Cote D’Azur
The Cote D’Azur is more commonly know as the French Rivieria. It lies on the southeast corner of France along the Mediterranean coastline. It covers around 550 miles of stunning coastline, famous for its beaches and views. Not to mention its picture perfect water, yachts. Not only that, but it is known as a playground for the wealthy. With popular hotspots including Saint-Tropez, Cannes and the independent microstate of Monaco.
Up until the end of the 18th century the Cote D’Azur was a remote area. It was known for its fishing and olive groves. It wasn’t until the end of the 18th century when British socialites began using it as a fashionable health retreat. As a result it gained in popularity.
Unsurprisingly, one of the most popular things to do is to check out its world famous beaches. Some of its most popular beaches include Pampelonne Beach. It is a long iconic sandy beach lined with exclusive restaurants and bars. Secondly, Paloma Beach. A small popular pebble beach offering dramatic views, clear waters.
The rich and famous
Saint-Tropez was once a small quiet fishing town. It was transformed into a play ground for the rich and famous when Brigitte Bardot filmed there. In 1956 she filmed the iconic film “And God Created Woman”. This stylish village offers an old world feel with its narrow streets and cobbled stones. Which is juxtaposed with its beautifully picturesque harbour filled with luxury yachts. It is the perfect blend of a relaxing place to explore mixed with many fun tourist attractions.
Cannes, during the summer months, is filled with colourful parasols that line the sandy beaches, allowing beach lovers to soak up the sun in classic French Riviera style. Every May the town transforms into the most glamorous city in the world where rich and and movies stars go to celebrate the annual world famous Cannes Film Festival.
Renowned for its prestigious yacht race and grand prix, sublime natural scenery, Monaco has a special status on the Côte d’Azur. This small coastal city is its own principality with a royal family, epitomizing the glamour of the French Riviera. One of its most famous attractions includes the Monte-Carlo Casino Square famous for its bars and restaurants and one of the worlds most iconic casinos – Casino de Monte Carlo (as featured in James Bonds, Casino Royale).
Travelling to Cote D’Azur by Ferry
Although Cote D’Azur is positioned on the coast, there is not a direct ferry from the UK to Cote D’Azur. You will need to sail to one of the northern French ports. From here is will be a scenic drive through the French countryside and onto the Cote D’Azur region.