Taxi Nice — Contes

Contes is a picturesque medieval town situated in the heart of the Paillon valley, just 20 km from Nice but in another world — that of the authentic, unspoilt Nice hinterland. Perched at 250 metres altitude on a rocky spur above the Paillon de Contes, the village offers a maze of cobbled lanes, stone stairways, vaulted passages and tall houses with colourful facades typical of the County of Nice. The Church of Sainte-Marie-Madeleine, in the village centre, is a jewel of Niçois baroque art with its trompe-l'oeil paintings, gilded stucco and altarpiece of the Rosary. Contes has been a centre of olive cultivation and olive oil production for centuries: the communal oil mill, in operation since the 17th century, continues to press local olives (Cailletier variety) using traditional methods, and can be visited in season (November to February). The surrounding hills are covered with centuries-old chestnut forests that offer a flamboyant spectacle in autumn and produce renowned chestnuts, celebrated during the Chestnut Festival each November. The Genoese bridge spanning the Paillon, the medieval castle ruins and rural chapels punctuate walks around the village. Contes is also the starting point for fine hikes to the neighbouring villages of Châteauneuf-Villevieille (with its feudal ruins offering panoramic views) and Berre-les-Alpes. The journey from Nice through the Paillon valley is quick and pleasant, crossing Nice's eastern outskirts before entering the greenery of the hinterland.