While you’ve probably heard of Cannes, Nice and Saint-Tropez, the village of Mougins is a lesser-known part of the French Riviera. That’s an advantage for those who live there, though, including the many directors, movie stars, musicians and writers who reside among other wealthy homeowners.
Mougins is set in the Grasse district, and while it’s only 15 minutes from Cannes, the village is notably more peaceful and tranquil than other popular destinations in the Côte d’Azur. Set atop a hill about 30 metres above the sea, Mougins is surrounded by exceptional golf courses and stunning, diverse greenery, including cyprus, pine and olive trees.
There’s also plenty of history here, both in and beyond the medieval Old Town, as the village dates back to the first century BC. Overall, people flock to Mougins for its unique mix of culture, glamour and serene nature.
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What Makes Mougins a Prime Location for Luxury Property?
From beautiful outdoor areas to rich cultural and gastronomic experiences, there’s a lot that Mougins has to offer.
Outdoor Appeal
Your luxury property in Mougins is likely to have its own landscaped Mediterranean garden, ideal for spending private time outdoors. You’re also bound to have stunning views of the countryside and the sea thanks to Mougins’ high vantage point.
There’s also the Valmasque forest, which is an outdoor recreational area that’s open to the public. Whether you want to walk your dog in nature or go for a brisk morning jog or bike ride, having the park so close by adds to the area’s incredible quality of life.
Golfers won’t want to pass up the chance to play at Royal Mougins, one of the most prestigious golf domains in the area. In addition to the 18-hole course, there’s also a hotel and spa on the premises.
You’re also never far from the many beaches of the French Riviera, which range from quiet and secluded to vibrant and brimming with nightlife.
Proximity to Other French Riviera Destinations
When you’re ready to venture to other parts of the French Riviera, there’s plenty right nearby, including Antibes, Cannes, Juan-les-Pins and Nice. The Autoroute La Provençale, also known as the A8 motorway, is about 3 kilometres away, giving you easy access to one of the main traffic routes in the south of France.
Since the village is so close to Cannes, homes in Mougins can bring in rental income during the annual film festival, which draws 80,000 festival goers.
There are also two major airports near Mougins — the Cannes Mandelieu Airport and the Nice Côte d’Azur Airport — making it easy to travel back and forth as needed or welcome visiting guests.
Education and Culture
This part of the French Riviera is especially appealing to expat families thanks to the Mougins British International School, which has programs for kids ages 3 to 18.
It’s also an area that’s popular with foodies, especially when the international gastronomy festival, called Les Etoiles de Mougins, is held each year. Even when the festival isn’t happening, though, you can dine at world-class restaurants in Mougins and throughout the French Riviera, including the esteemed L’Amandier de Mougins.
For more cultural experiences, you can visit Mougins’ many galleries and museums. The village’s museums have impressive collections, with works from the greatest artists in history. There are also art events and exhibits throughout the year to keep an eye out for.
Where Are the Best Places to Buy Property in Mougins?
There are five distinct districts in Mougins. Understanding what each one offers can help you decide where to look for property:
- Les Colles: You’ll find luxury properties here, along with panoramic views of the Bay of Cannes.
- Le Font de l’Orme: This area is best for golf enthusiasts, as it’s home to the Royal Mougins golf club.
- Mougins Village: The village’s picturesque and historical centre has a medieval setting, complete with cobbled streets.
- Tournamy: This is a lively area with plenty of shops and restaurants.
- Val de Mougins: This is a residential area that’s surrounded by hills, and it’s known for having a peaceful atmosphere.
Wherever you decide to buy Mougins property, you’ll be about 15 minutes by car from Cannes, as the commune is technically one of Cannes’ suburbs.
What Types of Properties Are Available in Mougins?
Mougins has plenty of beautiful bastide-style homes, houses, and villas, including new builds with contemporary designs and historical homes that have been thoughtfully renovated with modern amenities.
You may also find a handful of luxury apartments here, which are especially appealing to those buying a second home or if you’re looking to earn rental income during the tourist season.
Luxury homes in Mougins come with quality features and lavish amenities, including cinema rooms, fully equipped gyms, heated swimming pools, along with pool houses and sun decks. Many properties also feature characterful furnishings like high windows, tall ceilings, antique doors and fireplaces. Homes in Mougins are also complemented by stunning outdoor spaces with large verandas and terraces, private gardens with dedicated relaxation areas, and not forgetting the stunning views over the Mediterranean landscape.
You may even find a property with extras you wouldn’t expect, like a chapel, artist’s studio, tennis court or koi pond.
How Does Mougins Compare to Other Luxury Markets in the French Riviera?
Property prices in Mougins range from approximately €6,700 per square metre to upwards of €18,000 per square metre. This is about on par with Grasse real estate pricing, which ranges from €5,000 to €18,000.
When compared to parts of the French Riviera that are more popular with tourists, you can see how much more you get from Mougins property in terms of value. For example, homes in Nice cost between €8,500 and €22,000 per square metre, while Cannes real estate has a higher median cost of €17,500 per square metre.
Navigating the Property Buying Process in the French Riviera
The property market in France is well-regulated. As an international buyer, there will be a few extra steps to follow. Having an property agent who can walk you through each step of the process can provide the advice and guidance you need.
Here’s what to expect when buying property in Mougins:
- You’ll search for properties that meet your criteria. This usually requires several location-scouting trips to Mougins. The process is made easier with an real estate agent.
- Once you’ve found a home you’d like to buy, you’ll make an offer to the owner in writing.
- If the owner agrees to the offered price, you’ll both sign the initial contract. The terms in this contract may change throughout the process.
- You’ll put down your deposit and wait out the mandatory 10-day cooling-off period. During this time, if you change your mind about buying the property, you can back out of the sale without losing your deposit.
- The conveyancing process, which is arranged by the notaire, will begin. This typically lasts a few weeks.
- You and the seller will make final negotiations, which will be reflected in the finalised contract.
- After paying the remainder of the balance, you and the seller will sign the deed. This means the home is officially yours!
Read our complete guide to buying property in France for more details about the process and what to expect.
Final Thoughts: Is Mougins the Right Choice for Your Next Property Investment?
While Mougins isn’t as well-known as other top tourist destinations on the French Riviera, that’s great news for homebuyers who want to live near the Med without the hustle and bustle of typical Côte d’Azur life. With easy access to major transportation routes, beaches, cities, events and more, living in Mougins means having a tranquil home life without missing out on the incredible offerings in the south of France. Plus, buying property in Mougins means getting a lot of value out of your luxury property and having a lifestyle that many can only dream of.
HOMEHUNTS property agents are able to select beautiful, luxury Mougins property based on your search criteria. Whether you want to live in a vibrant city or in a more tranquil setting, there is a home in Mougins to fit your needs. Search our site and browse the selection of luxury homes that we have on offer. You can also speak directly to one of our property consultants by calling +33 (0)970 44 66 43.
