Sailing & spa in Provence and Côte d'Azur

The Mediterranean coast is best explored at a leisurely pace in Antibes. A stroll along the Cap d’Antibes coastal footpath unveils pine trees, golden rocks, secluded coves and Belle Époque villas. From there, you can admire the many sailboats, yachts and pleasure boats bobbing on the horizon. The radiant and peaceful Bay of Garoupe, seemingly untouched by the passage of time, is the perfect place for a delicious swim when the first days of spring come around. In July, the fast-paced rhythms of the open-air Jazz à Juan festival in Juan-les-Pins set the night on fire – a truly unforgettable experience. And the following day, it’s relaxation time! Home to many exclusive spas and thalassotherapy centres, Antibes and Juan-les-Pins are perfect places to unwind in a preserved and soothing natural setting..

With its iconic port, old lanes adorned with pastel hues and lively little squares, Saint-Tropez, nestled between Provence and the Côte d’Azur, has largely earned its reputation as the pearl of the Mediterranean. Beyond its glamorous image, the village has preserved much of its original spirit and authenticity – and even more so in autumn, in late September to be exact, when the villages welcomes the much-awaited Voiles de Saint-Tropez. This unique and almost dreamlike regatta unveils the world’s most magnificent classic and modern sailboats, gliding across the water in a majestic maritime ballet as the village lights up with a warm and welcoming festive atmosphere. And between the races, why not treat yourself to ultimate relaxation at one of Saint-Tropez’s many spas? You’ll of course have time to relish a slice of the village’s famous Tarte Tropézienne afterwards, or pick up some iconic Tropézienne leather sandals, all part and parcel of the Saint-Tropez experience.

Every year in May, film stars and directors alike step onto the red carpet at the Cannes Film Festival. Of course, everyone know that Cannes is an international movie hub par excellence, but sailing reigns supreme here too! The Cannes Yachting Festival is a flagship event, attended by sailing fans from every continent. Taking place in late summer, the event – Europe’s largest floating festival – welcomes over 700 boats from the world over, including sailboats and motor yachts, some reaching up to 55 metres in length. In addition to films, palaces and spectacular yachts, Cannes has yet another, more intimate facet to offer. Basking in exceptional natural surroundings, the Lérins islands – Sainte-Marguerite and Saint-Honorat – offer striking contrasts with the town centre. You’ll find shaded creeks and remarkable architectural heritage there, including the Cistercian abbey of Lérins.

Set between Nice and Monaco, Villefranche-sur-Mer is home to one of the Mediterranean’s most beautiful bays. A verdant oasis lapped by azure waters and sheltered from prevailing winds, it is a prized mooring place for the many luxury boats and yachts that cast their anchor here. The village, with its colourful, sloping streets crossed by the famous Rue Obscure – a 13th-century covered passageway measuring over 130 metres , now a listed monument -, oozes typical Riviera charm. The port, with its buzzing summertime café terraces, is the perfect place for a stroll. Villefranche-sur-Mer is also an oasis of wellbeing, heralded for its many spas, charming hotels dedicated to relaxation and soothing sea-facing venues.