Cote d'Azur, Bien sur!
See the line where the sky meets the sea? It calls me. While she may have been referring to a Polynesian vista, the French Riviera could definitely have filled in for Moana’s longings. The scenic coastline in the southeast corner of France stretching from Cassis to Monaco is certainly the tropics of Europe.
It may not stay temperate all year long but a refreshing swim in the Mediterranean even into November is quite possible and may even be the best time of year to go - not overrun with seekers of shores, chic, and chardonnay! Buy a ZOU train pass (gets you 50%-75% off ticket prices for up to 4 passengers) and visit the many beautiful coastal villages a day at a time.
The AC Ambassadeur Marriott in Juan les Pins was a very ideal spot for us. Not as busy a destination, but very train accessible to Nice, Cannes, and Monaco. In fact, the train station was a few minutes walk from the hotel, which was right beside the tourist office, and walking distance to a park with rides and playground for the kids, and shops and restaurants all along the beach promenade! During high season between May to September the hotel even has its own private beach.
So you don’t even have to rush out of Juan les Pins. A nice drive around you’ll find a great view from the lighthouse. Then continue down the Cap d’Antibes, take a stroll along the sea wall, and then watch the sunset from Pointe Graillon, a beautiful rocky outcrop.
And there’s more! Nice, Monte Carlo, and Villefranche sur Mer were must sees for us and are all along the train line. Take another mini-train for a touristic ride in the city. There are a lot options for the kidlets like the Oceanagraphic museum, Sea World, Water park etc. Or keep it simple and free and watch the changing of the guards in Monaco or swim somewhere along le Promenade des Anglais.
See the light that shines on the sea? It’s blinding. It’s beautiful. It’s le Cote d’Azur, for sure!
But no visit to France is complete without seeing the City of Lights, Paris itself! Check out our friends’ expert travel tips at www.stufr.nl
