Beyond the bustling coastline of the Côte d’Azur, with its busy beaches and lively seaside resorts, stands a hilltop village that has retained its authenticity: Hauts-de-Cagnes. Nestled on a hill overlooking the town of Cagnes-sur-Mer, this medieval district is a true architectural and historical gem. Its cobbled streets, stone houses with colorful shutters, towering castle, and breathtaking views of the Mediterranean make it a prime destination for lovers of heritage, art, and the good life.
Let’s discover together this place where time seems to have stood still, while remaining animated by culture and conviviality.
The history of Hauts de Cagnes
The origins of Hauts-de-Cagnes date back to the Middle Ages. Strategically located on a hill, this fortified village protected its inhabitants from invasions from the sea. The castle, built in the 14th century by Rainier Grimaldi, Admiral of France and Lord of Cagnes, constitutes the historic heart of the village.
Over the centuries, the hamlet has evolved, yet it has retained its medieval charm. In the 1920s and 1930s, Hauts-de-Cagnes attracted a colony of artists and intellectuals seduced by the exceptional light and picturesque atmosphere of the place. Among them were prestigious names such as Renoir, Modigliani, Soutine, and later Yves Klein and Georges Simenon. This artistic aura continues to permeate the village today.
Les Hauts de Cagnes, a medieval village feel
As soon as you leave the modern center of Cagnes-sur-Mer and climb higher, the scenery changes radically. Narrow streets, sometimes with steps, wind between stone houses with facades weathered by time. Arches, vaulted passages, and small shaded squares tell a story that goes back centuries.
The atmosphere is peaceful and conducive to strolling. Cars circulate with difficulty, leaving space for walkers who can savor the timeless charm of the place. In the evening, lanterns gently illuminate the alleys, giving the village an almost theatrical atmosphere. It’s easy to understand why this setting has inspired so many painters and writers.
Château Grimaldi: an unmissable gem
Overlooking the village, Grimaldi Castle is undoubtedly the main attraction of Hauts-de-Cagnes. Built in the 14th century, it was transformed over the years into a Renaissance residence, then a Baroque palace. Today, it houses the Olive Tree Museum and the Museum of Modern Mediterranean Art.
Architecture: The building impresses with its proportions and imposing silhouette, which watches over the village. The interior courtyard and the ceiling frescoes, especially those created in the 17th century, are worth a visit.
Architecture: The building impresses with its proportions and imposing silhouette, which watches over the village. The interior courtyard and the ceiling frescoes, especially those created in the 17th century, are worth a visit.Vue panoramique : depuis la terrasse du château, la vue embrasse la Méditerranée, les collines de l’arrière-pays niçois et, par temps clair, jusqu’aux montagnes enneigées du Mercantour.
Collections: the museum features the olive tree, the region’s emblematic tree, and temporary exhibitions devoted to modern and contemporary art.
A visit to Château Grimaldi plunges you into seven centuries of history, while enjoying a unique setting.
The Renoir Museum
The Musée Renoir is intimately linked to the Hauts-de-Cagnes area, even though it is located in the Collettes district. The painter Pierre-Auguste Renoir settled here in 1907, seduced by the light and tranquility of the region. His property, surrounded by olive and orange groves, now houses an exceptional collection of works and personal objects.
This museum is the perfect complement to a visit to Hauts-de-Cagnes, providing an insight into the region’s appeal to artists of the 19th and 20th centuries.
Strolling and exploring the narrow streets
To explore Hauts-de-Cagnes is above all to willingly lose yourself in its maze of alleyways. Each corner reveals a surprise: a small fountain, a sculpted doorway, a bougainvillea-decked square.
Place du Château: the heart of the village, with its many cafés and restaurants.
Picturesque alleyways: some still have their medieval cobblestones, like rue Hippolyte Guis.
Artists’ studios and galleries: many contemporary artists have set up shop here, perpetuating the area’s artistic tradition.
Curious visitors will also find stores selling ceramics, handcrafted jewelry and paintings, perfect for bringing home an original souvenir.
To prepare your visit to Hauts de Cagnes
Cagnes-sur-Mer Tourist Office: 99, promenade de la plage – 04.93.07.67.08Share this article on social networks
