Nice: two hills, two centuries, two ways of living

Mont Boron closes the city to the east and overlooks the port. Its forest park, planted in the nineteenth century, covers much of the slope and limits development — which has kept density low on a hill close to the centre.

Cimiez lies to the north. The Romans established Cemenelum there, of which the arena and baths survive. The quarter was built in the late nineteenth century around grand hotels since converted into high-standing buildings, which explains the unusual size of the apartments.

Aspect differs entirely. Mont Boron faces south and east, with clear light from morning and sea views. Cimiez faces south over the city and the hinterland, more sheltered, greener, without a sea horizon.

The third point is access. Both hills require a car for daily life, with narrow roads and often private parking. That is the first thing to check, before even the view.