Contes

Last update on May 16, 2026

Highway A8 exit Nice-Est -Take route RN 2204 heading to Sospel. 18 km from Nice

Discover the hilltop village of Contes in the Alpes-Maritimes near Nice

Perched on a rocky outcrop, the village of Contes still seems to watch over the Paillon Valley from the top of its ramparts, even though it is no longer pirates and other barbarians who approach from that direction.

Contes is one of the oldest villages in the Nice region.

A village comprising three hamlets

Overlooked to the south by Mount Macaron (800 m) and to the north by Mount Férion (1,400 m), the municipality of Contes includes the village and three hamlets—Sclos, La Vernéa, and La Pointe—planted with pine trees, mimosas, and olive trees.

Contes is not Vence, nor is it Èze. It’s better than that: a village that’s truly alive, with its residents, traditions, food festivals, and hikes in the Paillon Valley. If you’re planning a trip to the Alpes-Maritimes and looking to discover something other than the sea and Monaco, you’ve come to the right place.

A charming village still off the beaten path

The village isn’t overly touristy. Unfairly overlooked, Contes will surprise you with the beautiful remnants of its past: in particular, the eastern tower of the old ramparts, which has become the bell tower of the Church of Sainte-Marie-Madeleine. This 16th-century church is fronted by a superb fountain from the same era (Renaissance).

The rest of the village, though unevenly restored, possesses an Italian charm with its covered passageways, a few trompe-l’oeil facades, its arcades and old wash houses, its potted succulents, and its terraces with breathtaking views. It’s lovely to sip a drink on one of these terraces on summer evenings. But don’t forget that the view comes at a price: you’ll need stamina and strong calves to reach the heights of this hilltop village!

What to see

Renaissance fountain (two levels, 1587).
Ste. Marie Magdaleine Church.
An ancient blacksmith's workshop. Oil mill.
Bernard Pagis-Sculptor.

Things to do

Swimming pool. Tennis. Feast Days.
Fairs : agicultural, commercial, and crafts.
Gastronomy : Soupe au Pistou, Ravioli, Aioli, Brissaouda.

Hotels

Villa Cyriel

Contes (Nice)

A charming hotel in a beautiful setting with a lovely pool. Friendly staff, good breakfast. Perfect for exploring the area without breaking the bank.

Visit website

Accommodation

Hotels.
Vacation rentals.
Bed and breakfasts.

Your questions about the village of Contes

We’ve received several questions from you about this hilltop village in the Alpes-Maritimes. Here are our answers to your most frequently asked questions.

What activities are there to do in Contes?

The village of Contes is an excellent starting point for exploring the Paillon Valley on foot. Numerous hiking trails depart from the center, heading toward Mont Férion or the hamlets of Sclos and La Vernéa. Nature tourism is the main activity here: pine forests, olive groves, and views of the Nice hinterland.

History buffs can visit the mills, the church, and the covered passageways of the old village. The Paillon region also offers bike trails suitable for all skill levels. Contes is the perfect getaway to recharge your batteries far from the hustle and bustle of the French Riviera.

What historic monuments are there to see in Contes?

The heritage of the medieval village of Contes is concentrated in the old village, perched on its rocky outcrop. The two-story Renaissance fountain (1587), in front of the Church of Sainte-Marie-Madeleine, is the most iconic monument. The old forge, known as the iron mill or martinet, is classified as a historic monument and is considered unique in France. The nearby oil mill also bears witness to the economic history of the Nice region. The medieval ramparts, whose eastern tower has been converted into a bell tower, round out this historic tour. A museum of vines and wine has opened in the old village to complete the visit.

How do I get to Contes?

The town of Contes is located about 15 km north of Nice, in the Alpes-Maritimes department. By car, the D15 departmental road connects Contes directly to Drap and Nice in about 20 minutes. The A8 highway (toward Monaco) is accessible within 10 minutes from Pointe de Contes, a former stop on the salt route. Bus lines connect Contes to nearby towns such as Drap, Bendejun, and Nice for daily transportation. A map of Contes shows that the neighboring villages—Châteauneuf-Villevieille, Berre-les-Alpes, and Coaraze—are all within 15 km. The Nice-Côte d'Azur Airport is located about 20 km away, making it a very convenient base for exploring the hinterland.

What are the local specialties of Contes?

Contes’ cuisine is part of the great culinary tradition of the Nice region. The Laouza oil mill still produces olive oil from December to March, continuing a long local agricultural tradition. The specialties served at the village’s food festivals include pistou soup, homemade ravioli, aioli, and brissaouda. The Contes olive bears the “Olive de Nice” protected designation of origin. Local products can also be found at the markets and craft fairs held throughout the year. It is a simple, hearty regional cuisine, rooted in the traditions of the hinterland.

What events take place in Contes?

The village of Contes offers a full calendar of events throughout the year, featuring traditional celebrations typical of the Nice region. Food festivals centered around aioli, ravioli, and pistou soup bring together locals and tourists alike. In October, the “carioles” race—a traditional downhill race through the streets in non-motorized carts—is the most unique and eagerly anticipated event. Agricultural and craft fairs punctuate the calendar, showcasing local products and traditional skills. In December, the hinterland lights up with the Lucéram Nativity Scene Tour, just a few kilometers away. Guided tours of the medieval village are available upon request from the town hall and the tourist office.

Where to stay on vacation in Contes?

Accommodations in Contes are varied, reflecting a village that welcomes both families and hikers. Bed-and-breakfasts can be found in the village and its hamlets, offering a peaceful stay with views of the Paillon Valley. Vacation rentals and villas are available on a weekly basis, particularly in the residential neighborhoods of La Pointe and Sclos. The nearby La Laune campground offers an exceptional natural setting just 20 minutes from Nice. Villa Cyriel is a popular choice for its comfort and location in the Nice hinterland. For a stay with more amenities, Nice and its hotels are less than 30 minutes away.