Whilst international travel may be off the cards for a while in light of current circumstances, I find reminiscing on memorable trips always sparks a little joy in my life! One of my most loved is definitely the French Riviera…where the glistening Côte d’Azur meets old Hollywood glamour, and one of my all-time fave vacay spots along the Mediterranean. There is something to be said about feeling like Brigitte Bardot or Grace Kelly sailing along St Tropez…nestled amongst the beautiful coastline, and with an abundance of rich culture and history, the South of France is a dreamy destination you’ll never want to say au revoir to!
Now I don’t claim to be a fine dining connoisseur, however, I do know a thing or two about where to head for the perfect Aperol Spritz at sunset, and where to be treated to a glass (or multiple) of French champagne whilst shopping along the beautiful fashion boutiques that the South of France is renowned for. Below I have collated my top places to wine, dine, shop and swim – because let’s be honest, what more would one want to do whilst spending a Summer on the Riviera!
Hotel du Cap Eden Roc – Antibes:
As one of the most iconic hotels in the world, Du Cap effortlessly exemplifies quintessential luxury. Tucked away on the Southern most tip of the Cap d’Antibes, this grand and secluded property stretches across 22 acres of coastline, and its centerpiece chateau is reminiscent of one right out of the Great Gatsby – you honestly feel as though you’re in the 1920s. One of my favourite spots on Du Cap’s grounds is its rooftop Champagne Lounge – perfect for a pre-dinner cocktail or glass of French bubbles. The Lounge boasts some of the most decadent champagnes in the world, but if a glass of French bubbles doesn’t tickle your fancy, you can’t go past a classic Aperol (yes, I’m a spritz-o-holic) or the peach Bellini – definitely one of the best on the list!
Post drinks, I cannot recommend enough a dining experience at the Eden-Roc Restaurant, which provides the most beautiful, uninterrupted views of the Mediterranean and the hotel’s cliff-edged, infinity pool below. The restaurant offers the perfect blend of sophisticated yet homely ambience, and there is something so mesmerising about dining at dusk on the Riviera. The menu is seasonal, but my top pick is definitely the Steak Diane flambéed at the table – cooked to perfection, it pairs perfectly with a glass of Cabernet!
Dior – St Tropez:
Now, those who know me know I LOVE design that combines 18th century, Parisian décor with contemporary elements, and so as soon as I entered the Dior Boutique in St Tropez, I knew I was in for a treat. The boutique is the perfect embodiment of this and made all of my architectural dreams come true. As a transformed villa, its rooms showcase the latest in couture and accessories, and a whole room is dedicated purely to handbags…heaven! What’s all the more enticing about this boutique is that the Dior des Lices café is situated just below – perfect for an afternoon aperitif or morning espresso – a very modern yet Parisian Breakfast at Tiffanys’ vibe!
Villefranche-Sur-Mer:
I may be biased, but Villefranche-Sur-Mer is by far the most picturesque town on the Riviera. Located on the French-Italian border, Villefranche–Sur–Mur is a seaside village that has a much more rustic and quaint vibe than its neighbouring cities of Nice and Monaco. The perfect backdrop for an afternoon swim, I cannot recommend enough a visit to Plage de la Marinière – which offers a beautiful, sandy beach (yes – sandy not pebbly!) and the most inviting, topaz waters. After a swim, you have to head to La Caravelle along the pier for a long lunch – their seafood is fresh and authentic, just perfect with a Pinot Grigio on ice!
As we all know, cocktails at any hour are mandatory whilst on holidays (it’s always 5pm somewhere!), and Achill’s – a gorgeous, roof-top bar at the centre of the town, is definitely not one to miss. Offering unrivalled views of the harbour below AND the most tantalising cheese platters (if that doesn’t sell it to you, I don’t know what will!), Achill’s epitomises the lush, Mediterranean lifestyle.
P.S for more recommendations, please get in touch! It was no easy feat narrowing down my favourites!