The Cote d’Azur, commonly known in the UK as the French Riviera, has long been viewed through a lens of decadence, sophistication and pure indulgence. The sun-kissed shores of the south of France boast cities like Nice and Cannes which steal the show in terms of the media glare, but there’s a host of lesser-known gems which combine to make the French Riviera what it is: a coastline guaranteed to stir the senses.
If you’re looking for a new summer escape and you’re yet to experience the French Riviera, read on as we explore the must-see locations waiting to showcase their culture to first-time visitors.
Èze’s medieval appeal
Èze is a world away from the bright lights of Nice and Cannes. Nestled within the mountains overlooking the Mediterranean Sea, this medieval village offers a slower pace of life, coupled with an abundance of jaw-dropping photo opportunities.
The village itself is a maze of cobbled streets. You could probably touch the walls if you placed your hands either side. The main attraction to see here is Jardin Exotique – a picture-perfect garden situated inside the remains of a medieval fortress. It’s quite the juxtaposition, but there’s plenty of vibrant life here, with some of the world’s most exotic plants blooming.
Monaco’s jewel in the principality’s crown
Monte-Carlo isn’t another name for the principality of Monaco. In fact, Monte-Carlo is a district of this small city-state, best known for its luxurious and illustrious shops and surroundings. None more so than the iconic Casino de Monte-Carlo, which is open to tourists to explore.
Opened in 1863, Casino de Monte-Carlo is now so much more than a place to game. It has become a beacon of Monaco’s class and elegance. The establishment was constructed by the House of Grimaldi and designed by the same architect who masterminded the Paris Opera House; the Belle Epoque architecture oozes timeless appeal in the 21st century.
The venue itself is also thought to be the birthplace of French roulette, which was one of the first versions of this wheel-based game. Since then, the likes of American roulette and European roulette have become the more prominent formats in the online world, with the latter adopting the same single-zero roulette wheel without the additional rules of ‘En Prison’ and ‘La Partage’.
It’s also great to walk down to Monte-Carlo Harbour and soak up the Mediterranean rays, as well as the high-end ambience. You’ll get views of luxury yachts and superyachts, with a glimpse of hilltop buildings like the Oceanographic Museum of Monaco.
Menton: The “Pearl of France”
Menton is situated a stone’s throw from the French-Italian border. It enjoys the nickname of the “Pearl of France” due largely to its jaw-dropping scenery and its incredibly attractive year-round climate. Menton offers a slower pace of life than the likes of Monaco, Nice and Cannes. Its Old Town is a must-see when you’re here. Like Èze, it boasts a veritable maze of winding cobbled streets and there’s even narrow staircases which can lead you all the way to the seafront.
Undoubtedly the most iconic landmark in Menton is the baroque structure, Basilique Saint-Michel. It dominates the town’s skyline and there’s exceptional views of the Mediterranean from inside. The area is also prime for growing and cultivating lemon groves, with its Lemon Festival an annual hit with locals.
The old-world seaside charm of Antibes
Located almost equidistant between the glitz and glamour of Cannes and Nice, Antibes is another more stripped-back, introverted gem of the French Riviera. It’s an historic town with its ramparts still present around the perimeter dating back to the 1500s. From here, you’re guaranteed panoramic sea views as well as the Cap d’Antibes.
For anyone with a penchant for artwork, the Picasso Museum is also situated here within the Chateau Grimaldi. It includes a string of Picasso’s works conceived during his time living in the Antibes area. The Marche Provencal is Antibes’ vibrant marketplace, which is also a haven for fanatical foodies and the inspiration for many French-style food markets in Andover.
Villefranche-sur-Mer’s rich maritime haven
Anyone fascinated by maritime towns and cities should also put Villefranche-sur-Mer on their French Riviera bucket list. This quaint harbour town has been a calling point for sailors for many centuries and is still a regular haunt for yachts and cruise liners to this day.
Its waterfront is well worth exploring, with quintessential cafes and bars lining the way. For more breath-taking scenery, visit the town’s Citadel. Built in the 1500s, it includes a string of local museums and 180-degree views of the coastline.
In truth, the French Riviera offers endless cultural discovery, with each town and village boasting its own Gallic charm and story.
