Arguably the perfect place to bask in the Mediterranean sun, there is something to please everyone here in the French Riviera; brimming with taste and culture, not to mention views that are second to none.
If you are considering a French chateau for sale with us at Prestige Property Group, then you will be keen to discover the alluring attractions waiting to be explored by new visitors.
We have pieced together a list of some of our favourite day trip recommendations that can be perfectly teamed with a visit to the beach:
Cannes and Antibes
One of the good things is that there is more than enough time in the day to enjoy a visit to both Cannes and Antibes, the added appeal of these locations is the stark contrast between them. There is a fine list of things to see and do in Cannes, from the old town of Le Suquet to the Croisette waterfront. Meanwhile, Antibes provides a rural and authentic Provencal charm, which boasts true French countryside at its most quintessential, while still managing to feature landmarks such as Fort Carré and the Picasso Museum, for example. For those looking to try something away from the busy hoards of tourists, Le Figuer de Saint Esprit is a wonderful little restaurant, neatly hidden away beneath the high Antibes ramparts. A Michelin star dining experience awaits when you come to this gourmet restaurant.
St Tropez
St Tropez is a renowned destination across the world, and just like Cannes and Antibes, is a glamourous resort. Find yourself among the other international jet-setters as they seek to enjoy its pleasures too. Head to the harbour where you will catch a sight of the constellation of grand yachts gathered along the water. Why not treat yourself to a boat ride either to or from Nice while you are here?
Head to the little-known half-sand, half-pebble beach of L’Escalet Beach, in Ramatuelle. The coastline here between Cape Taillat and Cape Camarat is a sequence of appealing little beaches, as well as a host of coves and rocky inlets, all of which provide visitors with translucent waters over the polished rocks or golden sands.
Nice
Regarded by many as the unofficial capital of the Riviera, Nice is an inviting place to explore making for a rather exciting and filled day of walking if you’re interested in strolling around. From the Old Town, boasting its Baroque paradise, to the acclaimed Promenade des Anglais, with vast sea views, there is an abundance of scenic sights to take in. Visit the Castle Hill and the Matisse Museum if you have enough time on your trip.
Use your time here to experience La Grande Corniche. A coastal road which runs all the way from Nice to Italy, providing a range of dramatic scenery; the route even serves up an unrivalled birds-eye view of Monaco, with the glittering Mediterranean in sight. This road is where many of the scenes from Alfred Hitchcock’s ‘To Catch a Thief’ were filmed.
Eze, Cap Ferrat and Beaulieu
The peninsula of St Jean Cap Ferrat is a section of coastline along the entirety of the French Riviera that is irresistible to many tourists. Filled with plenty of towns and villages that provide unparalleled views out onto the surrounding bay. Beaulieu-sur-Mer is a Belle Epoque resort with a Greek-style villa at its centre, while the fishing village of Villefranche-sur-Mer has a unique medieval charm worth seeing in person. Be sure to visit Eze; this partially tucked away village has unspoilt views of Nice and Cap Ferrat.
Monaco
The first of our outsider offerings is Monaco. Just a short distance away from the French Riviera, Monaco is the ultimate destination as far as glamour is concerned, with superyachts lining the glittering seafront. Part of your time here should most certainly feature a visit to the Oceanographic Museum. Additionally, a trip to one of the casinos of Monte Carlo to enjoy a round on the tables, while a wander up the Rock to visit the Old Town to see the wide-reaching views below is always advised on your visit.
Menton and Ventimiglia
From the French Riviera, you can cross the border into Italy and visit Ventimiglia, which lies at the mouth of the Roya river. Here you can soak up the Ligurian atmosphere and purchase some fresh Italian produce from the markets.
If you head back over the border, visit the picturesque town of Menton. Its baroque Old Town is lined with colourful buildings, while the town comes to life with the aromas of citrus during the annual Lemon Festival, which takes place at the beginning of March, every year.
If you want to find out more about the French Riveria, and what it’s like to live there- get in touch with our experts at Prestige Property Group who will be able to answer any questions you may have about the area.