Haut-de-Cagnes
The medieval jewel of the French Riviera
Perched on its hill between Nice and Cannes, Haut-de-Cagnes is one of the most fascinating villages on the French Riviera. Far from the hustle and bustle of the coast, this medieval village, a listed historical site since 1948, offers a true journey back in time.
Its cobbled streets, stone houses adorned with bougainvillea, and vaulted passageways tell centuries of history. Here, the unique light of the Mediterranean caresses the ochre facades, revealing a peaceful, authentic, and unspoiled atmosphere.
The Grimaldi Heritage
In 1309, the fiefdom of Cagnes passed from the hands of the Counts of Provence to those of Rainier I Grimaldi, co-lord of Monaco. It was under his impetus that the imposing Grimaldi Castle-Museum, which directly faces our establishment, was erected.
Originally a formidable military fortress, the building has been transformed over the centuries into a sumptuous stately home. Inside, be amazed by Giulio Benso's incredible trompe-l'œil fresco, The Fall of Phaethon, which has adorned the ceiling of the audience chamber since 1624.
A historical fact: The ties uniting Cagnes-sur-Mer with the Principality of Monaco remain strong. The Hotel Le Grimaldi by Le Village proudly bears this name. Such a strong regional connection is evident that His Serene Highness Prince Albert II of Monaco recently honored us with lunch on our terrace during an exceptional visit.
Relive this moment
The Montmartre of the French Riviera
The aura of Haut-de-Cagnes owes much to the dazzling light that floods the hill. At the beginning of the 20th century, when Pierre-Auguste Renoir settled in our town, many painters enamored with the Mediterranean followed in his footsteps.
The village then earned its mythical nickname, "Montmartre of the French Riviera." An artistic soul that still inhabits every alleyway and every artist's studio today.
P.A. Renoir
Terraces in Cagnes
Brigitte Bardot
At the Tour Margot
Yves Klein
"La Goulette" House
A. Modigliani
Cypresses and Houses in Cagnes
The bohemian and festive spirit
If the old stones of the Place du Château could speak, they would tell of the effervescence of a now mythical era. In the 1960s, the Haut-de-Cagnes was a perpetual party. The place housed the famous Suzy Solidor's cabaret — whose donation to the château now includes numerous portraits.
Suzy Solidor by Tamara de Lempicka
Castle Square in the 1960s
Only certain signs, like that of the legendary nightclub Jimmy's, still bear witness to those sleepless nights set to the sounds of Genesis, Barclay James Harvest, or Pink Floyd.
Today, the hotel-restaurant Le Village is the proud heir to this past. Known for decades as the village's essential jazz club, the establishment perpetuates this warm conviviality, where one can dine on the terrace under the stars of the Riviera.
A link with Sweden
The charm of Haut-de-Cagnes has long captivated Scandinavians, like the Swedish writer Pär Lagerkvist (Nobel Prize 1951), who was inspired by the tranquility of the place.
This unique connection endures every winter during the Saint Lucia's DayCandlelit processions and traditional songs transform our streets into a true Nordic fairy tale.
Your home base
The beating heart of Haut-de-Cagnes, the Square is where everyone gathers. It is here, facing the ancient stones and bathed in the Riviera sunshine, that it stands. Le Grimaldi by Le Village.
Extend the experience
After your stroll through the narrow streets, treat yourself to a gourmet break on our terrace, or stay in one of our charming rooms.
Practical Guide & Access
Where to park at Haut-de-Cagnes?
The automated Planastel parking lot is available at the entrance to the village. However, spaces are limited. We recommend parking in the center of Cagnes-sur-Mer (La Villette or Sainte-Luce parking lots).
Is there a shuttle?
Yes! The free shuttle No. 44 departs every 15 minutes from the central station (Square Bourdet) in the city center and drops you off directly at the Place du Château.
Visit the Castle
Open every day except Tuesday, December 25th, and January 1st. Admission: €4; free for those under 26 and residents of Cagnes-sur-Mer. Opening hours vary depending on the season. From the tower, admire the panoramic views of the Mediterranean and the Mercantour National Park.
See the official castle opening hours →