albeit one that typically requires an acquired taste, is poutine, consisting of small fry captured with fine nets. These can be incorporated into omelettes or soups, but are often enjoyed raw, drizzled with olive oil and lemon juice. Additionally, ratatouille, a vegetable stew featuring courgette, aubergine, onions, and tomatoes, requires no introduction, just as salade niçoise, which traditionally includes hard-boiled eggs, tomatoes, and anchovies dressed with olive oil.
