Chateau de Cremat
The Basics
Though built in the 1920s to resemble a magnificent medieval castle, the château’s history has roots in the Roman Empire when legionnaires stationed on the Via Julia Augusta, dug underground tunnels to store oil and wine amphorae. Today, travelers have many options to discover the estate on its own or as part of a part-day, full-day private or group tour that incorporates a sightseeing excursion of Nice’s most popular attractions, a guided tour, and wine tastings.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Suitable for solo travelers, couples, and families. *During the summer, remember sun protection and water for hydration.
- The tours are not wheelchair-friendly.
- Visiting the estate is by appointment-only.
Trip ideas
How to Get There
Take a taxi to Château de Crémat, which lies along Chemin de Crémat in the hills above Nice, or self-drive; from the center of town, expect less than 20 minutes. Parking is available on site. Buses arrive near the castle as well; take 98 to 60 and get off at Chemin de Crémat.
When to Get There
Entry to the estate is by appointment only or by way of an expanded tour. With a mild Mediterranean climate, Nice is a pleasant place to visit any time of the year. Come in the spring and the autumn to avoid the crowds and the heat of the summer. Hotel rooms are also cheaper during these shoulder seasons.
The Legend of Coco Chanel
American socialite Irene Bretz had sold another Nice landmark, the Hotel Negresco, to purchase Château de Crémat, and soon the estate became known for its legendary parties, attended by the most fashionable celebrities and jet set of the time, most notably a young designer named Gabrielle “Coco” Chanel. As the story goes, Bretz allowed her new friend to use the château’s signature interlocking C’s which represented her vineyard and adorned the buildings, windows and gates.
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- National Sport Museum (Musée National du Sport)
- St. Nicholas Cathedral (Cathédrale Saint-Nicolas)
- Hotel Negresco
- Nice Old Town (Vieux Nice)
- Promenade des Anglais
- Massena Art & History Museum (Musée Masséna)
- Marc Chagall National Museum (Musée National Marc Chagall)
- Matisse Museum (Musée Matisse)
- Cimiez Monastery (Monastere de Cimiez)
- Massena Square (Place Masséna)
- Molinard Perfumery (Maison Molinard)
- Quai des États-Unis
- Cours Saleya Flower Market (Marché aux Fleurs Cours Saleya)
- Nice Museum of Asian Arts (Musée des Arts Asiatiques)
- Place Garibaldi