Cap d'Ail
DESCRIPTION
The charm of this little town bordering the Principality of Monaco, lies in its geographical location and proximity to the countryside. On one side, running along the coast, there are small paths lined with Mediterranean plants; and on the other, there is the Massif de la Tête de Chien (the Dog’s Head Massif): these make Cap d’Ail a little paradise on Earth.
HISTORY
There have been numerous invasions: occupied by the Genovese, the Guelfes, annexed to Monaco, taken over by Savoy, then conquered by the state of Sardinia, Cap d’Ail became part of France in 1860.
Cap d’Ail has experienced an eventful history. After having been occupied by the Genovese and the Guelfes, the town was annexed to the Principality of Monaco. A short time afterwards, Savoy took over the area which would soon be conquered by the Sardinians. In 1860, Cap d’Ail became part of France again. Nevertheless, the town did not yet really exist as we know it today. Tied with the commune of La Turbie, Cap d’Ail only gained autonomy in 1906, as growing urbanisation led to it splitting off from the neighbouring district. The town swiftly became a preferred holiday destination where the stars and VIPs of the moment pass through.
ENTERTAINMENT
Amongst Cap d’Ail’s historic buildings which are a sight-seeing ‘must’, is theEglise Notre-Dame du Cap Fleuri (church) as well as the Jean Cocteau Amphitheatre and the Château de l’Ermitage. The latter accommodated many important figures over the course of the last century. Today, the renovated castle hosts various events: concerts, plays, exhibitions, even conferences...
Cap d’Ail has been a health resort since 1921 and is reputed for the purity of its water. Three of its beaches have been awarded the “Blue Flag” (since 1995). One can also take part in a wide variety of water sports (sailing, diving, etc.). And, don’t forget to visit the marina.
At the seaside is the author Sacha Guitry’s villa with the Sacha Guitry Park renowned for its abundant Mediterranean flora and tranquillity, conducive to reading and meditation. Walkers can also explore the many paths running alongside the shore, such as the Sentier de la Pointe des Douaniers (the Footpath of the Customs Officers Headland) and the Chemin Romain (Roman Pathway). For mountaineers looking for thrills, there are climbing expeditions. Golf enthusiasts will find a wide variety of courses in the region.
year, Cap d’Ail hosts the Festival Cap Jazz, an anticipated event.
LOCATION AND DIRECTIONS
The town of Cap d’Ail is located between Villefranche-sur-Mer and Menton, very close to Monaco and Beausoleil.
Return
The charm of this little town bordering the Principality of Monaco, lies in its geographical location and proximity to the countryside. On one side, running along the coast, there are small paths lined with Mediterranean plants; and on the other, there is the Massif de la Tête de Chien (the Dog’s Head Massif): these make Cap d’Ail a little paradise on Earth.
HISTORY
There have been numerous invasions: occupied by the Genovese, the Guelfes, annexed to Monaco, taken over by Savoy, then conquered by the state of Sardinia, Cap d’Ail became part of France in 1860.
Cap d’Ail has experienced an eventful history. After having been occupied by the Genovese and the Guelfes, the town was annexed to the Principality of Monaco. A short time afterwards, Savoy took over the area which would soon be conquered by the Sardinians. In 1860, Cap d’Ail became part of France again. Nevertheless, the town did not yet really exist as we know it today. Tied with the commune of La Turbie, Cap d’Ail only gained autonomy in 1906, as growing urbanisation led to it splitting off from the neighbouring district. The town swiftly became a preferred holiday destination where the stars and VIPs of the moment pass through.
ENTERTAINMENT
Amongst Cap d’Ail’s historic buildings which are a sight-seeing ‘must’, is theEglise Notre-Dame du Cap Fleuri (church) as well as the Jean Cocteau Amphitheatre and the Château de l’Ermitage. The latter accommodated many important figures over the course of the last century. Today, the renovated castle hosts various events: concerts, plays, exhibitions, even conferences...
Cap d’Ail has been a health resort since 1921 and is reputed for the purity of its water. Three of its beaches have been awarded the “Blue Flag” (since 1995). One can also take part in a wide variety of water sports (sailing, diving, etc.). And, don’t forget to visit the marina.
At the seaside is the author Sacha Guitry’s villa with the Sacha Guitry Park renowned for its abundant Mediterranean flora and tranquillity, conducive to reading and meditation. Walkers can also explore the many paths running alongside the shore, such as the Sentier de la Pointe des Douaniers (the Footpath of the Customs Officers Headland) and the Chemin Romain (Roman Pathway). For mountaineers looking for thrills, there are climbing expeditions. Golf enthusiasts will find a wide variety of courses in the region.
year, Cap d’Ail hosts the Festival Cap Jazz, an anticipated event.
LOCATION AND DIRECTIONS
The town of Cap d’Ail is located between Villefranche-sur-Mer and Menton, very close to Monaco and Beausoleil.
