French Riviera

To many people, the French Riviera conjures up images of sophisticated socialites, millionaires’ yachts, Ernest Hemingway, Picasso, casinos and even James Bond. Its miles of beautiful beaches, wonderful climate and rich Mediterranean colours have attracted artists and aristocrats. This natural beauty is still there to enjoy, but the French Riviera has much more to offer, meaning that finding the perfect package holiday is easy.

Nice Harbor

The hills of the French Riviera provide the perfect location for many village perchés, hilltop villages with medieval cobbled streets and dramatic views. Less than a thirty minute drive from Monaco is the charming village of Èze where you can stroll along the twisting streets, shop for souvenirs, or stop for a bite to eat at one of the many restaurants or cafés.

Le Jardin Exotique

Here you will also find Le Jardin Exotique, a botanical garden with an amazing collection of exotic plants and panoramic views. For something different, visit one of the two perfume factories in Èze, which both offer free guided tours. Just four kilometres from the coast, between Antibes and Nice, is another village perché, Biot, renowned for its glass and ceramics. Visit one of its museums or watch glass blowing at La Verrerie de Biot before buying one of the many beautiful items for sale in the local ateliers or artist’s workshops.

The Corniches

One way of experiencing the spectacular scenery of this area is to drive along one of the three Corniches. These are roads that lie between Nice and Monaco. The Grand Corniche is the highest and most hair-raising of the roads. It has been used for James Bond and Alfred Hitchcock films. The lowest road, or Basse Corniche, follows the coast and takes in many grand houses along the way.  The Moyenne Corniche allows you to admire many breathtaking views, including the village of Èze.

Something for Art Lovers

For art-lovers, the French Riviera offers some fine collections of paintings. In 1946, Pablo Picasso stayed at the Chateau Grimaldi in Antibes. Here you can find the Musée Picasso, one of the best Picasso museums in the world. In Nice, however, you will be spoilt for choice. It is home to both the Musée Matisse and the Musée Marc Chagall. Each of these is devoted to the work of its namesake.

Famous for its film festival, it’s not surprising that Cannes is glamorous and beautiful. Here you can see how the other half live. In addition you soak up the Belle Époque atmosphere of the grand hotels and admire the yachts. Take a stroll down the two kilometer long Promenade de la Croisette. Lined with expensive restaurants and shops, stop in one of the cafés for a spot of people-watching.

The Glamour of Monaco

For more glamour head out to Monaco. You can try your luck in the Monte Carlo Casino. Just pay the entrance fee and follow the strict dress code. For a more casual casino experience try the Casino du Café de Paris. Finally, for royalty fans there is the impressive Prince’s Palace and Monaco Cathedral. This is where Prince Ranier and Grace Kelly were married.