The French Riviera is practically synonymous with the notion of glitz and glamour. A glistening swathe of azure water, sundrenched coastlines and bone-white limestone cliffs dotted by glamourous towns and ports- all thronged by a veritable carpet of sail boats and yachts. A place where the rich and famous gather to rub shoulders, a region whose traditions run deep and a destination I hardly dared dream that I would one day experience for myself…
As I write this article, I can scarcely believe that I now actually have!
Following my river cruise, I journeyed back south and found myself at long last in the French Rivera. I arrived in Antibes to swollen gray skies and ferocious winds whipping the ocean into a frenzy. Buoyed by my excitement, I was unable to resist the temptation to explore despite the unusually inclement weather. Fortunately, my perseverance was rewarded and as I stood on the ancient ramparts- thoroughly sodden– I watched as bright blue sky punctured the clouds and colour bled back into the landscape. The charm of the Riviera washed over me and so began my whirlwind love affair with the region! I spent the next few days roaming the city, meeting the locals, swimming and exploring the incredible beauty of Cap D’Antibes. It was a delightful appetizer for the second chapter of my adventure.
I then caught the train from Antibes to Nice, where I had the exceptional fortune of being guided through Nice and Monaco by hosts from the respective Tourism Boards. In five days, they completely transformed my understanding of the entire region. I saw beyond the glamourous façade and learned so much about the history, culture and incredible range of experiences on offer.
Nice is a vibrant, sprawling city of great contrasts. From the dense, winding lanes of the Old Town to the vibrant restaurant and shopping districts to the wide-open vistas of the Promenade des Anglaise and even beyond to the mountains that fringe its back- we left no stone unturned. We saw firsthand the transformation currently happening in Nice as new world class hotels nestle beside legendary historical institutions like Hotel Le Negresco. We visited exceptional properties, segway-ed along the promenade, sampled local food and wine, concocted perfumes and raised a glass (or two) of champagne as we watched the sun set over Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat. I come away now understanding that there is something for everyone in Nice. There’s a balance struck between the charm of its chaotic corners and the calm luxury of its waterfront, and it is a gateway into a world of wonder.
Prior to this trip, my primary associations of Monaco were the Grand Prix and Monte Carlo Casino. I now realize there is so much more to this country. Measuring a grand total of 2.08 km2, Monaco packs quite a punch and completely enchanted me. We visited La Distillerie de Monaco, museums, food markets and of course- some of the most exceptional restaurants I have ever experienced. One of the most memorable adventures was a vintage car day where we wound through the hills of France, Monaco and Italy in a single day, dropping into gorgeous towns like Menton to taste gelato by the sea.
My time in the French Riviera was a dream come true- the memories of which I will cherish forever.
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