Valbonne

Discover the pretty town of Valbonne near Sophia Antipolis

Valbonne is a beautiful old town set in a tranquil valley of Mediterranean vegetation. A very chic residential area, it has grown considerably since the early 70s, at the same time as the nearby Sophia-Antipolis technology park: engineers and other researchers from all over the world who work here have bought or built villas and country houses in the surrounding area.

The old town center

Valbonne is fortunate to have an old town center sheltered by its old houses, which has retained all its character and is a delight to visit, especially as it has been perfectly restored and maintained.

Ochre stone facades with pastel shutters, porches drowned in vines or exuberant bougainvillea, doors with lintels adorned with penitent and companion emblems, the beautiful town hall building and its 19th-century belfry, and everywhere, little restaurants with tables set in the street, in the shade of historic old houses . Valbonne's got charm!

A checkerboard urban plan

Unlike most Provencal villages of medieval origin, Valbonne is unique in having been built on a checkerboard urban plan (streets intersect at right angles) dating from the early 16th century.

Restaurants, terraces and shopping

It's an extremely pleasant village to visit (and to live in), where it's relaxing to stroll through the beautiful, gently sloping streets, all of which lead you to the marvellous Renaissance arcaded square, where it's so good to have lunch on the terrace of one of the restaurants. You can also do a bit of shopping, as the pretty fashion, decor and antique boutiques are each more chic and attractive than the last.

The Chartreuse de Valbonne

Those who prefer a historical heritage won't want to miss a visit to the monastery founded in 1204 by the Order of Chalais. Recently restored in the Romanesque-Gothic style, the Chartreuse de Valbonne boasts a Romanesque portal and altar, reliquary busts (18th century), a chapter house and treasure room, and the monks' dormitory.

Servan grape wine

Finally, don't leave Valbonne without tasting the local specialty, wine made from the Servan grape, a variety that “keeps until Easter”, so don't wait any longer to discover it.

Our map of Valbonne (zip code 06 560)

To find your way around Servan, you can use our interactive map of Valbonne. We've included all the village's points of interest, so you can zoom in on each street. We've also included our accommodation recommendations, so you can locate them before you book your stay in Valbonne.