Up to the mid-20th century, Valbonne remained a farming village like many others in Provence. But the growth of tourism along the French Riviera from the 1950s onwards gradually led to the emergence of new activities in the village, such as craft businesses and excellent hotels and restaurants. It received its biggest boost in 1969 with the creation of the Sophia Antipolis science and technology hub, inspired by the American technology park concept offering outstanding working conditions and quality of life. Today, more than half of the technology park lies within the territory of Valbonne (renamed Valbonne Sophia Antipolis), as a result of which the town’s permanent population has rocketed from 3,000 in 1980 to nearly 13,000 in 2024! Engineers, researchers and technicians from firms such as Air France, France Télécom (later renamed Orange), Thalès and IBM restored or built from scratch hundreds of modern, spacious, bright and fully equipped villas for themselves and their families. In doing so, they shaped a real-estate landscape with two facets:
- first, the old village centre, beautifully preserved with its ochre stone façades and pastel-coloured shutters, bougainvillea, and numerous small restaurants with tables lining the narrow streets leading to Place des Arcades, a listed historic monument since 1992. Its townhouses and, especially, its private mansions – some of which date back to the 17th century – are the ultimate rare finds;
- and second, villas with at least five bedrooms, grounds and swimming pool – if possible fully renovated and ideally located on a private estate.
Whether rented on an annual (furnished or unfurnished) or seasonal basis, the most stunning contemporary and traditional-style villas and properties have generally been renovated to modern tastes and standards, and have at least five bedrooms and a swimming pool. For a seasonal rental, you are looking at upwards of €6,000 to €10,000 per week, depending on the time of year. 
Renting a property in Valbonne Sophia Antipolis or one of the surrounding towns such as Mougins, Roquefort-les-Pins, Mouans-Sartoux, Châteauneuf-de-Grasse or Opio is the key to enjoying an absolutely unique environment, with the Croisette, Antibes and the Gréolières-les-Neiges ski resort, at an altitude of 1,400m (4,600 ft), all within a 50-kilometre (30-mile) radius, not to mention miles of hiking trails and a great choice of outdoor sports including canyoning, climbing and golf. The Opio Valbonne Golf Resort is one of the most prestigious clubs on the French Riviera, with an 18-hole course set between sea and mountain offering phenomenal rounds, while the Château de la Bégude, within the resort, promises relaxation and gourmet dining of the finest quality. 
Life in Valbonne can be savoured all year round (and often discovered by renting a house or apartment here!). One of our top picks is the “Fête du Raisin” festival held every year on the last weekend in January to celebrate the local grape variety, Servan, under the decorated arcades of the village and its quaint streets.
 

Nestled between the sea and the hills, the Valbonne area and its surroundings offer an ideal setting for a luxury rental. Known for its Provençal charm and its proximity to Sophia Antipolis, the region attracts those seeking tranquility, greenery, and a refined lifestyle. Whether you're planning a family stay, a temporary relocation, or a peaceful retreat, Valbonne delights with its vibrant village life, weekly markets, and elegant villas with gardens and pools. A discreet and elegant destination to enjoy the French Riviera in a more authentic way.