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Coaraze
Alpes-Maritimes
Welcome to Coaraze, the ‘Village of the Sun’, perched above the Paillon Valley in the heart of Nice hinterland
Perched at an altitude of 650 metres, Coaraze is a medieval village bathed in light. You can lose yourself in its cobbled streets and vaulted passageways, lined with stone houses or those painted in bright Italian colours. Famous for its sundials designed by Cocteau or Ponce de Léon, it also boasts a beautiful religious heritage with the Church of Saint John the Baptist and its painted chapels. Between sunshine and stone, Coaraze invites you for a sun-drenched stopover, just a stone’s throw from Nice.
The sunshine of the Nice hinterland
Here, the light inspires artists and bathes the ancient stones in radiance. Enjoy a sun-drenched stroll, taking in the historic sites and the laid-back Mediterranean way of life.
Alain Ribière
Alain Ribière
Coaraze Tradition
Every summer, Coaraze hosts the ‘Pilo’ World Championships! This game, which originated in Nice and involves juggling a small paper shuttlecock, is a wonderful way to discover this tradition.
Your experiences to live in Coaraze
©Ulla G.
Strolling through the village
Wander through Coaraze along its maze of cobbled streets! Take the time to explore every nook and cranny, passageway and flight of steps to discover fountains and flower-filled squares. In front of the church, the square offers a superb view over the Paillou Valley and the Col Saint-Roch.
©Guy Lerdung
Going from chapel to chapel
Step inside the Blue Chapel and marvel at its frescoes by Ponce de Léon. Then head to the Chapel of Saint Sebastian, a 15th-century gem.
Watch the village come to life as the seasons change
Throughout the seasons, Coaraze comes alive with its Occitan festivals and traditions: poetry in spring, the Pilo Championship and the Olive Tree Festival under the summer sun, and food and music at the Festi’Nov Festin’Oc in autumn.
Ideas for everyone, all the time
From Jan. 1, 2026 to Dec. 31, 2026 from 8 a.m.
Marché hebdomadaire
Coaraze weekly market
Next dates:
- From 01/01/2026 to 12/31/2026
Open every day
Cycling along the Route des Grandes Alpes
Heading for Nice via the legendary Route des Grandes Alpes! A challenging but spectacular route starting from Coaraze, taking in rugged mountain passes, panoramic mountain views and hilltop villages. Three hours of hard work to be shared amongst cycling enthusiasts!
Hiking trails
Set off on one of the 30 routes around Coaraze. The Rocca Sparviera route leads to a ruined hamlet perched at an altitude of over 1,000 metres. The walk offers a fascinating insight into the history of these medieval ruins, whilst you take in the breathtaking views of the Paillon countryside.
Olive oil tasting
Sample the flavours of the Nice region by visiting a local olive grove! Learn more about the expertise behind Nice PDO olive oil and olives, meet the producers and enjoy a gourmet tasting session.
Map of Coaraze
Extend the visit to near Coaraze
Sainte-Agnès
(15 km)
Saorge
(25 km)
Gourdon
(30 km)
Prepare your stay at Coaraze
Maison du Patrimoine - Bureau d'information touristique
Accessibility
Coaraze
# Parking : Stationnement gratuit toute l'année
# Aire de stationnement pour camping-car : Aire de stationnement pour camping-cars à moins de 15 mn à pieds
