Vacation in the Côte d'Azur : A Year-Round Escape

We’re off for a marathon of festivals and delights on the French Riviera! In February, come and warm up to the sound of the brass bands and drums at the Carnaval de Nice. In this fun and celebratory atmosphere, worthy of the Rio and Venice festivals, only the socca and pissaladière sellers will remind you that you are on the Côte d’Azur. Also in February, floats decorated with thousands of oranges and lemons parade through the streets of Menton, a short walk from the Italian border. Welcome to the Fête du Citron (Lemon Festival), ​​ bursting with shades of yellow and orange accompanied by the sweet scents of citrus.

This is the start of warm weather. When centifolia rose and jasmine grandiflorum blossom, the perfumed plants that are typical to the Côte d’Azur. To behold the splendour of Côte d’Azur nature in full bloom, board the Train des Pignes, which connects Dignes-les-Bains to Nice. ​​​Through your train window, admire the Alpine valleys that follow the coloured facades of the villages ​the legendary Vallée des Merveilles ​​and the southern mountains, a peerless playground at this time of year. In Grasse, the city of perfume, the coastline pops into view. Take a break to breathe in the delicate springtime fragrances. The air already has a summery perfume.

In May, Cannes’ famous boulevard, la Croisette, comes alive and the cameras flash. It’s time for the Festival de Cannes ​​​​​! Scale the heights in the old  Suquet district to take in a breathtaking view over the Baie de Cannes, a former fishing village. In June, get ready for fireworks of flavours at the « Étoiles de Mougins » an annual event that features the stars of French gastronomy. From the sky, this medieval village perched on a rocky outcrop has narrow roads that spiral like a seashell. In its day it seduced other great names such as Picasso, Man Ray, Léger …

In July, dance to the smooth sounds of saxophones between the pines at the Juan-les-Pins jazz festival, an iconic event that once had Ella Fitzgerald and Miles Davis grace the stage. In September, hoist your sails and ship out to Saint-Tropez, where the finest classic and modern ships in the world rendezvous for eight days of regattas and celebrations. Welcome to the Voiles de Saint-Tropez.

Where to go on holiday in Provence